1. James Island County Park- Dog Park

James Island County Park has a lot to offer: a campground, fishing, a playground, miles of trails, a water park, and what I went there for- a dog park. The admission fee is only$2. The dog park is very large and has a large pond for the dogs to cool off in. Some online reviews mentioned alligator sitings in the pond, but I spoke to some locals who told me they were “regulars” at the dog park and they reassured me they have never seen a problem. Therefore, I allowed Max to go for a swim and cool off. There were no alligator sightings while we were there. About 15 minutes outside of downtown Charleston, I think it is well worth the trip to allow your pup to run around and swim.

2. Palmetto Carriage Works- 1 hour Tour

Palmetto Carriage Works allows dogs on their carriage tours of downtown Charleston if you reserve the entire row. Max has an obsession with horses so he absolutely loved the carriage ride. The carriage has a canopy that provides excellent shade and I brought his water bowl. I learned so much on this tour about different buildings and history of Charleston. The best part is that there are several different tour routes, chosen by lottery, so you could take this tour repeatedly and get entirely new information every time.

3. Waterfront

There is much for your dog to see and sniff along the Charleston waterfront. Max took a picture in front of (and drank from) the famous pineapple fountain. There are plenty of grassy areas for your dog as well as a pier jetting out into the harbor with gazebos that offer some shade.

4. Rainbow Row

You cannot explore Charleston without stopping by the famous “rainbow row.” Rainbow row is a historic landmark consisting of thirteen pastel painted townhouses all in a row. Max was lucky to get all the pets and belly scratches from passersby while posing for his picture.