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14 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston for Couples

ByPaige Watts

With pastel row houses, waterfront sunsets, and late-night rooftop cocktails, Charleston makes for an unforgettable couples’ getaway. If you’re looking for the perfect mix of Southern charm and date-night magic, here are my favorite romantic things to do in Charleston.

Kevin and I spent a full week exploring Charleston together — we rode through the historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage, learned to craft cocktails side-by-side, and wandered through lush gardens hand-in-hand. This was our first time experiencing Charleston as a couple (and on our dating anniversary no less!), and it quickly became one of our favorite romantic destinations in the South.

If you’re looking to prioritize romantic experiences over a tourist checklist, these are the best things to do in Charleston for couples planning a romantic weekend. Here are the romantic experiences that made our Charleston getaway unforgettable.

Rooftop view of a Charleston, South Carolina at sunset from The Rooftop at the Vendue, with pastel orange and blue hues stretching across a cloud-streaked sky. Church steeples and low-rise buildings form a layered skyline, while string lights glow along the edge of a balcony overlooking the streets below.

Most Romantic Things to Do in Charleston

1. Take a Romantic Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Colorful pastel row houses line a historic street in Charleston, South Carolina, with shades of mint green, pink, blue, and yellow beneath leafy trees. A horse-drawn carriage travels along the road while pedestrians stroll the sidewalk, creating a charming Southern city scene.

Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride is one of those classic Charleston experiences you can’t miss. Riding through the historic district along cobblestone streets, past antebellum homes and lush gardens, easily makes this one of the most romantic things to do in Charleston.

I recommend doing this early in your trip. It’s the perfect slow start to a romantic weekend, and it’s a great way to get familiar with Charleston before you explore on your own. We loved spotting little side streets and beautiful homes we later went back to see up close. It gives you a great overview of the historic district while still feeling like a date, not just a tour.

There’s a good reason this is one of the most popular things to do in Charleston! A carriage ride is the quintessential Charleston tour, and there are plenty of options throughout the day — but spring and fall weekends can fill up quickly, so it’s worth reserving in advance.

Book your romantic Charleston carriage ride here.

2. Stay at a Romantic Hotel

Boutique hotel lobby of the Hotel Emeline in Charleston, South Carolina with a long wooden front desk, three desktop computers, warm lighting, and built-in wooden shelves displaying curated gifts.

Where you stay can really shape your entire Charleston getaway. After long days wandering cobblestone streets and lingering over rooftop cocktails, it’s nice to come back somewhere that feels just as special as the city itself.

Charleston is filled with charming boutique hotels, historic inns, and intimate stays that are perfect for couples. A few of the most romantic options include:

  • French Quarter Inn — One of the most award-winning hotels in Historic Charleston, known for its thoughtful service and cozy, elegant rooms right in the heart of downtown.
  • The Loutrel — A luxury boutique hotel in the historic district with a beautiful rooftop terrace that’s perfect for evening drinks.
  • 86 Cannon Charleston — A restored 1860s home that’s adults-only, with just a handful of rooms and a zero-edge saltwater pool. It’s quiet and intimate.
  • The Spectator Hotel — A boutique stay that blends Old South charm with Jazz Age flair, plus personalized butler service for an elevated experience.
  • The Pinch Charleston — A more modern option on King Street that feels almost like staying in a stylish apartment, ideal if you want a little more space.

Any of these would make a great home base for a romantic weekend — somewhere you’ll actually look forward to returning to at the end of the day.

Book your romantic Charleston hotel here.

3. Have a Romantic Dinner for Two

Two bowls of pasta on a marble table—rigatoni with red sauce and grated cheese and a seafood pasta with shrimp—served with cocktails and water at a restaurant table at The Den at Frannie & The Fox in Charleston, South Carolina.

A romantic trip to Charleston isn’t complete without at least one memorable dinner. The city is known for its food scene, and planning a special evening out is a must for your perfect a couple’s getaway.

