Formerly known as West of the Ashley, West Ashley is a vibrant district of Charleston with scenic waterfront vistas and marshes of the Ashley and Stono Rivers. Ancient oak trees, quaint neighborhoods, and bustling restaurants and shops adorn this vibrant area. With just a five to ten minute commute to downtown Charleston, West Ashley is growing in popularity for those working downtown at local hospitals, schools and other professions employed on the peninsula. Read below for our extensive guide to exploring West Ashley.
Historical Markers & Sites
Plantations. West Ashley is home to three plantations dating back to the late 1600s. Rich in history, visitors come from far and wide to explore Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Middleton Place. These three plantations are all located along the historic Ashley River Road.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. History gurus will enjoy spending an afternoon exploring where English settlers landed in 1670.
Explore West Ashley
The West Ashley Greenway. A 10-mile biking and jogging trail that weaves through several West Ashley neighborhoods, perfect for a long run or an evening stroll with friends.
Magnolia's Audubon Swamp Garden and Middleton's grounds. Boardwalks through blackwater cypress swamp, wading birds, and sweeping river views make the gardens as much an outdoor escape as a history lesson.
The Ashley River. A designated State Scenic River and a genuine part of daily life here. Kayakers and paddleboarders launch from public landings to explore the marsh, tidal creeks, and the historic riverfront below the Ashley River Road plantations.
Events & Festivals
West Ashley Farmers Market. Held every Wednesday from 3 to 7 pm at Ackerman Park.
Charles Towne Landing events. Living history days, guided programs, and seasonal events bring the colonial settlement to life throughout the year.
Middleton Place and Magnolia seasonal programming. Both sites host garden tours, concerts, and special events, with spring bloom season drawing the biggest crowds of the year.
Avondale Point gatherings. The neighborhood's restaurants and shops anchor community events throughout the year, from holiday celebrations to outdoor music.
Where to Eat
This area is home to an array of restaurants and cuisines, from locally owned to national chains.
The Lick at 10 Windermere. A highly anticipated steakhouse in Windermere, sourcing CHS Waygu and Purely Meat Co. USDA Prime. Enjoy an intimate setting, handcrafted cocktails and impeccable food that will leave you coming back for more.
Triangle Char & Bar. Known as a neighborhood watering hole, serving cocktails and pub food.
Avondale Wine and Cheese. Enjoy hand curated characuterie boards and wine at this locals' favorite wine bar.
Chef Loong Dim Sum & Soup Dumplings. Highly praised by locals and tourists alike, enjoy authentic dim sum and handcrafted soup dumplings at an affordable price.
Home Team BBQ. The original location of the local barbecue favorite, known for smoked wings, ribs, and a lively bar with live music.
Middleton Place Restaurant. Lowcountry cooking served on the grounds of Middleton Place, a fitting end to a day in the gardens.
Shop & Browse
Avondale is adorned with several local boutiques, while West Ashley is also home to the Citadel Mall, Ashley Landing, a Costco for all your bulk needs and the highly trafficked Whole Foods.
Where People Live
West Ashley is a community of moderately priced homes in desirable neighborhoods, as well as numerous luxury apartments, executive homes fronting the Ashley River, and picturesque golf communities. West Ashley’s initial neighborhoods, such as Old Windermere, were developed in the 1950s with its largest growth occurring throughout the 1970s and 80s as Interstate 526 was built.
The Crescent. A family-friendly, tranquil community just five minutes from the culture and history of downtown Charleston. The majority of homes were built in the 1950’s-70’s and mature oaks and magnolias offer shade and beauty to every property. Known for its lovely waterfront residences, many lots in The Crescent border Wappoo Creek or the lake.
Old Windermere. Approximately three miles west of downtown Charleston and across the Ashley River, Old Windermere boasts grand oak trees, winding roads and historic homes with development dating back to the early 1920s.
South Windermere. Adjacent to Old Windermere, South Windermere also boasts a peaceful sense of charm with oak trees and similarly styled historic homes.
Byrnes Downs. A quick five to ten minute commute from downtown Charleston, Byrnes Downs features 1900s cottages with moderate prices.
Avondale. West Ashley's most walkable neighborhood, just across the river from downtown. Tree-lined streets of mid-century brick ranches and cottages sit a few blocks from the restaurants, shops, and murals of Avondale Point.
Across West Ashley, buyers find a range of options that few parts of Charleston can match: walkable in-town living, waterfront along the Ashley River and Wappoo Creek, golf course communities, and newer neighborhoods with resort-style amenities, all within about 15 minutes of historic downtown Charleston.
If you’re considering making a move, our William Means agents are West Ashley experts and would be delighted to help you find your next home.
