I’On, located in Mt. Pleasant, is a special neighborhood that is reminiscent of the beauty and charm that is so beloved in downtown Charleston — but without the narrow streets and lack of parking! A halfway point between downtown and Sullivan’s Island, I’On is nestled in a world of its own, where families thrive.
Founded in 1995, I’On is a village of sorts, with nearly 800 single-family homes, a square, six walking trails, and a grid full of narrow, quiet streets, lakes, green spaces, and so much more — like crab docks, a dozen pocket parks, a boathouse, spa, marsh views, and a wildlife refuge. And the name? “I’On” comes from Jacob Bond I’On, the first mayor of the town of Sullivan’s Island.
From fun and simple outdoor activities for the whole family to cute retail shops perfect for perusing on lazy weekend days, there’s a lot the residents of I’On love about their ’hood. We spoke with a few locals, and these are just a few of their favorite things to do and see:
- The Walks
As simple as it may sound, families relish living in a place where it’s safe to roam the streets, particularly here where there’s also plenty of sights to take in at every turn — like gates and gardens, yards and unique fountains. The sidewalks are wide, and so you’ll find that the residents’ feet are their favorite modes of transportation. I’On also has six trails, some of which are up to three hours long and cover eight miles of, including a 1.5-mile stroll along the marsh that can be ended with a beer at O’Brions Pub or a glass of wine at Grazi’s Shoe Cafe and Wine Bar.
O’Brions Pub, photo courtesy of Instagram user @obrionspub
- The Water
Who wouldn’t love living in walking distance of a body of water? Here, you’ll find Westlake, which also features an amphitheater that comes in handy for all kinds of family-friendly neighborhood events, and Eastlake, which is surrounded by beautiful houses and perfect for walks with your furry friends, fishing and feeding ducks. Plus there are picturesque creeks, sure signs you’re in the Lowcountry.
photo courtesy of Instagram user @wizard_of_ollie
- The Green
There’s also tons of green space (and playgrounds!) here for both kids and pups to play in and the Rookery Wildlife Refuge, which features two observation towers.
- The Square
Besides the wine and beer spots, the Square also features an adorable gift shop called Sweet Olive and a cafe full of gourmet eats at Square Onion, where soups, salads, sandwiches, take-and-bake casseroles, desserts, and dips reign supreme. But if you want a cup of coffee, the best is only right outside the neighborhood at Collective Coffee. It’s an airy, hipster-y joint with the perfect cups of joe.
Shop at Sweet Olive, photo courtesy of @sweetolivehome
- The Community
Not only is it common to know your neighbor here, but you’ll probably know every dog’s name in the area, too. Kids meet up at playgrounds, parents chat on front porches, and the whole of the community seems happy to be here.
Interested in making I’On your home? Check out what is currently listed for sale. Or contact one of our experts at our Mt. Pleasant office.