Humble Beginnings
Back in 1837, Mount Pleasant had humble beginnings as a quiet fishing village, centered around shrimping, maritime trading, and shipbuilding. The original downtown area, nestled between streets lined with live oaks draped in Spanish moss, is just one city block long, and is now known as The Old Village. The area is sweet and nostalgic with a hint of laid back sophistication…think of it as Charleston’s cute little cousin, just across the Cooper River.
The Heart of Old Village
Start your journey at the corner of Venning Street and Pitt Street, at the Old Village Post House. There, you can rent a bike or enjoy a meal or cocktail in its historic dining room or relax outdoors in the courtyard. Downtown, you’ll find a bakery and café, gym, florist, a tiny public library, a wine shop, and a pharmacy with an old-fashioned soda fountain. If a gooey, old-fashioned grilled cheese is your style, step right up to the counter! “Out of Hand” is a shopper’s paradise…like a department store with a funky, relaxed vibe. The art gallery features local craftsmen who capture the colors and beauty of the Lowcounty. Rounding out the town center is “Kate Mills Design Studio”, offering a fun mix of housewares and gifts.
Timeless Homes and Harbor Views
A stroll down Pitt Street is a step back in time. Stately historical estates are intermixed with thoughtfully restored bungalows. Home features such as expansive front porches, red metal roofs, colorful flower boxes, and columns that have stood the test of time, set the tone for southern hospitality. Explore the side streets to discover a waterfront playground with views of the Ravenel Bridge, beautiful old churches, and Alhambra Hall, a former ferry terminal turned event space overlooking the Charleston Harbor. At the end of Pitt Street, discover another Mount Pleasant gem, the Pitt Street Bridge.
