The Holy City may be known for its historic charm and beautiful waterfront, but did you know that some of the coolest rooftop bars in the Southeast are in Charleston, SC!
These spots provide not just stunning views but also an atmosphere that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Here, we’ll explore some of the top rooftop bars and restaurants Charleston has to offer—each presenting a unique vibe and view of this picturesque city.
READ ALSO: 18 Best SC Towns for History Buffs to Visit
Elevated Dining: Top Rooftop Restaurants and Bars in Charleston, SC
These rooftop bars in Charleston, SC, are ideal for enjoying excellent drinks, perfect views, and light menu options like burgers, bar fare, and shareable plates.
Full-service restaurants with rooftop seating are also on this list for those wanting a meal before exploring other bar options.
1. The Rooftop at The Vendue
Bar and Restaurant
Immerse yourself in the charm of The Rooftop at The Vendue, a stylish spot atop The Vendue hotel.
This rooftop destination provides a relaxing escape with craft cocktails and stunning views. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and artisanal drinks prepared by skilled bartenders.
Complement your drink with a variety of flavorful dishes and small bites, all sourced locally to reflect the flavors of the Lowcountry.
Located atop The Vendue hotel, The Rooftop offers panoramic vistas of Charleston’s historic skyline and waterfront.
2. Élevé at The Grand Bohemian
Bar and Restaurant
Step into the upscale world of Élevé, perched atop The Grand Bohemian hotel. This glamorous rooftop bar offers a sophisticated space to indulge in handcrafted cocktails and exquisite cuisine.
The menu features inventive cocktails and seasonal specialties, expertly mixed by skilled bartenders. Gourmet dishes and small plates are carefully paired to enhance your drinking experience.
Élevé provides sweeping views of Charleston’s skyline and harbor, offering a chic backdrop for dining and socializing.
3. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits
Bar and Restaurant
Experience sophisticated rooftop dining at The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits, located atop The Restoration hotel. This stylish bar boasts sleek design and chic ambiance, perfect for enjoying handcrafted cocktails and the city’s views.
The menu offers a blend of classic and contemporary cocktails, crafted by expert mixologists. The culinary journey continues with small plates and gourmet offerings, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
From The Watch, you can soak in panoramic views of Charleston’s historic skyline and picturesque streets.
4. Fiat Lux at Hotel Bennett
Bar with Lite Bites
Fiat Lux stands out among Charleston’s rooftop venues, located atop the luxurious Hotel Bennett. This bar offers a chic, contemporary setting with stunning cityscape views and a delightful menu.
Known for its artisan cocktail menu and extensive wine list, Fiat Lux is a prime spot for indulging in expertly mixed drinks. Enjoy light bites like charcuterie boards, fresh poached pear salads, and various sandwiches and burgers.
Fiat Lux offers breathtaking views of Charleston’s historic skyline and waterfront, enhancing the experience of sipping a cocktail in this elegant setting.
5. Stars Rooftop & Grill Room
Bar and Restaurant
Experience the dynamic blend of urban charm and Southern hospitality at Stars Rooftop and Grill Room. With its welcoming vibe and relaxed ambiance, this rooftop bar is a prime spot for socializing over delicious drinks.
The menu features a creative array of cocktails and vibrant libations, all expertly crafted by skilled bartenders. Complement your drink with mouthwatering grill favorites like burgers and savory skewers, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Located in downtown Charleston, Stars Rooftop offers stunning city skyline views, perfect for a lively evening out.
6. The Citrus Club at The Dewberry
Bar and Lite Bites
Step into the sophisticated world of The Citrus Club, situated atop The Dewberry hotel. This rooftop bar exudes mid-century modern elegance, offering a refined space to enjoy expertly mixed cocktails and lite bites.
The drink menu blends classic techniques with innovative twists, providing a chic backdrop for your rooftop experience. Small plates are carefully crafted to pair with your chosen libations, enhancing the sophisticated vibe.
From its perch, The Citrus Club offers breathtaking views of Charleston’s historic skyline and waterfront, making it an ideal locale for a classy night out.
7. Mill Street Tavern
Restaurant and Bar
Discover the quaint charm of Mill Street Tavern, a cozy rooftop bar nestled in Charleston’s historic district. This hidden gem provides an intimate escape with its warm atmosphere and scenic views.
The menu offers a selection of meticulously crafted cocktails and seasonal drinks prepared by experienced bartenders. Elevate your experience with gourmet pub fare, from hearty burgers to artisanal small plates, all designed to complement the bar’s drink offerings.
Enjoy the beautiful vistas of Charleston’s historic landmarks and streets from this charming rooftop tavern.
8. Uptown Social
Bar and Lite Bites
Enter the lively atmosphere of Uptown Social, a trendy rooftop bar that captures the essence of urban chic. This modern venue is perfect for enjoying innovative cocktails and socializing in a vibrant setting.