If you’re trying to decide where to book, here are a few great options depending on the vibe you’re going for:

  • Frannie & The Fox — Cozy and lively, with Italian dishes served on a beautiful outdoor patio anchored by a large fireplace. It’s especially nice on cooler evenings when you can sit outside.
  • Sorghum & Salt — A more intimate, seasonal dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes often. It’s thoughtful and a little more elevated.
  • Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar — If you’re hoping for waterfront views, this is a great choice. You can enjoy Southern seafood classics while overlooking the harbor.
  • Well-Hung Vineyard & Restaurant — A fun option if you love wine. The name is cheeky, but the atmosphere is relaxed and the Southern-inspired dishes pair well with their in-house wines.

Whether you’re celebrating something specific or just planning a special night out, reserving a table in advance is always a good idea — especially on weekends.

4. Take a Cocktail Class Together

Bar-top setup for a cocktail-making class at Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, South Carolina, with a printed menu listing drinks like a Daiquiri, Ramos Gin Fizz, Tommy’s Margarita, and Old Fashioned. Stainless steel cocktail shakers, a strainer, and several finished drinks—including a pale yellow cocktail in a coupe glass and a frothy gin fizz—sit on the marble counter in front of a bartender.

One of the best things Kevin and I did on our trip to Charleston was take a cocktail class together.

Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge, located at the swanky Grand Bohemian Hotel, offers a unique cocktail class experience on the weekends. Head up to the rooftop bar overlooking the city and grab a seat at the bar to learn all about making classic cocktails.

The class includes a welcome toast, a demonstration and tasting of 4 classic cocktails (Old Fashioned, Gin Fizz, Daiquiri, and Margarita), and a lesson in bartending and cocktail history. We also learned a little bit about Charleston’s speakeasies and got some local restaurant and bar recommendations from our bartender.

This was a super cute date night activity, and we happened to do it on our dating anniversary as well (unplanned), so it was perfect!

5. Sip Cocktails on a Rooftop Bar

Hand holding a pink cocktail in a stemless wine glass on The Rooftop at the Vendue in Charleston, South Carolina at sunset. The city skyline and a church steeple appear softly blurred in the background, with warm orange and blue hues stretching across the evening sky and string lights glowing along the balcony.

I love ending the day with a cocktail overlooking Charleston; just feels right on a romantic trip.

Charleston has some amazing bars, and a lot of those are romantic rooftop spots with amazing city views where you can watch the sunset together.

The Rooftop at The Vendue is one of my favorite spots for this. It’s a multi-level rooftop bar on top of The Vendue Hotel, and it has a creative, slightly artsy vibe that feels different from some of the more traditional Southern spaces in the city. You can grab a drink at one of the two rooftop bars and take in views toward the harbor on one side and the city skyline on the other — especially beautiful around sunset.

The Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge is another great option. I’ve already mentioned their cocktail class (which we loved), but even if you’re not taking the class, the rooftop itself is worth a visit. The is feels cozy and relaxed, and it’s an easy place to settle in for a drink and a rest together after a full day of exploring.

If you’re planning a romantic weekend, I’d definitely build at least one rooftop cocktail hour into your itinerary.

6. Get a Professional Photoshoot

Couple embracing in the middle of a palm-lined historic street of Charleston, South Carolina at sunset, standing on a crosswalk between parked cars and pastel buildings.

If you’re celebrating something special — an anniversary, engagement, honeymoon, or even just a long-overdue trip together — a professional photoshoot is such a fun way to document it.

Charleston makes it easy. Between the pastel row houses in the French Quarter, the waterfront at Battery Park, Broad Street’s historic charm, and even nearby beaches like Folly Beach, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops.

We’ve done vacation photoshoots before, and it’s honestly one of my favorite souvenirs from a trip. Instead of quick selfies, you walk away with photos you’ll actually frame — and it turns into a little date of its own while you explore.

With Flytographer, you can book a local Charleston photographer who knows the best lighting, angles, and hidden spots. It’s simple to set up, and you’ll receive professionally edited images afterward.

