Charleston’s romantic locales make it a popular destination for proposals, but finding a private spot can be tricky with so many visitors. This article highlights lesser-known gardens, quiet beaches, and picturesque side streets to pop the question without an audience of tourists.
Here is a quick preview of the best private proposal locations in Charleston:
- Colonial Lake Park
- Washington Square
- Gateway Walk
- Cannon Park
- Pineapple Fountain
- South of Broad
- Horse Drawn Carriage
- Sailboat Charter
Most Private Places to Propose in Downtown Charleston, SC
Those who are searching for a romantic and private place to propose in Charleston, SC should be sure to consider the following proposal locations.
Colonial Lake Park
This quiet park with scenic views of the Ashley River is west of the Charleston Peninsula. Its walking paths and benches surrounded by gardens and fountains make Colonial Park a private place to propose downtown, with few visitors.
Washington Square
Located in the Harleston Village neighborhood, Washington Square’s live oak trees and benches create private proposal spots amid 19th century homes. This mini park has Charleston charm just blocks from King Street.
Gateway Walk
Connecting Calhoun and Coming Streets downtown, Gateway Walk allows you to propose privately surrounded by flowers and strings of lights. Its intimacy and charm make this a special Charleston spot to pop the question.
Cannon Park
On the Charleston Peninsula near the Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim synagogue, Cannon Park contains green space and benches perfect for a private proposal spot downtown, with few interruptions.
Pineapple Fountain
In South Carolina’s most Instagrammed spot in Waterfront Park, the pineapple fountain and gardens offer intimate, private places to propose along the harbor, surrounded by Charleston charm.
South of Broad
South of Broad contains hidden pockets of old Charleston charm, like small gardens and quiet alleyways perfect for popping the question privately while proposing against a backdrop of antebellum architecture.
Horse Drawn Carriage
Another great idea for a private and romantic proposal in Charleston is a Horse Drawn Carriage. You can easily schedule a private carriage ride through the beautiful historic streets of Charleston. This will provide you with the perfect opportunity to propose.
Sailboat Charter
Those who enjoy the thought of sailing in the Charleston Harbor should consider chartering a sailboat for a proposal in Charleston. A private sailboat charter will provide you with an extremely intimate and romantic sunset proposal with great views of downtown Charleston.
Busy Places to Avoid For a Proposal in Charleston, SC
If privacy is important to you try to avoid the following proposal locations in Charleston unless you make special plans to avoid crowds.
The Battery
The Battery is one of the most popular and busy spots in downtown Charleston. If you are seeking a private proposal spot where you won’t draw attention to yourself, the Battery may not be a good option for your proposal.
If you are set on proposing in The Battery with waterfront views, consider scheduling your proposal in the off season in Charleston or perhaps closer to dusk. The park will be far less busy at these times and offer a more private proposal.
King Street
King Street is the shopping and retail hub in Charleston. Although there are some great views on King Street, it is not a very private place to propose unless you plan to propose after dark. A proposal on King Street in Charleston is bound to attract the attention of hundreds of tourists who are walking up and down the street.
Charleston Rooftops
There are a number of Rooftop bars in Charleston that are popular places to propose. One of the most popular for proposals is The Rooftop at the Vendue. While this is a popular place to propose it will not be unique and you will likely have a lot of eyeballs watching your proposal and cheering you on.
Final Thoughts
Charleston offers picture-perfect backdrops for proposals, but finding privacy amidst the crowds can be challenging. The city’s hidden urban green spaces, gardens, fountains, harborside views, and charming side streets highlighted here provide intimate, special spots to pop the question. From downtown to historic neighborhoods, these tucked-away locations let couples celebrate their special moment privately before emerging to enjoy all that Charleston offers.
