Where to stay in Charleston

Introduction to the Holy City

Charleston was founded in 1670. Named for Charles II of England, the city is often called "Chucktown". You will also hear it referred to as "The Holy City," a nickname resulting from its history of religious tolerance and an abundance of cathedrals, temples, and churches.

The French Quarter

If you want the most walkable experience on the peninsula, stay in the French Quarter. This area is characterized by cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You will be within walking distance of Waterfront Park and the City Market. Be aware that this is the most touristy and expensive part of the city.

South of Broad

For a quieter experience, choose South of Broad, which is a mostly residential waterfront area. You can walk to White Point Gardens to see giant live oak trees, Civil War cannons, and a gazebo with views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor. This neighborhood also includes the colorful Georgian row houses of Rainbow Row on East Bay Street. If you are interested in architecture, you can visit the Heyward-Washington House (built 1772), the Nathaniel Russel House (built 1808), and the Edmonston-Alston House (1825). St. Michael's Episcopal Church is another key site in this area.

Upper King and Marion Square

Upper King and Marion Square are defined by high energy and a prominent food scene. If you prefer a residential feel but want to remain close to the action, the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood is located five minutes from King Street.

Mount Pleasant and the Beaches

Mount Pleasant offers a practical alternative if you want better rates and easier parking than what is available downtown. This area also provides faster access to the beach. To travel between downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant, you use the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

Hotel selection by budget

Your choice of hotel depends on your nightly budget tier:

• Budget / Economy: Under $120 per night.
• MidRange / Upscale Casual: $120 to $250 per night.
• Upscale: $250 to $500 per night.
• Luxury: Over $500 per night.

For first-time visitors, the French Quarter Inn is a practical choice as it sits steps from the City Market and Waterfront Park. Those planning a romantic getaway can use The Spectator, which includes personal butlers and a speakeasy-style bar. For girls' weekends, Hotel Bennett offers a rooftop pool and a pink champagne bar at Camellias. Families or groups may prefer the apartment-style suites and full kitchens at The Restoration.

If you are traveling on a budget, consider the Meeting Street Inn. For a splurge, The Charleston Place occupies an entire block between King and Meeting Street. Food enthusiasts should look at Zero George for its on-site cooking classes, while those seeking a waterfront resort can use the marina and rooftop infinity pool at The Cooper. Design lovers may prefer Hotel Emeline.

Other specialized options include Two Meeting Street Inn, where you can have breakfast on the veranda among antique furniture. You might also consider 20 South Battery, a restored 1843 mansion that contains either 11 rooms or 20 luxury rooms and suites.

Sources

[S1] https://charleston.com/, https://charleston.com/ [S2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charleston,_South_Carolina, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charleston,_South_Carolina [S3] https://nobaggagerequired.com/where-to-stay-in-charleston-sc-the-best-hotels-downtown/, https://nobaggagerequired.com/where-to-stay-in-charleston-sc-the-best-hotels-downtown/ [S4] https://charlestons.com/, https://charlestons.com/ [S5] https://viatravelers.com/where-to-stay-in-charleston/, https://viatravelers.com/where-to-stay-in-charleston/