37 Most Charming Date Ideas in Charleston, SC for 2024
Considering it’s one of the most romantic cities in the United States, there are so many fantastic date ideas in Charleston for first dates and established couples alike. It’s a city that oozes romance.
Why is Charleston, SC, romantic? Well, look at it. It’s dripping with Southern charm, it’s the setting for a famous romance novel and movie, The Notebook and its gorgeous natural features lend themselves well to a romantic evening stroll.
If you’re wondering “Where can I go on a perfect date in Charleston?”, we’re here to help. Read on for our top date ideas in Charleston.
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- Romantic Date Ideas in Charleston
- Unique Date Ideas in Charleston
- Indoor Date Ideas in Charleston
- Outdoor Date Ideas in Charleston
Romantic Date Ideas in Charleston
1. Take a Couple’s Cooking Class
If you’re looking for practical and fun date ideas in Charleston, get into the kitchen. Take a cooking class together and learn how to prepare a new cuisine or dish. Cooking classes in Charleston are taught by fantastic chefs who really know their way around the kitchen.
You can choose a class that will teach you to make a meal you both love or take a chance by choosing something neither you nor your date has ever tried before. You might make your new favorite date night meal!
2. Sail on Schooner Pride
For this date idea in Charleston, you and your date can set sail on the Schooner Pride, a stunning 18th-century replica ship. As you glide across the water, take in the views of the city skyline, Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge.
Enjoy the salty sea air and the warmth of the sun on your skin all while you snuggle up to your date. This romantic sailing adventure is the perfect way to relax and connect.
3. Recreate The Notebook’s Rowboat Scene
What are the most iconic first date ideas? Well, you can’t get much more iconic than recreating one of the most popular romance movies of all time. Rekindle the romance of The Notebook with a picturesque row boat ride through the tranquil Cyprus Gardens.
Just like Allie and Noah, you'll glide through the calm waters, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and the sound of birds. This serene and peaceful setting is the perfect backdrop for a romantic date.
4. Have a Candlelit Dinner at a Historic Mansion
Speaking of a tasty meal, this is a great way to have an elegant dinner. This romantic dinner experience is the epitome of elegance and refinement, perfect for a special occasion or a night to remember.
There are several options, but the Wentworth Mansion’s Circa 1886 restaurant is a popular choice for fine dining in a historic atmosphere.
5. Relax With a Couple’s Spa Day
Treat yourselves to a day of pampering and relaxation at one of Charleston's luxurious spas for this date idea in Charleston. Enjoy a range of treatments, from massages to facials, and let your worries melt away.
You and your partner can unwind and reconnect, and end the spa session feeling refreshed and revitalized for a romantic evening ahead. Grab a tasty meal when you’re done.
6. Go to a Jazz Night
Experience the sultry sounds of Charleston's jazz scene at a cozy club, like Forte Jazz Lounge. Let the soulful rhythms transport you to a bygone era as you sip cocktails and enjoy the show with your date.
The city's rich jazz heritage and talented musicians will create a night of fantastic entertainment and romance.
7. Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
This is a great date idea in Charleston for newcomers in the area because it gives you a chance to see the city. Take a leisurely ride through Charleston's streets in a horse-drawn carriage while you chat and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
This romantic carriage ride is the perfect way to explore Charleston's beauty and history on a date.
8. Stroll Through Magnolia Plantation
You and your date can wander hand-in-hand through the breathtaking gardens of Magnolia Plantation. Explore the historic plantation's picturesque paths and enjoy the serene surroundings.
This romantic stroll is the perfect way to connect with nature (and each other). You can also take a tour and learn about the history of the plantation and gardens, as well as show respect for the people who worked on the property.
9. Visit a Winery on Wadmalaw Island
Escape to Wadmalaw Island and discover the charm of the winery scene. Visit a local vineyard, enjoy a wine tasting and learn about the art of winemaking. Have a snack and do some wine pairings.
This wine country experience is the perfect way to relax and reconnect with each other. You may even find a new favorite bottle.
Unique Date Ideas in Charleston
10. Experiment With Candle Making
Let your creativity bloom with this fun and unique date idea in Charleston. Ignite your senses with a candle-making experience at a place like Candlefish.
Learn the art of crafting candles, and customize colors, fragrances and shapes to your liking. This date idea is perfect for crafty couples who enjoy DIY projects and taking home a personalized souvenir at the end.
11. Break Things and Relieve Stress
Unleash your inner rebel and smash your way to stress relief with this Charleston date idea. Visit The Break Room, where you can safely destroy items like plates, glasses or even electronics.
This unique date idea is a fun and cathartic way to release tension and bond over a shared experience. Grab a drink when you’re done.
