There’s something about Charleston that stirs the heart. Maybe it’s the cobblestone streets, the water views or the candlelight dinners … whatever it is, this city has plenty of romance. In fact, it’s become one of the country’s hot spots for weddings. So whether you’re looking for a place to pop the question, tie the knot, celebrate a golden anniversary or simply get away for a romantic weekend, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve highlighted a few spots that are sure to get the sparks flying.
#1) Magnolia Plantation
Many a proposal has taken place at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. During the early winter, the azaleas, camellias and daffodils are blooming so the garden is breath-taking. Plus, there are so many trails through the garden, it’s easy to find a secluded spot to steal a kiss.
Magnolia is actually one of the last large-scale “romantic gardens” left in the United States. This garden style traces back to the industrial revolution in Europe. It’s tied to the empowerment of the common man, who worked in the factories and therefore wanted to design gardens to help him forget the dreary workday. Romantic gardens are designed to help you forget everyday life and feed your soul.
#2) Wentworth Mansion & Circa 1886
If you need a romantic place to stay, Wentworth Mansion, 149 Wentworth St., is tough to beat. This stately 21-room inn is teeming with luxury and romance. The rooms all feature gas-lit fireplaces with original marble mantels, king-size sleigh beds and whirlpool tubs. Built in 1886, the inn has a restaurant, Circa 1886, on the grounds. Plus, The Spa at Wentworth Mansion is housed in the mansion’s former stables (think couple’s massage). You do not want to miss one of the mansion’s best features: the rooftop cupola with incredible views of the city. If that doesn’t impress your sweetie, nothing will.
#3) Carriage Tour
A carriage ride through the historic streets of downtown Charleston makes a perfect outing for two. And if the weather is a little cool it’s all the better – a perfect excuse to snuggle. Check Palmetto Carriage for private tour options. Coupon for Palmetto Carriage Tour
#4) Picnic at White Point Gardens
White Point Garden is a 5-acre public park on the Charleston peninsula at the intersection of E. Battery Street and Murray Boulevard. The park is home to several military relics and monuments. A bandstand pavilion is located in the park and is often used for weddings. A favorite sculpture is a bronze statue of a dancing girl. It was created in the 1960s by sculptor Willard Hirsch and gifted to the city. It sits on a low granite base so it’s easily accessible to children.
#5) A Walk on the Beach
Ocean sunsets and the calming sounds of the waves make for a magical setting as you and your sweetheart take an evening walk on a beach. A favorite is Folly Beach where the Morris Island Lighthouse makes for a beautiful selfie background to commemorate a date night. The best spot to see the lighthouse is from the northeast end of Folly Beach. Take East Ashley Street until it ends. You can park there and the walk about a quarter mile to the beach. Folly has plenty of restaurants where you can grab a drink after your evening beach stroll.
#6) Walk Charleston’s Historic District
The cobblestone streets and alleyways of historic downtown Charleston are beautiful, quiet spots for a hand-holding stroll. Pause to look at the historic homes or venture on to King Street for some window shopping and dinner. Enjoy a nightcap at the Thoroughbred Club in Belmond Charleston Place, 205 Meeting St. It has an extensive beverage menu and a selection of tapas, appetizers and desserts. Plus you can wind down the evening listening to the live music. Take a guided tour with Charleston Strolls to better experience the history of the city on a professionally guided tour.
#7) A Cruise on the Harbor
Everyone can agree that being on the water is romantic and has a calming effect. Take a sunset or moonlight sailing tour on The Schooner Pride, an 84′ tall
ship that is modeled after the 18th Century coastal trading schooners that once dotted the Charleston harbor.
Another romantic night on the water can be had on a SpiritLine Dinner Cruise. A 3-4 course dinner, made to order onboard featuring “farm to table” fresh local ingredients is served along with live music on this 2.5 hour experience. $10 off coupon for dinner cruise