Discover the Rich History at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
Explore the first English settlement in the Carolinas at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, where history and nature unite in Charleston, SC.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is a captivating destination for tourists seeking to explore South Carolina's rich history and natural beauty. This state park offers a unique blend of historical exhibits, stunning landscapes, and engaging wildlife experiences, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
- 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, West Ashley, South Carolina, 29407, US
- +1843-852-4200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Don't miss the living history demonstrations for an engaging look into the past.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to many native species.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to make the most of the scenic trails.
- Check the park's schedule for special events or educational programs during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Charleston Beaches, head west on Folly Beach Road (SC-171) towards James Island. Continue onto SC-30 W (Folly Road) and follow it until you reach the intersection with SC-526 W. Take SC-526 W and merge onto I-26 W toward Columbia. Stay on I-26 W for about 5 miles, then take exit 211B for US-17 N toward Charleston. After approximately 3 miles, take the exit for SC-61 N toward Ashley River Road. Continue on SC-61 N for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Old Towne Road. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site will be on your right at 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407.
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Public Transportation
If using public transportation, start by taking the CARTA bus number 10 from Folly Beach towards Downtown Charleston. You can catch the bus at any designated bus stop along Folly Beach Road. Ride the bus until you reach the stop at the intersection of King Street and Calhoun Street. From there, transfer to the CARTA bus number 11 heading towards West Ashley. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop near the Charleston City Market. Finally, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service from the City Market to Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. The site is about a 10-minute drive from the market.
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Bike
For a more adventurous route, consider biking from Charleston Beaches to Charles Towne Landing. Start by biking along Folly Beach Road (SC-171) towards James Island, then continue onto SC-30 W. When you reach I-26, there are bike lanes available in some areas. You can follow the bike-friendly routes through West Ashley to Old Towne Road. Once you reach Old Towne Road, follow it until you arrive at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Make sure to wear a helmet and be cautious of traffic.
Discover more about Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Follys History Walk
1.5 km
Discover the rich history and captivating stories of Folly Beach on an unforgettable guided tour through its historical landmarks.
Lowndes Grove
2.9 km
Discover the enchanting history and breathtaking beauty of Lowndes Grove, a premier historical landmark in Charleston, SC, perfect for all occasions.
First Memorial Day Historical Marker
3.7 km
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The Citadel
3.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of The Citadel, a premier military college in Charleston, South Carolina, where tradition and education converge.
Original Site of Wappoo/The Bluff Plantation (Lucas and Pinckney Families)
3.8 km
Explore the historic Wappoo/The Bluff Plantation, where the legacies of the Lucas and Pinckney families unfold amid South Carolina's natural beauty.
Denmark Vesey Monument
3.9 km
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Palmetto Fossil Excursions
4.4 km
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Historic Charleston
4.6 km
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Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue
5.3 km
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Historic Rice Mill Building
5.4 km
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Hyatt House Charleston/Historic District
5.5 km
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William Aiken House
5.8 km
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Frankly Charleston Black History Tours
5.9 km
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Old St Andrew’s Parish Church
5.9 km
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Lowcountry History Hall
6.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Animal Forest
0.0 km
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Hampton Park
3.8 km
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Brittlebank Park
4.1 km
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Munkle Brewing co.
4.2 km
Experience the best of Charleston's craft beer scene at Munkle Brewing Co., where tradition meets innovation in every pint.
Striped Pig Distillery
4.6 km
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Revelry Brewing Co
4.7 km
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Palmetto Brewing Co.
4.7 km
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Harborview Charters-Boat Tours
4.8 km
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Pirates of Charleston
4.8 km
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Saltwater Tours
5.1 km
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Philip Simmons House
5.6 km
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McLeod Plantation Historic Site
5.6 km
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Avery Research Center - College of Charleston
5.8 km
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American Theater
5.8 km
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Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
5.9 km
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Essential places to dine
The Glass Onion
3.0 km
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Park & Grove
4.0 km
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Waffle House
4.3 km
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Lewis Barbecue Charleston
4.5 km
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Little Jack's Tavern
4.7 km
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Maison
4.7 km
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Leon's
4.8 km
Experience the best of Charleston's seafood at Leon's Oyster Shop - fresh oysters and Southern flavors await you!
California Dreaming
4.9 km
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R. Kitchen
5.1 km
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Wild Common
5.1 km
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Southbound
5.2 km
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Sorghum & Salt
5.5 km
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The Ordinary
5.5 km
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The Darling Oyster Bar
5.7 km
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The Hut Restaurant
5.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Island Bazaar
1.8 km
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Architectural Antiques & Design
1.8 km
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Carolina Girls Personalized Jewelry & Gifts
2.8 km
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Classic Consignments
3.2 km
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Rhodes Home & Gift
4.3 km
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Rhodes Boutique
4.3 km
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Pluff Mud Mercantile
4.5 km
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The Tiny Tassel
5.3 km
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Patina Market
5.4 km
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Something About Me
5.6 km
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Altar'd State King Street
5.7 km
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Two Cumberland
5.8 km
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Ensemble Consignment Boutique
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Farside Vintage
5.9 km
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Closet Case Thrift Store
6.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tin Roof
1.5 km
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R Pub
2.3 km
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The Roost
3.3 km
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Aqua Terrace Roof-Top Bar
4.2 km
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Faculty Lounge
4.4 km
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The Ritz Bar & Grill
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Recovery Room Tavern
5.0 km
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The Royal American
5.0 km
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Elliotborough Mini Bar
5.1 km
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Bar Rollins
5.2 km
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Sugey's Bar
5.2 km
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Bar George
5.3 km
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Bourbon N' Bubbles
5.4 km
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Uptown Social
5.4 km
Experience the heartbeat of Charleston at Uptown Social, where great food, live music, and vibrant nightlife come together in perfect harmony.
Deck Bar
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Deck Bar in Charleston, where refreshing drinks meet stunning views in a lively coastal setting.
