What is there to do in Summerville? (Charleston, North Charleston: neighborhood, movie theater)

[pvjd]

My wife and I might move to Summerville from Birmingham, AL within the next 2 years. Though I have passed through the area, I did not get to enjoy what it had to offer. I realize that it is a smaller town, so I do not expect things to be ultra busy or anything. We enjoy watching movies, mini-golf, the water, watching the occasional music act or production, and nice scenic areas where kids can be safe in the neighborhood and you can enjoy the occasional walk in the park with your dog. We are not avid shoppers, but do need options when the situation arises, and we are obviously concerned about hospitals and schools. Any input is appreciated.

[gaflsc]

Go to Charleston?

[OleTomCat]

There is a 16 screen cinema here, Target, Wal-Mart, Kohls etc....

If you like the outdoors, there is he Sawmill branch Bike/Walking trail and the National Forest and a few state parks, the two huge lakes (actually in Monks Corner), etc...

And if all else fails, go to Charleston, or one of the beaches that are in close proximity.

[In the Pines]

Summerville has plenty to do for families. Activities at the YMCA are popular, large movie theater, local live theater with both performances for adults and children, local community orchestra, sculpture exhibits, Fort Dorchester, lots of community playgrounds, essential retailers, good restaurants, etc. I've lived here for 7 years with small children and I'm ashamed to say I go into Charleston about once a year is all. Nothing against Charleston but - everything I need can be found in Summerville and I don't have the patience to drag two hyperactive little boys down to King Street all the time! We save Charleston for adult only get-a-aways (anniversaries, etc.). I think you will really enjoy Summerville. There is a lot to do - especially when you have children.

[decafdave]

Since you said you enjoy mini-golf there is a place called Frankie's Fun Park located on Ashley Phosphate Rd. They have putt-putt, go carts, a driving range, batting cages, and a pretty nice arcade. It's technically in North Charleston but it's the safe part and not a far drive from Summerville. I would never recommend moving to Summerville if you are young and single but it's a great place to raise a family. Dorchester County (which SMV is in) also has some of the best public schools in the Charleston area-much better than the area I grew up in.

Also the annual Flowertown festival I think would be of interest to you. Plus there are lots of parks to enjoy: Azalea Park, Gahagan Park, etc.
And, depending on the end of Summerville you move to, I-26 is pretty close by which will take you to downtown Charleston in 20-30 minutes and the beaches past that.

Oh, and if you like the occasional fright there is always the Summerville Light which there's a thread on here about.

[pvjd]

Wow, sounds nice. At first we considered Myrtle B, but the thought of everything being seasonal was not that appealing. What beach do Summerville residents normally use, and about how long does it itake to get there?

[s1080]

Summerville is more inland. So, as a result, you will still be driving the 30 - 45 min (depending on the traffic and season) to folly beach or if your in the mood for a real ride mt pleasant has some beaches too.

[OleTomCat]

From Downtown Summerville it took us 35 minutes to get to Sullivan's Island (Wife's Favorite Beach) on NewYears Day.

[pvjd]

Hey, I don't mind a short drive if it means lower taxes and less chance of being affected by a hurricane. Boarding up the windows has got to be a pain.

[decafdave]

Originally Posted by pvjd

Wow, sounds nice. At first we considered Myrtle B, but the thought of everything being seasonal was not that appealing. What beach do Summerville residents normally use, and about how long does it itake to get there?

Well I'm not a resident but most people frequent Folly Beach. It has a laid back atmosphere, a pier, some restaurants/bars, and a few surf shops. Folly is South of Charleston on the coast. Out past Mount Pleasant on the North side is Isle of Palms which is also popular. It's definitely more upscale and is a more residential neighborhood, although the beach is public of course. Sullivan's Island might also be of interest to you.