Things to Do at Night in Charleston, South Carolina

As the sun begins to set on another day in Charleston, clamber aboard a boat for a sunset cruise. Leaving from the harbour, this package takes you practically into a golden sunset, cruising past recognisable sites and under the impressive Cooper River bridge. Total relaxation is interrupted only by bottlenose dolphins vying for your attention. You are also permitted to take your own alcohol on board if you so wish.

For the best in unscripted and spontaneous hilarity where the audience becomes part of the show, drop in at Theatre 99. Walking distance from Old Historic City Market, this 130-seat theatre represents the great American improvisation comedy tradition, with comedians taking cues from the audience to drop quick-witted bombs on you. The best destination for someone who wants to leave happy.

When it gets dark and the ghouls begin to find their power is when Charleston comes into its own. As one of the most haunted cities in America, it sees many tours of graveyards and the usual troubled spots, but on this two-and-a-half-hour walking tour downtown you also get to take in some pubs. Imbibe the spirits if you wish, they have been known to make you more sensitive to the horrifying tales you will hear.

“Good vibes only” is the request at this late-night venue that feels like it has been transported from another era. Its reputation is forged through the live bands that you will find cranking out grooves night after night. Its tiny but always-bustling dancefloor is the perfect place to get loose and feel that funk. Whatever feelings you are carrying through the door, grab a drink and dance them out.

If you haven’t already visited the Old Historic City Market by day, drop in one evening on a weekend. As well as the local vendors selling their various arts and crafts, by night there is a different buzz in the air. As well as the chance to sample all kinds of regional delicacies, artists from the area play live music to let you know that you really are in South Carolina.

PURE Theatre in the hip Cannonborough district is a passionate risk-taking company that believes in the need to tell stories that it feels must be heard. The company’s desire is to ignite a dialogue within its diverse community and to not be afraid to delve into Charleston’s rich and sometimes difficult history. To dig deep into the human spirit is what theatre is and PURE Theatre delivers dynamically in a very intimate setting. An absolute must for anyone seeking the stunning, the hilarious or the profound.

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