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Charleston Holiday Events 2026–2027: Lights, Shows & Seasonal Celebrations
Make Your Holidays a Little More Charleston
Holiday lights, Christmas shows, candlelight tours, and New Year’s fireworks—Charleston brings plenty of sparkle to the season. From Thanksgiving week through New Year’s, you can browse local markets, celebrate Hanukkah in Marion Square, catch a holiday concert, or gather with friends for a Lowcountry oyster roast.
Choose a few favorites, leave time to explore, and make yourself at home with Stay Duvet. Whether you’re planning a family holiday or a festive getaway for two, there’s plenty to build a memorable visit around.
November and December dates are in 2026; January dates are in 2027. Follow the links for tickets, individual performance times, and updates.
A Holiday Highlight: Southern Living Illumination Charleston
December 4–5 | Downtown Charleston
Make Southern Living Illumination Charleston the centerpiece of a festive weekend. With demonstrations, shopping, and seasonal inspiration, this ticketed event gives you another reason to enjoy Charleston dressed for the holidays. Listed for guests ages 21 and older.
Holiday Lights and Festive Gatherings
Spend an evening among the lights, then return to your rental for a relaxed end to the night.
November 13–December 31, James Island. Gather your group for this seasonal drive-through tradition.
Selected evenings, November 20–December 31, Downtown. See the South Carolina Aquarium in a whole new light.
December 4, Colonial Lake, Downtown. Add a festive gathering to your downtown plans.
December 4–January 1, North Charleston. Enjoy the neighborhood’s seasonal lights during an evening outing.
Markets, Parades, and Holiday Shopping
Find a locally made gift, enjoy a parade, or turn a holiday market into an afternoon out. These gatherings offer plenty of ways to explore beyond your front door.
Freshfields Holiday Weekend Entertainment and Holiday Market
Entertainment November 27–29; market November 28
Johns Island, near Kiawah and Seabrook
North Charleston Tree Lighting, Christmas Festival & Parade
Tree lighting December 4, 6–7 p.m.; festival December 5, 2–6 p.m.; parade at 3 p.m.
Park Circle
Isle of Palms Holiday Street Festival
December 5; tree lighting listed for 5:30 p.m.
Front Beach, Isle of Palms
Mount Pleasant Holiday Market & Craft Show
December 12
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market Pavilion
December 12
Center Street, Folly Beach
December 12, 2–3 p.m.
Palmetto Boulevard, Edisto Beach
Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade
December 13, 5:30 p.m.
West Coleman Boulevard
December 19–20
Firefly Distillery, North Charleston
Edisto is a farther coastal outing—an option for guests who would like to make a day of exploring.
Christmas Shows and Holiday Concerts
Make a night of it: book a holiday performance, enjoy dinner, and take in a little Charleston atmosphere along the way.
Christmas Stories and The Nutcracker
A Christmas Carol
Selected performances November 29–December 20
Dock Street Theatre, Downtown
South Carolina Ballet: The Nutcracker
November 30 and December 1–2
Charleston Music Hall, Downtown
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage
December 10
Charleston Gaillard Center, Downtown
Charleston Christmas Special
Selected performances December 11–22
Charleston Music Hall, Downtown
A Christmas Story
Selected performances December 11–23
Queen Street Playhouse, Downtown
Charleston’s Nutcracker
December 18–20
Sottile Theatre, Downtown
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
December 26
North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Find Your Holiday Soundtrack
From jazz and choral music to touring Christmas productions, find an evening that fits your stay.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
November 24 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Lindsey Stirling: The Snow Waltz Tour
November 28 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
December 1 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
A Motown Christmas
December 2 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Christmas with Chris Tomlin
December 3 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Holy City Messiah—Downtown
December 3 · Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Holy City Messiah—Daniel Island
December 4 · St. Clare of Assisi
Holiday Swing: Tommy Brown Jr. & Charleston Jazz Orchestra
December 5 · Charleston Music Hall
Sounds of the Season—North Charleston POPS!
December 6 · North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Holiday Strings
December 11–12 · Charleston Library Society
Aoife O’Donovan & Chris Thile Holiday Concert
December 13 · Charleston Gaillard Center
Charleston Men’s Chorus: Gloria!
December 13 · St. Philip’s Church
Charleston Symphony Holiday Pops!
December 17–19 · Charleston Gaillard Center
Leslie Odom Jr.: The Christmas Tour
December 20 · Charleston Gaillard Center
Celebrate Hanukkah in Charleston
Chanukah in the Square
December 6, 4–6 p.m. | Marion Square, Downtown
Join this free community celebration for live music, food, children’s activities, and menorah lighting—a welcoming way to celebrate Hanukkah in the heart of Charleston.
Historic Charleston for the Holidays
Slow down for a seasonal stroll or candlelight tour. Charleston’s historic streets and homes give these outings a setting all their own.
Colonial Charleston Christmas Stroll
Selected dates December 1–22, Downtown.
Aiken-Rhett House Candlelight Tours
December 4–5, Downtown; recommended for ages 12 and older.
Christmas at Drayton Hall
December 4–5, 11–12, and 18, West Ashley.
Preservation Society Candlelight Tours
December 10, 5–8 p.m., Downtown private homes.
