10 Most Instagrammable Places in Charleston

Rainbow Row is a series of pastel-coloured houses on East Bay Street, in the Historic Quarter of Charleston. It features 13 houses  in historic architectural designs. The buildings were originally constructed around 1740, but were revitalised in 1930s under the ownership of Dorothy Porcher Legge and her husband.

The houses were painted in bright colours – a trend soon followed by their neighbours, which resulted in Rainbow Row becoming one of Charleston's most iconic sights.  East Bay Street is always busy, but there's plenty of space to snap a photo in front of these pastel homes. It's still a residential area, so make sure that you don’t block the street or disturb the owners.

Hampton Park is a picturesques urban park in Charleston. The 60-acre site is around 3 miles north of the city centre, adjacent to The Citadel. It boasts one of the most extensive floral gardens in the city, with an old rose collection and seasonal blooms throughout the year.

Some of the best ways to explore the park are on foot and bicycle, with many trails skirting among the trees. Some of its most photogenic landmarks include the pavilion and the large pond with bridges and fountains. Hampton Park is particularly popular for family picnics during fair weather in Charleston. 

The Joe Riley Waterfront Park occupies a scenic spot in Charleston. Located just north of Rainbow Row, the park is most well-known for its landmark, called the Pineapple Foundation. It's one of the most Instagrammable places in Charleston, with most visitors often waiting in line to snap a photo in front of it.

You should definitely explore the rest of the Joe Riley Waterfront Park. It has paved walkways, views over the water, and several historic markers, all of which make for interesting photo backdrops. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit this spot early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Chalmers Street sits in Charleston's city centre, between Meeting Street and State Street. Established in the late 17th century, it features cobblestones and pastel-coloured houses that make for stunning photos. The street is also lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a popular spot for shopping and dining.

It’s a good idea to visit in spring, with oak trees providing shade and creating a picturesque canopy over the street. You’ll also find some noteworthy buildings and attractions, including the Pink House Gallery, Old Slave Mart Museum, and Washington Square. The architecture styles of the buildings include Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival.

The French Huguenot Church is one of the most unique landmarks in Charleston. It stands out from most churches due to its Gothic Revival architecture and pastel pink colour. Paired with iron gates and palm trees in the courtyard, the church makes for a wonderful photo opportunity.

The original church was destroyed during the Civil War and the Charleston Earthquake of 1886, while the present-day structure dates back to 1845. The French Huguenot Church is open for tours at certain times throughout the week. Alternatively, you can attend a worship service on Sundays. 

Folly Beach is a long stretch of sand on Folly Island. Located about 25 minutes south of Charleston, it’s one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina. There are numerous photographic spots along the shore, including the Folly Beach Pier in the middle, views of Morris Island Lighthouse to the north, and Dunes House to the southern end.

We highly recommend visitng Folly Beach during sunset, when the beautiful glow of the setting sun can be admired from the pier. You’ll also find plenty of bars and restaurants along the beach if you fancy a drink or meal to pair with the scenic views.

The Angel Oak Tree is a famous tree on Johns Island, just west of Charleston. The old tree stands around 65 ft, with a wide canopy that's excellent for framing a photograph. It’s one of the largest live oak trees in South Carolina. Locals believe it to be up to 400 years old, making it a living part of the state's history.

You can visit the Angel Oak Tree any day of the week, though limited hours apply on certain days. It’s important to know that if you’re planning a professional photoshoot, you have to acquire a permit from the local authorities. 

The Charleston City Market is located right in the heart of the city centre. Spanning 4 blocks, this iconic shopping spot has been servicing locals for over 200 years. You can find a wide range of vendors in the covered market, from fresh food and hot drinks to arts and crafts.

With a buzzing atmosphere and plenty of colour down every aisle, the Charleston City Market is a popular spot for Instagrammable photos. During Christmas time, the market features vibrant decorations and twinkling lights, making it a particularly beautiful time to visit.

The Nathaniel Russell House is a historical building and museum in the South of Broad neighbourhood. The 19th century house was built in 1808 by wealthy merchant and slave trader, Nathaniel Russell. Today, it’s considered one of the most important neoclassical houses in the country.

It’s also a dedicated museum, offering an insight into the lives of the mercantile elite of the late-colonial and early-Federal periods. The landscaped gardens, which are free to visit, offer beautiful photo backdrops. If you want to see inside the Nathaniel Russell House, opting for a guided tour is best.

The Battery is a defensive seawall and promenade at the southern tip of central Charleston. Besides offering an insight into the city's Civil War history, it is also a very picturesque place with sea views, a palm tree-lined walkway, and lavish antebellum homes.

At the southern end of The Battery, you’ll find the White Point Garden – check out picnic areas and old military features like canons and statues. We highly recommend walking or cycling along the promenade to admire the 18th-century setting.