Are you ready to elevate your happy hour? Look no further than our curated list of the best rooftop bars in Charleston, SC. From mimosas at brunch to late-night fun, we know the best spots to add to your itinerary for any group.
Ready to plan the rest of your trip? Use our Charleston “Insider’s Guide” to unlock the vacation of your dreams in Charleston, South Carolina!
The Best Rooftop Brunch – The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
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The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits is the perfect place to start your day before shopping and sightseeing. With its central location right off King St., you’ll be ready to jump into action after a delectable brunch. The Watch sits atop the Restoration Hotel and boasts a “breathtaking panorama of Charleston’s architectural history, from its iconic 350–year–old church steeples to the Greek Revival-period buildings that inspired Edgar Allan Poe.” Thirsty? Their brunch carafes serve four to six people and can be filled with Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, or Margaritas. From “Vanilla Bean Brioche French Toast” to a “Fried Chicken Biscuit,” The Watch serves up a tasty Southern brunch for sweet and savory palates alike.
The Best Rooftop Brews – Pour Taproom
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For a unique rooftop experience, try Pour Taproom! Beer, wine, and cider fans will rejoice in sampling from over 70 rotating taps while taking in the scenic Charleston horizon. To utilize the self-serve tap system, patrons hook their credit or debit card up to a QR code. Looking to sample the selections? The taps are pay-by-the-ounce, so you can sip away without paying for a full glass. Once you’ve settled on a beer that you like (or two!), order up some bar bites and unwind with live music. This rooftop bar is great for a large group with varying tastes or a fun date night for two!
The Best Rooftop Bar Nightlife – Uptown Social
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Are you the life of the party? So is Uptown Social. This trendy, youthful bar offers nightly live music, late–night hours, and refreshing cocktails. Located on King Street in the Historic District, this #instagrammable bar is, without a doubt, THE place to have a good time. We recommend trying one of their Brooklyn pizza pies (like the famous “Wake N Bacon” or the “Falco Classic”) and pairing it with an order of the “Truffle Fries.” Ready to get the party started? Try a “Gone with The Gin,” an “Uptown Old Fashion,” or create–your–own pitcher to share!
The Best Luxury Rooftop Bar – Fiat Lux at Hotel Bennett
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For those who indulge in a bougie lifestyle or simply enjoy the art of the cocktail, Fiat Lux is a must-visit on your trip to Charleston. Overlooking Marion Square and located inside the stunning Hotel Bennett, Fiat Lux serves elegant glamour and delicious drinks. This indoor/outdoor bar concept is perfect for panoramic views of the city, with cover for questionable weather days. Fiat Lux boasts an expansive spirit selection and specialty seasonal cocktails. With ingredients like Boba Pearls, House-Made Wasabi Infusion, Strawberry Jam, and more, you’re likely to experience a flavor explosion unique to any other cocktail expedition.
BONUS: While you’re here, stop by Charleston’s premier Champagne Lounge, Camellias, located on the first floor. This breathtaking lounge was named the “Most Instragrammable Restaurant in South Carolina” by Food Network Magazine. Be sure to ask your server about a Champagne Flight!
The Best Rooftop View – Citrus Club at the Dewberry
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Cocktail aficionados will appreciate the craft and presentation of the cocktails at Citrus Club. Located on the 8th floor of the Dewberry Hotel, this James Beard Award–Nominated bar offers citrus–inspired drinks and the highest rooftop in Charleston. Adjacent to Wragg Square and Marian Square, its sweeping views encompass the lush landscapes of the gardens below. With a rum-forward drink menu, it‘s safe to say the libations have an elevated Tiki vibe. Be sure to order one of their signature daiquiris for the complete experience!
Now that you’ve made your plans, it’s time to book your accommodations. Luxury Simplified Retreats offers a portfolio of Charleston’s most exclusive vacation rental homes, condos, and villas. You receive upscale amenities, personal services, attention to detail, hand-selected vacation experiences, and premier locations when you book with us.
Charleston is known for dishing up incredible cuisine and has come to be known as quite the foodie town, but it’s also a popular destination for those in pursuit of the perfect libation. After sunny days spent exploring the streets of the Holy City and experiencing the iconic sites that are the foundation of this historic, coastal city, it’s only natural you’ll want to stop in at a local spot to enjoy some of the city’s most innovative cocktails. With a beverage scene that includes a wealth of breweries, spirit distilleries, flavorful frosés, and even alcohol infused ice creams, be sure to include these in your itinerary to indulge in the best cocktail bars in Charleston. There are many to choose from, but we have a few recommendations to ensure you enjoy every sip along the way.
The fun doesn’t have to stop there! Request access to our complimentary Charleston Insider’s Guide to find even more recommendations for everything food, fun, sips, and more. It has everything you need to navigate the city like a local.
Here Are the Best Cocktail Bars in Charleston That You Have to Experience
Proof
Take a stroll down charming King Street to find Proof nestled into the city’s trendiest restaurant and bar district. With an expansive cocktail menu, along with wines and beer, you can sip and enjoy in an atmosphere that feels like Charleston’s ode to a 1930’s speakeasy. You’ll also find a short menu of appetizers to satisfy any cravings before dinner. If you visit in the evening, you can enjoy each glass by candlelight.
Gin Joint
With a cozy, intimate bar tucked along a quiet stretch of East Bay Street, at the Gin Joint you’ll find nothing but innovative cocktails here with intriguing concoctions and creative garnishes. Order the “Your Killing Me Smalls” for a roasted marshmallow atop the glass, or the “Hollaback Girl” for a hibiscus flower decorating the creamy drink.
Cocktail Club
Cocktail Club is yet another King Street location serving up show-stopping cocktails with a side of romantic ambiance. The outdoor patio offers couches and benches to lounge around while enjoying every sip of your order.
Husk Bar
Husk is an infamous restaurant around Charleston for its spectacular food, which has even been featured on a Netflix Original series. So of course, it comes as no surprise that they also over–deliver when it comes to drinks. You’ll find unique cocktails made by a friendly, professional staff and a twist on every presentation.
Bar Mash
You don’t have to venture very far away from the heart of the downtown historic district to experience another wonderful cocktail lounge, Bar Mash, located on East Bay Street. As part of the restored Cigar Factory, with its rustic, industrial vibe and laid-back atmosphere it’s a quiet spot to relax and enjoy a cocktail with friends. You can often find live music here!
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Are you ready to start planning your getaway to Charleston, SC? There is so much to see and do in Charleston, it’s hard to know where to begin. But, with the help of our professional concierge team, they will be there every step of the way to help you handcraft a unique getaway just for you. Plus, when you book your stay with Luxury Simplified Retreats, you’ll find access to exclusive amenities in our top rated Charleston vacation rentals. Take it from us! Start planning your trip today by booking your stay.