Your Guide to Evening Fun: Things to Do in Charleston, SC at Night
Are you looking for some evening fun in Charleston? Well, you're in luck because this charming city has loads of exciting activities to offer once the sun goes down. From indulging in delicious culinary delights to exploring haunted pasts, Charleston has something for everyone to enjoy after dark. This guide dives into many of the fun things to do at night in Charleston, SC to help make your trip to this historic Southern gem unforgettable.
Indulge in the Culinary Delights of Charleston's Nightlife
Step out under the stars and let the flavors of Charleston lead you on a delectable journey like no other. Our city's nights are alive with eateries serving up a feast for your taste buds and soul.
Visit Magnolias, where upscale Southern cuisine takes center stage. Don't miss their famous Down South Egg Roll stuffed with collard greens, chicken, and Tasso ham, and main course favorites like shellfish over grits.
For a slice of charm, venture to Poogan's Porch, Charleston's oldest independent culinary gem. This beautifully restored Victorian house serves fresh and delightful Lowcountry cuisine. It is the perfect Southern setting to enjoy She-Crab Soup and fried chicken with country collards and hot honey.
Husk is a love letter to the Lowcountry that showcases the South's culinary landscape through innovative, farm-to-table dishes from suppliers in the area. A nightcap from their house-made bourbon selections or a slice of their seasonal pie promises the perfect end to an unforgettable exploration of Charleston's culinary delights.
Take a Ghostly Tour Through Charleston's Haunted Past
Embark on an adventure through Charleston's streets with a ghostly tour that'll have you hanging on every word. For an unforgettable journey into Charleston's past, book the Haunted Carriage Tour by Old South Carriage Company. Ride past eerie mansions and mysterious historic sights. Your knowledgeable guide will share the tales of the city's most notorious apparitions. This tour is a perfect blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural that will leave you spellbound.
Enjoy Live Music and Local Talent Galore
Charleston hums with a vibrancy that only live music can bring.
Music Farm is an iconic venue where legends and up-and-comers grace the stage with their presence, creating unforgettable nights.
Experience the charm of The Commodore, known for its intimate atmosphere and soulful live jazz and funk nights.
Love the classics? Charleston Jazz offers an exquisite array of performances in the heart of Charleston, showcasing the heritage and evolving scene of jazz music.
Whichever club you choose, Charleston's vibrant music venues promise an evening brimming with melody and memories.
Explore Charleston's Vibrant Night Market
Kick off your evening at Charleston Night Market, one of the most fun things to do at night in Charleston. Stroll past the expansive displays from over 100 artisans spanning three city blocks, soaking in the vibe of one of the most diverse markets in Charleston. Marvel at the mix of artists, live music, and eclectic sounds that fill the air, making each weekend a festival. Open 6:30-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights.
Get a Belly Laugh at a Comedy Show
Dive into the heart of Charleston’s comedy scene for an evening bursting with chuckles and gut-busting laughter.
Secure your seat at notable spots like Theatre 99, known for its unmatched improv nights, or The Black Fedora, which offers a unique twist with mystery-themed comedy that involves the audience in the act (optional) or you can stay out of the spotlight and enjoy appetizers, homemade desserts, and drinks.
As night falls over Charleston, these hubs of hilarity highlight the artistry of the local comedy scene.
Get Your Game On at Escape Rooms & Scavenger Hunts
For an evening sprinkled with mystery and exhilaration, Charleston's escape rooms and scavenger hunts are your go-to for challenging your mind and fostering teamwork.
Escape60, a locally operated family business, has four escape rooms, each offering different stories, experiences, and puzzles. This teamwork test involves 60 minutes of time to solve puzzles and escape before the clock runs out.
Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunts presents an urban challenge, transforming Charleston into a grand puzzle. Using your smartphone, explore the city's history and architecture, using a list of items with exciting riddles and challenges.
Visit the Vibrant Charleston Bars
Stepping into the city's exciting bar scene is one of the best things to do in downtown Charleston, SC, at night, where every sip is an invitation to savor the South in style. It's a spirited journey through Charleston's best, one delightful drink at a time.
Exceptional experiences include Prohibition, where the Roaring Twenties vibe is paired with innovative cocktails like the Smoked Old Fashioned, regular live music, and a rotating roster of bands on Thursday nights.
The Cocktail Club offers an exclusive atmosphere in a historic building and a rooftop garden where local ingredients are sourced directly for their signature drinks.
At Burns Alley Tavern, dive into the local scene with a laid-back ambiance. This casual venue showcases an extensive selection of craft beers, Karaoke, and trivia nights.
Each venue in this selection is a cornerstone of Charleston’s nightlife, showcasing the unique blend of history, creativity, and southern hospitality.
Visit Historic Sites After Dusk
Stroll through Charleston's historic sites after evening falls. Witness the grandeur of antebellum homes and cobblestoned streets under a softer light, revealing stories etched in their walls.
Take a Magnolia Cemetery tour at night for a chilling yet educational walk. It's an experience that will whisper tales of the city’s storied past.
In the historic downtown, the vibrant colors of Rainbow Row—an iconic stretch of beautifully preserved Georgian houses, take on a softer glow under the evening sky.
Sail the Harbor on a Nighttime Cruise
Cast off into Charleston’s waters on a Moonlight Sail, with Charleston Harbor Tours, which offers a magical experience gliding over the shimmering waters on a classic 84-foot-tall ship. The city’s lights twinkling like stars on the shore craft a picturesque backdrop for an evening of elegance and tranquility.
Hit the Night Clubs
If you're in the mood to dance the night away, Charleston welcomes you with open arms and pulsating beats at two of the city's most vibrant nightclubs.
Republic Garden & Lounge offers an upscale nightlife experience with its elegant outdoor patio and sophisticated indoor setting. Here, the DJ's mixes flow as freely as the signature cocktails, enticing everyone to hit the dance floor.
Trio is a hotspot famous for its electrifying atmosphere and top-notch DJs who spin a diverse array of electronic music paired with light shows and an expansive dance floor that will deliver a night of spirited dancing.
Sip Some Craft Beers
Immerse yourself in the hop-filled paradise of Charleston's craft beer scene, where the flavors are as rich and diverse as the city's history.
Visit Palmetto Brewing Company, the pioneer of the Charleston craft beer movement. Here, you'll find a cozy atmosphere in historic downtown Charleston in a brewery with a warehouse taproom, speakeasy taproom, and courtyard.
Revelry Brewing Co. offers rooftop views and an eclectic roster of beer names and packaging, with tastes ranging from a West Coast IPA to a Wild Ale with strawberry and thyme.
Lastly, Holy City Brewing, located in a garage-style tasting room with pool tables, live music, and a giant outdoor patio, stands as a testament to the spirit of Charleston's brewing culture. The Pluff Mud Porter showcases the perfect balance of chocolate and malt.
As we draw the curtains on our nocturnal journey of things to do in Charleston SC at night, let's not forget that every cobblestone and moonlit corner of this city tells a story. For more Charleston travel tips that will make your visit unforgettable, visit our blog. Happy exploring!