Christmas in Charleston Private Home Candlelight Tours
December 18–19, Downtown.
Reserve through the individual organizers for tour times and participating locations.
Santa Visits and Family Holiday Fun
Make room for a Santa visit, a holiday workshop, or a festive outing with your dog.
The Charleston Santa
November 27–29; December 5–6, 12–13, and 19–20
Best Friend Train Museum, Downtown; free with timed reservations
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa
December 4, 4–6 p.m.
Park Circle, North Charleston; free with preregistration
Breakfast with Santa Cruise
December 5 and 12
Patriots Point, Mount Pleasant
Mingle with Kringle
December 5
James Island County Park
Howlidays in the Park / Santa Paws
December 17, 6–7 p.m.
Mixson Dog Park, North Charleston; free
Museum Elves Holiday Workshop
December 22
The Charleston Museum, Downtown
A Little Lowcountry Holiday Flavor
Enjoy an afternoon at Boone Hall, gather around an oyster roast, or pair dinner with a Christmas story.
Wine Under the Oaks at Boone Hall
December 6, Mount Pleasant. Wine, food samples, oysters, and live music; ages 21 and older.
Drayton Hall Holiday Oyster Roast
December 6, West Ashley. Add a Lowcountry favorite to your holiday itinerary.
Dickens Dinner
December 2, 9, 16, and 23, Circa 1886, Downtown. Dinner with a live Dickens storytelling performance.
For guests who enjoy a seasonal run, consider the Wild Dunes Turkey Trot 5K on November 25 at 11 a.m., the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K downtown on November 26 at 9 a.m., or the Jingle Shell 5K & One-Mile Fun Run at Kiawah on December 11.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Celebrations
Stay a little longer and welcome 2027 with a night downtown, dinner on the water, or fireworks at Folly Beach.
Folly Beach New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Flip-Flop Drop
December 31 | Folly Beach
Celebrate beside the ocean with Folly’s annual New Year’s Eve fireworks show, then enjoy the island’s signature Flip-Flop Drop at midnight. Follow the official event page for the fireworks timetable and evening details.
More Ways to Welcome the New Year
Charleston Wonderland
December 31
Festival Hall, Downtown; ticketed celebration for ages 21 and older
Wild Dunes Snowflake Soirée
December 31, 9 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
Isle of Palms; family ticket options listed
SpiritLine New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise
December 31
Aquarium Wharf, Downtown
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Circa 1886
December 31
Downtown Charleston
Start 2027 with the Bill Murray Polar Plunge
January 1, 11 a.m. | Folly Beach, near Tides
Join the costumes, cheers, and ocean plunge—or watch from the beach—for a memorable start to the year.
Other Currently Unscheduled Events
These events have taken place in previous holiday seasons, but their 2026–27 dates have not yet been announced or verified. Follow the organizer links for updates.
Locations are previous venues or gathering places and may change.
Christmas at Boone Hall
Mount Pleasant
A Gullah Christmas Concert
Boone Hall, Mount Pleasant
Boone Hall Christmas Tree Festival
Boone Hall Farms, Mount Pleasant
Charleston Holiday Parade of Boats
Charleston Harbor
Let It Snow and holiday displays
The Charleston Place, Downtown
Holiday Movie Night at The Riviera
227 King Street, Downtown
Holiday Movie Under the Stars
Smythe Park, Daniel Island
Kwanzaa: A Community Celebration
International African American Museum, Downtown
Additional Chanukah celebrations
Previous Daniel Island gathering at Pierce Park Pavilion
Emancipation Day Parade
Downtown
Dunleavy’s Pub Polar Plunge
Sullivan’s Island
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Holiday Festival of Lights—dates pending
James Island County Park
The Boone Hall tree festival may fall before Thanksgiving week. Public access to The Charleston Place’s snowfall experience also needs confirmation.
Make Yourself at Home for the Holidays
Spend the evening at a show, join a parade, or welcome the new year by the coast—then return to a comfortable Charleston home where you can unwind together.
Find your fit with Stay Duvet, including homes for groups and large families and pet-friendly rentals.
For more inspiration, explore Winter in Charleston, Things to Do in Charleston in Winter, and Charleston Winter Events.
Other Related Blogs
Charleston's Best Property Management Company
When planning a vacation with your family, there are certain non-negotiables. You want to stay with a company you can trust, with high-quality homes, the local knowledge to make your trip unforgettable, and all the extras.
In short, you want to stay with the best of the best. And this year, Charleston City Paper awarded Stay Duvet with that honor. We couldn’t be more proud to be recognized as Charleston’s Best Property Management Company for 2024.
This is our first time winning Best Property Management Company, a nod to how hard our team has worked to provide unparalleled service to our guests and owners and serve our local community.
Best of Charleston 2024 – Property Management Company
Each year City Paper, Charleston’s weekly independent newspaper, puts out a special issue to help Charlestonians and our much-loved visitors find the best Charleston has to offer.
They sorted through 80,000 votes to determine the winners in food and beverage, arts and entertainment, attractions and city living, and more. From Best Restaurant and Best Sunset Spot to Best Bathroom and Best Charlestonian who is not Bill Murray or Darius Rucker (seriously), City Paper compiles the best in each category.
