Rainbow Row is the name for a series of thirteen colorful historic houses in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The houses are located north of Tradd St. and south of Elliott St. on East Bay Street, that is, 79 to 107 East Bay Street. In 1931, Dorothy Haskell Porcher Legge purchased a section of these, house numbering 99 through 101 East Bay, and began to renovate them. She chose to paint these houses pink based on a colonial Caribbean color scheme. Other owners and future owners followed suit, creating the "rainbow" of pastel colors present today. The coloring of the houses helped keep the houses cool inside as well as give the area its name. By 1945, most of the houses had been restored. The name "Rainbow Row" was later coined. It is a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most photographed parts of Charleston. My family and I visited the Rainbow Row this past summer while we were visiting family in town. We had previously visited on our last visit to the area but wanted to visit again because the houses are just breathtaking to look at. They're very photogenic! Aside from the pastel colored houses, the whole stretch of the downtown area from Waterfront Park to the Battery is a very interesting area to explore. It's loaded with historic buildings, monuments, historical plaques, and cobblestone streets. You might get lucky and even see a horse-drawn carriage riding by. We highly recommend anyone visiting Charleston to see Rainbow Row! read more

See all

Rainbow Row was on the top of my list of things to see in Charleston, given the hype around this historic spot. I have to say, I was a bit underwhelmed when finding it. Don't get me wrong, the homes are beautiful and the history behind them are rich, but it is definitely overhyped. I was also surprised how different it looked in person compared to photos online; I don't know if its the photoshop making the houses look so vibrant and colorful, but the real thing seemed a bit more dull. If you're already in the area, you should definitely see it for yourself, cause you've got nothing to lose. But don't go out of your way to come here, or you may be slightly disappointed like I was. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

Rainbow Row is a row of houses all painted different colors, and it shows Charleston's history. It's a great place to visit if you're in the area, especially for a photo opportunity with the houses. Street parking can be a little tricky, especially during peak times. read more

See all

One of the first few things we did landing in Charleston is walking through Rainbow Row. It's not a lot of homes, but there's good opportunity for photos depending on the time of day you get there. If you're already in French Quarter or near the Battery, Rainbow Row is right there. We went through it twice... but context is that we were visiting in the heat of the summer. All in all, cool set of homes to look at from the outside. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Definitely a Charleston staple and must visit due to the popularity and the cute photo opportunities. It was a nice walk from shopping on King Street (about 20 minutes). On this specific block , there was swarm of mosquitoes that bit us like crazy. I highly recommend wearing bug spray if you come this way at a certain point of the day. I heard that mosquitoes are more prone to come out around 6pm. We got cute pics so I guess it was worth it ! read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

A must stop if you are in Charleston. Right near the French quarter. Such a cute set of homes and pretty scenery all around. Close to many shops and restaurants. The houses are gorgeous. If I ever went back I would do a tour through this area! read more

See all

When researching what to do in Charleston, Rainbow Row is one of the first things to pop up! We made sure to add this stop to our list. The houses are beautiful and full of such southern history. The area was pretty clean as well and wasn't too crowded for a Saturday! read more

See all

Rainbow Row is a collection of charming historic houses dating from mid 1700-s, about a dozen of them in the historic quarter of Charleston. During my first visit (which was cut short due to bad weather) I missed checking them out so I made it my mission this time around! They are easy to find and popular with tourists so that will lead you to them. Lots of photo ops, lots of influencers and photography sessions! Can you blame them? They are well maintained, nicely renovated and painted in pastel, bright colors- pink, green, blue. Parking might be hard to snag in the area, I would advise you to walk to them from anywhere in downtown, you'll discover more charming places on the way. Lots of tour groups around for guided tours! We walked along the Battery which turns into Bay street and there they are! You will be able to tell by the commotion! Nice spot in Charleston, colorful and lively! read more

See all

Well, I have seen neighborhoods more colorful than this, and when it was saying rainbow row/lane, I was expecting more. One of Charleston's most iconic points of interest, Rainbow Row comprises a row of 13 colorful Georgian houses painted historic homes perched along The Battery's East Bay Street, near Waterfront Park. Dating back to the mid-1700s, the structures hold an important place in Charleston's history. If you need some great pictures for your Instagram, Go, and visit the Rainbow Row. Tip: The Rainbow Row homes run from 79 to 107 East Bay Street and, while each is privately owned, the city ordinances are in place to keep their pastel colors intact. History: Even though these houses are nearly 300 years old, they did not always look like this. These houses were not always so vibrant and colorful. Constructed around 1740 and used as merchant shops and homes for a long time, the Rainbow Row houses wore a desolate look at the end of the Civil War. They were restored only recently in the first half of the 20th century and painted in lovely pastel shades. It was in the 1930s that Dorothy Porcher Legge purchased a house here and decided to paint it a shade of pink. Her neighbors followed suit. And well, the rest is Rainbow Row! It is not a surprise that Rainbow Row is one of the most photographed areas in the entire city. read more

