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    Waterfront Park

    4.7 (211 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 9:30 pm

    Waterfront Park Photos

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    James A.

    Twelve acres in size, Waterfront Park runs from a really nice walking pier to the north, down to more of a wharf in the south. My wife and I needed to kill some time before our dinner reservation, so spent some time slowly walking the park, enjoying the weather. The views out into the harbor are lovely, being able to see historic Fort Sumner. It was completed in 1990. Because commercial vending is prohibited in the park, the vibe was definitely more local with us visitors being able to share the scenery with them, just for a while. There is a spray fountain where children of all ages can cool off on a hot day. My wife and I especially enjoyed the bench swing (Charleston Chairs) on the north pier. It would be a spectacular place to view the sunrise.

    Browne B.

    What can I say it's a fountain? And it works, it does have a nice view and surroundings. It's hard to get a very outstanding picture. Because there are so many other people standing around, and the only reason why I actually stopped is because my wife was all excited about seeing it. Period if you go, you'll feel safe.Everything's clean, just straight up.Good time, especially with all the trees down the walkways.

    Derek N.

    Waterfront Park is such a fun park to walk through or sit down in for a little bit. It has the most beautiful view of the channel, where, on a lucky day, you can see the families of dolphins surfacing to come up for air. Of course, it also has the Pineapple Fountain, and the other spray fountain (not sure what it's called) that the kids love to play in in the summertime. The only downsides are that if you're driving there, parking can be a little hard to find, and it can be VERY muggy in the summer. Other than that, I love simply sitting in Waterfront Park and taking in all of the beautiful scenery.

    Jo S.

    One of the most popular tourist attraction in Charleston, in the heart of downtown, on the water. It can get a tad crowded, but it has nice views of the water, we saw an egret, nice benches to rest or enjoy a snack, shady trees behind lined up on a nice alley. Once you start walking a bit, the place becomes more relaxing and quieter. Definitely a must when visiting the Low Country charming town!

    Charleston Waterfront Park
    Brian C.

    Pretty waterfront park that offers spacious walking and scenic views. The fountain is big and fun to watch people run through and entertain themselves. Beautiful view of the water and plenty spots for some nice photos

    Cobblestone road to the waterfront park (South Adgers Wharf)
    Mike B.

    We came here as we walked around Charleston on Labor Day weekend. We were visiting some friends that live in the area and decided to do some exploring. The park is also called the Joe Riley Waterfront Park. It is about an eight-acre park along approximately one-half mile of the Cooper River which leads to Fort Sumpter and the Atlantic Ocean. Originally, the park was the location of shipping terminals and wharfs that experienced a long period of decline. Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. made plans for a park on the land after taking office in 1975. Between 1979 and 1990 the effort cleared hurdles, was designed and constructed as well as survived Hurricane Hugo. The park opened on May 11, 1990. The park includes: The Pineapple Fountain, Historical Markers, Public Piers and the splash fountain at the North entrance as well as walking areas along the waterfront. The fountain at the North entrance is splash fountain, where children of all ages play during hot Lowcountry summers. The Pineapple Fountain has become the focal point of the waterfront park and has become a symbol of Charleston. The fountain has been photographed by many and is a location for weddings. We walked the length of the park and the piers stopping to check out things along the way. Overall this was a great experience and is a must do for anyone visiting Charleston.

    Rose E.

    Not only a great waterfront park, this has to be one of the most scenic piers (overlooking an expansive harbor) in America. Yes, an ideal spot to take those vacay pics! Plus, you can take a stroll right into Downtown Charleston, with its many restaurants and shops. Every time we visit Charleston (and it's a lot!), we make a stop here as a family...and I can't believe I haven't put in a single review to date?!? In addition to the nice walkways to the iconic pier, you'll find several swing sets, plenty of sitting areas, an interactive fountain, and another gorgeous fountain. Anyway, if anyone visits Charleston, this is a must-stop!

    Walkway
    Scarlett H.

    Fantastic waterfront grounds with open views of the ocean, shady trees, and nicely paved walkways. We took the free 211 bus from downtown to the park and spent a couple of hours here and the nearby Pineapple Fountain and Rainbow Row. Beautiful scenery all around. The Charleston Market is close by and many interesting shops and restaurants are also within walking distance. Great place to visit for those who want to get to know this town!

    Ashley L.

    Waterfront park is a staple here and many of us grew up coming here and now we get to bring our kids. There's a great selection of jungle gyms, picnic areas, and paths to walk while you enjoy the view. The city keeps the park very clean and this is a perfect location to throw a party. The property is vast and has space for a large number of people. Street parking avaible and garage parking. Ice cream shop and restaurants near. We love coming here and the kids do too.

    John C.

    Great place to hangout after a long day of touring the historic Charleston. There's a pineapple fountain that allows kids to play in it. Tons of benches to sit with waterfront views. Best of all its free.

    J David H.

    It is one of the MUST DO things while visiting Charleston that I can get behind recommending 100%. The waterfront sprawls six blocks or so and is home to stunning views on good weather days. There is a lot of sight seeing, exercising and curiosity of the area by tourist. I found the area remarkably clean and there are also city ambassadors that where florescent vest that have radios and are also equipped with police cameras. Parking nearby is off street by meter and challenging to obtain during peak times. There are food stands and two fountains. The path is lined with benches to sit and take in the view. Make sure you have a working camera or charged up phone. The waterfront in Charleston is an absolute highlight. Full 5 stars!

    Swing on the pier
    Ashley G.

    Took a stroll to the pier after walking the park. Nice covered seating and tables on the pier; along with the swings on the 3rd pic.

    06.29.20 shady trees over park benches
    May A.

    Great views from the park! The project started in 1988 when it broke ground. The park had a target opening date of May 4, 1990... in September 1989, Hurricane Hugo struck, causing extensive damage to the park but amazingly, the park still opened on May 11, just one week past the pre-hurricane projection. The park is free and, indeed, it is a beautiful park with lots of trees producing shaded areas and park benches to stretch out and soak up the scene. There were commemorative plaques along areas of the park. The manicured grassy area and the flower bushes were well maintained making the park pleasant to see... and it's clean! We strolled past the larger-than-life sized pineapple fountain and headed towards the water. It has fantastic views of the Charleston harbor. Dolphin sighting! Hubby was surprised to see a dolphin playing in the water while we were looking over the rail! Very cool. We enjoyed spending some time here. Review #1845

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    Beautiful park, it's always nice to go walk around and see the sights. The pineapple fountain is a must see for tourists.

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    Ask the Community - Waterfront Park

    Does this park have pavement that is smooth enough for rollerblading?

    No, but Chalmers St is good for blades.

    Is there parking, and if so is there a fee or restrictions? Thanks!

    The spots on the street are metered, but free before 9 AM, after 6 PM & all day Sunday. There are some garages around too.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Yes Definitely. We've had ours there. Normal rules apply.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Waterfront Park

    The Pineapple Fountain has become the focal point of the waterfront park and has become a symbol of Charleston.

    Mentioned in 43 reviews

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    Waterfront Park - parks - Updated May 2026

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