Dog-Friendly Vacation
Vacation just isn’t the same without your furry friends. Luckily, Charleston is known for being a very dog-friendly city, and we’re here to provide the perfect guide for exploring downtown with your dog!
Enjoy the Outdoors
Charleston is brimming with picturesque spots and vibrant attractions that capture the essence of this historic city, many of which are dog-friendly. Here are some must-visit outdoor locations to explore with your furry friend during your stay.
The Battery & White Point Garden
2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC
Soak in Charleston’s waterfront charm at the Battery, a scenic seawall lined with historic cannons. Explore White Point Garden at its tip, where the Ashley & Cooper Rivers converge. This free public space offers breathtaking views, rich history (including those old cannons!), and a vibrant atmosphere – perfect for a leisurely walk or guided tour.
Waterfront Park
Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC
This 10-acre green oasis offers stunning harbor views, a serene atmosphere, and plenty of space to relax. Stroll along the scenic walking paths, picnic on the lawn, or watch pelicans and sailboats from the pier. Don’t miss the iconic Pineapple Fountain, a playful nod to Charleston’s symbol of hospitality. Once an industrial hub, this park is a testament to Charleston’s beautiful transformation.
Beach Day
Take your four-legged friends to Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island for morning walk and swim. Click the link to see the rules for each beach.
Go on a Tour
Charleston offers a variety of dog-friendly activities that allow you and your furry friend to explore the city's rich history and natural beauty together. Here are some top recommendations.
Palmetto Carriage Company
8 Guignard St, Charleston, SC
Dogs are welcome to come on their carriage tours; guests bringing their dog will need to purchase an entire row for themselves (4 Seats).
Drayton Hall
3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC
Leashed dogs are welcome to go with you on a self-guided nature walk through 127 acres of tea plants. Dogs are not allowed in the house or other buildings unless they are service dogs.
Magnolia Plantation Garden
3550 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC
Explore 6 miles of walking trails and explore the beautiful gardens that have been growing on the property since the 1840s. Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds, in the gardens, and in the Audubon Swamp but not in the Wildlife Center, Gift Shop, or on any of the guided tours.
Bulldog Tours
18 Anson St, Charleston, SC
Explore Charleston’s hidden gems and rich history on a two-hour stroll with Bulldog Tours. Tail-wagging guaranteed as you learn about the history of Charleston and discover charming alleyways and cobblestone streets.
Grab a Cup of Joe
Start your and your pup's day out right with a delicious cup of local java at one of Charleston's charming cafes.
Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer
4 Vanderhorst St Charleston, SC
Kudo proudly serves locally roasted coffee from Springbok Coffee Roasters in downtown Charleston, SC, and to encourage meaningful in-person interactions, they have opted to be Wi-Fi free. In addition, they carry more than 14 beers on tap, have a charming courtyard, and offer fresh pastries and sandwiches crafted daily!
Second State Coffee
70 1/2 Beaufain St., Charleston, SC
Second State is a small, locally owned coffee roastery with multiple locations. Their downtown location on Beaufain Street welcomes dogs to sit outside on their patios as long as they are leashed and not disturbing other guests.
Babas
11 cannon street charleston, sc 804 meeting st charleston, sc
Babas on Cannon and Babas on Meeting are cafés inspired by the neighborhood cafés and bars of Europe. They welcome folks in the morning for espresso and house made pastries, at lunch for sandwiches and sexy salads, and in the evenings for cocktails and wine.
Enjoy a Cold One
Charleston's drink scene is bubbling with creative mixologists and a growing number of local breweries to quench your thirst. Even better, some of these spots welcome your furry sidekick, making it a paw-sitively delightful experience for the whole pack! Let's explore some of our favorite pet-friendly libation locations.
Blind Tiger
36-38 Broad St., Charleston, SC
Looking for a place to unwind with your furry friend? Head to the Blind Tiger on Broad Street! Relax in their charming courtyard, where your pup can quench their thirst from a provided water bowl while you enjoy a delicious craft cocktail. Bonus: live music adds to the atmosphere several nights a week!
Bay Street Biergarten
549 East Bay St., Charleston, SC
Bay Street Biergarten is focused on bringing people together, celebrating life, and blending classic charm with modern fun. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a brunch enthusiast, or just seeking a pup-friendly patio with a frosty beverage, they have you covered!
Rusty Bull Brewing Co.
337 KING STREET CHARLESTON, SC
Head to Rusty Bull in the heart of the historic district to enjoy some quality time with your pup on their dog-friendly patio. Their menu offers a delicious selection of small bites, salads, sandwiches, and juicy burgers to satisfy your cravings. Wash it all down with a frosty pint of their craft beer, a glass of wine, or a refreshing fountain soda. Cheers to good times and furry friends!
Edmund's Oast
Restaurant: 1081 Morrison Dr. Charleston, SC Brewing Co. & Taproom: 1505 King St. #115 Charleston, SC
Pups & Pints at Edmund’s Oast! This Charleston brewpub welcomes your furry friend to join you on their paw-some patio. Sip on delicious drinks and savor tasty fare – it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing hangout with your four-legged companion.
Chow Down
Enjoy a bite to eat with your pup at one of these downtown restaurant patios. Remember, dogs must be on a 6-foot retractable leash and be well-behaved.
Leon's Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop
698 King St., Charleston, SC
Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters is a dog-friendly haven in a restored auto shop. Enjoy crispy fried chicken & fresh oysters on their outdoor patio – perfect for a casual, flavorful experience for you and your furry companion.
East Bay Deli
334 East Bay St., Charleston, SC
East Bay Deli brings New York-style deli goodness to Charleston! Fido’s welcome too – enjoy classic gourmet sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, and more on their dog-friendly patio. Don’t forget to save room for a slice of their legendary cheesecake!
Poogan's Porch
72 Queen St., Charleston, SC
Poogan’s Porch is named after a beloved neighborhood dog who made the porch at 72 Queen his favorite spot in 1976 when the residential home was converted into a restaurant. He became the guardian of the restaurant, presiding over renovations and warmly greeting their first guests. Today, the building is his monument and welcomes other dogs to accompany their owners while they dine on the pet-friendly front porch, weather permitting. Poogan’s is a very popular spot for brunch.
Rest your head at one of Charming Inns' dog-friendly boutique hotels
John Rutledge House Inn®
116 Broad St., Charleston, SC
The only home of a signer of the United States Constitution that now serves as both a living national historic landmark as well as an inn. To book a dog-friendly reservation, call 843-723-7999 as pet-friendly rooms are extremely limited. A $40 per night fee also applies.
Kings Courtyard Inn
198 King St., Charleston, SC
One of the city’s most beloved and captivating historic hotels charms Charleston visitors with its trio of intimate interior courtyards and beautifully furnished guest rooms and suites. To book a dog-friendly reservation, please call 843-723-7000 as pet-friendly rooms are extremely limited. A $40 per night fee also applies.
Wentworth Mansion®
149 Wentworth St., Charleston, S
A 21-room tribute to Charleston’s gilded age, the historic Wentworth Mansion® exudes the glamour and grandeur of the Holy City. Italian crystal chandeliers, hand-carved marble fireplaces, and Tiffany stained glass further enhanced with luxurious amenities create thoughtful guest experiences. To book a dog-friendly reservation, call 843-853-1886 as pet-friendly rooms are extremely limited. A $40 per night fee also applies.