Don’t you love it when Valentine’s Day falls on the weekend? It’s the perfect excuse for a full-blown romantic celebration – and Charleston is just the place for it. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or looking for a love-filled staycation, Valentine’s Day weekend is brimming with events, fun and plenty of ways to express your deepest affections.
To get you started, we’ve put together a few suggestions.
Table for Two
Eager for a romantic dinner for two? We could put together a lengthy list of great Charleston area restaurants where the food is sublime and the ambiance is sheer romance. Situated in the former carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion (another ultra-romantic spot), Circa 1886 offers up a special Valentine’s Day menu with mouth-watering items like lobster flan, blackened snapper and pear tarte tatin for dessert plus a glass of champagne.
Reserve a quiet table for two at McCrady’s and choose from a menu selection that boasts fresh, local ingredients from Lowcountry farmers, artisans and fishermen. The dining room’s brick walls, heart pine floors, beamed ceilings, original fireplaces and chandeliers all add to the charm of the restaurant.
Nothing says “I love you” like an extensive beer, wine and cocktails list. If your sweetie wants something more casual but with a terrific menu and big beverage list, try Edmund’s Oast. Opened just two years ago, Edmund’s Oast is a combination of brewery, farm-to-table restaurant and craft cocktail bar. The seasonal menu includes small plates, housemade charcuterie and entrees.
Romantic Escapes
If you want plenty of time to hold hands and snuggle, book a private carriage tour with Palmetto Carriage Works. Soak up the sights and sounds of Charleston with a guided tour in one of the elegant vis-a-vis carriages.
Weather permitting, there’s nothing more romantic than a walk on the beach. Stroll one of Charleston’s beaches at sunset and you’ll feel like the last two people on earth. Or grab one of the swings at Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston and take in views of the Charleston harbor while swinging hand in hand.
If you’re looking for a more active weekend, don’t miss the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition from Feb. 12-14. This annual event is a celebration of wildlife and nature through fine art, conservation, sporting demonstrations. Don’t miss the retriever demos or the presentation by Jack Hanna.
Valentine’s Day also falls on 2nd Sunday on King Street, always a fun afternoon in the heart of downtown. From 1 to 5 p.m., King Street is closed to vehicular traffic from Queen Street North to Calhoun Street. Pedestrians – and plenty of pets – stroll the street. Pop into one of the many restaurants for lunch, do some shopping and enjoy the entertainment.
Gift Your Love
Go beyond the flowers and heart-shaped box of chocolates for something a little more heartfelt. Why not book at couple’s massage at The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place. Swedish, deep tissue, warm stone … one of each, please!
Located on King Street, Croghan’s Jewel Box is filled with unique finds, including the Gold Bug Collection, estate jewelry and more. Or stop off at Dacuba’s Fine Jewelry on North Market Street for jewelry inspired by the Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island.
For him, pick up a tie from Charleston Krewe, a King Street boutique with a collection of ties and bowties in prints like palmetto trees and sea turtles.
We’d love to know how you celebrated Valentine’s Day in Charleston. Share photos of your romantic dinner, shopping or beach sunset using hashtag #travelerofcharleston.