MOunt Pleasant SC: Complete Visitor Guide

A Visitor's Guide to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Welcome to Mount Pleasant! Perfectly positioned between the historic charm of Charleston and the sandy shores of the Atlantic, this vibrant town offers the ideal blend of coastal relaxation and Lowcountry adventure. Known for its picturesque waterfront, family-friendly atmosphere, and easygoing lifestyle, Mount Pleasant is the perfect home base for your next getaway.

What to Do: Key Attractions

• Shem Creek Park: The heart and soul of Mount Pleasant. Stroll the boardwalks, watch the shrimp boats return with their daily catch, and keep an eye out for playful dolphins. It's also the launching point for kayak and paddleboard tours.

• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: Step aboard the historic USS Yorktown aircraft carrier for a fascinating look into American naval history. This sprawling complex also includes a destroyer, a submarine, and the Vietnam Experience Exhibit.

• Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park: Located at the base of the Ravenel Bridge, this park offers stunning views, a long fishing pier, a playground, and the perfect starting point for a walk or bike ride over the iconic bridge.

• Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens: Just a short drive from the center of town, Boone Hall is one of America's oldest working plantations. Tour the historic home and slave cabins, and be sure to take a photo on the breathtaking Avenue of Oaks.

• Beaches: Mount Pleasant is the gateway to two of the area's best beaches. Sullivan's Island offers a quaint, residential feel with great local restaurants, while Isle of Palms is known for its wide, sandy shores and family-friendly amenities.

Where to Eat & Drink

From casual seafood shacks to upscale dining, Mount Pleasant has a diverse culinary scene. The main hub is Shem Creek, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails with a waterfront view at lively spots like Tavern & Table or Red's Ice House. For a more quaint experience, the Old Village district has charming cafes and bistros. Coleman Boulevard serves as a major artery, lined with a wide variety of restaurants catering to every taste and budget.

Entertainment & Nightlife

While Mount Pleasant offers a more laid-back atmosphere than downtown Charleston, there is no shortage of entertainment. The nightlife is centered around the lively bars and restaurants on Shem Creek, many of which feature live music, especially on weekends. For a fun evening, you can catch a movie at Cinebarre, which offers a dine-in theater experience. Throughout the year, the town hosts popular events, including the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market and seasonal festivals at Memorial Waterfront Park. For those seeking major concert venues or a wider array of late-night clubs, the heart of Charleston is just a quick 15-minute ride away, offering the best of both worlds. This is also fun nightlife for travelers like Michael At Your Place or Cheetahs Charleston.

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Mount Pleasant range from luxurious waterfront resorts like The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor to convenient and comfortable hotels along Highway 17. For a prime location, consider staying near Shem Creek or the Ravenel Bridge, which will put you within walking distance of many popular attractions and restaurants.

Getting Around

While the town is spread out and a car is the most convenient way to explore, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Biking is also a popular option for recreation, with numerous trails and the must-do bike lane on the Ravenel Bridge offering incredible views of the harbor and city.