From rooftop cocktails to dance floor anthems—your guide to Charleston after dark
Charleston nightlife centers around Upper King Street, creating a walkable bar district perfect for bachelorette party bar crawls. From sophisticated rooftop lounges with harbor views to high-energy dance clubs, Charleston offers diverse evening experiences matching every celebration style.
This comprehensive nightlife guide covers Charleston's best bars, clubs, and entertainment venues for bachelorette parties, including recommended bar crawl routes, dress codes, cover charges, and insider tips for maximizing your night out in the Holy City.
Charleston's rooftop bar scene provides stunning harbor and city views, sophisticated atmospheres , and elegant settings perfect for starting your bachelorette evening or enjoying sunset cocktails before hitting dance clubs.
23 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
Arguably Charleston's best rooftop bar, The Rooftop at The Vendue features panoramic Charleston Harbor views, craft cocktails, live music most evenings, and upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. The space includes both covered and open-air seating with stunning sunset vistas over the water.
495 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Located atop the historic Post & Courier building on Upper King, Stars offers city skyline views, extensive cocktail menu, shareable plates, and energetic weekend atmosphere. The venue features both indoor and outdoor seating with fire pits creating cozy gathering spots.
75 Wentworth Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Atop The Restoration Hotel, The Watch provides Charleston Harbor glimpses, contemporary coastal cuisine, craft cocktails, and sophisticated ambiance. The space features modern design with comfortable lounge seating and a refined yet accessible atmosphere.
225 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
This rooftop pool bar offers city views, tropical cocktails, poolside seating, and casual elegance. While technically a hotel bar, non-guests can access the rooftop, making it popular for groups wanting pool ambiance without beach travel.
Upper King Street forms Charleston's primary bar district, with dozens of venues within a compact, walkable area. These bars range from craft cocktail lounges to casual beer bars, creating diverse options for bar crawl routes.
475 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Multi-level venue featuring rooftop bar, indoor lounge, outdoor patio, and vibrant weekend atmosphere. Republic combines upscale cocktails with energetic crowds, DJs spinning on busy nights, and central Upper King location making it a bachelorette party staple.
135 Alexander Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Upscale lounge and nightclub hybrid featuring VIP bottle service, DJ-driven music, dance floor, and sophisticated crowd. Mynt attracts dressed-up groups wanting upscale nightlife experience with club energy but more refined atmosphere than typical dance clubs.
547 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Authentic speakeasy-style bar serving craft cocktails in intimate, dimly-lit space with vintage decor. Prohibition focuses on quality cocktails, knowledgeable bartenders, and sophisticated atmosphere attracting cocktail enthusiasts and groups wanting elegant drinking experiences.
479 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Modern craft cocktail bar featuring creative drinks, neon-lit interior design, shareable punch bowls, and Instagram-worthy aesthetic. The Cocktail Club combines serious mixology with playful presentation and social media-friendly atmosphere.
474 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Upscale wine and small plates bar featuring extensive wine selection, craft cocktails, elevated bar food, and sophisticated but welcoming atmosphere. Rarebit attracts professional crowds and groups wanting quality over quantity in their drinking experience.
153 E Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Casual oyster bar and late-night hangout serving raw bar selections, casual food, and drinks in energetic atmosphere. Pearlz stays open later than many restaurants, making it popular for post-club food and late-night socializing.
Charleston's dance club scene may be smaller than major cities, but several venues provide dedicated dance floors, DJs, and high-energy atmospheres perfect for bachelorette groups wanting to dance the night away.
139 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Charleston's premier multi-level nightclub featuring three distinct rooms with different music styles, multiple dance floors, full bars on each level, and capacity for large crowds. Trio offers the closest experience to big-city nightclubs in Charleston.