Charleston is one of those cities where people keep coming back again and again. What’s not to love about the charm of the cobblestone streets, the carriage rides, or the smell of jasmine floating through the air? As much as I love getting lost through the Battery and French Quarter, it’s also fun exploring these little gems located throughout the peninsula. Here are my favorite spots in the event you want to do a self-guided walking tour throughout downtown Charleston.
Hidden Alleyways
1. Longitude Lane
Just beyond Rainbow Row you’ll find Longitude Lane. This cobblestone pathway is adorned with wonderful doorways (which leads to private property) as you make your way in between Church Street and East Bay Street.
2. Philadelphia Alley
This alleyway is tucked just between Cumberland and Queen Streets and has been around for many centuries. Created in 1776, this was much more of a neighborhood alley before a few different fires destroyed it’s surroundings. The city of Philadelphia helped in reopening this in 1811, with the alley paying tribute to the city of brotherly love.
3. Stoll’s Alley
Also located in the Battery, this brick paved alleyway is a hidden gem as you paruse past patches covered in moss or flowers and historic homes. Be sure to pay close attention to all the ornate details on this narrow walkway between Church Street and East Bay Street.
Hidden Gardens
4. Gateway Walk
This informal trail isn’t just one single location; instead, it’s meant to take you through some iconic gardens and graveyards through Charleston. With it’s many wrought iron gates throughout, this route gives that sense of secrecy that makes you want to linger a bit longer to daydream. This well-maintained walk connects you from St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church on Church Street to St. John’s Lutheran Church on Archibald Street. As it’s kept up by The Garden Club of Charleston, you can see a map of the exact walkway here.
5. Shamrock Garden
Located just off of Legare Street, this well-manicured garden won’t be crowded due to it being privately owned. The storybook feel makes it picturesque for a photo through it’s wrought-iron fence.
6. Washington Square
Located between City Hall and the cobblestones of Chalmers Street, this city garden is the perfect place to relax a bit after lunch. If you’re in need of lunch or coffee, it’s not far from Gaulart & Malicet and Sorelle and even offers plenty of shade and benches. Rumor has it that it may have a haunted history.
Charleston’s Hidden Spots
I’m sure I haven’t begun to cover all of Charleston’s gems throughout downtown but have listed my top favorites. In the event you find yourself looking to do your own (free) walking tour, please make sure you visit any number of these (or all if you have the time)! Happy walking.
all about ceese 
Leave a comment