The 7 Best Rooftop Bars in Charleston, South Carolina (2024 Updated)
Charleston, South Carolina is consistently ranked as one of the top travel destinations in the United States. This historic southern city is known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and coastal charm. Charleston offers a variety of attractions and experiences to visitors, from historic house tours and carriage rides to beach vacations and world-class dining. In recent years, Charleston has also seen a rise in the popularity of locally owned rooftop bars. These bars offer guests amazing views, signature cocktails, and a fun atmosphere under the stars.
Harborview Restaurant & Lounge
Address: 301 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407, United States
The Harborview Restaurant & Lounge sits atop the round Embassy Suites Hotel building, accessible by a panoramic glass elevator to the 15th floor. The relaxed ambiance and 360-degree views of the Charleston peninsula make Harborview a premier rooftop bar. Bartenders are extremely friendly and efficient in preparing creative cocktails. Without a doubt, Harborview offers some of the best daytime views in the city. Guests rave about the exceptional customer service and spectacular views that create an unforgettable experience. The signature cocktail is the Harborview Sunset, made with Tito’s vodka, coconut rum, peach schnapps, pineapple, orange and cranberry juices.
Uptown Social
Address: 587 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Arguably the most popular rooftop bar in Charleston, Uptown Social stuns with the longest wooden bar in the city, superb lighting, and gorgeous tin ceilings. The crowd-pleasing atmosphere combines live music, DJs, and dancing. Local artist Jessie Helmrich painted the eye-catching butterfly mural that graces the outdoor patio. Reasons for Uptown’s immense popularity include the energetic atmosphere, vigilant bouncers, historic building, chic décor, quality entertainment, competent management, beautiful mural, and reasonable prices. Signature cocktails like the Strawberry Fields Forever, Bodega Bloody Mary, and Espresso Martini keep patrons coming back. Uptown Social stands out as the best all-around rooftop bar in Charleston.
Henry’s
Address: 54 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Henry’s holds the distinction of being the oldest continuous restaurant operating in South Carolina. The historic building dates back to the early 1800s and encompasses a charming southern porch and rooftop deck bar. Customers tout Henry’s as one of the best places to catch a sunset over the city skyline while sipping inventive cocktails and listening to live music. Recommended libations include the Margarita on the Market, Henry’s Old Fashioned with Bourbon, and Sweet Tea Cosmo. Henry’s is known for its expertise with brown spirits and relaxed, casual atmosphere.
Revelry
Address: 10 Conroy St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Revelry Brewing opened in Charleston in 2017 and quickly gained a reputation for serving some of the best local beer in the city. Located downtown, Revelry’s indoor taproom features artwork from local artists. An outdoor stairway lined with greenery leads guests to the spacious rooftop bar. Revelry is the quintessential place to enjoy good company, award-winning brews, and views of historic Charleston. The lively atmosphere focuses on communal tables, dancing, and late-night festivities.
Stars Rooftop & Grill Room
Address: 495 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Stars Rooftop sits inside a beautifully restored historic Arts and Crafts building circa 1907. Elegant fine dining can be found inside Stars Grill Room, while the Rooftop Bar offers stunning 360-degree views of Charleston. Handcrafted cocktails and locally sourced Lowcountry cuisine complement the sophisticated ambiance. Manager Jessica Jacobs is considered one of the best event coordinators in the city for organizing corporate events, weddings, and private parties. Patrons especially enjoy tap wine and Stars’ frozen cocktails on the breezy rooftop lined with greenery.
The Cocktail Club
Address: 479 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
The Cocktail Club features a distinctive atmosphere with a deconstructed look utilizing salvaged wood, brick walls, and leather chairs. Heading upstairs reveals a retro-style speakeasy vibe on the rooftop bar. Patrons can expect a wide range of expertly made classic and cleverly named cocktails. The laid-back crowd makes this rooftop bar the perfect spot for casual relaxation or an energetic night out on weekends.
The Rooftop at The Vendue
Address: 19 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Those looking for something a little more avant-garde will appreciate the rooftop at The Vendue hotel in downtown Charleston. The unexpected ambiance includes unique art installations and unorthodox décor. However, what really draws the crowds is the quality of drinks and on-theme cocktails like Caught in the Rain and Strawberry Basil Lemonade. Perched atop the Vendue’s hip art hotel, the edgy rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Charleston harbor and the historic French Quarter.
Charleston boasts an ever-expanding and vibrant rooftop bar scene that appeals to both tourists and locals. The rooftop bars highlighted in this article offer a variety of atmospheres and experiences. From chic and sophisticated to laid-back and edgy, there is a rooftop bar to suit every taste and occasion in Charleston. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Holy City’s rooftops and enjoy some of the best views Charleston has to offer along with creative cocktails and good company.