5 Unusual Date Ideas to Try in Charleston, South Carolina

Raised in California, Bob Waggoner first entered the culinary scene when he began working at a top restaurant in Los Angeles. That gig led to an opportunity in France, where he worked in a two-Michelin star establishment. Eventually, he found his way to the Lowcountry and worked as the executive chef of Charleston Grill, a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant inside Charleston Place hotel.

In recent years, he’s stepped back from his restaurant role to open his own kitchen. Sign up for a cooking class at In the Kitchen with Bob Waggoner and learn how to make an incredible meal from this talented chef while laughing, sharing stories and hearing more about his experiences. If you’re looking for a unique date night in Charleston, this class is sure to make it a night you won’t forget.

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A WWII aircraft carrier anchored at Patriot’s Point in Mount Pleasant, this maritime museum houses dozens of wartime aircrafts inside. Explore the ship to learn how the soldiers lived aboard this massive vessel and get an up-close look at planes used throughout the years. While taking advantage of this unique date idea, don’t forget to check out the on-site submarine and the full-fledged outdoor Vietnam Experience.

The first establishment of its kind in Charleston, Pounce Cat Cafe is a truly unique experience. The cafe/adoption center is teamed up with the Charleston Animal Society, a local no-kill shelter, to help find homes for the state’s many stray and abandoned cats.

When you purchase a ticket to the cafe, you’ll get an entire hour to cuddle these adorable and very friendly felines, as well one alcoholic drink or bottomless coffee or tea. After you’ve achieved your goal of snuggling all 20-something kitties, make your way to the back bar for another drink and a few snacks. For a memorable date night in Charleston, Pounce Cat Cafe is one of the most unique places you can take that special someone.

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When visiting Charleston, you can partake in the many popular water sports almost all year round. Kayaking is the perfect date idea, though you can also try your hand at paddleboarding. Take your significant other out through the Lowcountry marshlands for a peaceful day on the water. Spot wildlife and search for unique sites like the washed-up pirate ship near Bowen’s Island.

Two of the most popular areas to embark on a kayak trip are Shem Creek and Bowen’s Island near Folly Beach. Shem Creek is a beautiful area in Mount Pleasant with a handful of popular restaurants and bars located right on the water. Here, you’ll often see pods of dolphins pop up from the water. If you want to paddle around somewhere more private, head to Bowen’s Island right before Folly Beach on James Island. After you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the waterways, head next door to Bowen’s Island Restaurant. This no-frills fish shack may not look like much from the outside, but they serve some of the best seafood in the county.

There’s no better way to spend a date night in Charleston than with the thrilling experience of climbing this ropes park. Suspended up to 35 feet in the air, you’ll have to navigate over 72 obstacles to complete this exciting course offered in four varying difficulty levels. Work together with your special someone to complete this challenging and unusual adventure!

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Free and cheap date ideas are plentiful throughout this beautiful city as well.