A special congratulations to our long-term rental brand, Duvet Homes for earning the runner-up spot for Best Property Management Company (Apartments)!
To celebrate this year’s winners, City Paper took over part of Citadel Mall on Wednesday, May 15 for a rocking 80s party, and we were so happy to be a part of it
Stay Duvet – What Sets Us Apart?
With many property management companies to choose from, we’re honored that City Paper readers voted Stay Duvet the best. We believe it’s a testament to the details that set us apart. Read on to learn how the Stay Duvet Difference earned us this award.
Largest Selection in Downtown Charleston
Finding a vacation rental company you trust can be a tall task. Then, if you discover they don’t have many homes to choose from, you’re back at square one every time you travel. At Stay Duvet, we have the largest vacation home selection in Downtown Charleston. Plus we have inventory in nearby coastal and beach towns so that no matter what type of vacation you’re planning in Charleston, you’ll find the perfect retreat with Stay Duvet.
Curated Guest Guide
Being deeply rooted in the local community is such a benefit to our guests. At Stay Duvet, we use our local knowledge and strong relationships with local businesses to help each and every traveler vacation like a local. Our curated Guest Guide provides recommendations for the best spots in town to help guests make the most of any stay in the Lowcountry.
Concierge Services
We always go the extra mile to take the stress out of vacationing. Our concierge services include options for grocery delivery, party planning, gear rentals, private chefs, luggage delivery, restaurant reservations, and personalized local recommendations. If you have a vision for your vacation, we’ll help make it happen.
Clean Duvet Guarantee
At Stay Duvet, cleanliness and comfort are our priority. That’s why we have The Clean Duvet Guarantee. Each of our homes has the highest quality linens that surpass even the standards of luxury hotels. And we use a meticulous 5-soap cleaning process to ensure that every towel, sheet, and linen is thoroughly cleaned. Nothing to do here but enjoy a clean and comfortable stay.
Hotel Style Amenities
Skip the trips to the store as soon as you arrive and get straight to relaxing and enjoying Charleston. We’ll get your vacation started off on the right foot with hotel-style amenities, including high-quality shampoo, conditioner, body wash, dish and laundry pods, make-up towels, paper towels, toilet paper, and local coffee, ready on arrival.
Fully Stocked Kitchens
What use is a kitchen if it’s not fully stocked? At Stay Duvet, we take it to another level. Each home’s kitchen is equipped with everything you need, from top-quality utensils to pots and pans. We even provide a starter coffee pack with locally sourced beans from Second State Coffee, getting your mornings off to the perfect start.
Property Management Services
We’re recognized as Charleston’s Best Property Management Company in 2024 because of our exceptional standards and attention to detail, for both guests and homeowners. Our dedicated housekeeping and maintenance teams undergo extensive training to make sure each and every home meets our high standards. We also conduct routine checks and regular inspections to make sure guests aren’t impacted by any potential issues. If anything does come up, we offer 24/7 guest services for emergency support.
Resort-Style Experience
At Stay Duvet, we offer more than the typical vacation rental experience – we go above and beyond to combine the freedom and comfort of a vacation home rental with the quality, consistency, and concierge standards of a high-end hotel.
So when you book directly with us you’ll gain access to Paradiso, Duvet’s one-of-a-kind exclusive guest resort.
Best of Charleston
We’re not sure whether it was our large inventory of Charleston vacation rentals, our commitment to cleanliness and comfort, our exclusive guest resort and 24/7 guest services, or something else entirely that earned us the title of Charleston’s Best Property Management Company 2024… but we’re so honored to be recognized.
We hope you’ll join us soon to stay like a local. Check out our Charleston area vacation rentals and start planning your trip
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Vacation Homes for Large Groups
Traveling to Charleston, SC with a large group? Stay Duvet offers large vacation rental homes that can accommodate up to 24 people, providing an authentic, local experience with plenty of room for everyone. Below are properties with 7+ bedrooms under the same roof.
Need more space? Our vacation rental collections feature homes in close proximity to one another in Downtown Charleston and can comfortably sleep groups of up to 84 people. Learn more about our rental collections, or contact our reservations team to determine the best property to fit your needs. We look forward to hosting you!
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Charleston Rentals with Pool
Escape to cobblestone streets, pristine beaches, and world-class dining in Charleston, SC. Stay Duvet vacation rentals are located right in downtown Charleston, SC as well as nearby beach and coastal towns including North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Folly Island, Isle of Palms, Kiawah, and Seabrook Island. Our Charleston vacation rentals with pools are always in high demand. Escape the summer heat, and make your trip to the Lowcountry even more refreshing with the below pool homes, often minutes or steps from beautiful beaches in South Carolina and all the southern charm of the Holy City.
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Riverfront Revival
Use promo code: REVIVALSTAY to snag 5% off your North Charleston vacation rental during Riverfront Revival.
Live Music in Riverfront Park, N. Charleston
Come out for a beautiful music-filled weekend at Riverfront Park. This two-day festival is curated, and often headlined, by Darius Rucker and celebrates unforgettable music, Lowcountry cuisine, and our amazing community! The festival runs for two days across two stages in North Charleston.
