
LGBT+ Friendly Destinations in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
1. Pink House Charleston
A historic pink-colored inn that offers LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations and events.
- LGBTQ+ Owned: Owned and operated by a lesbian couple.
- Community Engagement: Regularly hosts LGBTQ+ events and supports local LGBTQ+ organizations.
- Historic Attraction: Located in the heart of Charleston's historic district.
2. Queen Street Grocer
A gay-owned market and cafe that offers fresh produce, prepared foods, and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Local Produce: Sells locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other products.
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for the local LGBTQ+ community.
- Cafe and Deli: Offers sandwiches, salads, coffee, and other delicious treats.
3. Vendue Inn
A boutique hotel offering LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations in the heart of downtown Charleston.
- Luxury Amenities: Features modern rooms, rooftop pool, and a fitness center.
- Art Gallery: Showcases local artists' work in its on-site gallery.
- Central Location: Located near popular attractions, restaurants, and shops.
4. The Gin Joint
A speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.
- Craft Cocktails: Serves unique, handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients.
- Intimate Atmosphere: Offers a cozy, intimate environment for socializing and drinking.
- Local Favorite: Consistently ranked as one of Charleston's best bars.
5. Charleston Rainbow Project
A non-profit organization providing support and resources to the local LGBTQ+ community.
- Support Services: Offers counseling, advocacy, and other essential services.
- Community Outreach: Provides education and outreach programs to schools and organizations.
- Fundraising Events: Hosts fundraising events to support the organization's mission.
6. One Hot mama's Kitchen
A Southern-inspired restaurant that offers delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
- Southern Cuisine: Serves traditional Southern dishes with a modern twist.
- Community Support: Supports local LGBTQ+ organizations and events.
- Brunch Favorites: Offers popular brunch items like biscuits, gravy, and shrimp and grits.
7. Cof Fezziwig's Trading Co.
A gift shop offering unique items, including LGBTQ+ pride merchandise and Charleston souvenirs.
- LGBTQ+ Pride Merch: Sells a variety of LGBTQ+ pride-themed items.
- Charleston Souvenirs: Offers local Charleston-themed souvenirs, such as magnets, t-shirts, and keychains.
- Friendly Staff: Known for its friendly, helpful staff that caters to all customers.
8. Ground Zero Kitchen and Bar
A popular gay-owned bar and restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and live music events.
- Lively Atmosphere: Offers a lively, energetic environment for socializing.
- Live Music: Features live music performances and dance parties.
- Delicious Food: Serves Southern-inspired dishes, sandwiches, and bar snacks.
9. The Battery
A historic waterfront promenade offering stunning views of Charleston's harbor and beautiful homes.
- Historic Landmark: One of the city's most iconic and historic attractions.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Charleston's harbor, Fort Sumter, and historic homes.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing beautiful photographs of the city's architecture and landscape.
10. King Street
A bustling shopping district featuring unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Unique Boutiques: Features one-of-a-kind shops offering clothing, accessories, and home goods.
- Art Galleries: Home to numerous art galleries showcasing local artists' work.
- Restaurant Row: Offers a wide variety of dining options, including Southern, seafood, and international cuisines.
11. Angel Oak Tree
A massive live oak tree located on John's Island that is over 400 years old.
- Natural Wonder: A stunning example of the area's natural beauty and resilience.
- Historic Significance: Has historical significance as a gathering place for enslaved Africans during the Civil War.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides beautiful photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
12. The Dock Street Theatre
A historic theater that presents a variety of plays, including LGBTQ+ focused productions.
- Historic Landmark: One of the oldest active theaters in the United States.
- Diverse Productions: Presents a wide range of plays, including LGBTQ+ focused productions.
- Local Talent: Features local actors and directors in its performances.
13. Charleston's Rainbow Crosswalks
Colorful crosswalks in downtown Charleston symbolizing the city's support for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Symbol of Inclusion: Serves as a visible symbol of the city's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers unique photograph opportunities for tourists.
- Community Pride: Demonstrates the local LGBTQ+ community's pride and unity.
14. Charleston Pride Festival
An annual event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with parades, concerts, and vendor booths.
- Community Celebration: A celebration of Charleston's vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community.
- Entertainment and Activities: Offers live music, dancing, and a variety of activities for attendees.
- Support for Local LGBTQ+ Organizations: Raises funds and awareness for local LGBTQ+ organizations.
15. The Husk Restaurant
A fine dining restaurant known for its innovative Southern cuisine in a historic home.
- Southern Cuisine: Serves modern interpretations of traditional Southern dishes.
- Historic Atmosphere: Located in a beautifully restored historic home.
- Farm-to-Table Approach: Uses locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.