South Carolina

SC has 2 of the best attractions for a first date in the US, new ranking shows. Check them out

Accompanying South Carolina’s rich history, many Lowcountry cities have several methods for experiencing the past in immersive ways suitable for each individual. Of these, carriage rides offer a unique way to explore local attractions and cobblestone pathways.

In Charleston, this attraction is exceptionally popular and famed nationwide.

Charleston Carriage Rides
Charleston Carriage Rides Sara Kendall

A recent poll by DatingNews.com of 3,000 singles established the top first date options in the country, and from the selected 150 activities, the results showed that a Charleston carriage ride and historic stroll was the most unique ‘first date’ experience nationwide.

These carriage tours are led by knowledgeable guides and offer a charming way for visitors to tour and learn about the historic city in memorable way while soaking up the area’s architecture and storied past.

Horse carriage guided tours are one of many favorite tourist attractions in Charleston.
Horse carriage guided tours are one of many favorite tourist attractions in Charleston. Bob Downing Acron Beacon Journal

The leisurely rides often weave through both modern and cobbled streets throughout the Holy City where guests may learn about the destination’s role in American history.

A file photo of a horse-drawn carriage in Charleston.
A file photo of a horse-drawn carriage in Charleston. Rich Glickstein online@thestate.com

After being voted as the nation’s overall pick for a first-date experience by poll respondents, the dating service’s website shared that couples can experience the elegance of a horse-drawn carriage ride through Charleston’s cobblestone streets while admiring its architecture and rich history, following it up with a romantic walk through landscaped gardens and charming alleys.

Meanwhile, Charleston’s carriage rides and historic tours weren’t the only Lowcountry attractions to make the list.

Ranking fourth overall, Hilton Head Island’s dolphin tours were also recognized.

“Couples can share the excitement of spotting these majestic creatures, as they can capture stunning ocean panoramas together,” survey results detailed.

This story was originally published February 13, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "SC has 2 of the best attractions for a first date in the US, new ranking shows. Check them out."

Sarah Claire McDonald
The Island Packet
Sarah Claire McDonald worked as a Service Journalism Reporter for The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette. She specialized in writing audience-focused, unique, spotlight stories about people, places and occurrences in the Lowcountry. Originally from the Midwest, Sarah Claire studied news media, communications and English at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, where she graduated in 2021.
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