A Guide to Charleston’s Liveliest Nightlife Spots

Charleston, South Carolina is a city rich in history and culture, but it’s also known for its vibrant and exciting nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening out with friends or lively music and entertainment, Charleston’s many bars, clubs, and lounges have something for everyone. Here is a guide to the best of Charleston’s nightlife.

Stars Rooftop & Pool Bar at The Restoration Hotel

One of the most popular nightlife spots in Charleston is Stars Rooftop & Pool Bar at The Restoration Hotel. This trendy bar gives guests a stunning view of downtown Charleston from the 12-story rooftop bar. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can lounge near the outdoor pool and conversation areas, while vibey music fills the air. Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail while floating in the pool or try something from the bar’s extensive hand-selected wine list. Live music is performed here multiple nights a week and DJs make regular appearances too. As you may expect, it’s a popular spot among young adults, although it’s not necessarily a club. My opinion: Stars Rooftop & Pool Bar is one of the best places to be a part of Charleston’s nightlife.

The Royal American

This renowned bar and live music venue offers guests an eclectic atmosphere and a large selection of craft beers. The Royal American is Charleston’s go-to spot for live music, with daily bands playing everything from reggae to indie rock. After some cold drinks and live tunes, head outside to enjoy some time on the venue’s swanky patio and lawn. Food trucks also make regular appearances at The Royal American, offering guests with some late-night snacks. This bustling venue also has one of Charleston’s best Sunday brunch parties with food and drink deals that rival anywhere else in the city. My opinion: The Royal American is a great spot to hang out with friends and drink craft beers while listening to live bands perform.

The Little Gym of Charleston

This popular dance club and lounge offers guests an immersive live music experience. Whether you’re looking for top-notch DJs spinning or a live band playing jazz, soul or R&B, The Little Gym of Charleston has something for every taste. This hip venue also features gourmet food offerings straight from the dancefloor making it a great place for grabbing something to eat (or drink) late at night. Plus, on Sunday nights, The Little Gym offers an all-you-can-eat, late-night themed brunch buffet. My opinion: The Little Gym of Charleston is the perfect place for dancing and enjoying a fun night out with friends.

Halls Chophouse

A bit on the upscale side, Halls Chophouse provides guests with classic American steakhouse fare in an upscale atmosphere with even more upscale prices. Though it can get pricey here, it’s all worth it for guests looking for a sophisticated dining experience, especially when it comes to cocktails and wine pairings, which Halls Chophouse does very well. While there isn’t much nightlife happening here beyond dining, their amazing happy hour specials and live entertainment keep guests returning again and again. My opinion: For those looking for an upscale night out in Charleston, Halls Chophouse is the perfect spot.

Luna Fried Biscuits & Sushi

Luna Fried Biscuits & Sushi is arguably one of the trendiest spots in all of downtown Charleston. This hip eatery and bar offers an eclectic menu showcasing sushi, classic entrees and some of Charleston’s favorite late-night snacks like fried pickles and buffalo wings. From their weekly karaoke nights where guests can test their singing skills to their speciality cocktails crafted with fresh juices, there’s always something new happening here every night. My opinion: Luna Fried Biscuits & Sushi is the perfect place for late night snacking and drinks with friends.

No matter your style, there’s something for everyone in downtown Charleston during the nighthours that promises a vibrant experience. From live music to upscale dining experiences, there’s no shortage of great spots to explore in The Holy City’s lively nightlife scene. Regardless of where you go, Charleston will provide you with an unforgettable experience!

A Local’s Guide to Charleston: Discovering the Hidden Gems

Charleston is more than just a tourist destination. It is a historic city, continuously evolving while maintaining its southern charm. As a local living in Charleston for years, I know the ins and outs of this city. Allow me to share with you some hidden gems that will make your visit to Charleston unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Charleston has a lot to offer beyond the typical tourist spots, such as the Charleston City Market or the Historic Charleston City Market. For instance, the Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island is a must-visit. This majestic live oak tree is over 1,500 years old and is one of the oldest living things in the United States. Also, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are stunning, with their beautiful blooming flowers and the Audubon Swamp Garden. For a more unconventional experience, the Old City Jail is an intriguing piece of Charleston’s history. The jail housed notorious criminals and political prisoners back in the days.

Dining Spots

One of the significant highlights of Charleston’s food culture is its Lowcountry cuisine. The best place to try this cuisine is at Husk, where locals and tourists line up to experience the innovative southern dishes. Another must-visit is Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream. They use only locally sourced ingredients to make some of the best ice cream in the city. Charleston is also famous for its seafood, and The Ordinary is the perfect place to enjoy it. You can indulge in its fresh oysters, shrimp, or crab legs while enjoying a drink or two.

Cultural Experiences

Charleston offers various cultural experiences throughout the year. The Charleston Spoleto Festival USA, held annually, celebrates the performing arts with a 17-day-long festival of music, theatre, and dance. If you’re into history or historic homes, take a trip to the Aiken-Rhett House Museum or the Nathaniel Russell House Museum to explore the elegant architecture and artifacts found within them. Art lovers can visit the Gibbes Museum of Art, filled with collections that reflect Charleston’s artistic heritage.

Local History

Charleston’s captivating past is one of the reasons why it is such a popular destination. One of the many stories of Charleston’s history is the legend of the Pink House. The house is said to be cursed, and over the years, the legend has grown into a haunting tale of ghosts and spirits. The Charleston Battery is another piece of history that is a must-visit. It has been a battleground and a fortification since 1680.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a more unusual Charleston experience, visit the Firefly Distillery, where you can enjoy tastings of their sweet tea vodka or whiskey while taking in the beautiful surroundings. For an exciting adventure, try a kayak tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures. Paddle through the creeks and marshes while viewing the simple beauty of the Lowcountry. Or you can take a ferry from Charleston to Fort Sumter, where Civil War history was made on April 12, 1861.

Now that you’ve learned about the fascinating history, delicious cuisine, and hidden spots of Charleston, we hope you’ll visit and dive deeper into the city’s southern charm beyond the typical tourist areas. Enjoy your stay and make the most out of your journey to Charleston, South Carolina.