Located on East Bay Street, this series of pastel colored homes is one of the most photographed tourist attractions of historic Charleston. In the heart of Charleston’s old maritime area, these structures were once located on the Cooper River wharf. This allowed their lower stories to serve as stores while the upper stories were typically boarding houses.

There are several myths surrounding the color selections. Some suggest the different colors helped illiterate customers locate the desired shop. Others claim the bright colors helped intoxicated sailors find their boarding house. Whatever the reason, current owners carry on the tradition.