Looking for fun things to do in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina? Here's a list of 34 of the best things to do in Mt Pleasant including beaches, attractions, restaurants and shopping.
Just minutes away from Historic Downton Charleston, Mount Pleasant is a bustling waterfront community filled with historic sites, outdoor activities for the whole family, abundant restaurants and unique shopping experiences, and stunning marsh and harbor views.
Each week, there are thousands of people who visit this popular destination from all over the USA.
It is the perfect “home base” for a South Carolina Lowcountry vacation, with the Charleston beaches only minutes away and downtown Charleston just across the bridge. Here are some of the best things to do in Mt Pleasant, SC.
Beaches
- Isle of Palms: A barrier island separated from Mount Pleasant by the Intracoastal Waterway, this popular beach community is home to several hotels, a marina, numerous restaurants, and of course, a beautiful beach with more than 50 public access points located across the island.
- Sullivan’s Island: A neighbor to Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island is also just across the Intracoastal Waterway from Mount Pleasant and draws locals and visitors to its quaint shopping and dining district. History buffs will enjoy the sights on this small island, including Fort Moultrie and the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse (also known as the Charleston Light).
- Folly Beach: This nearby beach has a laid-back surfer vibe. Go for a small town beach experience where you can walk across the street from the beach for great restaurants, live music the requisite surf shops.
On the Water
- Lowcountry Outdoor Adventures: For the anglers on vacation, charters can be booked for a half-day, three-quarter-day, or full days fishing the beautiful waters around Mount Pleasant and Charleston.
- Nature Adventures: Spend a fun-filled day kayaking or trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding on tours through Mount Pleasant’s picturesque Shem Creek.
- Aqua Safaris: To explore the Charleston Harbor by sailboat or catamaran, book a charter through Aqua Safaris for an unforgettable experience on the water.
- Bulls Island Ferry: Just north of Mount Pleasant in Awendaw, the Bulls Island Ferry runs year-round, taking visitors to explore pristine, undeveloped shorelines and the famous “Boneyard Beach.”
Parks
- Palmetto Islands County Park: This 943-acre park boasts some of the loveliest marsh views in the area, walking trails, playgrounds, a 50-foot observation tower, fishing and crabbing dock, and a kayak launch. Pack a picnic to spend an afternoon here with family, and don’t forget your swimsuits for the waterpark.
- Splash Island Waterpark: Located within Palmetto Islands County Park, Splash Island Waterpark has slides big enough to thrill older kids and smaller slides and splash pads for the younger ones. Be sure to check the website in advance for seasonal hours, availability, and rates.
- Shem Creek Park: Shem Creek is one of Mount Pleasant’s favorite destinations for visitors and locals alike, with restaurants and shrimp boats lining a picturesque waterway. The park includes walkways constructed over the marsh and panoramic views of the creek, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Charleston Harbor and Arthur Ravenel Bridge (still known to locals as the Cooper River Bridge).
- Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park: Located underneath the Ravenel Bridge, this park is adjacent to a 1,250-foot pier and has a large playground, restroom facilities, a café, visitor center and an events pavilion. Stroll down to the end of the Mount Pleasant Pier for fantastic views of downtown Charleston or enjoy the views from a bench swing.
- Pitt Street Bridge: You can also walk the Pitt Street Bridge that connects Sullivan’s Island to Mt. Pleasant. Once a trolley bridge, it’s now a park-like recreation area perfect for enjoying the view, walking your dog or fishing from the pier at the end of the bridge.
- Charleston Fun Park: Families love stopping in at Charleston Fun Park in Mount Pleasant, and the indoor arcade is the perfect spot to flee a summer storm. If your crew needs a break from the beach, head to the fun park for bumper cars, go-karts, miniature golf courses, ax throwing, and amazing arcade! Refreshments even include beer and wine for the adults.
- Charleston Zipline Adventures: For the thrill-seekers on vacation, Charleston Zipline Adventures includes a special course for kids and a climbing wall, so there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Museums and Historic Sites
- Boone Hall Plantation: Boone Hall visitors may find themselves thinking, “this place looks familiar,” as Boone Hall has been used as a backdrop in many films and television shows, including The Notebook. A number of tours of this impressive, historic property are available, including the plantation house, the flower gardens, and the original slave cabins. Special events held on the grounds throughout the year include the popular Lowcountry Oyster Festival and Wine Under the Oaks. There’s also a cafe and gift shop where you can pick up local souvenirs or gifts.
- Fort Sumter: Charleston’s National Historical Park, Fort Sumter is a must-see for Civil War buffs. The fort can only be accessed by boat, with 2.5-hour tours departing from either downtown Charleston or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.