See all

Rainbow Row is famous for colorful historic homes. Which is picture perfect. A great spot for a stroll and some memorable photos. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

Named for the colorful, pastel-painted historic row houses (defined as houses joined by common sidewalls in a row), these 13 houses run parallel to the south end of waterfront park in Charleston, SC. They were built starting in the 1740s, with them getting their distinct color in the early 1900s. It was an easy walk from the park, and the site of many walking tours. read more

Cute little area that's bright and fun to look at. It's free and has plenty of historic plaques and information to read along the way and in the area. This is definitely worth a visit. read more

See all

Like other reviewers before me, come to take a photo and then quickly make your way down the side streets or better the public alleys. This is where you will truly find the hidden gems and if you are lucky a resident who will let you into their garden or talk to you about the city. SO many photoshoots so just brave ahead. read more

Not exactly a destination like a park or a playground, but if you pay a little attention, you'd find some interesting views that may be unique to this town. While most tourists focus on taking photos of the main attractions-- houses painted in pastel colors, head for the small side streets and you just may be surprised by the quiet residential surroundings and their beauty! Idyllic courtyards, vine-covered walls, even the door knobs can be interesting... great photo opportunities abound. read more

See all

It was great to see the beautiful southern houses. They are well maintained, with neutral and cool colors. The weather was nice on the day I visited, and everything was easy to walk to. There are many good spots for pictures and impressive Halloween decorations. However, parking can get chaotic. read more

Honestly not worth it. Trees are too close to the buildings and so many cars hard to get an unobstructed picture. read more

Rainbow Row - Lots of trees and cars - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

The iconic rainbow row is a must-see in Charleston. It's a strip of colorful homes that are in walking distance of the downtown. Sure, you'll see lots of folks taking pictures of them, but we loved the area in general, as there are beautiful homes for miles that are so fun to ogle over. It's the perfect place for a stroll... and a photo! read more

See all

There is nothing too exciting about this, a row of houses with pastel colors. Yes it's pretty to look at but I wouldn't go out of your way to come here. It is a historical landmark and used to be a center of commerce. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

Part of Charleston's old houses, from the 1700s. Painted pastel colors in 1930s, and restored. Very beautiful area. When guests come to visit, I make it a point to walk down the rainbow row, battery, to the park at the end. It's one of Charleston's charms that I have seen numerous times and still love seeing. If it's your first time to the town, please take the time to see it. read more

Every city has an overrated attraction or two...Charleston has Rainbow Row as it's overrated attraction, ignore all overly excited youtubers and tik tokers pretending its amazing. Yes, its a row of Charleston houses, painted in different colors. That's it. Even the architecture of these houses are boring. You'll much more fascinating and unique homes along the smaller side streets. If you're already in Charleston visiting, its probably an easy walk to see these, and its free. read more

As I was researching Charleston, the Rainbow Row kept popping up to check out. So we did..... they were very photogenic and very well kept. The area other very historical homes. Make sure you check out the Rainbow Row and the area. read more

See all

Rainbow row is a section of Charleston labeled for the row of very colorful houses. My family drove down and checked it out. It's a fun section of the town to walk around and they are pretty. If in Charleston, check them out read more

See all

The walk along Rainbow Row is a must see and do! The historic Georgian homes are so beautiful and it's amazing to see them preserved over the years. There's a plaque explaining the history behind Rainbow Row, and puts into perspective just how old these homes are. read more

See all

While in Charleston, SC, the four of us vacationers wanted to walk around. I parked on the street on East Bay St, just south of Broad St., finding a metered space that didn't require me to pay because it was after 6 pm. We headed south and soon saw Rainbow Row, a long group of Georgian rowhouses that were built between the 1770s and 1845. Rainbow Row houses' claim to fame is that they're painted pastel colors, and this is the most photographed area in Charleston, SC. it doesn't take very long to see all of Rainbow Row, but taking pictures of the homes without people in the background may be a challenge since many visitors take selfies that they post on Instagram. And you know their selfies need to be perfect ... and perfection takes time. (Rolling eyes here). While we were in the area (we walked on East Bay St from Broad St to The Battery and back), we saw groups of well dressed women on what looked like professional photoshoots, moms and dads taking pics of their kids all dressed up for a prom, and tourists taking pics of themselves. This area is clean and well maintained, and street parking close to Rainbow Row is reserved for 12 hours every day for residents with a parking permit. So, (if I'm interpreting the street signs correctly) if you want to park close to Rainbow Row, you can park for free between 8 pm and 8 am and take your pics then. Lol. I was actually more interested in reading all of the plaques detailing the histories of the (newer) houses and buildings on the opposite side of East Bay St, leading to The Battery. Rainbow Row is nice to see for a few minutes if you're anywhere nearby. read more

