Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that invites visitors to slow down. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and a sea breeze in the air, it’s an enjoyable city to roam. Luckily, Charleston has some easy ways to get around. Whether the focus is the Historic District, the beach, or areas beyond, this city is easier to navigate than most. Here’s a helpful guide on ways to get around Charleston, SC.
Walking: Take It All In, One Step at a Time
For those staying downtown, walking is often one of the more enjoyable (and easy) ways to get around. Charleston’s Historic District is very walkable, with shops, restaurants, and landmarks close together. Major attractions such as Waterfront Park, The Battery, and the Charleston City Market can all be explored on foot without needing transportation.
Strolling the streets allows time to notice the details that make Charleston so elegant and special. There are gas lanterns on porches, wrought-iron gates, hidden gardens, and plaques on centuries-old buildings. Sidewalks run through most downtown areas, though some are narrow or uneven due to age, so walking requires some attention, especially at night.
The best times for walking tend to be mornings or early evenings, especially during warmer months when midday heat can be intense. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and for summer visits, sun protection, and a water bottle are necessary.
Biking: Fast, Fun, and Breezy
Charleston’s flat layout makes biking a great way to explore more of the city without a car. The Nickel Hotel provides bikes. Locals and visitors often bike through the areas of Hampton Park, historic downtown, or along the waterfront. Several neighborhoods beyond downtown are easily accessible by bike, offering even more chances to experience the city like a local.
Charleston’s bike share program, Holy Spokes, makes it easy to hop on two wheels and explore the city. Bikes are stationed at well-marked docking stations throughout downtown. They are available for rent by the hour or for the entire day. Everything runs through a simple app. It’s easy. Unlock a bike and ride around the city at your own pace. When you’re finished, just return it to any nearby docking area.
Additionally, some local bike shops offer guided tours and rentals, often with baskets, locks, and maps included. Bike lanes are limited in parts of downtown, but drivers are used to cyclists on the road. For longer rides, the Ravenel Bridge has a dedicated biking and pedestrian lane with sweeping views of the harbor.
Public Transportation: Simple and Budget-Friendly
Charleston’s CARTA transit system includes several bus routes throughout the region. Within the Historic District, the free DASH shuttle is a great choice for short rides between major stops. DASH buses are convenient for those with mobility concerns, limited time, or heavier bags.
The system includes three downtown shuttle lines that run frequently throughout the day, stopping at key points like the Charleston Visitor Center, Broad Street, and the South Carolina Aquarium. DASH buses are ADA-accessible, air-conditioned, and tend to be less crowded than other public transportation in larger cities.
For travel outside the city center, CARTA’s routes cover areas like Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, James Island, and West Ashley. The buses have bike racks and flat fares, making them a budget-friendly way to reach attractions a bit further away.
Schedules and route maps are always available online or at local visitor centers, with limited service on weekends and evenings.
Rideshare and Taxis: Quick and Convenient
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are easy to find in Charleston for getting around quickly. In and around downtown, expect shorter wait times. Many drivers are locals who know the area well and are happy to share helpful tips or recommendations along the way.
Rideshares are also helpful for late-night drop-offs or unexpected weather. Many travelers use them after dinner or evening events when walking or biking back isn’t ideal. Fares may increase during busy times, holidays, or events, so checking pricing before booking is recommended.
Traditional taxis in Charleston are less common but are still in service. Taxis are at major hotels, the airport, and designated stands near the market area. Some companies accept advance bookings, which can be helpful for early morning airport trips or scheduled tours.
Car Rentals and Parking: Good for Day Trips
A car isn’t necessary for most downtown visits. Still, it can be helpful for trips to destinations outside city limits, like Boone Hall Plantation, Charleston Tea Garden, or the famous Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island. Depending on traffic, these sites often involve a 30–60 minute drive from downtown.
Rental cars are available at Charleston International Airport and a few downtown agencies. Many hotels offer overnight parking for guests with vehicles (valet or garage fees may apply.) Public parking garages are located near major attractions, with hourly and daily rates that are usually more affordable than street parking meters.
Metered parking in the Historic District has time limits and varying rates, with enforcement Monday through Saturday. Be mindful of residential zones and posted restrictions where towing is enforced.
Local Options for Fun Ways to Get Around
Carriage Rides
Guided horse-drawn carriage tours are a classic Charleston experience. Tours usually last about an hour and provide historical information while traveling through different parts of the Historic District. Carriage routes are assigned randomly by the city to limit congestion, so no two rides are exactly the same. It’s a fun way to learn about Charleston’s past while experiencing its scenic streets.
Pedicabs
Pedicabs, or bike taxis, are usually seen in busy areas like King Street or the City Market. These eco-friendly rides are perfect for short trips downtown, especially during festivals, concerts, or weddings. Most drivers are locals and can offer fun commentary along the way. Fares will depend on the distance of your ride and the number of passengers.
Water Taxis
The Charleston Water Taxi connects downtown with Mount Pleasant, with stops at Waterfront Park, Patriots Point, and the Maritime Center. It’s a scenic, relaxing way to travel across the harbor while enjoying views of the water, bridges, and passing boats. Tickets are available for round-trip rides or all-day passes, making this a practical and peaceful alternative to road travel.
Enjoy Getting Around in Charleston, SC!
Experience Charleston at an easy pace. A quiet walk down a cobblestone street, a bike ride along the waterfront, or a short boat trip across the harbor. Each way of getting around adds something different to the experience. The city is easy to explore with its compact layout and scenic charm. Blending a few different ways to travel makes it simple to match the flow of the day. And often, it’s the unplanned moments that turn into lasting memories.
Ready to experience Charleston? Book a room at The Nickel Hotel for comfort, style, and easy access to everything the city has to offer.