Charleston Lifestyle

Charleston is among the most beautiful, walk able, friendly and cultured of cities. The historic district has an ambience that is equal parts European and All-American. Narrow, cobblestone streets are lined by gas-lit streetlamps. Secret, walled gardens and courtyards are tucked behind well-preserved, centuries old homes. The city’s reputation as a world-class destination is truly well earned.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Throughout history, Charleston has stood as the cultural capital of the South. The performing arts are well represented here with a symphony orchestra, community theater groups, and several ballet companies. The Gibbes Museum of Art and numerous art galleries display the city's impressive appreciation for visual pleasures. The abundant examples of architectural preservation, showing the city's longstanding heritage of building excellence and craftsmanship, also bear witness to this esthetic awareness.

CLIMATE

Charleston has a warm climate. In January, the average temperature is 55 degrees; in July, it's 82 on the average. But it's prudent to note that summertime temperatures can peak above the 100-degree mark. And the humidity, which is considerable in the Low Country during any season, makes the hot seem hotter and the cold seem colder. Spring in Charleston, however, more than compensates for any discomfort during the other seasons. Many consider it the best time of year in the area; days are warm, nights barely chilled, and the whole world appears to be dripping in wisteria vines and azalea blossoms.

RECREATION

As in other coastal cities, recreation in Charleston centers on water. Tennis and golf are popular, too and the mild climate makes them year-round sports. The City operates a municipal golf course and 40 tennis courts. The City's numerous parks and scenic, tree-lined streets provide ample space and a beautiful backdrop for walking, jogging and cycling. The annual Cooper River Bridge Run, attracting over 25,000 participants, is one of the most popular road races in the Southeast. The City's Waterfront Park, deemed "this generation's gift to the future" by Mayor Riley, is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Hosts of private and county facilities round out the City's extensive inventory of recreational facilities.