- Old Village: A trip through Mount Pleasant’s Old Village is like stepping back in time. This gorgeous neighborhood boasts some of the area’s oldest and most historic homes nestled among stately live oaks and situated along the Charleston Harbor.
- USS Yorktown at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum: Explore a World War II aircraft carrier and the Medal of Honor Museum at this nationally renowned attraction in Mount Pleasant, overlooking the Charleston Harbor. Military history and aviation enthusiasts will be impressed by this one-of-a-kind museum. While you’re there, don’t miss the Cold War Submarine Memorial that pays tribute to those who served in our submarine force.
- South Carolina Aquarium: Just over the bridge from Mount Pleasant into downtown Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium is a favorite spot for families visiting the Lowcountry. More than 5,000 animals are housed here, along with exhibits built to replicate the various natural habitats of the Palmetto State.
- The Center for the Birds of Prey: Another must-do for animal lovers is The Center for the Birds of Prey, just a few minutes north of Mount Pleasant in Awendaw. Nearly 50 bird species are represented, and flight demonstrations are available every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
- College of Charleston: One of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States, the College of Charleston is a short drive from Mount Pleasant and a beautiful place to stroll in downtown Charleston. Visitors love snapping photos under the moss-draped oaks at the Cistern in front of Randolph Hall.
- Charles Pinckney National Historic Site: Charles Pinckney was one of the authors and signers of the United States Constitution. This historic site preserves one of his plantation properties, Snee Farm, and includes the Charles Pinckney historic house, visitor center and museum.
Shopping and Dining
- Shem Creek Boardwalk: Take a sunset stroll down the waterfront boardwalk and pick a restaurant on Shem Creek to try. This area is a local favorite for seafood and unbeatable views. The walkway connects to the park making it a perfect way to start or end your adventure.
- Mount Pleasant Town Centre: The premier shopping destination in Mount Pleasant, Town Centre offers shoppers more than 60 stores in a beautiful open-air mall, including everything from national chains to local boutiques. There is also a movie theater on-site and numerous restaurants, from casual fare to more upscale dining.
- Red Drum: Loved by locals, Red Drum has been a Mount Pleasant favorite for more than two decades with its fusion of Southern and Southwestern cuisine. It is also one of the best spots in Mount Pleasant for a steak, shrimp or chicken and reservations are highly recommended.
- Page’s Okra Grill: Page’s is the best spot in Mount Pleasant for a hearty Southern breakfast (and they have delicious lunch and dinner menus as well). Get there early or plan to wait in line!
- La Pizzeria: If you are craving a slice while on vacation, head to this family-owned spot loved by locals. They serve the best pizza in town and some of the most mouth-watering traditional Italian entrees. And don’t forget the tiramisu!
- The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene: Taking its name from the trawler that was blown over its docks in Hurricane Hugo, the Wreck is a no-frills seafood lover's dream. Stop in for the best in fried seafood in town, and do not forget the legendary key lime bread pudding for dessert.
- Sweetgrass Baskets: Along Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant, you will see several roadside stands where you can purchase sweetgrass baskets of all shapes and sizes. These exquisite and handcrafted creations are unique to the Gullah community of the area, in a tradition handed down from their West African ancestors.
- Pitt Street Pharmacy: Step back in time and enjoy lunch at the Pitt Street Pharmacy Soda Fountain, where you can enjoy classics like a BLT or a grilled cheese followed by a delicious milkshake, all in one of Mount Pleasant’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, the Old Village.
- Tavern & Table: This Shem Creek destination is unmatched when it comes to outstanding food paired with gorgeous views. Reservations are recommended (and ask for a table by the water!)
Related: 21 Best Places To Eat In Folly Beach Any Time Of Day
Golf
- The Links at Patriots Point: This harborside course offers golfers incredible views along with world-class amenities, and it is also one of the more affordable courses to play in the area.
- Charleston National: A Rees Jones-designed course located in North Mount Pleasant, Charleston National Golf Club is known by many local golfers as a “hidden gem” that is lesser known than the community’s resort courses yet still offers stunning vistas and a great overall value.
- Dunes West: Another course with stunning Lowcountry vistas, Dunes West is located in Mount Pleasant along the Wando River. The practice facility, pro shop, and full-service restaurant provide top-notch amenities while you play.
And if you're in the Charleston area during the holidays, don't miss the amazing Holiday Festival of Lights on nearby James Island.
No matter what you choose to do in Mt. Pleasant, you’ll find it easy to fill a day, a weekend getaway or a family vacation. This list will help you have a great time.
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