Whether you’re a Hopeless Romantic at heart or looking for somewhere a little more creative to take your sweetheart now that you’ve tied the knot and are starting a new life together, take a look at Charleston. With plenty of sweet options for romantic outings, lovely places to stroll hand in hand, and gorgeous old oak trees to shelter you while you sneak a kiss, you’ll fall in love with this southern city as you fall more in love with each other. Cheesy? Maybe. But here’s why we think so:
The slow-paced, historical Antebellum feel will capture your imagination
This is the stuff of movies. Shady oak-lined walkways, cobblestone streets, and historical architecture will have you walking and talking more slowly in no time. Take a historical tour of the city to get the full inside story on the characters whose names still adorn the streets and bridges, and visit landmarks like Battery Park for a view of historic Fort Sumter and take a stroll along the Pitt Street Bridge (which isn’t a bridge anymore) at sunset to wrap up your tour. Or for a more relaxed trip around town, hire a horse and carriage to ferry you through the cobblestone streets.
The romantic dining experiences are top-notch
If a glass of red and a slow, flavorful meal is more your date style, Charleston has a wealth of options. Circa 1886 was voted one of the nation’s top fine dining restaurants by TripAdvisor and offers healthy approaches to classic southern dishes. Food is sourced locally and served in a friendly, family-like atmosphere, but definitely, has a price tag to reflect the quality. If you’re looking for something creative, upscale, but a slightly different take on southern food, visit McCrady’s – a creation of James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock in the historic French Quarter. Because you know that good food is one of the important things to consider when you’re moving to a new city.
You can take a day on the Schooner Pride
Escape the hubbub of the city for a tour around the harbor to take in the sunshine and sights powered only by the wind on an 84’ Tall Ship. The ship also sets sail for moonlight cruises if the weather allows, so you can soak in the cool breezes of the evening from the open water. If you’re visiting in the heat of the summer, which can be quite something in Charleston, the winds in the sails can be a welcome relief.
Learn to be your own upscale chef
Ever wondered how those amazing reduction glazes are made? You can learn at the Zero George Cooking School, where the Executive Chef will show you step-by-step how to create a three-course, high-class meal. Though this isn’t a hands-on experience, you’ll have opportunities to ask questions and see how the real professionals do it… then try to replicate it at home. Good luck.
The romance of nature is abundant
Whether you’re interested in the more curated experience of the Cypress Gardens or the slightly more wild paths of Caw Caw County Park, there are plenty of beautiful paths for strolling hand-in-hand with your sweetheart. If you choose the Cypress Gardens, take a boat ride under the tupelo and cypress trees of the black swamp to see the scenery that has inspired television and movie romances alike. Maybe that’s why Charleston has become known as one of the country’s most romantic cities?
After all the walking, head to the Spa
The Belmond Charleston Place is the place to indulge and relax. With beautiful facilities, dedication to traditional spa services, and three (three!) options for a couples massage, you can relax and enjoy your time together. The Spa is located at the very top of the building, affording you views of King Street as well as a hot tub and open-air pool. You’ll want to take your time here.
The Angel Oak will capture your heart
A half-hour outside the city on John’s Island, this massive, winding, mossy tree has been the deserving subject of countless photos, paintings, and endless hours of musing. It’s nothing short of majestic, and worth the trip — plus, you can stay on the island to sample some different restaurants. Sources say you should bring your bug spray, but the tree will offer you plenty of shade!
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