The cocktail menu features a mix of classic and contemporary drinks, each designed to offer a unique tasting experience.
Located in Charleston’s bustling uptown district, Uptown Social provides panoramic views of the city skyline and energetic streets, embodying the modern pulse of Charleston.
9. The Charleston Harbor Fish House and Bridge Bar
Restaurant and Bar
Relax in the laid-back elegance of The Charleston Harbor Fish House and Bridge Bar, a waterfront rooftop venue that epitomizes Southern charm.
Enjoy a menu rich with fresh seafood and coastal-inspired dishes, each prepared to highlight the flavors of the Lowcountry. The drink selection includes handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and fine wines, perfect for toasting to the scenic views.
Situated on Charleston Harbor, this spot offers unparalleled views of the waterfront and the iconic Ravenel Bridge, creating a memorable backdrop for dining and drinks.
10. Pavilion Bar
Restaurant and Bar
Perched on the historic Market Pavilion Hotel, this sophisticated rooftop oasis radiates exclusivity and elegance with its refined decor.
Enjoy a superb selection of handcrafted cocktails and premium drinks, meticulously prepared by Pavilion Bar’s expert mixologists. And, elevate your rooftop experience with a tantalizing selection of small plates and gourmet dishes. The menu ranges from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses.
Located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, the bar offers stunning views of Charleston’s skyline and harbor.
11. Henry’s on the Market
Restaurant and Bar
This lively rooftop bar blends Southern hospitality with contemporary flair, creating a welcoming space that both locals and visitors love.
Discover a wide range of cocktails and drinks, and an array of Southern-inspired dishes and tasty bites, perfectly paired with your drink. Each dish is made from fresh, local ingredients, offering a memorable culinary experience.
Situated in the heart of Charleston’s historic market district, Henry’s provides stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant streets.
12. The Rooftop Bar at The Cocktail Club
Bar and Lite Bites
Discover refined elegance at The Rooftop Bar, a sophisticated retreat located atop The Cocktail Club. The bar’s intimate ambiance and upscale charm offer a perfect escape from the busy world below.
Treat yourself to specialty drinks and craft cocktails, each created by expert mixologists. And, complement your drink with a selection of light appetizers and artisanal charcuterie boards. Each dish is crafted to enhance the flavors of your beverages, ensuring a harmonious dining experience.
The Rooftop Bar offers expansive views of Charleston’s historic streets and skyline. Enjoy these views while savoring a cocktail or relaxing in one of the cozy seating areas.
13. 45 Waterside
Bar and Lite Bites
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of 45 Waterside, a chic and trendy waterfront, rooftop bar.
Experience a fusion of flavors with 45 Waterside’s innovative cocktail menu, which includes a mix of classic and signature drinks. Skilled mixologists prepare each drink with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
Positioned along the waterfront, 45 Waterside provides breathtaking views of Charleston’s scenic harbor and bustling cityscape.
14. Aqua Terrace Rooftop Bar at Marriott Charleston
Bar and Restaurant
Experience luxury at Aqua Terrace Rooftop Bar. With its sophisticated décor and scenic views, this spot offers an upscale ambiance perfect for memorable moments.
Enjoy a selection of handcrafted cocktails and gourmet offerings. Carefully selected to enhance the drink flavors, options range from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses.
Located atop the Marriott Charleston, Aqua Terrace provides sweeping views of the historic cityscape and Charleston Harbor.
Best Rooftop Bars in Charleston, SC: Explore These Spots
If you’re looking to skip the restaurant and enjoy a rooftop bar in Charleston, SC, these are the must-visit locations.
15. Pour Taproom
Bar
If you’re searching for rooftop bars in Charleston, SC, with a view, Pour Taproom should definitely make the list!
Experience the vibrant King Street from Charleston’s highest rooftop bar. Pour Taproom features pay-by-the-ounce taps for beer, wine, and cider.
16. Revelry Brewing
Bar
If you prefer rooftop bars in Charleston, SC, with a more relaxed vibe then check out Revelry Brewing!
Revelry Brewing offers a laid-back rooftop vibe at a local brewery. Enjoy craft beers brewed on-site along with a casual dining menu, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
READ ALSO: Historical Sites in Charleston, SC: 25 Top Places to Explore
Charleston, SC, is not merely a historical city—it’s a vibrant culinary hub. The city’s rooftop dining and bar scene cater to all preferences, whether you seek an elegant outing or a casual night with friends. Each rooftop bar provides stunning views and inventive menus, combining Southern hospitality with modern flair.
Next time you’re in the Holy City, elevate your dining experience by exploring these top-tier rooftop bars and restaurants in Charleston, SC.