Vacation Rentals Near Riverfront Revival
Stay Duvet offers North Charleston vacation rentals within minutes of Riverfront Park. Situated along the banks of the Cooper River, Riverfront Park is easily accessible and conveniently located less than 8miles from Charleston International Airport. North Charleston is a city bustling with culture and entertainment. While you're in town, be sure to enjoy the delicious restaurants around Park Circle, or visit local craft-breweries in the area. Holy City Brewing will be hosting Southern Screams, a haunted house operating Wed-Sun nights in October. History buffs can experience the rich Naval heritage in the area, including the C.S.S. Hunley, one of the world's first operational military submarines.
Where to Stay Around North Charleston?
If you're interested in staying in the area, but willing to venture outside of North Charleston, Stay Duvet also offers homes in historic Downtown Charleston (7 miles away), or the coastal small-town of Mount Pleasant (13 miles). Festival gates open around mid-day, which leaves time for a great brunch in Charleston or a morning stroll on the beach. If you're interested in a low-key beach weekend, check out our vacation homes in Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. These properties will put you within driving distance of the historic charm of downtown as well as Riverfront Park.
Stay Duvet is committed to offering an unparalleled travel experience, and look forward to welcoming you to the Charleston Area!
Search North Charleston Rentals
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Best Parks In And Around Charleston, SC
Harbor breezes, colorful gardens, and room for the kids to play.
Charleston’s parks offer a lovely way to slow down and enjoy the Lowcountry. Whether you’re looking for a waterfront stroll, a picnic spot, or an afternoon of family adventures, these three parks deserve a place on your Charleston getaway itinerary.
Charleston Waterfront Park
A front-row seat to Charleston’s harbor
Take a break from exploring downtown and settle into Charleston’s waterfront scenery. Overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River, Waterfront Park invites you to stroll along the water, watch boats pass, and enjoy a quiet moment on a shaded bench.
The pier’s swings and picnic tables make it easy to linger. Bring your morning coffee, pause between sightseeing stops, or gather the family for a relaxed afternoon by the harbor. Sometimes the best part of a Charleston vacation is simply taking in the view.
James Island County Park
Make a day of playing outside
For families who like a little adventure with their fresh air, James Island County Park offers plenty of ways to spend the day. Follow miles of paved trails beneath moss-draped oaks, let the kids explore the playground, or find a picnic table and unpack lunch together.
Keep the fun going with disc golf, bike rentals, or time on the water with a kayak or pedal boat. During the warmer months, the seasonal splash pad and Splash Zone Waterpark add another reason to bring the family.
Before you go: Check the park’s website for activity hours, rental availability, and admission details.
Hampton Park
Discover Charleston’s quieter side
With beautiful floral displays, mature trees, and inviting walking paths, Hampton Park is a delightful place to discover Charleston’s quieter side. One of the city’s largest parks, it offers space to stretch your legs, admire seasonal blooms, and enjoy an unhurried afternoon outdoors.
Families will appreciate the playground, picnic tables, and restrooms, while walkers and runners can enjoy the fitness trail. Pick up something delicious for a picnic, bring a book, or simply wander and see what’s blooming.
A Little Fresh Air. A Place to Feel at Home.
After a day of harbor views, garden strolls, and playground adventures, come home to a place where everyone can relax. A Stay Duvet vacation rental gives you room to gather, a kitchen for picnic preparations, and comfortable spaces to unwind together.
Planning a getaway with grandparents, cousins, or friends? Explore our homes for groups and large families and choose a home that suits your crew. From a weekend escape to a longer Charleston stay, make room for the moments you’ll remember.
Find Your Charleston Vacation RentalREAD NOW
Charleston Boat Tours: Harbor Cruises, Sunset Sails & More
Harbor breezes. Skyline views. A little time on the water.
Some Charleston memories are best made aboard a boat. Whether you’re interested in local history, dinner with a view, or a sunset sail, these Charleston boat tours offer memorable ways to experience the Lowcountry.
Make an afternoon or evening on the water part of your getaway, then return to a welcoming Stay Duvet vacation rental where everyone can relax and enjoy the rest of your stay.
For sightseeing and Charleston stories
Charleston Harbor Tours
See Charleston from a fresh perspective with a sightseeing cruise through the harbor. Charleston Harbor Tours, part of Charleston Tours & Events, combines waterfront views with stories about the city’s rich history—a lovely introduction for first-time visitors and a relaxing outing for returning guests.
Its narrated harbor tour runs approximately 90 minutes, with views of landmarks such as Fort Sumter, the Battery, the USS Yorktown, and the Ravenel Bridge. Settle in, enjoy the scenery, and let someone else lead the exploring for a while.
Departure area: Daily harbor tours depart from the Charleston Maritime Center at 10 Wharfside Street in downtown Charleston. Confirm the boarding details for your selected cruise.
For dinner with a changing waterfront view
SpiritLine Cruises
Turn dinner into part of the adventure with a cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina. SpiritLine’s dinner cruises pair a multi-course, plated meal with views of Charleston Harbor, creating a memorable setting for a vacation evening or a special celebration.
Take in sights such as Fort Sumter, the Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge as you enjoy your meal and the changing waterfront scenery. Climate-controlled dining decks and live entertainment add to the evening, with the dinner cruise lasting approximately two and a half hours.
Celebrating an anniversary or planning a date night? Ask about reserving a private table for two. Visit SpiritLine’s website for current menus, sailing dates, and reservation details.
