by Rachael Provost
Filled with antebellum homes and Spanish moss-draped oaks, historic churches and screened-in porches, it’s a place you would almost expect not to exist anymore. But the secret is out, and Bluffton’s Lowcountry flavor and scenic setting on the banks of the May River instantly draw you in. To many locals, Old Town Bluffton is “the last true coastal village of the South.” And, it’s waiting to share its story with you.
In Bluffton, you can park your car and switch to a slower, more leisurely mode of transportation: your own two feet. The town is compact and walkable, beckoning you to stroll under the gnarled limbs of the oak tree canopy and slip into Bluffton time. You don’t want to miss anything, so grab a map from any merchant and get to know the sights, sounds and smells of the town.
Inevitably, you’ll end up on Calhoun Street, the main hub of activity in Old Town Bluffton. You may find yourself at the farmer’s market on a Thursday afternoon, full of fresh vegetables and handmade crafts, or browsing through one of the many art galleries. Creativity and inspiration flourish here, and the town is made up of working artists. Whether it’s ironwork, photography, painting or pottery, you’ll find over 250 artists represented in the art galleries and shops that dot the streets, and the buildings where you can admire their masterpieces are works of art themselves. With a sense of self preservation, the town’s old buildings have been repurposed and renovated, and new buildings are modeled after what already existed, keeping the town rooted in its historic past.
Pretty soon you’ll realize that Bluffton is more than just a charming town filled with friendly people and good conversation. Bluffton is a way of life, and it’s a lovely day, every day.