If you decide to book, you can use my link for $25 off your first Flytographer photoshoot.

Book your romantic Charleston photoshoot here and get $25 off your first session.

7. Visit Magnolia Plantations and Gardens

Peaceful garden scene with a bright red arched footbridge crossing a still pond surrounded by lush green trees and bamboo at Magnolia Plantation and Garden in Charleston, South Carolina. The water reflects the bridge and tall tree trunks, while a narrow path curves along the edge of the pond in the background.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is known for its historic landscaped gardens, which have been open to the public since the late 1800s.

The grounds are a quiet, peaceful escape from the city where you can take a romantic stroll along shaded paths beneath live oak trees, through blooming azalea bushes, over small wooden bridges spanning serene ponds, and along the Ashley River. Kevin and I spent a couple hours taking our time here and enjoying the quiet beauty.

At the same time, Magnolia is a former plantation, and that history is impossible to separate from its beauty.

Like many plantations in Charleston, it was built and sustained by the forced labor of enslaved Africans. As you stroll through the gardens, be sure to also reflect on the lives of those who worked the land under harsh conditions. I recommend visiting the preserved slave cabins to learn more about the lives of the enslaved and freed African Americans who lived and worked here. Understanding that history adds important context to your visit.

If this is on your Charleston itinerary, you can get discounted admission through the Charleston TourPass, which can help save money if you’re planning to visit multiple historic sites.

Get discounted tickets to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens here.

8. Visit the Gardens at Middleton Place

“Sunny lakeside scene with a wooden bench and potted flowers in the foreground overlooking a calm reflective pond at Middleton Place in Charleston, South Carolina. Lush green lawns and moss-draped trees line the water’s edge, with a small historic-style building visible across the lake under a clear blue sky.

The gardens at Middleton Place are considered America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens, and they were designed to outshine neighboring gardens.

You can wander through rows of camellias and azaleas, walk beneath towering live oaks, and follow paths lined with cypress trees and reflecting pools. The layout is symmetrical, with long green lawns and quiet corners. I recommend visiting early in the morning — the light is softer, and when there’s a bit of fog over the gardens, it gives the whole place a quiet, moody atmosphere.

Like Magnolia, Middleton Place is also a former plantation, and that history is an essential part of the experience.

The beauty of the gardens was made possible through the forced labor of enslaved people. Take time to visit the slave cemetery, Eliza’s House, the stable yards, and the on-site programming that shares the stories of the enslaved and freed African Americans who lived and worked here. It adds important context and perspective to your visit.

9. Tour the Beautiful Historic Homes

Elegant curved staircase inside the Nathaniel Russell House in Charleston, South Carolina, with dark wood steps, white railing details, golden walls, antique furniture, and a large portrait above the landing.

Charleston is full of beautiful historic house museums that you can tour to add depth to your visit.

The Nathaniel Russell House is known for its grand spiral staircase and elegant Federal-style design. The Aiken-Rhett House Museum is more preserved and raw, offering a look at the property in a way that hasn’t been overly restored. The Heyward-Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House each showcase different architectural styles and stories from Charleston’s past.

Walking through these homes gives you a glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s wealthy elite — the ornate details, formal dining rooms, and carefully maintained gardens.

At the same time, these houses were also sites of enslavement. Many now include exhibits and interpretation that share the stories of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the properties. Taking the time to learn that history adds important context to what you’re seeing.

If you’re planning to tour multiple historic sites during your trip, you can often save money by purchasing admission through the Charleston TourPass.

Get discounted tickets to these historic homes using the Charleston TourPass.

10. Take a Beach Getaway

Wide view of a sandy beach at dusk at Folly Beach in Charleston, South Carolina with families and swimmers in the shallow waves, low-rise beach houses lining the shore in the background.

One of the best things about Charleston is how easy it is to add a beach day to your trip. You can spend the morning exploring historic streets and the afternoon with your toes in the sand. It’s the perfect mix of city and coast for a romantic weekend!

