12 Where to Stay in Charleston SC Address of Neighborhoods Areas 2022
Charleston, the South Carolina port city founded in 1670, is defined by its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pastel antebellum houses, particularly in the elegant French Quarter and Battery districts. The Battery promenade and Waterfront Park both overlook Charleston Harbor, while Fort Sumter, a federal stronghold where the first shots of the Civil War rang out, lies across the water.
- Elevation: 19.69′
- Area: 156.6 mi²
- Weather: 46°F (8°C), Wind S at 1 mph (2 km/h), 74% Humidity weather.com
- Population: 135,257 (2019)
- Local time: Saturday 1:23 AM
- Area code: Area code 843
- Mayor: John Tecklenburg
Index
Charleston, the largest and oldest in South Carolina, is a beautiful port city located on the west bank of the Ashley River. Founded in 1670 and formerly known as Charles Town, the metropolitan city is characterized by its rich history, culture, and beautifully preserved architecture.
Nicknamed the “Holy City,” Charleston’s downtown skyline today is governed by the staples of the church and the magical Arthur Ravenel cable-stayed bridge. Awarded the title of “Best City in the World” by Travel + Leisure in 2016, the port city has some of the friendliest people in the country.
Let us now explore some of the city’s fascinating areas so you can plan where to stay in Charleston, SC, during your visit.
downtown charleston
downtown charleston
When most people talk about Charleston’s historic charm and cultural richness, they mean the downtown neighborhood, also known as the Peninsula. Characterized by the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, this area is just a few feet above sea level. Attracting visitors from around the country and the world, downtown Charleston is home to Waterfront Park, an eight-acre park located along the banks of the Cooper River and founded in 1990. Rainbow Row, one of the streets in the neighborhood, is known for its quaint series of thirteen vibrant and historic Georgian townhouses that are the most extended group of its kind in the United States of America.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Patriots Point, Old Slave Mart, Boone Hall, South Carolina Aquarium, and Charleston Museum.
Hotel recommendations:
- French Quarter Inn – A couple of minutes’ walk from the Charleston City Market, the French Quarter Inn offers vintage-inspired rooms with king-size beds, safes, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and private bathrooms with toiletries. Free toilet. Additional facilities include a 24-hour reception, private yoga classes, massages (on request), and free bike rental. A complimentary gourmet continental breakfast is served daily—ideal for all travelers.
- Hyatt Place Charleston – Historic District – Just steps from Marion Square, this luxurious hotel features an indoor pool, a fine-dining restaurant, a fully-equipped fitness center, and various well-appointed rooms with top-of-the-line amenities such as a minibar, TV flat screen with satellite channels and dining area. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to 5 members.
- Francis Marion Hotel – Neighboring the famous Kings Street shopping street, the Francis Marion Hotel is a historic property featuring fully furnished rooms with the latest amenities, a state-of-the-art fitness center, an on-site restaurant with classic Southern delicacies. Guests can enjoy cocktails and live jazz music at the hotel bar. Perfect for all types of travelers.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant, the largest city in South Carolina, is a large suburb located in the eastern section of Charleston Harbor. Once known as “North Point,” the neighborhood was famous as the fastest growing district, literally doubling its population between 1990 and 2000. Connected to the central city via the Arthur Ravenel Bridge, Mount Pleasant’s oldest neighborhood is the “Old Village,” which is also home to the oldest house in the district, built-in 1755. Patriots Point, a famous naval and maritime museum, is home to several retired warships, including the World War II-era USS Yorktown aircraft carrier. Mount Pleasant Towne Center and Belle Hall Shopping Center are home to several retail stores and boutiques, should you feel like shopping.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Cold War Submarine Monument, Fort Sumter, City Market, South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Harbor, and Fort Moultrie.
Hotel recommendations:
- Best Western Patriots Point – Just a short drive from the South Carolina Aquarium and downtown Charleston, this lavish hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool, a 24-hour front desk, and a superb business center. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, ironing facilities, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries—ideal for all types of travelers.
- Wyndham Garden Charleston Mount Pleasant – Featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, shared lounge, and restaurant, this luxury hotel offers luxurious rooms with amenities like a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. And ensuite bathroom. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston / Mt. Pleasant-Isle Of Palms: Located in the heart of Mount Pleasant, this elegant hotel offers comfortable rooms with comfortable double beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TV with cable channels, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Perfect for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to 5 members.
West Ashley
Formally known as West of the Ashley, this neighborhood is among six distinct areas of Charleston proper. Named literally in the context of the Ashley River (and the fact that the landmass is west of the river), the neighborhood boasts a scenic waterfront area with beautiful views, marshes, and mossy oak trees. Middleton Place, the oldest landscaped garden in America, is one of the most essential attractions in the area. Charles Towne Landing, a 1,500-acre site on the banks of the Ashley River, is home to Charleston’s only zoo.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Ashley Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Ashley Landing, Citadel Mall, and Old St Andrews Parish Church (the oldest church in the city dating back to 1706).
Hotel recommendations:
- Town & Country Inn and Suites – The Town & Country Inn Suites is located in the beautiful West Ashley neighborhood and features fully appointed, luxurious rooms and 24-hour front desk service. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool in the morning and enjoy delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant. Travelers with vehicles can use the free parking—ideal for all travelers.
