Summary
- Belmond Charleston Place
- Wentworth Mansion
- The Dewberry Charleston
- The Vendue
- Market Pavilion Hotel
- Hotel Bennett Charleston
- The Spectator Hotel
- The Restoration Hotel
- French Quarter Inn
- The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
- Harbourview Inn
- Planters Inn
- Francis Marion Hotel
- Andrew Pinckney Inn
- John Rutledge House Inn
As South Carolina’s largest and oldest city, Charleston is a captivating destination that exudes a refined old-South character. Established in 1670, its historic downtown is situated on a peninsula flanked by two rivers and features numerous picturesque old buildings and cobblestone streets.
In addition to its rich history, the city is home to an array of exceptional hotels, many housed in elegant mansions or charming townhouses. While their stunning architecture will leave a lasting impression, the warm Southern hospitality found throughout is equally memorable.
Let us explore the finest hotels in Charleston, SC:
1. Belmond Charleston Place
Situated in the heart of historic Charleston, Belmond Charleston Place is a luxurious five-star hotel, lavishly adorned. The lobby features crystal chandeliers and marble flooring, complemented by a grand staircase, while the guest rooms are equally impressive, showcasing antique furnishings and artwork.
This hotel also offers an exceptional swimming pool and spa, along with award-winning dining options. Guests can enjoy live jazz performances in the hotel’s elegant bar each night.
Location: Centrally located, Belmond Charleston Place is adjacent to the Charleston City Market and within walking distance of major attractions.
2. Wentworth Mansion
Constructed in the late 1800s, Wentworth Mansion features striking architecture. Its luxurious interior complements its stunning exterior. Originally a private residence, this mansion has been transformed into a fabulous five-star hotel, ensuring an exquisite experience for guests.
With abundant Southern charm, the hotel includes a luxury spa, and guests are treated to complimentary beverages in the bar each evening. Elegantly designed, each room offers fine furnishings, grand fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs.
Location: Wentworth Mansion is a 10 to 15-minute walk from many of Charleston’s primary attractions.
3. The Dewberry Charleston
Another outstanding five-star hotel, The Dewberry is ideally positioned overlooking Marion Square and features a spectacular rooftop bar. While its modern façade is less striking than those of other Charleston hotels, the interior is opulent and inviting.
In addition to its refined accommodations, The Dewberry includes a brasserie-style restaurant and cocktail bar, a spa, fitness center, and library for guests to enjoy.
Location: The Dewberry is only minutes from the Charleston Museum, American Theater, and Charleston Farmers Market.
4. The Vendue
Comprising two properties across five historic warehouses in Charleston’s French Quarter, The Vendue is highly artistic, showcasing an abundance of unique artworks and installations across both 19 Vendue and 26 Vendue.
This four-star hotel delightfully invites guests with its meticulously curated accommodations and public spaces. A standout feature is its spacious rooftop cocktail bar.
Location: The Vendue is merely a five-minute stroll from Charleston City Market and even closer to Charleston Waterfront Park, where complimentary bike rentals are available for exploration.
5. Market Pavilion Hotel
Beyond the stunning façade of Market Pavilion, guests are welcomed into a lavishly appointed interior that exudes taste and elegance. Each extravagant room is equipped with modern flat-screen televisions and beautifully designed public spaces.
One notable feature is the rooftop pool and terrace, offering remarkable views of the waterfront from the Pavilion Bar.
Location: A multitude of fine dining establishments, bars, and shops surround the hotel, with both Waterfront Park and Charleston City Market just a five-minute walk away.
6. Hotel Bennett Charleston
One of the tallest structures in Charleston, Hotel Bennett, with its striking white exterior, certainly grabs attention. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its lofty rooftop bar and pool.
Internally, the five-star hotel exemplifies sophistication across its rooms, dining venues, ballrooms, spa, and wellness center.
Location: Conveniently located on Marion Square, Hotel Bennett is just a few minutes away from the Charleston Museum, alongside numerous shops, restaurants, and bars.
7. The Spectator Hotel
While The Spectator may not offer its own dining or fitness facilities, it compensates with exceptional service, style, and warm Southern hospitality.
