Nestled in the Old Village of Mount Pleasant, the Pitt Street Bridge is a local treasure. It is free, it is beautiful, and it packs more history into one stretch of waterfront than almost anywhere else in the Charleston area. Pack the scooters, grab a picnic blanket, and prepare for views of downtown Charleston, the Ravenel Bridge, Sullivan’s Island, and the lighthouse, all from one spot.
I first came to Pitt Street Bridge after I had my son, just looking for a place to get outside, and get some sunshine. It was the perfect choice. There is something about the openness of the water, the salt air, and the easy, flat path that just resets you. We have been coming back ever since, and it has become one of our family’s favorite go-to spots.
Quick Facts: Pitt Street Bridge (Pickett Park)
- Address: Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
- Also known as: Cove Inlet Bridge, Cove Inlet Causeway
- Cost: Free
- Parking: Free street parking at the end of Pitt Street
- Restrooms: None, BUT you can visit Waterfront Memorial Park just about 10 min away with restrooms
- Best for: All ages; stroller-friendly and scooter-friendly path
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
- Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
- What to bring: Scooters or bikes for the kids, a picnic blanket, sunscreen
The Best Views in Charleston, All From One Spot
This is our favorite place for views of Charleston, full stop. From the end of the bridge you can take in downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the Intracoastal Waterway, Sullivan’s Island, and the lighthouse, all at the same time. On a clear day, it is genuinely stunning, and the kids never get tired of it either.
On nice days you will also find hammocks strung up in the trees along the path, which makes for a pretty perfect afternoon. Bring a book, let the kids run, and just take in the view. There is no rush here.
Our Family Routine: Scooters, the Bridge, and a Picnic
We grab scooters for the kids and walk the bridge together. The path is flat, paved, and easy, which makes it perfect for little legs on wheels. We always end with a picnic by the water, watching the boats go by and listening to the kids narrate everything they see.
My kids especially love watching the fishermen bring in their catch from the old pier. It turns into a spontaneous lesson every single time. They want to know what was caught, how big it is, whether they can touch it. The fishermen are usually happy to chat, which is a bonus.
A Real Outdoor Classroom
One of the things I love most about this spot is how much the kids learn without it feeling like school. We have had full conversations about oyster reefs, how they grow, and why they matter to the Lowcountry ecosystem, all prompted by what we could see right there from the path. The birdwatching is excellent too. Herons, egrets, and all kinds of Lowcountry birds are regulars along the marsh edges.
Tip: Before your visit, look up oyster reef restoration in South Carolina so the kids have some context. What they see at Pitt Street Bridge will make a lot more sense, and the questions will not stop the whole drive home (in the best way).
More SC History Than You Expect
This bridge has been witnessing South Carolina history for centuries. During the Revolutionary War, a primitive bridge made of barrels was built at this site to transport cannons and weapons to Fort Sullivan (now Fort Moultrie) on Sullivan’s Island. Later, in 1898, a proper trolley bridge was constructed here to carry passengers to the beach, which was widened for vehicle traffic in 1923 before the trolley stopped running in 1927.
When the Ben Sawyer Bridge opened in 1945, the Pitt Street Bridge was decommissioned and eventually converted to a fishing pier. Hurricane Hugo later damaged the structure, though by that time it was already no longer in active use. Today the remaining pilings stand in the water as a quiet reminder of everything that has passed through this spot, and the modern Pickett Park greenway brings you right up to them.
Make a Day of It in the Old Village
The Pitt Street Bridge sits in the heart of Mount Pleasant’s Old Village neighborhood, which is worth a wander on its own. The Pitt Street Pharmacy, a beloved local soda fountain and pharmacy just steps away, makes a great before-or-after stop.
More Photos from Pitt Street Bridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant?
Pitt Street Bridge (also called Pickett Park) is located at the end of Pitt Street in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village neighborhood. The address is Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. Free street parking is available at the end of the road.
Is Pitt Street Bridge free?
Yes, completely free. The Pickett Park greenway and Pitt Street Bridge area are public spaces maintained by the Town of Mount Pleasant with no admission fee.
What can you see from Pitt Street Bridge?
The views are spectacular. From the end of the bridge you can see downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the Intracoastal Waterway, Sullivan’s Island, and the lighthouse, all at once.
Is Pitt Street Bridge good for families with young kids?
It is one of the best. The paved greenway path is flat and easy for strollers, scooters, and bikes. The open waterfront views, hammocks in the trees on nice days, and fun of watching the fishermen make it a hit for all ages.
What is the history of Pitt Street Bridge?
During the Revolutionary War, a bridge of barrels was built at this site to transport cannons and weapons to Fort Sullivan (now Fort Moultrie) on Sullivan’s Island. The current structure dates to 1898, when it was built as a trolley bridge to the beach. It served vehicular traffic until 1945 and was later damaged by Hurricane Hugo. The remaining pilings are still visible in Cove Inlet today.
There are lots more fun things to do nearby! Here’s our guide to Fun in Mt. Pleasant.
More waterfront fun in Mount Pleasant: The Ultimate Guide to the Updated Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
Free all over the Charleston area: The Ultimate List of Free Things to Do in (and Near) Charleston, SC, 2026
More Mount Pleasant water fun: Splash Island in Mt. Pleasant: A Water Park Just for Kids (and Their Grown-Ups!)
Planning a full day out? Things to Do in Charleston, SC: Fun Days Start Here