See all

Rainbow Row is a Charleston icon and an identifier of the cities history. You see it on souvenirs everywhere so it seems like a must visit. I will say, it's not that exciting of a visit on it's own. You should definitely stop to take a picture, but there's not much to it. For me, it's part of a route I take out of towners to check out the city. It includes Rainbow Row, the Battery, pineapple fountain, and the pier. Walking this route it a beautiful way to see the city but I wouldn't drive across town just to see Rainbow Row and leave... you have to experience it as a piece of a larger journey. read more

Nice little walk. The streets are cleaned and well kept The house are paint in all pastel colors. Very pretty and unique. It wouldn't be my go to destination but it's nice to look at if your in the area. read more

This is super cool and a part of charleston history! i do feel like it was a tad underwhelming, especially since it was all i saw in paintings and pictures at the market. a fun thing to do real quick nonetheless read more

I love Rainbow Row. It is worth walking down the street if you have extra time or are visiting something in the area. You can get amazing pictures here when traffic allows. read more

Cute little area to visit the homes are painted in a rainbow color scheme. If you walk further down you hit the water and some really amazing homes that are also historical. read more

The picturesque rainbow row where you see on tv and films and commercials. These are the iconic pastel painted houses. There is plenty of parking and it's an easy walk. I am always fascinated in houses that have gas powered lanterns and most of the houses there had that. There are all kinds of restaurants nearby and the pineapple water fountain is close by too read more

See all

Must see when visiting Charleston! Iconic representation of the city & insta worthy! Short walk from here to other major attractions like King Street and the Pineapple Fountain and surrounding park. Even if you aren't in town for long, definitely worth spending an hour or so walking around this area! Ample metered parking on all the nearby streets. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

If your staying Charleston and near downtown, make sure you give some time to walk by Rainbow Row. Located off East Bay street, it's a row of homes in these classic vibrant colors that also wraps around the corner. As you look at all the art work while visiting Charleston, you'll see many renditions of the homes and artist concepts that are great. Parking is usually done via meters. It's one of the many walking stops if your doing a tour or one you'll see as part of the horse and carriage rides that are offered. If you're into history, architecture, and nostalgia vibes, it's a great stop. Get your IG Profile photo on... everyone else was. Would be nice is no parking on the street was put in place to see it all, but do understand it's a residential neighborhood. read more

Rainbow Row - Local Flavor Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Went here with my family and it is an incredibly iconic and beautiful place. The houses are truly unique and is a must see place to go on your stay in Charleston. read more

See all

Rainbow Row is a great way to spend 30-45 minutes while in Charleston. We were lucky to experience it with a tour guide but even without it is definitely worth stopping by. read more

Walking about Charleston is wonderful all on it's own, the architecture, the history seen in the various buildings and homes. I wanted to be sure to hit Rainbow Row for pictures and I did have to laugh that the forth house in was getting a facelift and was covered in scaffolding and plastic sheeting covering the entire front of the house. So there isn't a good shot of the entire row. We were out there at 10am on a Monday and it was already blistering by the time we reached the battery! We walked over from the market. I may end up trying to paint it- there were so many paintings being sold of this picturesque Rainbow Row all around town! read more

See all

This is nothing worth going out of your way to see, however if you're in downtown it's definitely worth walking by while exploring the city. All the houses are very cool and the surrounding area is beautiful! read more

Believe it or not there are many rainbow rows in Charleston, South Carolina. Part of the charm of being a Southern coastal historic town is the enchanting decor of our architecture and homes. Yeah I said enchanting. I must be feeling nostalgic for "The Princess Bride". Back on task. Due to one black and white image and the caption of Rainbow Row some 70 plus years ago, this esteemed row of houses on East Bay gets all the fanfare. It's pretty. Let's not kid ourselves. Being I. Front of them just makes you feel important in Charleston. And what a photo opportunity. This is one of the top 5 most Instagramable places in Downtown. Go ahead challenge me. Didn't think so So if you come to Charleston foe the first time or tenth or have a staycation day, it's worth the few minutes to bask away read more

Love the street, beautiful homes and neighborhood. Cool vibe and very busy with students and visitors / tourists. Very walkable and I recommend just to soak up the views. Didn't know "rainbow row" was a staple or icon in Charleston! read more

See all

Very clean streets that contain much history. Appreciated the many plaques throughout that explain what the building history is. Mixture of current homes, many offices and some notifies/ restaurants close by make this a fun place to explore. It is amazing how much history the buildings have and how well they have been maintained and cared for. read more

Such a cute area! Clean, quiet, and pet/family friendly close walk to downtown! Unique antique houses painted pastel colors that bring cheer to all who walk by! Nice stroll and sightsee! read more

See all