No visit to Charleston, South Carolina, is complete without at least one trip to a rooftop. This historic city offers rooftop experiences to match every mood, from tranquil garden retreats to lively social settings.
Below are four hotel rooftops that combine striking views with excellent food and drinks.
Citrus Club at The Dewberry
Located among Charleston’s taller rooftops, Citrus Club delivers sweeping city views in a lively, stylish atmosphere. The menu emphasizes citrus-forward cocktails and fresh small plates, perfect for a breezy evening. Standout cocktails include Tennis, Anyone?—a refreshing mix of makrut lime vodka, salted honeydew, cucumber, aloe, lemon-lime cordial and tonic—and Tina Louise, a sparkling blend of tropical flavors, orange-marigold cordial, lemon and prosecco.
© The Ansonborough Hotel
Rooftop Garden at The Ansonborough
Tucked in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, the Rooftop Garden is a secluded oasis with clear views of steeples and the Ravenel Bridge. Open to hotel guests throughout the week and to the public on Friday and Saturday evenings, the space offers live music, inventive cocktails and a calm atmosphere ideal for relaxing above the bustle below.
Rosemary Rose © Matthew Williams
Rosemary Rose at The Nickel Hotel
Charleston’s newest rooftop channels the feel of the French Riviera with design touches like a stone fountain, scallop-edged umbrellas and a soothing palette of sage greens and warm clays. Situated on King Street, Rosemary Rose serves shareable dishes such as tuna carpaccio and stuffed zucchini blossoms, alongside craft cocktails that balance floral and fruity notes—try Waterloo Sunset (Lillet Rosé, peach, lemon and sparkling wine) or La Promenade (bourbon, elderflower, mint, grenadine and lemon).
© The Restoration
The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits at The Restoration Hotel
Known for a standout happy hour, The Watch functions as both restaurant and rooftop bar with a strong emphasis on Lowcountry flavors. The menu features items like crab cake sliders, seared scallops and daily fresh catches, paired with inventive cocktails such as Honey I’m Home (Tanqueray 10, Giffard vanilla, honey, lemon and black walnut bitters) and Amber & Ashes (Astral Reposado, Morello cherry, smoked chili flake honey and Grand Marnier). For something different, opt for the spritz flight, which showcases Aperol, Hugo, pomegranate and cinnamon pear variations.
Each of these rooftops offers a distinctive Charleston experience—whether you’re after panoramic cityscapes, a hidden garden, Riviera-inspired elegance or Lowcountry cuisine. Pack a light jacket for breezy evenings and arrive early on weekends to secure the best seats with the views.