Departure area: Dinner cruises depart from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. Families should review child ticket pricing and stroller restrictions before booking.
Catch a Breeze Under Sail
A tall-ship outing from downtown
Schooner Pride
Prefer to explore under sail? Step aboard the three-masted Schooner Pride for a different kind of harbor adventure. Available experiences include daytime dolphin sails and sunset sails, with routes shaped by the wind and tides.
It’s an inviting choice when you’d like the sailing experience itself to be part of the memory. Browse the current calendar to choose an outing that suits your family and vacation pace.
Departure area: Aquarium Wharf at 360 Concord Street in downtown Charleston.
Sunset views from Shem Creek
Palmetto Breeze Sailing
For an outing with a little wind in your hair, step aboard Palmetto Breeze, a Charleston-built sailing catamaran departing from Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. Its open deck and covered seating invite you to settle in and enjoy being out on the water.
Choose a public sunset sailing cruise or explore a private charter for a gathering or celebration. The harbor views make a beautiful backdrop for time together.
Families are welcome, though the public sunset sail has a lively, social atmosphere with music and an onboard bar. Check that your chosen experience suits your group.
Departure area: Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. Follow the dock directions supplied with your reservation.
For a harbor crossing and time to explore ashore
Fort Sumter Tours
Want your boat outing to include a visit to the fort? Fort Sumter Tours combines a trip across Charleston Harbor with time ashore at Fort Sumter, where National Park Service rangers share the site’s history.
The ferry ride makes the journey part of the experience, with waterfront scenery along the way. Book the authorized Fort Sumter tour specifically if going ashore is part of your plans; a sightseeing cruise past the fort is a different experience.
Departure areas: Liberty Square in downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. Choose your departure location when reserving your ferry tickets.
A Little Planning Before You Set Sail
Choose your departure carefully. Downtown Charleston, Patriots Point, and Shem Creek are different boarding areas. Check your confirmation for the exact dock, parking information, and required arrival time.
Find the right fit for your crew. Review age requirements, children’s tickets, and stroller policies. If anyone needs assistance boarding, ask the operator about steps and accessibility before reserving.
Dress for time on the water. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a light layer will help you enjoy the outing. Check any dress requirements when booking a dinner cruise.
Check your sailing date. Cruise options vary by season. Review the operator’s weather and cancellation policies, and reserve ahead for the experience you’re most excited about.
A Day on the Water. A Place to Come Home To.
Keep the vacation feeling going long after you step ashore. With a Stay Duvet vacation rental, you’ll have a comfortable place to swap stories from the day, share a leisurely breakfast, and enjoy Charleston at your own pace.
Traveling with family or friends? Explore our homes for groups and large families and find the bedrooms, kitchen, and gathering spaces that suit your crew. From harbor adventures to quiet evenings together, make your Charleston getaway feel like your own.
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Romantic Restaurants in Charleston: A Table for Two
A table for two. Something delicious. An evening worth lingering over.
Charleston makes it easy to turn dinner into a memorable occasion. From neighborhood restaurants with intimate dining rooms to elegant Southern kitchens and classic steakhouses, there’s a setting for every kind of date night.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a romantic weekend, or simply making time for each other, this selection of Charleston restaurants offers a lovely place to begin.
Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar
82 Society Street · Downtown Charleston
If your idea of a wonderful evening includes good wine and a meal you can take your time enjoying, put Muse on your list. Its menu brings together Mediterranean flavors, pasta, seafood, and dishes made for sharing.
Begin with a cheese board or meze platter, explore the wine list, and let dinner unfold at its own pace. It’s an inviting choice for couples who enjoy discovering a few new flavors together.
Magnolias
185 East Bay Street · Downtown Charleston
For a date night with a distinctly Charleston flavor, reserve a table at Magnolias. Serving upscale Southern cuisine since 1990, this longtime favorite brings a creative touch to familiar Lowcountry ingredients and traditions.
The menu balances comforting classics with contemporary preparations, making it a delicious choice for couples who want their evening to include a taste of the place they’re visiting. Settle in, enjoy the occasion, and leave a little room for dessert.
Halls Chophouse
434 King Street · Downtown Charleston
Some evenings call for a classic steakhouse dinner. Halls Chophouse brings premium cuts of beef, traditional steakhouse sides, and attentive hospitality to its King Street location.
Choose it for an anniversary toast, a birthday dinner, or a night when you feel like dressing up and making a little more of the occasion. If your version of romance includes the energy of a bustling restaurant, Halls belongs on your shortlist.
Chez Nous
6 Payne Court · Downtown Charleston
Small, welcoming, and full of personality, Chez Nous offers a different kind of date-night discovery. This neighborhood restaurant draws inspiration from southern France, northern Italy, and northern Spain.
Its daily changing menu offers just two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts, giving dinner a wonderful sense of anticipation. For couples who enjoy a seasonal meal and the pleasure of trying something new, it’s a charming place to spend an evening.
Circa 1886
The original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion · Downtown Charleston
When dinner is the centerpiece of your getaway, consider Circa 1886. Set within the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion, the restaurant pairs historic character with a refined approach to Lowcountry cuisine.
