We already know that North Charleston is a cool place, but when Matador Network, the world’s largest travel publisher, says so, we take that as pretty sincere validation.
Matador Network recently released its list of “The 20 Coolest Towns in the US,” naming North Charleston 4th on its list. Matador says that the people make a town “the coolest,” the same as what makes travel the coolest. But more specifically, Matador likes towns that:
- Are not just bedroom communities or suburbs, but have their own economic / local “heart.” (We like to walk around downtowns, not just drive everywhere.)
- Have strong DIY or local movements around agriculture / food / drink / farm to table. (We like to eat and drink well.)
- Have cool natural features close by, and ideally a significant part of their local economy is outdoor recreation. (We like to surf / paddle / hike / chill in the woods.)
- Have cultural diversity to the point where even if the town is small it still has a “global citizenry” feel. (We like it when we can speak more than one language; we like it when the place is LGBT friendly.)
What did Matador say about North Charleston? Well, it was pretty spot on…
Yes, North Charleston is a separate entity from Charleston proper, and not a place to be overlooked. With new industry expanding such as Boeing, Blackbaud, and even a Google headquarters 30 minutes north, young people are choosing to build their careers and their homes slightly further from the city center.
East Montague Avenue in Park Circle was basically designed for the burgeoning Millennial population of the area, with endearing dive bars like The Mill, next to fancier places like Fratello’s Italian Tavern.
Perfect day
After spending a day at Riverfront Park or catching a Stingrays hockey game, enjoy a She Crab pizza pie from Park Pizza for dinner, or some gastropub fare at Sesame Burger. Then pick up some local brews at The Brew Cellar, or head to The Sparrow to admire murals of Gandalf and Bill Murray as you listen to musicians from the neighborhood play their sets.
If you didn’t already why North Charleston is cool, now you do. So, come spend a perfect day with us, you will be glad you did.
Full Matador Network story: http://matadornetwork.com/trips/20-coolest-towns-us/