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Historic centre · Charleston, South Carolina
Rainbow Row and The Battery
The colorful houses of East Bay Street and the waterfront of The Battery, with 19th-century mansions and White Point Garden at the tip of the peninsula.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rainbow Row and The Battery
Rainbow Row is a row of 13 attached houses on East Bay Street, mostly built in the 18th century, when the street ran along the harbor and merchants lived above their shops. In the first half of the 20th century, the houses were restored and painted in pastel colors, which gave the row its nickname.
Continuing south, the street reaches The Battery, a walled promenade at the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers. The waterfront mansions have multi‑story porches. White Point Garden, at the tip of the peninsula, features live oaks, historic cannons and views of the harbor and Fort Sumter in the distance.
On the surrounding streets, like Church Street and Tradd Street, you’ll see the typical Charleston houses, narrow to the street with side porches.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours on foot.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler and the light brings out the colors of the houses.
How to get there
They are in the southern part of Charleston’s historic district, along East Bay Street, within walking distance from the market and Liberty Square.
Tip
Walk from Rainbow Row to The Battery and return via Church Street, one of the city’s oldest streets.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rainbow Row and The Battery
What is the Rainbow Row?
A group of 13 colorful 18th-century houses on East Bay Street in Charleston.
What to see at The Battery?
The mansions facing the harbor, White Point Garden and the view toward Fort Sumter.
Can you go inside the Rainbow Row houses?
No; they are private residences and are viewed from the outside.