10 Amazing Free Things in Charleston, SC

By Mark A. Leon

“The best things in life are free.” This quote may not be entirely true, but there are a few things worth seeing and doing in Charleston that still are free and filled with fun, excitement, wellness, and a bit of education.

Here is a list of some awesome free things in Charleston, SC

Coffee at Bert’s Market – Heading to Folly Beach for a spectacular sunrise? Well, you need coffee. Bert’s Market is open 24/7 every day of the year and their coffee is free. There is a little donation slot, but not required. Once you head in just turn to the left and it will be next to the cooler. Here is a little tip, their Veggie Melt Panini is amazing.2.

Free Little Libraries – You have all seen them throughout the Lowcountry. Downtown, at the beach, in the suburbs. You know them. Take a book, leave a book. Personally, I have given and taken and found comfort in some great literature. In fact, once on State Street, we found a $20 bill left for a lucky literary explorer and that was us.

History in the Streets – Historic Charleston, South Carolina is a living breathing museum. From the historic architecture to the markers, every corner tells a story of our past. If you have to pick one street, head end to end on Tradd.

Bonus: The Oldest Structures in the Lowcountry

Beaches – For many who have migrated here from other coastal areas, not all beaches are free. The Lowcountry area beaches continue to remain free for all.

Cooper River Bridge Pedestrian Walkway – Whether you are an avid runner, walker, or biker, the Cooper River Bridge is a scenic delight. Get your health kick and enjoy that 5-mile round trip high above the Charleston Harbor.

Lowcountry sunrise and sunsets – Some of you may be saying, why is this on the list. It’s the sun! You are right, but whether you live here or visit, you cannot deny that we have some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world and to us, it is an event each time.

City Gallery at Waterfront Park – Where else can you indulge in amazing art, photography, and sculpture exhibit with a view of the Charleston Harbor at no cost. Check their calendar as their exhibits rotate quite frequently.

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art on the College of Charleston Campus – These hallways and rooms house some of the most creative and influential young and aspiring artists from the college and surrounding communities.

Shem Creek Park – This beautiful park and pier offers a magical journey to the edge of Shem Creek with a view of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge in the distance, shrimping boats, kayaks, sailboats, and fishing off the docks, or just a place to take a romantic sunset stroll. Most days, you will even see dolphins frolicking in the water.

Mace Brown Natural History Museum – Let’s go back 1 billion years to the age of dinosaurs and carry us forward to the present day. This wonderful museum of our natural land and oceanic history on Calhoun Street is a delight for children and adults.