Best way to introduce Charleston/Mt Pleasant to my parents? (Mount Pleasant: house, construction)

[awarburton]

We are moving to Mt Pleasant from Miami on Friday. My parents, who are not thrilled that we're moving away, are coming with us to help with the move. I'd like to show them the area so that they can understand what is so special about it that would cause us to move away from family. I can show them all the statistics I want, but I want them to get a good "feeling" about our move.
I've already contacted a gentleman about doing a walking tour of Charleston on Sunday, I'd also like to take them to a nice place to eat after. Any recommendations for things to do, places to see, things to eat would be VERY appreciated! I would like to show them both Charleston and Mt Pleasant.

Thanks in advance,

Anna

[Robynn]

Do they like walking? Maybe one of those carriage tours would be better? It's going to be hot all weekend.

What kind of food do they like? One place I went that's very nice and good food and sits on the water is California Dreaming. California Dreaming Restaurant and Bar » Charleston, South Carolina

I would definitely drive them over the Cooper River bridge from Chs to MP... or vice versa... it's beautiful.

[scuba steve]

I hope they like walking. Alot.

[joyeaux]

If you're moving to Mount Pleasant, show it off, too.
Yes, walking ... the new Shem Creek Park is a beautiful boardwalk out over the marshes to see Charleston Harbor. It really gives a feel for all we love about the area.
The other big hit/favorite is the Mt. Pleasant Waterfront Memorial Park. Its pier will put you into the Cooper/Wando Rivers just under the Ravenel Bridge. The pier itself is built on the moorings of the old Grace Bridge.
Brunch at the Old Post House in the old village or at Carter's Kitchen in I'on.

Do try to AVOID HWY 17 when possible by sticking to Coleman Blvd. or Mathis Ferry Road. "Constructionland" ain't pretty these days! Enjoy!

[moneill]

California Dreaming is a chain, I would choose a local restaurant. There are so many to choose from. It's gonna be a busy week end. Some folks like Fleet Landing because it's on the water. It's kind of casual. 82 Queen is my choice for a nice dining experience. There is something charming about dining in one of the restaurants on Queen Street -- in the center of all those old buildings. Pooghan's Porch is also charming. Our family is a fan of S.N.O.B. -- Slightly North of Broad. We've had good meals at High Cotton, Cypress, Amen, Peninsula Grill. They are all different price points -- check on line to see their menus.

Old Village Post in Mount Pleasant is nice and you can do a quick drive around old Mount Pleasant or a quick drive to Sullivans Island after your walking tour.

Shem Creek area is fun -- not a great dining spot -- okay -- not bad....but not a dining experience.

[awarburton]

They are actually big fans of walking and walking tours, so that shouldn't be a problem, They're in their mid 50s and walking is their primary form of exercise.
We're moving next Friday, June 1st, so we'll miss the holiday weekend rush. I will definitely check out the restaurants you mentioned!
Do you think Shem Creek Park and the Waterfront Memorial Park will come up on the GPS if I just plug in their names? Those sound like great ideas.

[TealDreamer]

Peninsula Grill for the coconut cake........

[joyeaux]

Shem Creek Park is one mile from the Ravenel Bridge, accessed from Coleman Blvd by turning into Shrimp Boat Lane.
Shem Creek Park

For the Memorial Waterfront Park look for the signs to the Mount Pleasant Visitor's Center, McGrath-Darby Blvd off of HWY 17 to Wingo Way (becomes Harry Hallman) or Wingo Way off of Mathis Ferry Rd -- just head toward the river!

[eureka1]

The tourist center on Meeting Street is your friend.Take them on a city bus tour - there are so many good ones and no driving stress, The tour of Magnolia Plantation is good also, also Al at Gullah Tours gives a dandy Porgy and Bess- oriented tour. Take them to Jestine's. Have fun!

[moneill]

If you end up parking for the Waterfront Park -- take a little walk on the bridge....such great views.