Summerville Porch Stroll
Experience Summerville's historic porches and amazing gardens during the annual Porch Stroll.
The Timrod Library, dedicated in 1915, nestles in the heart of Summerville and has been a hub of learning and literacy on Central Avenue for more than a hundred years. We’re happy to welcome visitors to our lovely historic building and busy working library, housing a collection of more than 12,000 volumes, both circulating and reference. We’ll treat Porch Stroll visitors to sweet tea and Southern nibbles, along with a peek into the Timrod Library’s storied past and our very active present!
Flowertown Bed & Breakfast, c.1889
Flowertown Bed and Breakfast, c.1889
This magnificent Victorian Grand Dame offers gracious hospitality, delightful southern porches, spectacular breakfasts, and splendid award winning gardens with unique plantings and peaceful pathways. A frequent venue for weddings, showers, photography, etc., guests experience the warm welcome that is noteworthy throughout historic Summerville. You are welcome to leisurely stroll through the grounds, discover hidden garden rooms, fountains, arbors and quiet sitting areas. Relax on one of our porches, sip some sweet tea while you listen to music and sample a delectable Roasted Almond Banana Nut Bundt Cake made by Historic Chef Vince Dodson.
Go back in time and experience authentic Southern hospitality at its finest! Built in the tradition of grand Southern homes, Caroline's offers an inviting and comfortable atmosphere that entices guests from the moment they arrive to 'come sit awhile' and relax while enjoying a beautiful gourmet breakfast. Petticoat stairs (dating back to the 1700’s/1800’s) lead to the majestic front porch. This is just one of the many porches and sitting areas tucked away in the gardens and landscaping. Feel free to take a stroll into the beautiful backyard. Here you will find another huge porch on the cottage behind the main house. A stone walkway to a beautiful arbor offers an intimate setting for a wedding, elopement or vow renewal. In our Tiki Bar, you will find Sweet Tea and Lemonade (or a combination of both = Arnold Palmers), as well as charcuterie “cups” and buttermilk biscuits with various fillings (generously donated by the famous 'Callie's Hot Little Biscuits', based in Charleston). While getting your fill of Southern treats, sit back and listen to LIVE music from the acoustic duo of Kevin Derrick and David Henderson, better known as the 'Time Pirates'! As we say at Caroline's, 'Come as our guest, leave as our friend'! We look forward to welcoming you.
Public Works Art Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit community art space located in the old town post office in Downtown Summerville. Established in 2018 and opened in 2020, Public Works Art Center is a fresh, energetic space with three exhibition galleries that change every six weeks. Art classes and art camps are on constant rotation, studio artists can often be found working in their spaces, and an on-site gift shop is filled with treasures. Don’t miss the vintage art vending machine in the lobby!
During the Porch Stroll, visitors are welcome to check out our three brand-new exhibitions, sample a savory snack, and relax in our outdoor patio space while they plan out their route.
The museum is nestled in the heart of historic downtown Summerville, South Carolina, and has one of the most charming stops tucked in the small courtyard. The Saul Alexander garden house picture above was donated by a local family. You can experience the Camellia Sinensis (Tea Plant) and learn all about the history of the Pinehurst Tea Plantation, where tea was first successfully, and commercially grown right here in Summerville.
Tea Talks by resident historian Ed West will be at the top of each hour in the Courtyard.
For additional Summerville history, museum admission is $5
The 1883, quintessential, Summerville, Victorian estate offers hospitality, history and horticulture on the two elevated, columned porches overlooking the award winning, formal gardens and the historic service yard.
Guests may stroll, wander and explore the property by way of the azalea-lined, sand paths or take one of the organized tours at 11:30, 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 PM.
The Magnolia Inn
This grand southern home has been restored to her roots as a peaceful respite for locals and visitors looking for a charming place to stay and experience all that Summerville has to offer, much like how the home was used in the early 1900 to host “summer boarders.” Justin & Megan Dungan have worked hard to keep the homes
charm alive while updating the home with modern amenities to give those enjoying Summerville, Charleston, and the surrounding area the ultimate guest experience. Guests joining us on the Porch Stroll are welcome to stroll
through the property to enjoy our outdoor sitting areas, and join us on the porch for
some treats. We are sure you will find a peaceful escape.
Cold Refreshments will be served alongside an assortment of Simple Treasure's popcorn
The event is a self-directed walking/driving tour
No pets please
Children 12 and up are welcome with tickets
Rain or Shine Event
Bathrooms are available at the
Summerville Visitor Center -402 N Main
Town Hall, near Mason the Worlds Largest Sweet Tea
Free Parking at the parking garage in historic downtown at 109 Central Ave.
Free Golf Cart Shuttles are available at Public Works Art Center-135 W Richardson Ave.
The Porch Stroll will be held Saturday June 11 from 11 am – 3 pm. The event will be held rain or shine.
The ticket price will be $30 per person. Tickets will be sold on-line through Event Brite
Proceeds from the Porch Stroll will benefit the local non-profit Public Works Art Center.
