Next up in our “5 Things You’ll Love…” series, we’re exploring five reasons why you’ll love owning a home on the downtown peninsula. There are lots of good reasons to live downtown, but we’ve narrowed the list down to the best ones. Without further ado, here are five reasons to live in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

Proximity to one-of-a-kind dining and shopping.

Charleston has become a foodie’s dream over the past few years, not to mention the shopper’s paradise King Street has become over the decades. Hole-in-the-wall restaurants and bars and culinary triumphs exist side by side on the peninsula. You can grab home-cooked soul food just as easily as a 5-course gourmet meal. Then shop off those calories by perusing the local boutiques and international chain stores along King Street.

Walkability/bike-ability and other transportation options.

It’s easy to walk or bike pretty much the entire peninsula. If not, a pedi-cab or Uber ride is pretty much always within reach. Besides the ease of getting around the downtown area itself, CARTA buses make reaching the beaches and outlying areas fairly simple as well.

Rich history and culture.

It’s no big surprise that Charleston has an extremely rich history. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll be fascinated by the city’s background, architecture, and culture. Take a self-guided walking tour of gorgeous antebellum homes and buildings. Or book a ghost tour or pirate tour to hear spooky/entertaining stories as you explore the city on foot.

You live in the center of it all.

From farmer’s markets and art walks to concerts and baseball games, there’s always something fun going on downtown. No matter what your interests are, we can guarantee there will be something to delight you any day of the week. If you love art, check out classes and demonstrations at places like Redux or Artist & Craftsman. If reading is your forté, explore Blue Bicycle Books and set up a comfy reading spot in one of the downtown area’s many parks and green spaces.

Something new (or old) around every corner.

Even though Charleston is one of the United States’ most famous historic cities, it’s an ever-evolving place. Around every corner is something new to explore, whether it’s actually new or just new to you.

Do you live downtown? What are your favorite things about living in the midst of such a beautiful, historic place? Let us know in the comments section!