by Eileen Thai

Created on: June 04, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

Looking for a place to spend the day in Charleston, South Carolina? Come to Waterfront Park! Located in the center of downtown, along the marshes of the Cooper River, the Waterfront Park is a wonderful place to stop and smell the flowers.

Visitors to this elegant port city will find Waterfront Park a good stop to relax and unwind after a hectic day of sightseeing around town. It is an excellent place to walk or jog in the morning, enjoy a picnic lunch, watch the ships cruise in and out of the harbor or just people watch. From the spectacular fountains to the live oak-shaded promenade to the view of the river, this picturesque park is truly a photographer's delight.

Completed in 1990, the 13-acre waterfront park is dotted with old-fashioned park benches. You can find one in a shady spot and spend the day reading a good book. From the Palmetto-lined walkway along the marsh, you can witness the dramatic change in the tide, as much as eight feet.

Families with kids will find the lush green lawn great for having a picnic, throwing frisbee or playing games. Two beautiful interactive fountains in the park beckon kids to splash and get wet, the perfect antidote for a hot summer day. You may already be familiar with the pineapple fountain as it is featured in postcards, travel brochures and magazines. It is even more beautiful when lighted at night. Did you know that the pineapple is the symbol of hospitality?

As you make your way towards the main pier, six swinging "Charleston chairs" that seat four or more invite you to swing and stay a while. At the end of the pier, there are benches to sit and rest your weary feet. Charleston's Mayor Riley's vision for the pier was "to give the average citizen the feeling of being on a boat." Surrounded by water, you can't help but feel like you are on a boat. Without the rocking and rolling. Looking towards the harbor, you see a busy port in action - tug boats, container ships and ferries ply the waters while sailboats bob along. If you are lucky, you may even catch a cruiseship coming in or leaving the harbor. Dolphins sightings are also common. Bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at these playful creatures frolicking in the harbor.

Come and discover Waterfront Park for yourself. You will be impressed with the stunning beauty and the tranquility of the place. In this tough economic times, an attraction that is free is a very good thing.

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