Seasonal tasting menus and à la carte selections give you more than one way to enjoy the evening. It’s a beautiful choice for a milestone anniversary, a romantic celebration, or a meal you’ll still be talking about after you return home.
Make an Evening of It
Give yourselves a little time on either side of dinner. Take a leisurely stroll through Charleston’s historic streets, stop for a drink, or simply enjoy the pleasure of being somewhere new together. There’s no need to fill every moment.
Reserve ahead for your preferred evening, especially around Valentine’s Day, holidays, and special celebrations. If you’re marking an anniversary or another milestone, mention it when you book.
Let Date Night Become a Charleston Getaway
A memorable dinner is even better when there’s no hurry to head home. Turn your table for two into a few days together with a Stay Duvet vacation rental.
Enjoy slow mornings over coffee, room to relax between outings, and the privacy of a place that feels like your own. Choose a rental with the setting and comforts you love, then spend your stay discovering Charleston together—one delicious evening at a time.
Find Your Charleston GetawayThese restaurants are a selection of Charleston’s many wonderful dining options. Menus, hours, and reservation availability may change; visit each restaurant’s official website for current details.
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Charleston Museums: Art, History & Family Discoveries
Discover the stories behind the city.
Charleston’s charm goes well beyond its beautiful streets. Step inside its museums and you’ll find remarkable art, fascinating Lowcountry history, and hands-on discoveries for the youngest travelers in your group.
Whether you’re filling a rainy afternoon or making culture the centerpiece of your getaway, these museums and historic houses offer memorable ways to get to know Charleston. Choose a few that spark your curiosity and leave time to enjoy the discoveries along the way.
Find Your Next Discovery
Art lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious kids can each find something to enjoy. Start with the experiences that interest your group most.
Lowcountry History & Natural History
The Charleston Museum
Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum is a wonderful starting point for understanding the place you’re visiting. Its collections explore the Lowcountry’s people, landscapes, and changing way of life.
Browse historic objects, textiles, and silver, then discover fossils and wildlife specimens in the natural history galleries. Families can also explore Kidstory, a hands-on exhibit that brings local history to life for younger visitors.
Art & Creative Inspiration
Gibbes Museum of Art
See Charleston through an artist’s eyes at the Gibbes Museum of Art. Its collections connect the city and the American South with a wider world of artistic ideas and expression.
Explore paintings, sculpture, and miniature portraits alongside modern and contemporary works. Changing exhibitions give returning visitors something new to discover, while family programs offer additional ways to enjoy art together.
Hands-On Play & Family Fun
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
For little travelers who learn best by doing, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry makes discovery part of playtime. This downtown destination invites children to imagine, experiment, and solve problems through interactive experiences.
Young visitors can try stepping into the role of a television presenter in the Live 5 News exhibit or explore other creative activities together. Check the museum’s calendar for programs that match your children’s interests during your stay.
African American History & Heritage
International African American Museum
Make time for the International African American Museum, where galleries and immersive storytelling invite visitors to explore African American history, culture, and connections across generations.
The experience also includes the African Ancestors Memorial Garden, a place for reflection. For visitors interested in exploring their own ancestry, the museum’s Center for Family History offers genealogy resources and programs.
Step Inside Charleston’s Historic Houses
Charleston’s house museums offer a closer look at the city’s architecture, craftsmanship, and everyday history. Beyond the furnishings and grand staircases, their tours explore the lives of the families who owned these homes and the enslaved people whose labor sustained them.
Aiken-Rhett House Museum
Preserved largely as found rather than fully restored, the Aiken-Rhett House offers a distinctive perspective on nineteenth-century Charleston. Explore the main house and surviving outbuildings, including the kitchen, laundry, and quarters where enslaved people lived. A self-guided audio tour helps connect the spaces with the people who inhabited them.
Joseph Manigault House
Operated by The Charleston Museum, this 1803 home features a striking central staircase, period furnishings, and a garden setting. Its interpretation explores the wealthy rice-planting family who owned the house and the enslaved African Americans who lived and worked there. It’s a natural companion to a visit to the museum.
Nathaniel Russell House
Known for its remarkable three-story, free-flying staircase, the Nathaniel Russell House showcases carefully restored interiors and intricate decorative details. Tours also share the stories of the enslaved people who maintained the household, offering a fuller understanding of life within this historic property.
Make Room for a Little Discovery
You don’t need to see everything in one day. Choose a museum that interests your group, enjoy lunch nearby, and leave time to wander Charleston’s streets between stops. A single memorable exhibition can be just as rewarding as a full day of sightseeing.
Traveling with young children? Mix gallery time with hands-on play and breaks along the way. For historic house visits, check tour details and accessibility information in advance, as stairs and uneven surfaces are part of some properties.
Visit each attraction’s official website for current exhibitions, tickets, hours, and family programs.
A Day of Discovery. A Stay That Feels Like Home.
After exploring Charleston’s art, history, and stories, return to a comfortable place to share your favorite discoveries. A Stay Duvet vacation rental gives you space to relax together, enjoy an easy meal, and recharge for whatever tomorrow brings.
From a getaway for two to a family vacation, choose a home with the bedrooms, kitchen, and gathering spaces that fit your stay. Enjoy slow mornings before heading out and comfortable evenings when you return.
