Charleston hosts hundreds of concerts every year, from sold out massive arena shows to one-man-band no-names at the local coffee shop. There are also dozens of venues and ever-changing schedules, meaning there’s a lot to figure out when it comes to live music in the Lowcountry. That’s why we wrote this comprehensive guide, highlighting our favorite venues, best upcoming shows and how to get to them. Because whether you’re a local or a traveler, charleston concert transportation can be difficult to figure out and is best left to the professionals, like us!
Best Charleston Concert Venues
North Charleston Coliseum
The largest venue in the Lowcountry, the Coliseum is a 13,000 seat multi-purpose facility that hosts the biggest national concert tours when they come through. While it is far from intimate, this is the place to go if you want to see any A-list headliners when they’re stopping in South Carolina. It also houses the South Carolina Stingrays hockey team.
Charleston Music Hall
Built out of a 19th-century Gothic Revival building, the acoustics of this place make it a must-see for any musician traveling to Charleston. They host a variety of concerts, comedy shows, film screenings with live orchestras and more. Its central location on King Street also makes it an easy stop if you are staying downtown.
The Refinery
Charleston’s newest outdoor amphitheater is part of a recently constructed downtown complex that includes office spaces, retail, a brewery and an upcoming restaurant and distillery. While they still have yet to release their upcoming schedule, their opening show was a resounding hit back in August and we are excited to see who they book next. In the meantime, it’s a great place for a couple beers.
The Wonderer
The Wonderer is a members-only wellness club a majority of the time, but more and more often they are starting to have live concerts out by their massive pool. These concerts are open to the public and have been a highlight of the summer. Tickets range from basic GA to poolside cabanas with bottle service. Also, did we mention the pool? It’s definitely the x-factor when it comes to partying at this venue!
Best Upcoming Charleston Concerts
Lady A
Set to be one of the area’s biggest concerts of 2023, Lady A will be performing at the Charleston Gaillard Center on June 24th. Previously known as Lady Antebellum, they have been one of the biggest names in American Country for the last 15 years. Lady A’s national draw has hotels and transportation already getting booked up, so you might want to start moving if you plan on seeing them!
Two Friends
Another premier concert of Summer 2023, Two Friends at Firefly Distillery will be one of the biggest EDM shows in the area. They played at the Wonderer last Fourth of July and it was truly a show to remember. Now they’re coming back on June 29th to play at one of Charleston’s oldest working distilleries. While Charleston doesn’t have the biggest EDM scene, people are sure to come out for this one!
Mt. Joy
Best known for their single, “Silver Lining,” the notable Indie rock band, Mt. Joy will be playing at the Riviera Theater on November 26th, 2022. This is guaranteed to be a great time during Thanksgiving weekend. The Riviera Theater has a great location on King Street in downtown Charleston and seats approximately 600 guests on a full night.
Big and Rich
One of the biggest American country duo’s of the early 21st century, Big and Rich are always determined to put on a show. This concert, on November 5th, at the Credit One Stadium will be no different. Most famous for their single, “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy,” Big and Rich have a unique combination of country and rap, that gets the people going.
Charleston Concert Transportation
Now that you know the best venues and upcoming events in the Charleston area, you have to decide how you’re going to get to them! First, let’s make it clear that some venues are easier destinations than others, especially if you are already staying in downtown Charleston. If that’s the case, such downtown venues as the Riviera Theater, Charleston Music Hall and the Gaillard Center are all a relatively easy walk. However, if you are going to any of the arena concerts or staying in one of Charleston’s many beach towns, securing transportation is key for a fun, safe night. Here are some of your best transportation options!
Charleston Party Bus
If you’re going to a concert with a group larger than 7, you’ll want to seriously consider booking a party bus for your transportation to and from the venue.
They are equipped with surround sound music, LED lighting and allow drinking while on the vehicle, making it almost as fun as the concert itself!
Here at Double Black, we have custom Charleston concert transportation packages that can accomodate all of your specific needs.
Charleston Limo
While not as big or as luxurious as party buses, limos can still be a good option for groups of 8 or less. Technically some of them can seat up to 11 but that’s awfully tight and you’ll spend the ride on top of each other. Still better than a taxi though!
Taxi/Uber
Taxis and ubers are always an option here in Charleston. However, they are not the most dependable option, especially on big concert nights. As demand increases so does wait time, and cancellations. However, if you’re in a small group and determined to Uber, we recommend reserving the Uber through the app days before the event.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this insider’s guide to Charleston concerts. Now that you are informed, it’s time to look at your calendar and see what concerts and venues you can make it to this upcoming year. Once that’s decided, make sure to contact Double Black for all of your party bus and Charleston concert transportation needs!