12. Go on a Ghost Tour
Charleston is an old city. There may be some ghosts lingering about. For this date idea, embark on a spine-tingling adventure through Charleston's haunted history.
Explore the city's most eerie sites, like old mansions, cemeteries and churches, and hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters. This date idea is perfect for anyone with an interest in history or the paranormal.
13. Visit a Cat Café
If you and your date are cat lovers, this might be the perfect date idea for you. Cat cafés make perfect first or second date ideas, but they’re fun at any point during your relationship.
Pounce Cat Café and Wine Bar is a great place to have tasty treats, nice drinks and a snuggle session with some adoptable cats.
14. Test Your Limits at an Adventure Park
This Charleston date idea will take your relationship to new heights. Visit an adventure park, like Wild Blue Ropes, with ropes courses, zip lines and obstacles that will challenge your physical and mental limits.
This adrenaline-packed date idea is ideal for couples who love adventure, fitness, and pushing boundaries. This is one of the most fun summer date ideas in Charleston.
15. Go Geocaching Through the City
Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt through Charleston's streets and landmarks. Geocaching is a fun and interactive activity where you'll use GPS coordinates to find hidden containers called "geocaches."
This date idea in Charleston is perfect for couples who love exploring and solving puzzles together. Make sure to bring small notes and trinkets to put in the caches. This is such a fun free thing to do in Charleston, SC, for couples.
16. Attend an Improv Show
If you and your date like comedy, pay a visit to Theatre 99 for your next date idea in Charleston. Watch talented performers create hilarious scenes, songs and stories on the spot, and even participate if you dare!
This date idea in Charleston is perfect for couples who love comedy, creativity and living in the moment.
17. Take Surfing Lessons
Want to hit the beach? This fun date idea in Charleston may be perfect for you. Catch some waves and take surfing lessons together! Charleston's nearby beaches offer gentle waves that are perfect for beginners.
Not only will you learn a new skill, but you'll also enjoy the thrill of riding the surf together. This active date idea is a fun way to spend time together and learn a new skill in the process.
18. Sip Tea at the Charleston Tea Garden
For this day date idea in Charleston, SC, pay a visit to the Charleston Tea Garden. It’s a 120-acre tea farm that produces American Classic Tea. Take a romantic stroll through the tea plants, and enjoy the calming atmosphere.
You can even take a tour and learn about the tea-making process. There’s also a trolley tour available. This is a unique and relaxing date idea in Charleston that will transport you to a tranquil oasis.
19. Find Charleston’s Secret Alleyways
If you’re looking for free things to do in Charleston, SC, for couples, look no further. This date idea in Charleston is perfect for a couple on a budget. Explore Charleston's charming historic district by wandering through its “hidden alleyways”. There are nine of them.
Discover quaint courtyards, picturesque piazzas and ornate ironwork. This date idea allows for a leisurely and intimate stroll, perfect for getting lost in conversation and the beauty of the city.
20. Play a Round of Mini Golf
There are plenty of classic and cheap date ideas in Charleston for couples on a budget. You can never go wrong with mini golf. It’s a lighthearted and entertaining date idea that's perfect for some friendly competition, and it’s one of the best first date ideas in Charleston.
Charleston has several mini golf courses with themed obstacles and challenges. Laugh, play and enjoy each other's company in a relaxed and casual setting.
21. Try Goat Yoga
If you want your next date idea in Charleston to be totally unique, try goat yoga! This interactive yoga class features adorable goats roaming and playing with participants.
Enjoy some laughs, stretching and animal cuddles as a couple. This is a fun and memorable date idea that will leave you and your partner smiling and feeling great.
22. Go to Frankie’s Fun Park
If you’re thinking “Where can I go on a fun date in Charleston?”, look no further. Frankie’s Fun Park has all of the fun you can handle. It’s an indoor and outdoor amusement park that has plenty of fun activities for all ages.
It’s one of the best date ideas for teens and adults alike. Whether you’re riding rides or playing games, you’re sure to have a blast.
Indoor Date Ideas in Charleston
23. Watch a Show at Dock Street Theatre
Step into the historic Dock Street Theatre, a charming venue that hosts a variety of performances, from musicals to comedy acts.
This theater was built in the 1700s, and it was the first one built solely for theatrical performances according to an article posted by the Library of Congress. Enjoy an evening of entertainment, laughter and applause together at this historic site.
24. Play at an Arcade Bar
Level up your date ideas in Charleston with an arcade bar like Garage 75, where classic games meet craft cocktails! Challenge each other to a round of Pac-Man or Galaga and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and tasty snacks.
This date idea in Charleston is for couples who love games and good times. Arcades are one of our favorite alphabet date ideas, and adding food and drinks makes them even better.
25. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium
This date idea in Charleston will transport you under the sea. Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the South Carolina Aquarium, home to over 5,000 animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and plenty of unique fish.
Get up close and personal with marine life, and learn about conservation efforts. This day date idea in Charleston, SC, is perfect for nature lovers and anyone who’s fascinated by the underwater world.
26. Visit the Charleston Museum
Uncover the rich history and culture of Charleston at the Charleston Museum, America's oldest museum founded in 1773. Explore exhibits on art, history and natural history, and discover the city's fascinating stories.
This date idea in Charleston is ideal for history buffs and those interested in learning more about the city's heritage.
27. Enjoy Bowling and Brews
Strike up some fun and enjoy a night of bowling and brews! Charleston has several bowling alleys that offer a fun atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of beers (and non-alcoholic beverages, of course).
Challenge each other to a game or two, and enjoy the friendly competition. You can’t go wrong with bowling on a first date.
28. Go Ice Skating
Glide into fun and enjoy ice skating together! Charleston's Carolina Ice Palace offers a unique and playful date experience, perfect for those who love winter activities (though this is one of the winter date ideas in Charleston you can enjoy year-round) or for anyone who loves trying something new.
Hold hands, spin, and twirl your way to a memorable date night. If you fall, that’s okay. Laugh it off.
Outdoor Date Ideas in Charleston
29. Explore the Food Truck Scene
If you and your date are foodies, it’s time to savor the flavors of Charleston's vibrant food truck scene. Visit a gathering of local food trucks near local parks or at festivals. From gourmet grilled cheese to Lowcountry seafood, you and your date can try a variety of delicious eats and treats.
This date idea is perfect for foodies who love trying new flavors and enjoying the city's lively atmosphere while supporting small businesses.
30. Stroll the Pitt Street Bridge
If you’re looking for cheap date ideas in Charleston, try this one. Take a leisurely walk across the Pitt Street Bridge, which offers fantastic views of the Charleston Harbor and city skyline.
This scenic stroll is perfect for a romantic evening after dinner or a relaxing afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights. Enjoy the gentle ocean breeze and each other's company.
31. Catch a Soccer Game
Sports lovers unite. Cheer on the Charleston Battery soccer team at their home stadium, MUSC Health Stadium. Experience the excitement of live soccer and bond over your shared love of sports.
This date idea in Charleston is perfect for sports enthusiasts and those looking for a fun and lively experience amongst other fans. It’s also one of the best double date ideas in Charleston that’s super low-pressure.
32. Tube on the Edisto River
Float down the tranquil Edisto River on an inner tube surrounded by lush scenery and serene natural beauty. This relaxing date idea in Charleston is perfect for warm days and lazy afternoons, with plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy each other's company.
Make sure the weather and river conditions are good before setting out so you can have a safe adventure.
33. Go on a Kayaking Tour
Paddle through the stunning Charleston Marshes, a tranquil and largely untouched natural area that’s teeming with wildlife and beauty. Take a guided kayaking tour and explore the marshes' winding waterways, learning about the region's unique ecosystem and history.
You can also guide yourselves by looking up information on your phone as you kayak. This date idea in Charleston is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
34. Visit John’s Island
Take a day trip to the picturesque John’s Island, just outside of Charleston. It’s away from the hustle and bustle of Charleston. You can enjoy farmer’s markets or go see the Angel Oak Tree. It’s over 65 feet tall and over 400 years old.
35. Admire a Sunset From Charleston Harbor
Witness the breathtaking beauty of a Charleston sunset from the harbor, with the city skyline and sailboats providing a stunning backdrop. Find a cozy spot, bring a picnic and enjoy the romantic atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
This date idea in Charleston is ideal for a relaxing, picturesque evening. It’s the perfect addition to a day of anniversary date ideas.
36. Take a Horseback Ride Together
Saddle up and explore Charleston's scenic countryside on horseback. Take a guided ride through local trails, enjoying the views and each other's company. This is a great way to see Charleston from a whole new perspective.
37. Go on a Scenic Bike Ride
Are horses not quite your speed? Try a bike instead. Pedal with your date through Charleston's charming streets and scenic bike trails while you take in the city's historic architecture, picturesque parks and stunning natural beauty.
Choose a leisurely and relaxed ride or a more challenging route, depending on your preference. This date idea is great for couples who love cycling, exploring, and enjoying the great outdoors together.
Which of these date ideas in Charleston are you going to try first? Whether you’re having fun in an adventure park, snuggling cats in a cat café or taking in the rich history of the city, you have so many options.
Charleston is a vibrant city with countless things to do. Make a list and start going on dates!
For even more fun date ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
