parks and tours

Tucked into the heart of Oakland Market, the Winnowing Hands statue is a stop that blends powerful storytelling with an unforgettable photo moment. The larger-than-life sculpture features two hands gently holding a traditional winnowing basket, celebrating the centuries-old art of Gullah Geechee sweetgrass basket-making that has shaped Mount Pleasant’s cultural identity.

Supported and dedicated by the Town of Mount Pleasant, this striking piece honors the generations of artisans whose skill, creativity, and resilience continue to define the Lowcountry. Set against a lively mix of shops and dining, Winnowing Hands invites visitors to pause, snap a photo, and connect with a living tradition that’s as meaningful today as it was generations ago, making it a must-see stop for anyone exploring Mount Pleasant’s history and culture.

This beautiful park site features several miles of running, walking, or biking trails that wind through a variety of landscapes. Pets must be leashed at all times. Leave nothing behind but pawprints. Follow the Keep It Pleasant Promise while exploring Laurel Hill County Park!

Travel between Mount Pleasant and historic downtown Charleston aboard the Charleston Water Taxi. The Charleston Water Taxi makes hourly trips to Patriots Point, Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, downtown Charleston and Aquarium Wharf. You may even see a dolphin or two!

If you're staying in Mount Pleasant: Meet the Water Taxi at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, which is located at the end of Patriots Point Road. Follow the signs to the Water Taxi.

This park is called the “Crown Jewel of Mount Pleasant” for good reason. Take in the stunning harbor views with access to the Mount Pleasant Pier and Cooper River Bridge pedestrian path.

Recently renovated, the historic Alhambra Hall event venue is located in the Old Village Historic District of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The 3,280 square foot Main Hall offers amazing view of the Charleston Harbor, hardwood floors, large southern porches, and vaulted ceilings. The venue is popular for weddings, receptions, corporate events, family gatherings and more. Alhambra Hall hosts only one event per day for an exclusive experience.

The area is open to the public. Pets are welcome to enjoy the grassy lawn and sea breeze, but must be leashed at all times. Leave nothing behind but pawprints!

To schedule an appointment to tour the venue for your upcoming event, call (843) 849-2053.

Coastal Expedition's flagship location at Shem Creek is the perfect introduction to Charleston history and wildlife, complete with unmatched views of the Holy City skyline. Private parking & docks, retail store and changing area. Tours and rentals 7 days a week by kayak, paddleboard and boat.

If you’re searching for history in Charleston or unforgettable things to do near Charleston, a visit to the USS Laffey (DD-724) at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant is a must. Known as “The Ship That Would Not Die,” the USS Laffey is one of the most decorated destroyers of World War II and a powerful, hands-on way to experience American naval history just minutes from downtown Charleston.

Commissioned in 1944, the USS Laffey (DD-724) was a Sumner-class destroyer that saw intense combat in the Pacific Theater during World War II. On April 16, 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, Laffey endured one of the most ferocious kamikaze attacks in U.S. Navy history. The ship was struck by multiple bombs and kamikaze aircraft in a single assault, yet remarkably, she survived. Despite devastating damage and heavy casualties, the crew kept her afloat, earning the ship its enduring nickname and a Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism. After World War II, Laffey continued to serve during the Cold War before being preserved as a museum ship, now standing as a floating tribute to the sailors who served aboard her.

Today, visitors can step directly onto this historic destroyer and explore:

⚓ Self-Guided Deck Tours - Walk the weather decks, stand beside massive 5-inch gun mounts, and imagine what life was like during wartime operations.

🛏️ Crew Living Quarters - See the tight sleeping bunks, mess areas, and command spaces that housed hundreds of sailors at sea.

🎖️ Combat Information & Bridge Areas - Explore the nerve center of the ship where critical battle decisions were made.

📚 Educational Exhibits - Learn about World War II naval warfare, the Pacific Theater, and the bravery of Laffey’s crew through interpretive displays and preserved artifacts.

The USS Laffey is included with admission to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Visitors can also tour other historic vessels and exhibits during their visit, making it one of the most comprehensive maritime history experiences in the Southeast.

Explore the scenic Hog Island Trail in Mount Pleasant, SC, a peaceful walking path that winds through nature and salt marshes at Patriots Point. This easy, family-friendly trail offers incredible views of the Charleston Harbor and historic downtown Charleston. It’s one of the most picturesque walking trails in Mount Pleasant, perfect for nature watching, photography, or a relaxing stroll by the water. Trail visitors can also walk up a short ramp and steps to see the view of the Charleston Harbor from the observation deck. Hog Island Trail showcases the natural beauty that makes Mount Pleasant a true Lowcountry treasure! Follow the Keep It Pleasant Promise while exploring Hog Island & Trail!

The entrance to Hog Island Trail can be found on Patriots Point Road across from the golf course parking lot.

Trail Length: ~0.3 miles. This trail is a part of the larger 1.0 mile Patriots Point Nature Trail.

For an easy way to enjoy the water in Mount Pleasant, head to the Mount Pleasant Pier at Memorial Waterfront Park, just minutes from downtown Charleston. As the longest pier in the Carolinas, it’s a great spot to take a relaxing walk, cast a line for fishing, or simply enjoy the views of the Cooper River, Charleston Harbor, and the Cooper River Bridge.

Stop by the River Watch Café & Gift Shop for quick bites, cold drinks, and ice cream, browse the shop, or find a spot to sit and watch the boats go by. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Mount Pleasant, a place to fish near Charleston, or just a great waterfront view, come on out, take your time, and enjoy a little Lowcountry life by the water.