Charleston, South Carolina, is a charming city perfect for a romantic getaway. With its beautiful cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and scenic waterfront views, there are plenty of options for couples.
The right hotel can set you up for a romantic getaway, but that's only the beginning. You will also want to develop a well-rounded itinerary, featuring several of the top romantic spots in the city. To help, we've identified several date ideas in Charleston SC, including outings that every type of couple will enjoy.
Discover Historic Charleston With the Old South Carriage Company
- Address: 14 Anson Street, Charleston
- Price: $50
The Old South Carriage Company offers the most enjoyable carriage rides in town, complete with state-of-the-art carriages and a major dose of Southern hospitality. The guides are knowledgable about local history and are happy to provide all the details on the area and its top traditions.
Multiple tours are available, including charming daytime rides or haunted experiences in the evening. Featuring spine-tingling tales of ghosts and even pirates, the nighttime tour is truly a unique option if you and your sweetheart are the type to like a good scare.
Brave the Swamp Boat Tours at Cypress Gardens
- Address: 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner
- Price: $10 to enter and an extra $5 per person for the guided swamp tour
Although not technically located in Charleston, Cypress Gardens deserves a spot on this list — especially for outdoorsy couples who love active adventures. As the beautiful backdrop for several memorable movies (including everything from Cold Mountain to The Notebook and even Swamp Thing), this attraction has it all: a bird exhibit, a butterfly house and a heritage building.
Simply strolling around can be a joy, but this destination is most remarkable when seen by swamp boat. Guided swamp tours provide in-depth insight into this fascinating swamp environment, although a self-guided option is also available. The self-guided experience may be more appealing to couples in search of adventure. From the marked boat trail, it is easy to see a variety of birds and turtles.
Take a Serene Stroll at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- Address: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
- Price: $35
Spanning 66 acres, the lovingly manicured gardens of Magnolia Plantation are amazing to behold. Set aside plenty of time for your Charleston date, as you could easily spend all day at this remarkable attraction. Take the From Slavery to Freedom tour to learn about the complex, yet informative history of the plantation. A guided tour is also available abroad the Nature Train, which provides easy access to the best of the plantation.
Set aside time for a meal at the Peacock Cafe or head for the picnic area and enjoy a leisurely lunch at the gazebo. Don't forget to snap plenty of pictures, as the flowers make for the perfect backdrop. With so much to do and experience, it's easy to see why this is widely regarded as one of the city's top attractions and one of the best Charleston romantic date spots.
Unwind With a Couples Massage at the SoCa Day Spa
- Address: 5070 International Blvd #110, North Charleston
- Price: $190+
Not all Charleston spas cater to couples, but you and your sweetheart are encouraged to relax together at the SoCa Day Spa. This is the ultimate destination for rejuvenation and, with several packages available for couples, you can find many ways to indulge. The Couples Cottillion, in particular, is appealing, as it includes not only a massage, but also, a sugar scrub, champagne and chocolates.
Check Out the Most Beautifully Designed Bar at the Vintage Lounge
- Address: 545 King Street, Charleston
- Price: $49 or $79 for wine tastings
Highlighted by Architectural Digest, the upscale Vintage Lounge is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. Boasting over 200 selections on its extensive bottle list, this bar also offers several handcrafted cocktails. Stop in for a wonderful tasting experience, which allows you to explore many varietals alongside satisfying charcuterie. What really stands out, however, is the bar's award-winning design, which feels upscale and chic.
Try Self-Pour Wine at Uncork Charleston
- Address: 476 King Street, Charleston
- Price: $15 for craft cocktails or $52+ for wine by the bottle
As another local wine destination worth checking out, Uncork Charleston is best known for its self-pour solution, which makes the most of the Enomatic Enoline ELITE. Charcuterie is always an excellent option, although the grilled chicken sandwiches and truffled ravioli are also appealing. Stop by during the weekend for live music; if you're lucky, you will get the chance to enjoy catchy tunes from a local jazz group.
Relax With a Craft Beer at the Palmetto Brewing Co.
- Address: 289 Huger Street, Charleston
- Price: $10+
If you aren't enthusiastic about wine, you might prefer to check out Charleston's evolving brew culture. This is best experienced at Palmetto Brewing Co., which, if nothing else, is worth visiting for its fascinating history. The original brewery opened in 1888 but closed in 1916. After a too-long break, beer culture returned to Charleston during the 1990s — and it's still going strong.
When you visit the taproom, trying a flight is ideal as it’s the best way to sample several amazing brews. A food truck is on-site, so you can grab a delicious burger to accompany your beer. The atmosphere is always amazing but takes a definite step up when it is offering live music.
Hit Up a Show at the 34 West Theater Company
- Address: 200 Meeting Street STE 100, Charleston
- Price: $53
With shows written by talented actors and designers, the 34 West Theater Company beckons a visit if you crave a memorable performance. Book your tickets well in advance, as these shows sell out quickly.
The talent is undeniable, but that's not all that sets 34 West apart. The experience is fun for couples because it involves bistro tables, snacks and cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy and quirky, so you will instantly feel welcome.
Hit the Water for a Charleston Harbor Tour
- Address: 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston
- Price: $42-65
Check out Charleston from a whole new perspective. The view from the water is stunning, as you will quickly discover when you set sail in the Charleston Harbor. You may get the chance to board the Carolina Belle and settle in as you view dozens of landmarks from the best possible vantage point. Along the way, your captain will provide all the details, including an insider's glimpse at the history of Charleston and its harbor.
The standard harbor tour is already a delight, but you could take the cruise experience up a notch by enjoying a delicious brunch buffet aboard the Charleston Princess. French toast, homemade biscuits, shrimp and grits. The Wine Down Wednesday tour is great for an evening date, complete with acoustic music and the best wines of the Loire Valley.
Plan Your Trip to Charleston With AAA
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Charleston today. Dream up the perfect trip and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.