Valentine’s Day is almost here, and whether you have a steady, long-term partner or you just met that special someone, it can be hard to come up with new things to do on that special day. So we came up with a list of some of the most romantic Valentine’s day date ideas in Charleston, Summerville, Johns Island, West Ashley, and Mt. Pleasant.
Keep in mind, some of these locations may be booked on Valentine’s Day, so you should contact them before February 14th to ensure availability.
Nature
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Running Feb. 13-15, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is a stunning celebration of wildlife and nature. The largest event of its kind in the United States, SEWE features exhibits on fine art, conservation education, and sporting demonstrations as well as a wide variety of food and drink. On Valentine’s Day, the South Carolina Waterfowl Association is holding their annual Duck Shuck Oyster Roast at 6 pm. From 7 pm to 11 pm, the Charleston Visitors Center hosts the SEWE Soiree, an outdoor covered party. Both events feature hot oysters and live music.
Location: Roving locations in the Charleston area (see website for details)
Admission: $20 full day, $40 three-day
Website: http://sewe.com
Magnolia Plantations & Gardens
A Charleston landmark, the Magnolia Plantations features one of the most magnificent gardens in South Carolina. Known for their azalea-lined paths and sprawling oak trees, Magnolia Plantations hosts thousands of varieties of flowers, a horticultural maze, waterfowl refuge, and even a swamp garden filled with turtles, otters, gators, and heron.
Location: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414
Admission: $15 Adults, $10 children (6-12), $8 for guided tours
Website: http://www.magnoliaplantation.com
Azalea Park
Named for its copious azalea plants, Azalea Park is a cosy 16-acre park in downtown Summerville. Featuring serene turtle and butterfly ponds, ornamental bridges, lovely sculptures, and a picturesque gazebo, this is a wonderful locale for a casual stroll through town with scrumptious local eateries all around.
Location: Main entrance at East 4th South Street and South Magnolia Street in Summerville, SC
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.sciway.net/sc-photos/dorchester-county/azalea-park.html
Angel Oak Tree
Considered an essential sight for South Carolina visitors, Angel Oak Tree is estimated at over 400 years old, standing 66.5 feet tall and 28 feet in circumference. This awe-inspiring accomplishment of nature is the centerpiece of the gorgeous park. Take your loved one for a long, romantic walk under the massive oak branches with lush curtains of hanging moss.
Location: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island, SC 29455
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.angeloaktree.com/
Live Music
Lowcountry Blues Bash
Playing February 8-21, the Lowcountry Blues Bash features 100 shows and 59 acts at 25 venues. The roving festival features a wide range of blues styles from soulful delta blues to the electric and brass of Chicago blues. On Valentine’s Day, the Lowcounty Blues Bash has some great talent lined up including Colton Blue, Eddie Shaw & the Wolf Gang, Marshall Ballew, Sollie Puddin Jennings, Juke Joint Johnny & Drew Baldwin, The Scissormen, and Sarah Cole & the Hawkes.
Location: Roving locations in the Charleston area (see website for details)
Admission: Free-$10
Website: http://www.bluesbash.com/Bash2012.pdf
High Cotton
Focusing on “high steppin’ lowcountry living,” High Cotton specializes in gourmet local cuisine. Perfect for visitors, this restaurant embodies the spirit of Charleston with elegance. On Valentine’s Day, High Cotton will be featuring the Frank Duvall Jazz Trio from 6-10PM to combine local sounds with local flavors.
Location: 199 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Cost: $$$
Website: http://www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highcotton/charleston/
Montreux Bar and Grill
If you are looking for a more casual locale with great ambiance, try Montreux Bar & Grill. This is a great place to stop off for a drink, and on Valentine’s Day, they are featuring the blues stylings of the Jefferson Coker Band at 10 pm.
Location: 127 West Richardson Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483
Cost: $$
Website: http://montreuxbarandgrill.net/
Spa & Massage
Urban Nirvana
Maybe you and your partner are looking to relax and pamper yourselves on Valentine’s Day. If so, a luxurious couple’s massage may be just what you need. Couple’s massages take place in a private, intimate room with a massage therapist for each of you. This is a great way to start your day together.
Locations: 189 St. Philip Street, Charleston, SC 29403 (Charleston), 141 Wentworth Street, Charleston, SC 29401 (Charleston), 8 Windermere Boulevard, Charleston, SC 29407 (West Ashley), 649 Freshfields Drive Johns Island, SC 29455 (Johns Island)
Cost: $112-$244/couple (30-90 minutes)
Website: http://www.urbannirvana.com/
