When it comes to planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Charleston is a city that has something to offer for every kind of traveler. From romantic bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels and cozy vacation rentals, the city is home to a wide range of accommodations that cater to different tastes and budgets. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Charleston, SC, and provide you with the insider knowledge you need to make the most of your trip.
Overview of Charleston’s Neighborhoods
Before we dive into the best places to stay in Charleston, it’s essential to understand the city’s different neighborhoods and what they have to offer. From the historic district to the trendy Upper King area, each neighborhood has its unique character and charm. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in Charleston:
Downtown Charleston
The historic district of Downtown Charleston is the heart of the city, with its picturesque streets, antebellum architecture, and world-class restaurants. Staying in this area puts you within walking distance to many of Charleston’s top attractions, including the Battery, Waterfront Park, and the City Market.
Upper King
Upper King is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood that’s home to some of Charleston’s best bars, restaurants, and boutiques. This area is perfect for travelers who want to be close to the action and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Mount Pleasant
Located just across the Cooper River from Downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant is a charming suburb that offers a more laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the city skyline. This area is ideal for families and travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
West Ashley
West Ashley is a historic neighborhood that’s located just west of Downtown Charleston. This area is known for its beautiful parks, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops. Staying in West Ashley provides easy access to the city center while offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the best places to stay in each of these neighborhoods, including top-rated hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Whether you’re looking for luxury, affordability, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
Best Places to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history, charm, and Southern hospitality. With its picturesque architecture, beautiful gardens, and world-class cuisine, it’s no wonder that Charleston is a popular destination for tourists and travelers alike. When planning a trip to Charleston, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many amazing neighborhoods and accommodations to choose from, it can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in Charleston, South Carolina.
Downtown Charleston
Downtown Charleston is the heart of the city, with its historic district featuring stunning architecture, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Staying in downtown Charleston puts you in the midst of all the action, with easy access to popular attractions like the Battery, Waterfront Park, and the Charleston City Market. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In San Sebastian Spain)
Some popular hotels in downtown Charleston include:
- The Vendue, a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.
- The Spectator Hotel, a stylish hotel with elegant rooms and a prime location on State Street.
- The Francis Marion Hotel, a historic hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the Charleston City Market.
Upper King
Upper King is a vibrant neighborhood just north of downtown Charleston, known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the action of downtown but also want to experience the local charm of a neighborhood.
Some popular hotels in Upper King include:
- The Hotel Indigo, a stylish hotel with modern rooms and a rooftop pool.
- The Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District, a comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and a free breakfast buffet.
- The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston Riverview, a budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and a convenient location.
West Ashley
West Ashley is a charming neighborhood just west of downtown Charleston, known for its historic homes, trendy restaurants, and outdoor recreation opportunities. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the local charm of Charleston without the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Some popular hotels in West Ashley include:
- The Holiday Inn Charleston West Ashley, a comfortable hotel with clean rooms and a convenient location.
- The Hampton Inn Charleston/West Ashley, a budget-friendly hotel with modern rooms and a free breakfast buffet.
- The TownePlace Suites by Marriott Charleston West Ashley, an extended-stay hotel with spacious rooms and a convenient location.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is a charming suburb just east of Charleston, known for its historic homes, waterfront parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the charm of Charleston without the high prices of downtown.
Some popular hotels in Mount Pleasant include:
- The Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant, a stylish hotel with modern rooms and a rooftop pool.
- The Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Pleasant, a comfortable hotel with clean rooms and a free breakfast buffet.
- The Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston-Mount Pleasant, an extended-stay hotel with spacious rooms and a convenient location.
Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms is a beautiful barrier island just north of Charleston, known for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and outdoor recreation opportunities. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the relaxation and natural beauty of the Charleston coast.
Some popular hotels in Isle of Palms include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Crete)
- The Wild Dunes Resort, a luxurious resort with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a private beach and golf courses.
- The Isle of Palms Beach Resort, a beachfront hotel with modern rooms and a range of amenities, including a pool and fitness center.
- The Seaside Inn, a budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and a convenient location near the beach.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a charming beach town just south of Charleston, known for its laid-back surfer vibe, beautiful beaches, and outdoor recreation opportunities. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the relaxation and natural beauty of the Charleston coast.
Some popular hotels in Folly Beach include:
- The Tides Folly Beach, a beachfront hotel with modern rooms and a range of amenities, including a pool and fitness center.
