How to plan a Romantic Getaway to Charleston
Plan the perfect Lovers Getaway to America's most romantic destination; Charleston, South Carolina, where history, beauty and southern charm all set the mood.
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Things You'll Need
- Walking shoes
- An appetite
- A camera
- Nice clothes for dinner
- Allergy medicine if traveling during spring bloom
Instructions
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Romantic Lodging
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You have two great options on lodging and both are fail-proof. Charleston Place is a fairly large luxury hotel located in the heart of the historic district. The ground floor is sumptuous and includes a mood-enhancing lounge, upscale shopping and South Carolina's only four-diamond restaurant, Charleston Grill. The well-appointed rooms are lovely, and quiet. Stay on the Club Level if your budget allows, and enjoy extra culinary goodies throughout the day, a private happy hour, and private concierge service. Walking tours depart from the lobby. Valet parking is available.
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A slightly more remote but oh-so-romantic option is the Wentworth Mansion, consistently ranked as one of the greatest inns in America. The architectural beauty of the Wentworth is stunning, to put it mildly, and many of the rooms are suites, some with glassed-in porches and sitting rooms. The bathrooms are simply to die for, and most every room has a fireplace. If you visit during cold weather, you simply must choose the Wentworth for the romance factor of a bedside fire! Ceilings are about 15 feet high and the ornate woodwork throughout the property will amaze anyone who appreciates quality and design. The Wentworth has its own lovely restaurant, Circa 1886, in an adjoining carriage house, and also offers a daily wine tasting for guests. Innkeeper Vickie Owens is a delight.
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Dining in Charleston
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Call ahead to book a table at Charleston Grill. If you like jazz, request a table near the band (or just go later for drinks and enjoy this great live music!). Chef Bob Wagoner's menu is sublime and every plate is a visual treat as well. Trust your server on wine pairings and by all means, enjoy dessert! Men don't have to have jackets, but certainly won't be sorry they're wearing one.
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Plan to spend an evening at Hank's Seafood. Despite its low-brow name, Hank's is one of the city's four-star gems, when it comes to food. Chef Frank left his Irish roots far behind when he moved to America's deep south, but not his quick wits or creativity. Do not miss the Ceviche at Hank's! And if there is a daily fish drizzled with vinaigrette, know that the chef blends his own vinaigrettes, utilizing up to 12 different vinegars and oils at once. He is a genius. Hank's is more casual than some of the city's other four-stars, so a collared shirt will work for the men. Order "The Tower" and be amazed by the multi-tiered raw bar spectacular that shows up at your table.
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Have dinner at Peninsula Grill. This is where the powerful meet and eat in Charleston. Velvet walls and a few luxurious booths set the tone for four-star service. It's dressy, romantic, beautiful, and the food is off the hook. Trust your server to recommend something if you can't decide, and then be prepared to be amazed. Don't leave without having the signature coconut cake for dessert.
What to See & Do
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Charleston is all about history. Start your trip with a walking tour. The one that departs from Charleston Place hotel is the best in town, being led by a 40-year resident and history buff who is writing a book about the city's cemeteries. Her tales will fascinate you. This tour lasts about 2 hours and really gives you a lot of great information, as well as a peek at places you'll want to go back to.
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Take a horse-drawn carriage ride. You'll hear more tales but you can just snuggle in the back and enjoy the views.
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Visit at least one plantation, such as Drayton Hall. You can spend a half day roaming the beautiful grounds.
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Give yourself time to simply wander through historic Charleston on foot. Cobblestone streets and walkways wind past architectural treasures and under moss-draped oaks. The cemeteries are particularly lovely and tell quite a tale on their own. The city is loaded with them, one for each religion. Walk down to the battery for a look at the bay, and be sure to visit the city park and pier off East Bay street. Let the city reveal her beauty to you with a leisurely stroll.
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Tips & Warnings
Charleston is in full bloom in April. If you love flowers, drive to nearby Summerville during this time, which is known for its camellias and azaleas.
Do not attempt to navigate Charleston sidewalks in high heels. They are the most uneven sidewalks in the USA, and the city likes it that way. History is underfoot. Wear comfortable shoes and watch where you're walking. It's easy to be distracted by the beautiful views and trip on the sidewalk.