Folly Beach is a fun, slightly livelier option about 20–25 minutes from downtown. It’s known for its waves, beach bars, and laid-back feel. If you like the idea of grabbing drinks after a walk on the sand or spotting dolphins offshore, this is a great choice.

Sullivan’s Island feels quieter and more relaxed. It’s the closest beach to downtown Charleston and has wide stretches of shoreline that are perfect for long walks together. It’s less commercial, which makes it feel a little more peaceful.

If you’re looking for something even more upscale or secluded, Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island are all within about 30–40 minutes of the city and offer beautiful, less crowded beaches.

Even if you only have time for a few hours, a sunset walk along the water is an easy way to add something special to your Charleston getaway.

11. Stroll Through the Charleston Night Market

Entrance to Charleston City Market, a brick market building with a tiled roof and open-air interior, framed by green vendor tents and string lights overhead. A sign in front advertises a local night market with artisans, music, and food, while visitors walk inside along the brick-paved street.

If you’re in Charleston on a weekend, the Night Market is an easy and fun date night idea. While the Charleston City Market is typically open during the day, from March through December it reopens on select Friday and Saturday nights (and some Thursdays and Sundays) for the evening market.

You can wander through rows of local artists and vendors, listen to live music drifting through the market, and grab a snack while you browse. It’s casual, but it still feels like something a little special compared to just walking around downtown.

With over 200 local and regional artists represented, it’s also a great place to pick up something meaningful to remember your trip — whether that’s locally made art, jewelry, or one of Charleston’s signature sweetgrass baskets.

If you’re already planning a romantic dinner downtown, this makes for an easy after-dinner stroll.

12. Wander the Hidden Alleyways

A charming brick alleyway visited on the Pirates, Patriots & Prohibition Tour in Charleston, South Carolina, lined with lush greenery and flanked by rustic buildings. A streetlamp glows warmly, and an American flag hangs mid-frame.

One of my favorite ways to experience Charleston is simply by wandering without much of a plan. The city is full of tucked-away alleyways and secret side streets that feel completely different from the busier main roads.

Philadelphia Alley is one of the most well-known, but it’s still worth seeing for its brick pathway and historic feel. Longitude Lane is another pretty spot, especially if you’re already exploring near the waterfront. Stoll’s Alley and Price’s Alley are lined with historic homes and, in the spring, fragrant jasmine that makes the whole street smell delicious.

Around every corner is a new beautiful lane full of history for you to explore together.

It’s the perfect kind of activity that doesn’t cost anything and doesn’t require reservations. Just pick a direction, turn down a side street, and see where it leads. Some of our favorite Charleston moments came from doing exactly that.

13. Have a Picnic in the Park

A couple enjoys a cozy outdoor picnic on a striped blanket with leaves scattered around during an AmazingCo Mystery Picnic Date. They have red wine, cheese, olives, and charcuterie.

Charleston’s parks are the perfect place for a romantic but low-key picnic date (it’s also a great choice if you’re planning a couples getaway on a budget).

Waterfront Park is one of the prettiest spots in the city, right along the Cooper River. You can spread out a blanket under the trees or grab a bench by the water and watch the boats pass by. This is also where you’ll find the iconic Pineapple Fountain, which makes a nice backdrop if you want a few photos together.

White Point Garden has a slightly different feel. The park sits at the southern tip of the peninsula, shaded by massive live oak trees and surrounded by historic monuments and old Civil War cannons. It’s quieter in the mornings and feels more tucked away and peaceful.

Pack a few pastries from a local bakery or grab takeout from one of Charleston’s restaurants, and you’ve got a simple but romantic afternoon planned.

14. Visit the Angel Oak Tree

Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island in Charleston, South Carolina, a massive, sprawling live oak tree with thick twisting branches stretching wide over a leaf-covered ground. Sunlight filters through the dense green canopy, casting dappled shadows beneath the tree in a peaceful park setting.

