If you thought Charleston was a vibrant city in the daytime, wait until you’ve experienced it by night. Sip cocktails at a waterfront bar, embark on a Holy City ghost tour, or dance beneath the stars on the Cooper River Bridge. No matter how you spend your time, you won’t run out of things to do in Charleston, SC, at night.
Read on to discover the city’s top nighttime attractions, and if you’d like more recommendations, view our free Charleston Area Vacation Guide. Our guide is designed to help our guests spend less time planning and more time having fun!
The Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC, at Night
1. Embark on a Charleston Night Tour
If you are searching for something romantic to do in Charleston by night, consider a horse-drawn carriage tour. These tours are an excellent way to acquaint yourself with downtown Charleston.
Because temperatures drop in the evening, twilight carriage tours are also ideal for those visiting during the summer.
If you’d like a spookier experience, take a ghost tour! You’ll learn all about the infamous ghosts of Charleston, visit haunted graveyards, and even explore the Old City Jail.
2. Enjoy Waterfront Dining
If you are staying on Kiawah Island or Seabrook Island, Salty Dog Cafe is popular for casual, waterfront dining. You’ll find this waterfront restaurant at Bohicket Marina. On the menu, you can look forward to fresh-caught fish, local shrimp, and oysters on the half shell. Sample from the raw bar or order an island-style craft cocktail. Then, sit back and relax on the spacious patio as you watch pelicans fly over the sea and sailboats glide by!
For more recommendations on the best places to dine in the Charleston area, read our blogs on Kiawah Island restaurants and Seabrook Island dining.
3. Sip and Savor Charleston’s Craft Beer Scene
The craft beer scene has taken off in the past several years, and it is booming in Charleston. Currently, the city is home to over 25 local breweries.
Many of these breweries, such as Revelry Brewing and Low Tide Brewing, feature special events and guest chefs during the weekends.
For those who prefer wine, make a trip to Fortyeight Wine Bar in Freshfields Village. Their menu offers over 48 items, 48 craft beers, and 48 wines by the glass.
4. Charleston Rooftop Bars
Charleston SC heats up at night! Locals and visitors love to head downtown after dark. Charleston Rooftop bars are a favorite gathering spot for craft cocktails with stunning views. Many of Charleston's luxury hotels offer rooftop bars. Fiat Lux at Hotel Bennett is our favorite spot for a luxury rooftop bar. Located in the heart of the King Street district atop the luxurious Hotel Bennett. Try Smoke and Mirrors made with Vida Mezcal, Pineapple, Agave, Mole, and Bitters while you enjoy the panoramic views. Just down the street, the Citrus Club at the Dewberry Hotel offers the highest rooftop in Charleston. Sip on citrus-inspired cocktails while enjoying some of the best views in Charleston. If you are a traditionalist The Rooftop Bar at Vendue Inn set the standard for rooftop bars in Charleston.
5. Charleston Night Clubs
When it's time to put your dancing shoes on head to these Charleston nightclubs for a good time. Republic Garden and Lounge keeps the beat pumping with live DJs every night. Bottle service is available. Dress to impress at this place to be seen, featured in the Bravo TV show Southern Hospitality. Located in the heart of the Charleston Nightlife Entertainment district on King Street.
Down on Market Street NV Dance Lounge offers indoor/outdoor fun with a classic vibe.
More Unique Things to Do in Charleston, SC, at Night
4. Paddleboard by moonlight with Waterdog Paddle on a guided tour.
5. Enjoy a sunset cruise with Captain Jack's Kiawah Sailing and Dolphin Watching.
6. Sip wine and explore the art galleries of The Holy City at The Art Walk.
7. Cheer on Charleston’s home team at a Riverdogs baseball game.
8. Rock out with live music at The Music Farm.