Find Your Charleston Vacation RentalThis guide highlights a selection of Charleston’s museums and historic houses. Exhibitions, programs, hours, and admission details may change; confirm directly with each attraction before visiting.
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Charleston Souvenir Shopping: Local Shops & Memorable Finds
Bring home a little Charleston.
A handmade basket. A colorful pair of earrings. A candle that brings back memories of your favorite Charleston afternoon. The most meaningful souvenirs are the ones that remind you how a place felt.
Charleston’s markets, independent shops, and artisan galleries offer plenty of ways to find that special something. This selection of local shopping destinations is a starting point for discovering the city’s many talented makers and distinctive boutiques.
Find Something with a Story
Continue beyond the market for locally made gifts, wearable keepsakes, and pieces you’ll enjoy long after your vacation.
The PSC Shop
Locally made gifts & Charleston craftsmanship
The Preservation Society of Charleston’s shop connects visitors with local makers and brands at its King Street storefront. It’s a rewarding stop for a gift with a connection to the city and the people who create here.
Your purchase also supports the Society’s preservation mission, adding another chapter to the story behind your find.
Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery
Fine crafts by South Carolina artisans
For a keepsake made by an artist, visit this member-owned cooperative gallery on East Bay Street. Its exhibiting artisans are South Carolina residents, giving the collection a strong regional connection.
Browse the artists’ work and ask about the materials and techniques behind a piece. A handcrafted find can become a favorite reminder of your Charleston stay.
Charleston Candle Co.
A little Lowcountry atmosphere for home
Bring your Charleston memories home through fragrance. This family-owned business hand-pours its candles in small batches downtown, with scents inspired by the Lowcountry.
Visit the St. Philip Street flagship to find a favorite, or explore its candle-making classes for a souvenir you help create yourself. Check the website for current class availability.
The Tiny Tassel
Colorful jewelry, accessories & Charleston-inspired style
For a souvenir you can wear, explore The Tiny Tassel’s cheerful collection of handmade jewelry, garments, and accessories. Founded by Mimi Striplin, this family-run Charleston business brings plenty of personality to gift shopping.
Look for Charleston-inspired designs, a playful accessory, or a pair of earrings that will remind you of your trip every time you put them on.
House of Sage
Boutique clothing, accessories & gifts
Sometimes the best vacation find is an outfit you can enjoy right away. House of Sage offers boutique clothing, shoes, accessories, and gifts, making it a fun stop for adding something fresh to your vacation wardrobe.
Browse for a dinner-out look, an easy everyday piece, or an accessory that becomes part of your Charleston memories. Visit the website for current shop information and collections.
Choose the Keepsake That Means Something to You
A souvenir doesn’t have to be a major purchase to become a favorite. Set a budget that feels comfortable, browse without rushing, and ask where an item was made if a local connection matters to you.
For fragile artwork or larger pieces, ask the shop about packing and shipping before you buy. Then leave a little room in your day for coffee, lunch, and an unexpected discovery along the way.
Make Yourself at Home in Charleston
The shopping bags are only part of what you’ll bring home. Make time for neighborhood walks, memorable meals, and the pleasure of exploring somewhere new.
With a Stay Duvet vacation rental, you’ll have a comfortable place to return with your finds, relax between outings, and enjoy Charleston at your own pace. Choose a home that suits your getaway and settle into the local rhythm.
Find Your Charleston StayThis guide features a selection of Charleston’s many independent shops, makers, and shopping destinations. Products, store locations, and hours may change; confirm directly before making a special trip.
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Best Charleston-Area Golf Courses for Your Next Getaway
Great golf. Lowcountry scenery. A getaway worth getting the group together for.
Some rounds stay with you long after the final putt: a fairway framed by live oaks, marsh grass moving in the breeze, or a glimpse of the Atlantic beyond the green. Charleston and its surrounding communities offer plenty of reasons to bring your clubs.
From local favorites to celebrated coastal layouts, this guide highlights some of the best Charleston-area golf experiences available to visiting players. Explore by location, find a course that suits your group, and make a little room for Charleston beyond the clubhouse.
Charleston: Local Favorites
Start with two options that bring a neighborhood feel to your Charleston golf plans.
Charleston Municipal Golf Course
James Island · Public municipal course
Known affectionately as “The Muni,” Charleston’s municipal course has welcomed golfers since 1929. Its James Island setting and strong local following make it a rewarding choice for visitors who want to experience a piece of Charleston golf culture.
A renovation inspired by golf’s Golden Age architecture adds interest to the round. Put it on your list for a public-course experience with plenty of character.
Shadowmoss Golf & Country Club
West Ashley · Public tee times available
Shadowmoss offers an inviting option for fitting a round into your Charleston vacation. Its 18-hole, par-71 course is complemented by a driving range and professional instruction.
Whether you’re getting back into the game or gathering friends for a vacation round, you can warm up, work on your swing, and enjoy time on the course.
Mount Pleasant: Signature Designs & Lowcountry Views
Cross the Ravenel Bridge for a selection of courses that makes Mount Pleasant a destination of its own for visiting golfers.
RiverTowne Country Club
Mount Pleasant · Semi-private; open to public play
RiverTowne’s Arnold Palmer Signature design pairs a memorable golf challenge with beautiful marshland scenery. Thirteen holes play along the Wando River and Horlbeck Creek, giving the round a distinctly Lowcountry backdrop.