- The Folly Beach Hotel, a budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and a convenient location near the beach.
- The Surfside Beach Hotel, a beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a pool and hot tub.
North Charleston
North Charleston is a vibrant city just north of Charleston, known for its arts scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and affordable accommodations. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the charm of Charleston without the high prices of downtown.
Some popular hotels in North Charleston include:
- The Hyatt Place North Charleston, a comfortable hotel with modern rooms and a free breakfast buffet.
- The Aloft Charleston Airport & Convention Center, a stylish hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the airport.
- The Embassy Suites by Hilton North Charleston, an all-suite hotel with spacious rooms and a range of amenities, including a free breakfast buffet.
Neighborhood Guide
When choosing where to stay in Charleston, it’s important to consider the different neighborhoods and what they have to offer. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular neighborhoods in Charleston:
Neighborhood | Description | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Downtown Charleston | Historic district with boutique shops, restaurants, and attractions | Central location, walkable to many attractions | Higher prices, can be noisy and crowded |
Upper King | Trendy neighborhood with bars, restaurants, and boutiques | Vibrant atmosphere, close to downtown | Can be noisy, limited parking |
West Ashley | Charming neighborhood with historic homes, restaurants, and outdoor recreation | Affordable prices, local charm | Further from downtown, limited public transportation |
Mount Pleasant | Charming suburb with historic homes, waterfront parks, and outdoor recreation | Affordable prices, local charm | Further from downtown, limited public transportation |
Isle of Palms | Barrier island with stunning beaches, golf courses, and outdoor recreation | Relaxing atmosphere, beautiful beaches | Further from downtown, limited public transportation |
Folly Beach | Charming beach town with laid-back surfer vibe, beautiful beaches, and outdoor recreation | Relaxing atmosphere, beautiful beaches | Further from downtown, limited public transportation |
North Charleston | Vibrant city with arts scene, outdoor recreation, and affordable accommodations | Affordable prices, local charm | Further from downtown, limited public transportation |
Recap
In conclusion, Charleston, South Carolina, is a city with a rich history, charming neighborhoods, and a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. from luxurious boutique hotels in downtown Charleston to budget-friendly options in North Charleston, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. By considering the different neighborhoods and what they have to offer, you can make an informed decision about where to stay in Charleston and make the most of your trip.
Summary of Key Points
Here’s a summary of the key points to consider when choosing where to stay in Charleston:
- Downtown Charleston: central location, historic district, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants
- Upper King: trendy neighborhood, bars, restaurants, and boutiques
- West Ashley: charming neighborhood, historic homes, and outdoor recreation
- Mount Pleasant: charming suburb, historic homes, waterfront parks, and outdoor recreation
- Isle of Palms: barrier island, stunning beaches, golf courses, and outdoor recreation
- Folly Beach: charming beach town, laid-back surfer vibe, beautiful beaches, and outdoor recreation
- North Charleston: vibrant city, arts scene, outdoor recreation, and affordable accommodations
By considering these neighborhoods and what they have to offer, you can make an informed decision about where to stay in Charleston and make the most of your trip. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Barcelona For Tourists)
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
What is the most popular area to stay in Charleston?
The Historic District is the most popular area to stay in Charleston, as it offers easy access to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and shops. This area is filled with charming boutique hotels, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts that offer a unique and authentic Charleston experience.
Are there any budget-friendly options for accommodations in Charleston?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly options for accommodations in Charleston. Consider staying in the North Charleston area, which offers a range of affordable hotels and motels. You can also look into vacation rentals, such as apartments or houses, which can often be more cost-effective than hotels, especially for longer stays.
What are some popular neighborhoods to stay in outside of the Historic District?
Some popular neighborhoods to stay in outside of the Historic District include Upper King, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants; West Ashley, which offers a more laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the beach; and Mount Pleasant, which is a charming suburb with a small-town feel.
Can I stay on the beach in Charleston?
Yes, there are several beach towns and islands near Charleston where you can stay. Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms are all popular options, offering a range of hotels, vacation rentals, and beach resorts. These areas offer a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the beach, but are still within a short drive of downtown Charleston.
What is the best way to get around Charleston without a car?
Charleston has a well-developed public transportation system, including a free downtown trolley and a bus system that covers much of the city. You can also hail a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Additionally, many hotels and inns offer bike rentals, which is a great way to get around the city and explore its scenic neighborhoods and attractions.