Waterfront Park

Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
8 acres | 3.2 hectares

Interactive Park Map

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Playground
Field
Parking

About the Location

Scenic Harbor Views

Waterfront Park is an eight-acre public park located along the Cooper River in Charleston, South Carolina. Opened in 1990, the park offers visitors scenic views of Charleston Harbor and has become one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The park features a long, curving expanse of green space with a 1,200-foot promenade along the water's edge. Two large fountains serve as focal points - the iconic Pineapple Fountain, which references Charleston's symbol of hospitality, and an interactive splash fountain popular with children on hot days.

Looking out towards east
Looking out towards east
Photo: TerryDOtt (CC BY 2.0)

Natural Elements

Mature live oak trees provide shade throughout the park, while palmetto trees line portions of the waterfront. Native marsh grasses have been restored along parts of the shoreline, showcasing the local Lowcountry ecosystem.

The park offers numerous benches and swings for seating, including family-sized swings on the pier that extends into the harbor.

The park's main path is lined by trees and benches
The park's main path is lined by trees and benches
Photo: TerryDOtt (CC BY 2.0)

Fishing Pier and Harbor Access

At the northern end, a 300-foot fishing pier juts out into the deeper waters, providing opportunities for fishing as well as unobstructed views of the harbor, the Ravenel Bridge, and passing ships. The pier includes covered structures with additional seating.

Thie Pineapple Fountain is a popular photo location
Thie Pineapple Fountain is a popular photo location
Photo: Tainanian (CC BY 2.0)

Historic Significance

Waterfront Park seamlessly connects Charleston's historic downtown to its maritime roots. It has played a key role in revitalizing the city's waterfront area, spurring new development while preserving public access and green space along the Cooper River.

The park's design has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Landmark Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects.

All Features & Facilities

Nature & Wildlife

Open Grassy AreaShadeWalking TrailWildlife Viewing

Water Features & Activities

FishingLakeSplash Pad

Visitor Services

Paved PathsPlaygroundRestrooms

Food & Gathering

Picnic AreaShelter

Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)

The north fountain is right next to the pier
The north fountain is right next to the pier
Photo: PatrickRohe (CC0)
A vibrant flower bed in the south section of the park
A vibrant flower bed in the south section of the park
Photo: PatrickRohe (CC0)
The park's main path is lined by trees and benches
The park's main path is lined by trees and benches
Photo: TerryDOtt (CC BY 2.0)
Looking out towards east
Looking out towards east
Photo: TerryDOtt (CC BY 2.0)
Thie Pineapple Fountain is a popular photo location
Thie Pineapple Fountain is a popular photo location
Photo: Tainanian (CC BY 2.0)
A view from inside the park towards E Bay St
A view from inside the park towards E Bay St
Photo: Tainanian (CC BY 2.0)

ParkMagnet Score

Great Park

Park Size

8 acres | 3.2 hectares

Opening Hours

Monday:7AM-9:30PM
Tuesday:7AM-9:30PM
Wednesday:7AM-9:30PM
Thursday:7AM-9:30PM
Friday:7AM-9:30PM
Saturday:7AM-9:30PM
Sunday:7:30AM-10:30PM

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