Tree-lined fairways, water, and well-guarded greens reward thoughtful shots. It’s a strong choice for golfers who enjoy scenery and strategy in equal measure.
Charleston National Golf Club
Mount Pleasant · Public course
Charleston National brings a Rees Jones-designed championship course to your Mount Pleasant golf plans. Open to the public year-round, it’s a worthwhile addition to a trip built around discovering several Charleston-area layouts.
A practice facility and driving range give you time to loosen up before your round, while the clubhouse’s Rees Jones Pub offers a place to continue the conversation afterward.
Dunes West Golf & River Club
Mount Pleasant · Semi-private; public tee times available
Add Dunes West for an Arthur Hills design that embraces its setting along the Wando River and Wagner Creek. The 18-hole course combines a scenic landscape with a round that invites you to think your way from tee to green.
With a driving range, instruction, and clubhouse dining, it offers the ingredients for making an afternoon of your golf outing.
Isle of Palms: Coastal Golf at Wild Dunes
Bring a little island scenery to your golf getaway with two Tom Fazio designs at Wild Dunes.
Wild Dunes Links Course
Isle of Palms · Resort course with public play
One of Tom Fazio’s earliest designs, the Links Course brings rolling fairways and an Atlantic finish to your Charleston-area golf trip. Coastal breezes add another dimension to a round that’s as much about the setting as the score.
Wild Dunes Harbor Course
Isle of Palms · Resort course with public play
For marshes, lagoons, and a round that rewards precision, consider the Harbor Course. This Tom Fazio layout offers a different expression of island golf, with water and changing breezes encouraging thoughtful club selection.
Before you book: Wild Dunes currently makes either the Links Course or the Harbor Course available to resort guests and public players each day. Confirm which course is available for your preferred date.
Hollywood: A Scenic Round at Stono Ferry
The Links at Stono Ferry
Hollywood · Semi-private; public tee times available
Head beyond the city to The Links at Stono Ferry, where centuries-old live oaks and breezes from the Intracoastal Waterway help set the scene for a memorable Lowcountry round.
It’s an appealing choice for friends who want their golf outing to feel like a getaway within the getaway. After the final hole, visit the Stono Grill and enjoy a little time together before heading back.
North Charleston / Summerville Area: Wescott
The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation
Wescott area · Public daily-fee facility
For variety beyond the downtown and coastal courses, consider Wescott’s 27-hole facility. Its three distinct nines—Black Robin, Oak Forest, and Burn Kill—combine to create three different 18-hole layouts.
That flexibility makes Wescott worth considering when you’re putting together several rounds during your stay. Instruction is also available for golfers who want to give their game a little extra attention.
Kiawah & Johns Island: Make It a Golf Day
Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers five courses, including the celebrated Ocean Course and four additional designs with their own personalities. Allow extra travel time from Charleston and make the outing part of the experience.
Osprey Point
Kiawah Island · Tom Fazio design
Natural beauty and playability come together at Osprey Point. Its varied holes and generous fairways make it an appealing addition to a Kiawah golf outing.
Turtle Point
Kiawah Island · Jack Nicklaus design
For golfers who enjoy thoughtful shot-making, Turtle Point offers a Jack Nicklaus layout with a memorable stretch of ocean holes. It’s another reason to return for a second round.
Cougar Point
Kiawah Island · Gary Player design
Cougar Point combines marsh vistas with strategic choices along the way. Its Kiawah River scenery makes it a rewarding option for golfers who appreciate the Lowcountry landscape.
Oak Point
Johns Island · Clyde Johnston design
Located on Johns Island and part of Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s collection, Oak Point adds another option to your golf getaway. Explore its layout when choosing which resort courses best suit your group.
You can play without staying at the resort. Kiawah Island Golf Resort welcomes public golfers. Its current policy allows guests staying elsewhere to reserve tee times up to 60 days in advance, subject to availability. Review Kiawah’s golf booking details.
A Few Details for a Great Golf Getaway
- Reserve your must-play round first. Booking windows vary by course, so check directly before building the rest of your golf plans.
- Choose your home with your courses in mind. Charleston-area golf stretches across several communities. Leave time for traffic, check-in, and a relaxed warm-up.
- Ask what’s included. Confirm cart arrangements, practice access, rental clubs, and any caddie expectations when comparing rounds.
- Leave room for Charleston. A great meal, a neighborhood stroll, and time together back at your rental make the trip memorable beyond the scorecard.
Great Rounds Deserve a Great Place to Return To
Morning coffee before your tee time. A comfortable living room for replaying the best shots of the day. A kitchen for easy breakfasts and separate bedrooms for a good night’s rest.
A Stay Duvet vacation rental gives your golf trip a home base with room to enjoy the time between rounds. Choose a location that suits your plans and a home with the comforts your group values most.
Bringing your regular foursome or gathering a bigger crew? Explore our homes for groups and large families, and make your next Charleston golf getaway something everyone looks forward to.
Find Your Charleston Golf GetawayThis guide highlights a selection of Charleston-area courses available to visiting golfers. Tee times, rates, booking policies, maintenance schedules, and amenities may change. Confirm current details directly with each course.
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