The Lowcountry is such an amazing place to live that it’s difficult to choose which area is the best to call home. Since there are such great choices in tri-county region, we thought we’d start a series on the best things about living in each area. Today, we’re taking a look at five of the reasons you’ll love living in Summerville, South Carolina.
Recent Growth
It wasn’t all that long ago that residents of Summerville had to drive into North Charleston, Downtown, or other surrounding areas for the best restaurants and shopping. But Summerville has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years. Several major chains along with local boutiques and restaurants have chosen to open their doors in what has often been called the bedroom community of Charleston. Why the recent growth? Transplants and natives alike have been flocking to Summerville for more affordable housing, lower tax rates, and a smaller town feel, which brings us to our next point.
Small-Town Feel
Even with the amount of expansion that’s taken place in Summerville, there’s still a quaint, small-town feel about the area. Thanks to the preservation of antebellum homes and the shops and buildings around Hutchinson Square and Town Hall, residents and visitors in Summerville can enjoy the charming ambience of an older, smaller town when visiting local favorites like Guerin’s Pharmacy and the James F. Dean Community Theater, and Eva’s Restaurant.
History
Downtown Charleston is renowned for its distinctive history and architecture, but did you know Summerville has just as much of a rich history? 18th-century residents of the peninsula, coastal areas, and the many plantations along the Ashley River trekked to Summerville in search of respite from unbearably hot summers, mosquitoes, and diseases that tended to run rampant in more populated areas. In fact, it’s how the town got its name. Summeville has received lots of historical recognition over the years and has even been named “The Birthplace of Sweet Tea.” We encourage you to learn a bit about Summerville’s history and tour its gorgeous architecture and parks.
The Flowertown Festival
Every year since 1972, residents and tourists flock to Summerville during the first weekend of April for the annual Flowertown Festival. It’s the prime time of year to see the gorgeous blooming azaleas, wisteria, and dogwoods that earned the town its nickname of the Flower Town in the Pines. The three-day Flowertown Festival is free to attend and includes a giant arts and crafts fair, vendor tents, delicious foods at the Taste of Summerville, a kids’ carnival, the weekend farmer’s market, and numerous entertainment opportunities. It’s a don’t-miss event, and living in Summerville makes it simple to enjoy the Festival all weekend long!
Parks and Green Space
A benefit of living a bit more inland is the vast availability of green space. Summerville is home to several great parks and playgrounds, including the well-known and beloved Azalea Park, Doty Park, Saul Alexander Park, Shepard Park, Gahagan Park, and Hutchinson Square, just to name a few. In addition to the numerous parks and playgrounds, there are several nature trails, golf courses, and running/biking trails to be enjoyed throughout town.
Thinking about calling Summerville home? This beautiful town is where our roots are, so we’d be happy to provide you with the expertise you need to make a final decision about moving to the Summerville area. Give us a call today for help finding your dream home in your perfect community.
