Dialing into free public WiFi

How are you reading this newsletter right now? Are you connected to WiFi– or sucking up your sister’s shared data plan? Currently, there are over 80 cities in the U.S. with municipal wireless networks, a.k.a “public WiFi.” Charleston, however, is not one of them.

Our historic charm forces travelers + locals alike to disconnect, enjoy the sights, and strike up actual face-to-face conversations. (crazy, right?)

While living like you’re back in the 90’s can be hella cool, sometimes we need to get work done outside of the office. Thanks to the Charleston Digital Corridor Foundation, through a community grant from Google + other local sources, you can check your emails, send out that Tweet, + post your best selfies via the “CharlestonFreeWiFi” network at several public parks around the Lowcountry. (Just make sure to upload within the three-hour time limit, otherwise, you have to head to the next park to reconnect for free).

🏞 Corrine Jones Playground | 36 Marlow Dr.

🏞 Hampton Park | 30 Mary Murray Dr.

🏞 Colonial Lake | 46-54 Ashley Ave.

🏞 Harmon Field | 201 President St.

🏞 Marion Square | 329 Meeting St.

🏞 Mitchell Playground| 145 Fishburne St.

🏞 Waterfront Park | 1 Vendue Range

🏞 White Point Garden | 2 Murray Blvd.

🏞 Riverfront Park | 1061 Everglades Ave., North Charleston

🏞 Magnolia Park + Garden| 0 Sycamore Ave., West Ashley

🏞 Governor's Park| 165 Fairbanks Oak Alley, Daniel Island

🏞 Moncks Corner Recreational Complex | 418 E. Main St., Moncks Corner

Beyond the aforementioned public parks, Charleston Digital Corridor Foundation says there is no plan for public WiFi in the near future.

Personally, I like being disconnected while I am shopping down on King St. or out walking my dog. However– it’s also nice to have the option of writing today’s newsletter while dolphin watching at The Battery. 🐬

With WiFi available just about everywhere, do we actually need citywide public WiFi? Where do you wish there was a free connection? Let me know your thoughts by emailing hello@thechstoday.com.

– Justine, Multimedia Producer