Discovering Downtown: A Walkthrough of Four Downtown Charleston Neighborhoods

Downtown Charleston neighborhoods each tell their own captivating story, from the historic charm to the modern aspects of downtown living. The French Quarter, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, offers a blend of art galleries and fine dining with endless elegance.

Radcliffeborough is known for its tree-lined streets. Meanwhile, South of Broad is known for its stunning waterfront views and beautiful houses. Lastly, Harleston Village is known for its quiet streets and close distance to the College of Charleston campus.

Join us as we explore the unique aspects of these iconic downtown Charleston neighborhoods, uncovering famous streets and the best shopping and dining options close to each distinctive destination.

French Quarter:

In the heart of Charleston, the French Quarter is a captivating tapestry of cobblestone streets and historic charm. Gorgeous churches, galleries, shopping, and beautiful horses exude that Charleston charm. The French Quarter, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, has beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings and ornate buildings that speak to Charleston’s rich colonial history.

Some well-known restaurants near the French Quarter are Church and Union, known for its prestigious church setting and amazing Sunday brunch. Another favorite is Carmella’s, a charming spot known for its delicious desserts and trendy fun setting. It’s a perfect place for both casual and special occasions. Lastly is Oaks Steakhouse, known for its amazing steak and crab cakes. 

We have a property on King Street, 185 King Street, a block from the French Quarter. This is a second-floor condo with a private elevator above the vibrant King Street. The condo includes a cozy living room and spacious kitchen with built-in booth seating. There is also a rear staircase in the back entrance that offers easy access to the bedrooms and laundry area.

Radcliffeborough:

The Radcliffeborough neighborhood borders Calhoun Street to the south, Morris Street to the north, Coming Street to the west, and King Street to the east. These streets are lined with trees that create a calm and uplifting setting. In this area, most people use biking or walking as their transportation, which brings a significant attraction to the downtown area of Charleston. 

When exploring Radcliffeborough, you will notice tons of captivating and exquisite food—starting off with a fantastic coffee shop, Kudu Coffee and Craft Beer. If you’re grabbing a quick cup of coffee or unwinding with your friends, this delightful coffee shop always makes your experience the best.

Another local favorite is The Darling Oyster Bar, known for its dedication to serving fresh and flavorful seafood. Lastly, O-ku is known for its sushi and Asian cuisine, with a charming romantic setting. This neighborhood not only has great homes but amazing food options. 

We have a property for rent in Radcliffeborough on Morris Street, 49 Morris Street #B. It has three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and one-half bath. This property is within walking distance from King Street, offering the convenience of the city lifestyle. It includes a spacious two-car garage and abundant windows that create bright light throughout the home. For more information, check out the 49 Morris Street listing on the Handsome Homes website.

South of Broad:

As you stroll through South of Broad, you’ll be enchanted by the grand houses and incredible views. You can see the city’s rich history and Southern charm in this iconic Charleston neighborhood with its cobblestone streets and bright-colored homes. The historic architectural styles are from the 19th century, including Federal, Georgian, and Victorian. 

Rainbow Row is one of the most historic and vibrant places in all of downtown Charleston. Across from these beautiful colored homes, you will see The Battery, a historical walkway along the peninsula’s southern edge. It was initially constructed as a defensive seawall to protect the city from naval attacks, particularly during the Civil War.

Lastly, White point Garden is a beautiful scenic spot with expansive lawns, majestic oak trees, and beautifully maintained gardens. These iconic landmarks show Charleston’s rich history and charm, making the area a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. 

Harleston Village:

Harleston Village was established in the 1700s and features a mix of Georgian and Italianate architecture. It is centrally located, offering a convenient walk to downtown Charleston, and is close to both the College of Charleston and the Medical University of South Carolina.

Some attractions around this unique neighborhood are Colonial Lake, which locals frequently use for exercise and walking pets. The area features beautiful oak trees, well-maintained gardens, and historic homes, contributing to its charm.

Also in the neighborhood is Alcove Market, a favorite spot for vegan and healthy food that accepts all dietary restrictions. Another spot is Basic Kitchen, which serves locally produced and whole grain vegetarian dishes and offers Sunday brunch. Together, all these places make the neighborhood a more vibrant and inviting destination for both residents and visitors.

To learn more about the other downtown Charleston neighborhoods, check out our community overview on the Handsome Properties website. To see more of our rentals, check out our exclusive rental listings on the Handsome Homes page.