The Five Best Rooftop Bars in Historic Charleston
*Disclaimer: 21+ content
It's no secret that Holy City sunsets and Charleston waterfronts are some of the most spectacular views around. But where can you relax with a cocktail or a gourmet meal while taking in these phenomenons? Don’t fret, The Edge has you covered. We’re giving you the inside scoop on Charleston’s best rooftop bars to help you enjoy the warmer months from a lofty height.
Élevé
Whimsical bar on the rooftop of the Grand Bohemian Hotel
Élevé has an Alice in Wonderland look to it. The art-deco rooftop bar is the perfect place to go to experience an ambiance you can’t find anywhere else. The European-inspired menu is upscale without being terribly pricey. It's a great spot for happy hour with friends or coworkers. Between the Hot Tub Time Machine and the Bohemian Sunset, you won’t be disappointed with your options.
The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
Craft cocktails, locally sourced ingredients, and gorgeous views
Enjoy a bespoke cocktail and taste the soul of the region in an incredible plate of lump crab cakes, all while taking in a breathtaking panorama of Charleston’s architectural history. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits not only has some of the best bar snacks; grilled oysters, hushpuppies, and sliders, but has amazing handcrafted cocktails that will have you calling an uber home.
The Pavilion Bar
A stylish rooftop overlooking the charming market and Charleston harbor
Want to feel like the cast of Southern Charm? The rooftop bar at the Market Street Pavilion hotel offers stunning views of both the Charleston harbor and Market Street. The Pavilion Bar maintains a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere for its guests and has an extensive champagne menu and wine list. Put on your snazziest outfit and retreat to Charleston's only rooftop cascading pool rooftop bar. Boy, that’s a mouthful!
Stars
American-style restaurant open for dinner, brunch, and late-night
Don’t miss the ever-popular Stars rooftop! The only rooftop bar in Charleston with 360° views of the historic district, Stars is the perfect place to mingle and take in the beautiful sights of the Holy City! Decked out with luscious planters filled with fresh herbs, Stars allows the freedom and space for either an intimate setting or the opportunity to roam around. Their drink menu includes wine, signature cocktails and a Bellini that is awfully hard to beat.
Pour Taproom
A pay-by-the-ounce draught beer, wine, and cocktail bar overlooking King Street
To round out our list we have Pour Taproom, a bar and restaurant atop the Hyatt House/Hyatt Place which offers panoramic views of Downtown Charleston. If you’re looking to try local craft beers, wines, cocktails, or ciders, this place is for you! With over 70 drinks on tap, the Pour Taproom allows you to pay for drinks by the ounce, rather than by the glass. No need to commit to a full pint of any drink; you can take small sips of different beverages to create your very own private tasting session every time you visit.
Cheers!
Tag us @theedgemag if you stop by any of these Charleston hotspots!