The town's name is evocative of its history. Situated on a pine-forested ridge, it was first inhabited in the late 1700's as Charlestonians and other inhabitants of the SC Lowcountry sought respite from the summer heat, mosquitos, and disease. From May to September, plantation families along the nearby Ashley River and other coastal areas headed for higher elevation to live temporarily or "maroon" in the tiny forest colony soon dubbed Summerville. Other pioneer residents descended from those 1696 puritans who settled the nearby former colonial settlement of Dorchester, endowed this area with a heritage spanning three centuries. This heritage lives on today in the spirit of Community so particular to and part of Summerville.
Summerville Visitor Information
VisitSummerville.com - Summerville
Visitor Center
402 N. Main Street, Summerville
(843) 873-8535
Loaded with brochures and maps, Summerville Visitor Center is a great place to start your exploration of the historic Southern community. The friendly staff can also direct you to local attractions, as well as help you select dining and lodging to suit your needs. The Center is open Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
Summerville Surprises
Berlin G. Myers has served as Mayor for 29 years, in an unpaid position
Richard Gere and Penny Marshall have shopped here.
Summerville’s Historic District has more than 500 historically significant buildings
Elizabeth Arden was once a resident.
Summerville’s Tree Protection Ordinance (thought to be the first in America) was created in 1848.
The first tea sold commercially in America, and the only tea now grown commercially in America originated in Summerville.
The "Winningest Football Coach in America" is Summerville’s John McKissick, whose teams have won 481 games and 10 state championships during his 49 years of coaching at Summerville High School.
Find Charleston area real estate professionals who can help you find and buy a full time Charleston residence, vacation home or condo.
Peninsula Grill has been likened to the cosmopolitan supper clubs of the first half of the 20th century. Haute cuisine and high spirits. Steaks and chops, fish and oysters, champagne and lobster. And proper cocktails, served with style each evening by chef/partner Robert Carter and staff. The atmosphere is sophisticated and clubby, not formal. One of only two Mobil four-star restaurants in the state. At Planters Inn...stay for the night.
Hyman's Seafood is a must. Located in historic Charleston. Fresh local seafood, award winning She Crab Soup, great wine at supermarket prices and fast friendly service. NY Times: "Great Southern cuisine with impeccable service." Travel and Leisure: "One of the more fascinating eating establishments in our trip through the Southeast." Serving Charleston for over 115 years with a fresh oyster bar, fun, casual atmosphere and huge portions.
Tour Charleston Harbor on The Schooner Pride, a classic 84 foot tall ship. Considered one of the top five things to do in Charleston. Escape the crowded streets and heat of downtown Charleston for an exhilarating sails or romantic sunset sail. Take in the Holy City the way it was meant to be seen, from the peaceful waters of Charleston Harbor. Mingle with dolphins, pelicans and gulls. Two hour tours, daily.
The town's name is evocative of its history. Situated on a pine-forested ridge, it was first inhabited in the late 1700's as Charlestonians and other inhabitants of the SC Lowcountry sought respite from the summer heat, mosquitos, and disease. From May to September, plantation families along the nearby Ashley River and other coastal areas headed for higher elevation to live temporarily or "maroon" in the tiny forest colony soon dubbed Summerville. Other pioneer residents descended from those 1696 puritans who settled the nearby former colonial settlement of Dorchester, endowed this area with a heritage spanning three centuries. This heritage lives on today in the spirit of Community so particular to and part of Summerville.
VisitSummerville.com - Summerville
Visitor Center
Berlin G. Myers has served as Mayor for 29 years, in an unpaid position 
Peninsula Grill has been likened to the cosmopolitan supper clubs of the first half of the 20th century. Haute cuisine and high spirits. Steaks and chops, fish and oysters, champagne and lobster. And proper cocktails, served with style each evening by chef/partner Robert Carter and staff. The atmosphere is sophisticated and clubby, not formal. One of only two Mobil four-star restaurants in the state. At Planters Inn...stay for the night.
Hyman's Seafood is a must. Located in historic Charleston. Fresh local seafood, award winning She Crab Soup, great wine at supermarket prices and fast friendly service. NY Times: "Great Southern cuisine with impeccable service." Travel and Leisure: "One of the more fascinating eating establishments in our trip through the Southeast." Serving Charleston for over 115 years with a fresh oyster bar, fun, casual atmosphere and huge portions.
Tour Charleston Harbor on The Schooner Pride, a classic 84 foot tall ship. Considered one of the top five things to do in Charleston. Escape the crowded streets and heat of downtown Charleston for an exhilarating sails or romantic sunset sail. Take in the Holy City the way it was meant to be seen, from the peaceful waters of Charleston Harbor. Mingle with dolphins, pelicans and gulls. Two hour tours, daily.
