10 epic things to do in Charleston at night

With spectacular coastal vistas and a lively downtown district, Charleston comes to life at night. Sample your way through South Carolina's great culinary culture or toast your loved one on a sunset cruise. There are plenty of fun things to do in Charleston once the sun goes down. From ghost tours to horse-carriage rides and fantastic family activities, these storied cobblestone streets reveal a different side when explored at twilight.

1. Watch the sunset from Charleston Harbor

Take in the spectacular glow of dusk on board a boat as it cruises through Charleston Harbor. You'll see iconic sights like Fort Sumter and the Battery. See Charleston illuminated by the water as the city lights welcome in the night.

Hot tip:
Don't forget to bring some cash, and wear something warm and comfortable in case it gets cold as the sun goes down.

2. USS Yorktown

The famed USS Yorktown aircraft carrier saw action in World War II and is now moored at Patriot’s Point. This famous Charleston attraction gets you far off the beaten path to hear ghostly tales of missing sailors, brave soldiers, and other haunting figures.

Hot tip:
Pack your camera and prepare for night mode to become a ghost-hunting sleuth for the evening. You never know what shadows and shapes you might capture.

3. Get a new perspective on Prohibition history

Charleston's historic center is bustling with centuries-old bars and taverns. Explore the oldest and hippest bars on a pub crawl and learn all about Prohibition-era history. Hear colorful tales about Charleston in the 1920s while you sample an old classic like Tom Collins or Gin Rickey.

Hot tip:
Check out local beers from award-winning breweries like Revelry and Westbrook, or get a feel for the Prohibition era with some ice-cold highballs. Don't forget, you'll need to be 21+ to enjoy an alcoholic drink!

4. Explore Charleston's historic streets by nighttime carriage

One of the most fun things to do at night in Charleston is to explore the streets in a horse-drawn carriage. You'll see downtown Charleston's spooky sights like dungeons, dark alleys, and churchyards. Soak up the atmosphere of Charleston's twilight to the clip-clopping of a horse-drawn carriage.

Hot tip:
Charge your smartphones or bring a portable torch to shine a light on some of Charleston's darkest unlit alleyways. This is a great way to experience downtown Charleston with less traffic.

5. Charleston City Market

This iconic open-air market is a good spot to shop for souvenirs and local produce. Charleston City Market has been open to the public since 1804 and features many alluring details drawn from its venerable history. The weekly nighttime event showcases artisans, artists, and craftsmen.

Hot tip:
Look out for Charleston's signature sweetgrass baskets, woven handicrafts made by the city's Gullah residents. This is also a great location to pick up a delicious bite to eat.

Location & address:
188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401. Friday and Saturday, 6:30 PM-10:30 PM.

6. Enjoy an evening bike excursion

Head to Charleston's laid-back Mount Pleasant and set off on a sunset-chasing bike tour—the perfect summer activity in Charleston. Whether alone or part of a guided tour, the suburb's coastal city views will enchant you as you go.

Hot tip:
Darrell Creek Trail & Park Ave Bike Path and Carolina Park Boulevard Bike Path are two popular cycling routes in Charleston. While evening cycling is encouraged, cycling in an unknown or unlit area is not unwise unless you're with a guide.

7. Magnolia Cemetery

Located on a former rice plantation, Magnolia Cemetary is now the resting place of many of Charleston's most historic and infamous figures. When you visit on a guided tour you'll hear tales of bootleggers, socialites, and other colorful figures.

Hot tip:
The cemetery is open daily between 8 AM - 5 PM. Notable interments include US Congressman, South Carolina Governor William Aiken, Jr. and American politician Langdon Cheves.

8. See the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse

The Morris Island Lighthouse has protected Charleston's coastline since 1767. You can see this Charleston hidden gem up close on a boat tour or watch as its light flashes from the beautiful shoreline of the Morris Island Conservation Area.

Hot tip:
Look out for playful dolphins as you navigate the shoreline of Folly Beach when it's still light enough.

9. Get to know the city through its food

When it comes to food, South Carolina shines. As one of the state’s biggest cities, Charleston is a foodie hotspot, serving up southern dishes and Gulluh classics using plenty of shrimp, crab, and okra.

Hot tip:
A lowcountry boil made with Cajun shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, and plenty of spice is a beloved local delicacy and well worth a try.

10. Walk through the Battery and White Point Gardens

The Battery and White Point Gardens, which take up the southern tip of Charleston's peninsula, are a delight to visit at night. Watch the bobbing lights of harbor boats and enjoy the ornate mansions that line the streets.

Hot tip:
Even if you've already explored this area by day, it's one of Charleston's best nighttime attractions, too The houses and streets are illuminated, and the gardens take on a magical atmosphere. Note: White Point Gardens closes every night at 9.30 PM.

FAQ

How to spend an evening in Charleston?

Evenings are when Charleston really comes alive. The city lies on the waterfront, which overlooks Charleston Harbor and Cooper Park and makes for the perfect evening stroll. From there you can head downtown to one of the city’s best Lowcountry restaurants to sample southern favorites and Gulluh classics like shrimp and oyster. Finish the night off with a craft beer or cocktail at one of the bars along bustling upper King Street.

Does Charleston have a fun nightlife?

Yes, Charleston has a fantastic nightlife. From quiet speakeasies serving delectable cocktails, to downtown Jazz clubs and restaurants serving up southern classics, there is bound to be something to suit everyone. 

What are some fun activities to do with kids in Charleston?

Kids will love taking a horse-drawn carriage through dimly-lit streets for an added spook factor. Other family-friendly activities in Charleston include special evenings at venues like the South Carolina Aquarium or a visit to Patriots Point Naval & the Maritime Museum.

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Charleston?

You can't beat a romantic sunset cruise in Charleston. Head out on a private boat, dinner cruise, or catamaran tour of the harbor at dusk. You can always follow this up with a shoreside cocktail at one of Charleston's waterfront bars. For something more active, head out on a bike tour of Mount Pleasant or test your balance with a crash course in stand-up paddle-boarding—a guaranteed good time for couples in Charleston.