The Angel Oak Tree is estimated to be 400-500 years old and is one of the largest Live Oak east of the Mississippi, measuring 66.5 feet tall and 28 feet wide. It’s hard to fully grasp just how massive it is until you stand underneath the branches stretching out in every direction.

The tree is magnificent, and it’s so romantic to walk hand-in-hand beneath and between its sprawling limbs. The branches dip low to the ground and twist outward, creating natural archways you can wander through together.

While you can’t picnic directly beneath the tree itself, there are picnic tables in the surrounding park area. If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-key romantic stop, this is an easy addition to your Charleston itinerary.

Charleston for Couples Map

Ready to explore all these romantic things to do in Charleston? Use the map below to plan out your getaway for two!

I hope you have a romantic trip to Charleston, SC!

Romantic Charleston FAQ

Is Charleston good for a romantic couples getaway?

Yes — Charleston is one of the best cities in the South for a romantic couples getaway. The mix of historic architecture, waterfront views, boutique hotels, and incredible restaurants makes it easy to plan a trip that feels both relaxed and special. Whether you’re celebrating something specific or just planning a long weekend together, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Charleston without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What are the most romantic things to do in Charleston for an anniversary?

For an anniversary trip, I’d prioritize experiences that feel intentional and memorable. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, a sunset rooftop cocktail, and a special dinner reservation are all classic choices. If you want something more unique, a cocktail class together or a professional photoshoot can make the trip feel even more meaningful. Charleston also has beautiful gardens and historic homes that are perfect for slower, romantic afternoons.

What is the most romantic hotel in Charleston?

Charleston has several romantic boutique hotels, but the best one depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. French Quarter Inn is known for its service and cozy elegance right in the heart of downtown. The Loutrel offers a luxury feel with a beautiful rooftop terrace. If you want something more intimate, 86 Cannon is adults-only and feels especially quiet and private. Any of these make a great choice for a romantic weekend in Charleston.

When is the best time to visit Charleston for a romantic trip?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the best times to visit Charleston for a romantic getaway. The weather is mild, flowers are blooming in the gardens during spring, and it’s comfortable enough to enjoy outdoor dining and sunset walks. These seasons are also popular, so it’s a good idea to book hotels and tours in advance.

We visited in May and absolutely loved it! It didn’t feel overly crowded, and we had great weather.

How many days do you need in Charleston for a romantic weekend?

Two to three days is perfect for a romantic Charleston trip. That gives you enough time to explore the historic district, enjoy a few standout restaurants, visit at least one garden or plantation site, and plan a special experience like a carriage ride or rooftop cocktail hour. If you want to add a beach day, extending your stay to three full days makes the trip feel more relaxed.

Is Charleston a good honeymoon destination?

Yes — Charleston can be a wonderful honeymoon destination, especially if you’re looking for something charming and relaxed rather than tropical. The city offers beautiful boutique hotels, intimate restaurants, historic scenery, and easy access to nearby beaches. It’s also compact and walkable, which makes it easy to slow down and enjoy time together without feeling like you’re constantly rushing between attractions.

Save on Charleston’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on Charleston’s top attractions? With the Charleston TourPass, you can save up to 40% on 40+ tours and attractions.

Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With this pass, you’ll have everything you need right on your phone, saving you both time and money.

Get your Charleston TourPass here.

Top Charleston Tours

A guided tour is always a good idea to get to know a new city! Check out these top Charleston tours.

Where to Stay in Charleston

Find the best place to rest your head in Charleston.

More Charleston Tips

Check out the posts below to continue planning your Charleston vacation:

Ready to visit Charleston, South Carolina? Plan your trip with these tips.

Cheers!

Paige

14 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston for Couples

Which of these romantic things to do in Charleston for couples are you most interested in? Let me know in the comments!

Paige Watts is a travel expert and author of What's With Atlanta?, a guide to the quirks and charm of the ATL. A life-long traveler, Paige is dedicated to helping you discover the best things to do in the Southern USA and around the world. Her work has been featured in The Culture Trip, Matador, Newsbreak, MSN, NPR, and countless other interviews and podcasts.

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