How to Plan the Perfect Posh Night Out in Charleston

Caption: Charleston’s rich architectural history makes it the perfect place for a posh evening out in the city

As the largest city in South Carolina, it should come as no surprise that Charleston has endless activities to offer tourists and locals alike. Charleston is frequently ranked as the Best City in the US, particularly because of its cultural heritage. Add to that a sunny climate and a friendly population and you’re left with the recipe for a wonderful evening. Here’s how we think you should spend a posh night out in the city.

Start with a Play

The Dock Street Theatre in the French Quarter is the perfect place to start your evening. This stunning building has gone through many renovations over the years. On the site in 1736 originally sat the Dock Street Theatre, which was the first building in America that was designed exclusively for theatrical performances. Although records aren’t perfect, we can assume that the building fell during the Great Fire of 1740.

The site lay derelict for some time until a grand hotel was built in 1908. Finally, The Dock Street Theatre would be reinstated in 1935. This time the whole city of Charleston was behind its resurrection, and the building has enabled hundreds of thousands to enjoy the theatre ever since.

The theatre is now on the National Register of Historic Places and it’s not hard to see why. The architecture is simply stunning and, since the last repair works, the theatre is as marvelous as ever. Putting on some hundred performances each season, it’s possible to pick up tickets for a very reasonable fee. Not only is it a joy to watch a theatre production, but there also couldn’t be a more beautiful setting to watch one in.

Visit the Big M Casino

A casino can be one of the most exciting ends to an evening, and though there are no land-based venues in Charleston, this gives you a unique opportunity to try something different. You can take an evening cruise on one of the Big M Casino ships, which depart each evening from Myrtle beach.

Be sure to arrive early, as not only will it give you time to read through an online slots guide or an introduction to poker, but it’ll also ensure you don’t miss your departure! You’ll be at an advantage too, having done your homework beforehand.

Once you set foot on board the ship you’ll be surprised at the size of the casino hall and the sheer range of games on offer. Table games like roulette, blackjack, and craps are all available as well as numerous different slot machines. Professional croupiers are stationed at every table and are happy to help beginners get to grips with each game. The atmosphere is fun, relaxed, and convivial and it’s clear that there is a focus on ensuring everybody has a great time.

Treat Yourself to a Sit Down Meal

Caption: Simple Southern dishes, such as pork ribs, are elevated to new and delicious levels at Circa 1886

Charleston has so much choice when it comes to new and exciting restaurants, that sometimes you may want something, well, old! Circa 1886 on 149 Wentworth Street is situated in an beautiful 19th-century building. There are period features galore in this historic gatehouse, so it makes a nice follow up to the Dock Street Theatre. Call up to book and see if they can find you one of their two-person ‘nooks’. Being able to feel tucked away is a great opportunity for people watchers, but also feels much more romantic.

The food here is certainly fine dining but is less challenging than some of the other restaurants around town. Most dishes are based on old Southern favorites, that have been livened up with a modern twist. If you have plenty of time and want to get a feel for the chef’s flair then the five-course tasting menu comes highly recommended.

Dishes such as Shrimp with Rice Grits take a comfort food staple and elevate it with artisan cheese and a smokey ham hock gravy that’s so delicious you could, but probably shouldn’t lick it off the plate. Similarly, the pickled fried flounder is reminiscent of many a Southern grandma’s cooking, but the addition of haute cuisine flourishes turn this into a spectacular dish.

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