Free self-guided walk · Charleston

Waterfront to the Battery

A free self-guided walk through Charleston's historic district, from the City Market past Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row to the Battery.

Distance
2.1 km
Walking time
28 min
Allow
About 1.5 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsCharleston city guide

About this walk

This walk covers the old peninsula's waterfront, from the market to the seawall at its southern tip.

It is short and flat, so allow time to look at the houses.

  • Terrain: Flat, with uneven old pavements.
  • Best time: Early morning, before the heat.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Charleston City Market

    Start in the long market hall.

  2. Waterfront Park

    The Pineapple Fountain on the harbour.

  3. Old Exchange

    An 18th-century building with a dungeon.

  4. Rainbow Row

    The pastel houses of East Bay Street.

  5. The Battery

    Finish on the seawall at White Point Garden.

Tips

  • Carry water in summer.
  • Houses are private homes; admire them from the street.
  • Ferries to Fort Sumter leave from Liberty Square.

Prefer a guide?

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.