Rainbow Row Charleston
Iconic stretch of 13 pastel-painted Georgian rowhouses, a vibrant and historic Charleston landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Rainbow Row Charleston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic stretch of 13 pastel-painted Georgian rowhouses, a vibrant and historic Charleston landmark.
"Beautiful place!! What a lovely idea to fill everything with colors!"
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds and get the best light for your photos by visiting early in the morning.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Charleston is best explored on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking tours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pastel Facades
East Bay Street
A vibrant stretch of 13 historic Georgian-style homes painted in delightful pastels. A photographer's dream!
Historic Georgian Architecture
East Bay Street
Admire the 18th-century Georgian architecture, a testament to Charleston's rich history.
The Tavern at Rainbow Row
79-107 East Bay Street
Discover the oldest liquor store in the US, rumored to have hosted pirates like Blackbeard.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Photos
Charleston's Walkable Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds and get the best light for your photos by visiting early in the morning.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Charleston is best explored on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking tours.
☀️ Prepare for Heat
Charleston can get very hot and humid, especially in summer. Stay hydrated!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Walking is the best way to experience Rainbow Row and the surrounding historic district.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds and get the best light for your photos by visiting early in the morning.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Charleston is best explored on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking tours.
☀️ Prepare for Heat
Charleston can get very hot and humid, especially in summer. Stay hydrated!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Walking is the best way to experience Rainbow Row and the surrounding historic district.
📸 Capture the Colors
Each house boasts a unique pastel shade, offering endless photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rainbow Row for its beauty, vibrant colors, and historical charm, making it a must-see in Charleston. While many enjoy the picturesque scenery and photo opportunities, some note that it's primarily a residential area and can get crowded, especially on weekends, requiring patience for photos. The heat can also be a factor during warmer months.
"Beautiful place!! What a lovely idea to fill everything with colors 🌈 Without a doubt, a place full of history and beauty 💗🫶🏻 Perfect for taking photos, but if you visit on the weekend, like I did, be prepared to wait for places to take them 📸 The heat was also intense! Apart from that, the place is truly enjoyable."
Ximena C
"Its a nice walk in a beautiful city!!! I did loved Charleston, in particular the Rainbow row its not soecial, but worth to walt towards the sea, definetly a place to visit and enjoy"
Jose Gomez
"Very pretty if you like peeking at people's private homes... lol in all honesty it was very cool to see and the window boxes were beautiful!"
Katherine Barnard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Row is located on East Bay Street in Charleston, SC. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking and nearby parking garages. Many visitors also choose to walk from other downtown attractions like the Battery.
Yes, Rainbow Row is very walkable from many popular Charleston spots. It's a pleasant stroll from The Battery and Waterfront Park, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
The best way to experience Rainbow Row is by walking along East Bay Street. This allows you to fully appreciate the colorful houses and take plenty of photos.
Yes, there is street parking available along East Bay Street, though it can be limited. Several parking garages are also located a short walk away, offering more reliable options.
Absolutely! Many walking tours of Charleston's historic district include a stop at Rainbow Row, offering historical insights and photo opportunities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Rainbow Row is an outdoor public street and does not require any tickets for entry. You can visit and admire the houses freely.
Rainbow Row is accessible at any time, as it's a public street. However, for the best experience and photography, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no admission fee to visit Rainbow Row. It's a charming street to stroll and admire the architecture.
The houses on Rainbow Row are private residences, so you cannot go inside them. Visitors are welcome to admire them from the street.
While there are no official restrictions, it's important to be respectful of the private residences. Avoid lingering too long in front of any single house and keep noise levels down.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photos is early morning to avoid crowds and capture the softest light. Late afternoon also offers beautiful golden hour lighting.
The entire stretch of East Bay Street is iconic. Look for unique angles and compositions that highlight the pastel colors and architectural details.
Try to capture the full row of houses for a panoramic view, or focus on individual houses with interesting details. Experiment with different perspectives.
Drone usage in Charleston's historic district is generally restricted. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full row. Consider shooting in RAW format to allow for more editing flexibility, especially for color correction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic district surrounding Rainbow Row offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
While there are no specific dining establishments directly on Rainbow Row itself, you can find places to eat and drink nearby in the historic district.
Charleston is known for its Lowcountry cuisine, featuring seafood, Southern comfort food, and Gullah influences. You'll find many restaurants serving these specialties.
The Tavern at Rainbow Row is a historic establishment that has served drinks since 1686, offering a unique historical dining experience.
Many highly-rated restaurants are within walking distance. Consider exploring options on East Bay Street or venturing into the nearby French Quarter for diverse culinary experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Just across the street, you'll find the Hazel Parker Playground, which is perfect for letting kids run around and play after you've taken your photos. Remember to bring water and snacks, and consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Comfortable shoes are a must for little walkers!📸 Photographers
Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended to capture the best light and avoid crowds, ensuring unobstructed views for your photos. Experiment with different angles and compositions to showcase the row's charm, and consider using a wide-angle lens to fit the entire picturesque street into your frame.🚶♀️ Walkers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Rainbow Row
+1The architectural style is predominantly Georgian, characterized by its symmetry, classical proportions, and often, brick or stucco facades. Many of the homes feature intricate details like wrought-iron balconies and decorative window surrounds. The row's transformation into a vibrant, colorful street is a relatively recent development, but it has cemented its status as a must-see destination for visitors seeking the quintessential Charleston experience. The history of the area also includes tales of taverns frequented by sailors and even pirates, adding a layer of intrigue to its storied past.
+1While the houses are private residences today, their historical significance and aesthetic appeal continue to draw visitors from around the globe. The preservation of these structures ensures that the unique character of Charleston's historic district is maintained, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial and antebellum eras. The visual impact of the colorful facades against the backdrop of Charleston's often sunny skies makes it a truly memorable sight.
Experiencing Rainbow Row with Families
The street itself is a safe and pleasant area for a leisurely stroll, allowing families to explore at their own pace. It's a great spot for a family photo opportunity, creating lasting memories of your Charleston trip. Just across the street from Rainbow Row is the Hazel Parker Playground, making it an ideal combination for a family outing. This playground offers a space for children to burn off energy after admiring the colorful houses. The proximity of the playground to Rainbow Row means you can easily transition from sightseeing to playtime without significant travel.
When visiting with children, it's advisable to bring snacks and drinks, especially during warmer months, as there are no immediate concessions directly on Rainbow Row. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone, and planning your visit for the morning can help avoid the peak heat and crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit