We’ve gathered the most romantic and fun things to do in Charleston SC for couples to plan their getaways, date nights, and quality time. This Southern city and surrounding area are full of historic charm, rich Southern cuisine, and gorgeous outdoors, offering couples plenty to do here.
From kayaking among tall cypress trees and ghost tours to high-end cooking classes and one famous coconut cake, you can sample the best of Charleston in just a few days. We absolutely fell in love with Charleston and a lot of these amazing activities, and I’m sure you will too!
While many of the best date night ideas in Charleston SC are things you could walk to from downtown, we recommend you drive or rent a car to make the most of your trip and touch upon some unexpected activities. There are some beautiful low-country locations, such as the Magnolia Plantation or Kiawah Island, worth making a day trip to.
So, are you ready for the romantic Southern trip of a lifetime? Our list of things for couples to do in Charleston will fill your itinerary!
Admire the Angel Oak on Johns Island
While island is in the name, you don’t have to go far to get to John’s Island from Charleston. In fact, while it is technically an island, it’s only separated by rivers from the mainland, which means it’s easy to drive to. Just a 25-minute drive South of Charleston, it’s an easy half-day trip to reach one of out favorite romantic spots.
One of the main draws of John’s Island is the awe-inspiring Angel Oak Tree, a living testament to nature’s grandeur at over 400 years old! And if you’re in the mood for a refreshing sip, the Low Tide Brewing Company is just a short distance down the road.
Tour the Haunted Jail or Go on a Spooky Bar Crawl
Forget catching a scary movie for a date night; we’ve got one better: a spooky nighttime tour at the Old City Jail. As you wander the over 200-year-old halls, your guide will share the stories of past prisoners (who supposedly never left!). Aside from the stories of infamous prisoners, you’ll get to see old prison cells and learn other historical facts and stories of past days all the while holding your loved one close.
If the prison doesn’t interest you, there’s a walking ghost and bar-hopping tour that might. Yep, there’s bar hopping included! With two bar stops and spooky tales along the way, you’ll be in for a frighteningly good time that immerses you into Charleston’s spooky history.
Get Wine-Schooled at at Vintage Lounge
The Vintage Lounge downtown offers one of the most fun things to do in Charleston SC for couples: a wine-tasting experience! And we gotta add: it’s a pretty upscale experience. Even if you aren’t a big wine fan, this might make you one!
The Vintage Lounge takes pride and passion in its wines, offering tasting packages that include a variety of wines, wine education, and charcuterie and cheese pairings – which is what we chose, of course!
In addition to the Vintage Lounge, there are other places downtown where you can indulge in wine tastings, such as Wine and Company and Avondale Wine & Cheese Bar.
Admire the Views Along the Battery
The Battery is a scenic and historic promenade and seawall along the Southernmost tip of Charleston. Built by the British as a defensive wall, today it’s a picturesque area where you can admire antebellum mansions overlooking the water while having a scenic stroll.
It’s also right next to the White Point Garden (often called Battery Park), where you can find other historic relics, such as canons placed during the Civil War to protect Charleston from any possible invasions by the Union Army.
Row Along the Cypress Gardens
Rowing through the Cyrpess Gardens is one of the most fun things for couples to do in Charlestown who want to do something a bit more low key (but still see as much as they can!). Located 30 miles from downtown, it is great for a half-day trip.
As you row along the cypress trees towering out from the water below, you’ll have the chance to spot turtles, blue herons, and maybe even an alligator. Entrance to the park is $10, and you can pay an additional $5 for a guided swamp boat tour or opt to go yourself free of charge.
Tour Historic Homes in Downtown Charleston
Charleston is the best to go if you’re interested in architecture and history, as the city is loaded with 19th-century mansions intertwined with defining stories. Wandering the halls of these homes, you can feast your eyes on some of the most impressive examples of colonial, neoclassical, and federal-style architecture.
Many of the historic homes are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to catch a glimpse and tour them. Some of the most famous to visit include the Heyward-Washington House, Aiken-Rhett House, and Edmonston-Alston House. We definitely added to our list of eventual house goals in this area!
Stay at the Luxurious and Historic Wentworth Mansion
An elegant escape is what awaits you and your partner at the historic Wentworth Mansion. Located in Harleston Village, you’re near the best of Charleston, with restaurants, shopping, and historical sights within blocks.
The Wentworth Mansion only has 21 rooms, so you’re bound to enjoy top-notch service. The rooms and suites feature luxurious and ornate decor, with chandeliers, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces. A stay at the mansion also includes a daily home-cooked Southern breakfast and evening turn-down service with chocolates. From the opulent interior to the decadent culinary offerings, this is one of the most romantic things for couples to do in Charleston SC.
Cruise Along the Bay at Sunset
Find a cozy seat on a catamaran boat and set sail. As you float along, you can take in the Charleston skyline from the seas and maybe even spot some dolphins in the water! As the sun sets, the lights of the city will come alive, and the sky will put on a colorful show of its own.
There are a few tour options along the Charleston harbor, with this 2-hour sunset cruise being the most romantic. I’ve said in many articles how much we love sunset cruises as a date idea around the world, and this one is truly magical.
If you prefer a narrated tour, you can hop on this historic harbor tour—the only problem is that it doesn’t happen during sunset!
Get Some Creative Souvenirs at the Charleston Night Market
No trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to the city market, but one of the best ways to experience it is at night. The Charleston Night Market is the largest art market in the Southeast of the US and is open seasonally (from around March to December).
It’s one of the most fun things to do in Charleston SC for couples, especially for those who love art. Over 200 artists’ works are on display, and there are some delicious goodies! The night market is open on Fridays and Saturdays when the season is on, so stop here for some wonderful creative souvenirs.
See a Show at Dock Street Theatre
The Dock Street Theatre isn’t just any old playhouse. It was the first in the United States, built in 1736. Since then, it has survived major US events and natural disasters, making it an iconic spot to see a play and make a historical visit.
While the building has undergone restorations, the exterior and interior still retain classic architecture and design. Check out their plays here and make a unique date night in Charleston of it—the front balcony seats are the best in the house!
Browse the Gibbes Art Museum (Free Wednesday Nights!)
The Gibbes Art Museum has its artistic roots buried in the area’s history and is one of the best things to do in Charleston SC for couples who love art. The permanent collection includes works of art that tell the tale of the US South and the cultures and historical events that shaped the present day. Its permanent collection is also home to a collection of over 600 miniature paintings that served as portrait photographs before cameras were invented. How interesting is that?!
Plus, if you’ve been looking for FREE Charleston date night ideas, the Gibbes Art Museum is open from 5 PM – 8 PM on Wednesday (with free entry!).
Play & Dine at Shem Creek
Located just a 5-mile drive from downtown, Shem Creek has a park and boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants. After a busy day visiting downtown, it’s an easy escape to somewhere a bit more laid-back but still has quite a bit of action!
Looking for a romantic date on the water with fine seafood? You’ll find that here! Or do you want to enjoy fun on the water? At Shem Creek, you can go kayaking or paddle boarding. There’s also a waterfront boardwalk with green views, perfect for a romantic stroll.
Zen Out in the Salt Cave at Salt Spa & Yoga
A holistic retreat is one of the most relaxing things to do in Charleston SC for couples and the Salt Spa is one with a unique offering: a salt cave! You can book various treatments and packages at the Salt Spa, including the salt cave, massages, a sauna room, and yoga.
The best part about the Salt Spa and Yoga is that you can find a relaxing service that fits your budget. You can book the salt cave or sauna for less than $40 or splurge on a massage package.
See an Improv Show at Theater 99
Theater 99 offers an interesting date night in downtown Charleston: improv! In addition, they offer stand-up comedy. But what this place is known for is certainly its improv nights. The shows run each Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday and are one-of-a-kind! It’s improv, after all.
If you’ve never been to an improv show (or are already fans and love it), you can’t go wrong with grabbing your tickets to see a show at this super popular theater in Charleston. No matter what, it’s a fun night out and a laugh (and a half).
Cycle Along Kiawah Island
If you want to enjoy some gorgeous coastline, Kiawah Island is only a 40-minute from downtown Charleston. Kiawah Island boasts over 30 miles of trails, 10 of which line the coast. A day trip here is a must-do to decompress from the city and sip the fresh air. It’s one of the best things to do near Charleston for couples to experience a whole other side of the low country.
If you enjoy cycling, you don’t want to skip out on riding beneath towering green foliage and along the vast ocean here. Along the way, you can stop by marshes and parks and, of course, take a break for a delicious bite!
Hang Out at a Rooftop Bar
Is there a better way to wind down after a day in the city than kicking back at a rooftop bar? Of course, you can visit a rooftop anytime, but if you can catch the sunset over the skyline as the city light glimmers, why wouldn’t you? It’s one of the best simple romantic date night ideas for couples in Charleston.
Want somewhere creative yet classic? In the French Quarter, you’ll find Elévé, with cozy plush seating, coastal- cuisine, and views over historic buildings. For something a bit more casual, check out the Mill Street Tavern in Shem Creek. They serve local craft brews, American cuisine with a twist, and have views over the water.
Enjoy the Elegant Gardens of Magnolia Plantation
The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is home to 66 acres of colorful gardens and trees that have been there since the 1840s. Guests can stroll over 5 miles of trails, passing by the bamboo forest, riverwalk, and wildlife center.
That said, despite the beauty today, one can’t skip past the history. The Magnolia Plantation was a rice farm where slaves once lived. You can tour the old homes and exhibits that pay homage to them and their role on the plantation from past to present.
While only a 25-minute drive from downtown, you can also take a Magnolia Plantation tour with transport from downtown if you prefer!
Try the Famous Coconut Cake at Peninsula Street Grill
This is the best of all date night ideas for couples who love sweets in Charleston. The Peninsula Street Grill is home to a famous Coconut Cake, where one cake goes for $270! Yes, $270. At that price, it’s bound to be incredible. That said, you can make a reservation for dinner and order a slice for dessert!
The restaurants also serve seafood, steaks, lamb, and more. The 12-layer coconut cake is the best way to top off an evening of fine dining and show your loved one how much they mean to you!
Catch a Throwback Flick at Terrace Theater
We’ve already covered traditional theatre in this list with Theater 99’s improv and the Dock Street Theatre’s plays, but what about a good old movie theater? That’s where the Terrace Theater comes in. While the Terrace Theater shows today’s recent releases, they also host special showings and events.
Check out their special theater listings here, which feature classic movies, live concert showings, monthly horror flicks, and more.
Tour the Middleton Place Gardens and Historical Displays
Established in the early 1700s, Middleton Place is a testament to the stories of US history. The vast grounds offer guests plenty of things to do — from getting awe-struck by the beautiful grounds to observing the harsh realities of life as an enslaved person on the plantation. You can visit the stables, historic homes, exhibits, and more on the property.
Guided tours are also included in admission and run daily, including garden and historical tours to give you further insight. A guided tour that includes additional locations, such as the historic district, includes a trip to Middleton Place.
Create a Three-Course Meal with a Cooking Class at Zero George
If you’ve ever been interested in taking a cooking course to inspire your next at-home romantic date nights, look no further than a cooking class at Zero George. Recognized for their excellence, you’ll have whipped up three courses by the end of any cooking class here. Not to mention, each course comes with a wine pairing.
Enjoy the Breeze along the Charleston Waterfront
With loads of activities to keep busy in Charleston, a walk along the Charleston Waterfront Park is one way to wind down. You can walk along the waterfront and onto some piers overlooking the water. Of course, you have to stop at the famous pineapple fountain! Pictured above, it’s one of the most unique fountains we’ve seen.
Go on a Local Food Tour
We know you’re going to enjoy loads of incredible food in Charleston. It’s the South; how can it not be good? But for all you foodie couples who want to make sure you’re eating the best of the best and sampling it all, a food tour is the way to do it.
Going on a Charleston food tour isn’t just a way to sample local cuisine and hear the story behind each dish. It’s a great way to spend time together, enjoy tasting lots of different things, and learn a lot while having fun. There are a lot of different food tours to check out here – pick your fave!
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That’s it for now for all the best things to do for couples in Charleston! Let us know in the comments what you chose.
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