Equipped with contemporary amenities, its boutique-style rooms provide a delightful experience. The five-star hotel features a speakeasy bar, complimentary cocktails upon arrival, and personalized butler service, making it an exceptional choice.
Location: Centrally located, The Spectator is just minutes from Charleston City Market and Waterfront Park.
8. The Restoration Hotel
Occupying five historic buildings in downtown Charleston, The Restoration Hotel features 16 spacious and exquisitely decorated suites. Each suite highlights charming exposed brick, elegant furnishings, and captivating photography installations.
Furthermore, guests can enjoy the hotel’s spa, restaurant, bar, and a rooftop pool for relaxation and leisure.
Location: Many of Charleston’s notable tourist sites and attractions are within a ten to fifteen-minute walk from the hotel.
9. French Quarter Inn
For a warm and inviting experience, look no further than the French Quarter Inn. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with complimentary champagne, followed by a free gourmet continental breakfast daily, along with wine and port receptions. Evening milk and cookies are also provided.
The outstanding service at French Quarter Inn distinguishes it from others. While it lacks a spa, pool, or gym, its boutique rooms and refined decor ensure a tranquil and unforgettable stay.
Location: Situated adjacent to Charleston City Market, the French Quarter Inn offers convenient access to the town’s attractions.
10. The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
Established in 1853, The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel retains its elegance and grandeur while transcending traditional aesthetics.
In addition to its stylish accommodations, the hotel features a stunning courtyard and a highly rated restaurant, complemented by an outdoor swimming pool.
Location: Abundant bars, restaurants, shops, and historic sites are easily accessible within walking distance from the hotel.
11. Harbourview Inn
Set along the coast, the Harbourview Inn offers picturesque views of Charleston Harbour, with particularly stunning sunsets from its rooftop terrace.
This luxury boutique hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and a stylish Atrium Lobby. While there are no spa or restaurant facilities on-site, Harbourview Inn graciously hosts free wine and cheese receptions for its guests.
Location: A short walk from the waterfront and pier, Harbourview Inn is located just ten minutes from Charleston City Market.
12. Planters Inn
Located in the heart of historic Charleston, Planters Inn is an exquisite four-star hotel characterized by its charm. The staff is exceptionally courteous and welcoming, creating a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.
Rooms are tastefully adorned with four-poster beds, flat-screen TVs, and magnificent marble baths, complemented by well-appointed lounges, lobbies, and a business center.
Location: Planters Inn is situated at the intersection of Market Street and Meeting Street, the very center of the city.
13. Francis Marion Hotel
A long-time favorite among visitors, the four-star Francis Marion hotel features elegant furnishings and exceptional design, reminiscent of its inception in the 1920s. Its exquisite lobby and beautiful ballrooms capture attention and admiration.
Recently refurbished, the elegant rooms are now equipped with modern amenities. In addition to its prime location, the Francis Marion offers an excellent restaurant and regular live jazz performances in the bar.
Location: Positioned on King Street adjacent to Marion Square, the hotel is conveniently located near the Charleston Museum and numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, with the French Quarter just a kilometer away.
14. Andrew Pinckney Inn
Immediately identifiable by its bright yellow exterior, Andrew Pinckney Inn is a delightful four-star boutique hotel radiating old-world charm. The rooms feature tasteful, traditional designs, outfitted with modern conveniences including flat-screen TVs and iHome docking stations.
Although there is no restaurant on-site, guests often highlight the complimentary rooftop breakfasts as a highlight of their experience.
Location: Andrew Pinckney Inn is just a stone’s throw from Charleston’s premier tourist attractions.
15. John Rutledge House Inn
This beautiful establishment, constructed in 1763, showcases exquisite wrought ironwork, elegant wooden floors, and charming porticos. The four-star hotel features rooms adorned with marble fireplaces and period furniture, harmonizing with modern conveniences.
Alongside its stunning decor, the John Rutledge House Inn also offers an expansive and inviting courtyard, as well as a splendid ballroom.
Location: John Rutledge House Inn is conveniently located just a ten-minute walk from Charleston City Market.