- Best Western Charleston Inn – This elegant, newly renovated hotel features all the high-end amenities guests can expect from a luxury property, including Charleston’s most extensive pool deck. Bessinger’s, located next to the hotel, is a great barbecue. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites Charleston Riverview – Just a short drive from Hampton Park, La Quinta Inn & Suites Charleston Riverview offers comfortable rooms with amenities like comfortable double beds, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, a refrigerator, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. A free breakfast is served daily. Perfect for all types of travelers.
North Charleston
North Charleston, the third-largest city in South Carolina, is a neighborhood in the Charleston-North Charleston-Summerville district located on the coastal plain near the Atlantic. One of only three locations in the world credited with manufacturing and assembling long-range wide-body commercial aircraft, North Charleston has something for everyone, including shopaholics, music enthusiasts, and music fans. Beer. Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark and Frankie’s Fun Park are two must-sees if you’re traveling with kids. North Charleston Coliseum, a state-of-the-art venue, hosts the area’s most significant and most frequent events.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, Charleston Harbor, Audubon Swamp Garden, North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, and Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site.
Hotel recommendations:
- DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston – Convention Center – A few hundred yards from the Tanger Outlet Mall, this beautifully decorated hotel features well-appointed guest rooms with flat-screen TVs with cable and video games, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi Free and security. Safe and private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Hotel facilities include a 24-hour fitness center, restaurant, revitalizing pool, and hot tub. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Embassy Suites North Charleston Airport Hotel Convention – Featuring an indoor pool, a full-service fitness center with cardio equipment, a business center, and an excellent on-site restaurant serving steak and seafood, this luxurious hotel offers fully-appointed suites with all the facilities modern. Such as air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, and a seating area. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Perfect for all types of travelers.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charleston North / Ashley Phosphate – A pleasant 15-minute drive from historic Middleton Place and Frankie’s Fun Park, this opulent hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the latest amenities such as king-size beds, air conditioning, – TV screen with cable, microwave, and private bathroom. A complimentary breakfast, including eggs, waffles, meat, fruit, and pastries, is served each morning. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
french quarter
french quarter
The Cooper River and Market Street border the French Quarter, a sub-neighborhood of downtown. Located within the original “walled” city, the neighborhood came from the high concentration of French merchants who once inhabited the area. The French Quarter is home to many important historic buildings, including the Oak Slave (1859) and the Pink House Tavern (1712). It is also known for its excellent art galleries and the many dining and drinking options along the amazing Charleston Waterfront Park.
Suitable for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: French Huguenots, St. Philip’s Episcopal Churches, Waterfront Park, Old Slave Mart Museum, Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, Gibbes Museum of Art, and St Michael’s Church.
Hotel recommendations:
- The Vendue – This artsy hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter includes two different properties, each dating back to 1780 and featuring rotating art exhibits and related tours. Five minutes from Waterfront Park, The Vendue features beautifully designed rooms and other amenities like a rooftop cocktail bar where guests can enjoy a cocktail and a beautiful view. The hotel’s restaurant specializes in fresh, locally sourced American delicacies. A daily art reception with canapés and wine is also organized. Great for luxury travelers.
- Market Pavilion Hotel – A gentle walk from the beach, the Market Pavilion Hotel is a 4-star property with a rooftop pool, multiple dining options, free property-wide Wi-Fi, and an extensive wine list. Rooms are equippe with king-size beds, in-room safes, executive lounge access (in select rooms), and private bathrooms. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Harbourview Inn – Overlooking Waterfront Park and Charleston’s famous harbor, this opulent boutique hotel offers elegant rooms with state-of-the-art amenities, including a four-poster bed, cable TV, iPod dock, safe, and heating. Guests can enjoy the complimentary afternoon wine and cheese reception on the rooftop skyline tour. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.
Is there anything fun to do in Charleston ?17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Charleston, SC
- Middleton Place Plantation. …
- Waterfront Park. …
- Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. …
- Watch Basket Weavers at the Old City Market. …
- Take a Boat to Fort Sumter National Monument. …
- USS Yorktown and Patriots Point. …
- Stroll through the Battery and White Point Gardens.
What is there to do in Charleston SC in 3 days? The Perfect 3 Day Charleston Itinerary
- Start your 3 days in Charleston by snapping photos at the Battery.
- Stroll over to colorful Rainbow Row.
- Head over to the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon.
- Dive into Lowcountry cuisine on an epic food tour.
- Walk off the food with a stroll through Waterfront Park.
How do I spend a day in Charleston SC? But one day is a great way to get started, explore Charleston’s historic center, and dive into its history and charm.
- Begin the day with breakfast at Toast.
- Take a stroll through Charleston’s French Quarter.
- Learn about the history of slavery at Old Slave Mart.
- Head to the Pineapple Fountain.
What is Charleston SC most known for?
What is Charleston Most Famous For?
- Charleston Harbor.
- Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist.
- The Charleston Museum.
- Explore museums near Charleston Harbor.
- Bargain hunt at a range of local shopping venues.
- South Carolina Aquarium.
- Frankie’s Fun Park.
- Dock Street Theater.
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