Many things make this city famous, but its charm is its hospitable populace, its cuisine scene with fresh seafood and Lowcountry favorites, and its history of extending a warm welcome to both short-term and long-term visitors. For nine years running, our readers have selected it as the greatest little city in the United States. Thus, it should come as no surprise that hospitality sets Charleston lodging establishments apart. Continue reading to learn more about cheap hotels in Charleston.
Our ranking of the best hotels in Charleston spans the city’s enticing gamut and isn’t short on appeal, from vibrant boutique stays to stately, art-driven buildings, elegant interiors draped in regal draperies and crown molding, and porch-fronted row house hotels in the downtown area.
Hotels in Charleston
Charleston has more charm than any other American city. Charles Town, named after King Charles II of England, was established in 1670. Its Georgian architecture and carriage houses harken back to a bygone era. Decanter rooftop pubs with views of Charleston’s unique cityscape come alive every night, and excellent restaurants are always crowded with culinary enthusiasts. This is one of the best combinations of history and hospitality in the nation when you include hospitable locals. It’s not hard to see why over 7 million people come here annually.
#1. The Ryder Hotel
This Charleston hotel, which takes its cues from Jack Kerouac’s semifictional character Japhy Ryder, is all about taking a chance and enjoying the ride. (If you arrive and miss that undercurrent, there’s a picture of a topless woman strumming a guitar in the corridor to serve as a gentle reminder to relax.) When you check in, a welcoming artisan cocktail is waiting for you, muddled to order. Whether you’re wearing flip-flops, plastic heels, or no shoes at all, the sounds of cocktail shakers and Motown beats keep toes tapping at Little Palm, an indoor/outdoor poolside venue. And when it’s time to unwind, the La Bottega robes, walk-in baths, and light-filled interior design of the rooms have you covered.
#2. 86 Cannon Historic Inn
Finding the right mix between design-forward and historically accurate can be difficult, but 86 Cannon does it flawlessly. Designer Betsy Berry moved to Charleston with her chef husband after working at the D.C. St. Regis and The Connaught in London. Her designs are striking and exquisite; examples include the parlor’s indigo-dyed grasscloth walls and the attic library’s pomegranate-silk pitched walls, which feature Venetian plasterwork and hand-stenciling by local artist Suzanne Allen.
The inn is excused from having an on-site restaurant because 86 Cannon is situated in the heart of a gourmet hotspot. Goat, a local Church Street shop, supplies the wine and cheeseboard that the inn serves in the late afternoon.Haha.Goat. There are seven rooms in all, so the level of service is really high.
#3. The Vendue
You won’t believe this hotel’s old façade—it will wow you. The Vendue is designed to be a dynamic, forward-thinking “art hotel” with rotating exhibitions and a full-time docent. For example, the motif in the past has been “red and white,” which translates to a massive red gorilla at the end of a glossy white hallway full of thought-provoking wall hangings, sculptures, and paintings.
#4. Planters Inn
Situated at the intersection of Market and Meeting, which is perhaps the nicest address in the city, The Planters Inn is a good place to call “Main & Main”. The interior of the inn feels calm and refined, even if there is a lot of foot traffic outside. It’s like you’ve entered a wealthy person’s home and are invited to remain for a bit.
#5. The Restoration
The first hint that this hotel thinks beyond the box is a large-scale portrait of an Icelandic horse at check-in; the second is the wall-to-wall Angel Oak photographs that transform the elevator into a treehouse. The Restoration is a popular hotel, particularly among New Yorkers, thanks to its modern photography displays, large rooms, and urban feel.
#6. Wentworth Mansion
Visitors adore Wentworth Mansion, praising both its capacity to provide modern luxury and its long-standing dedication to the building’s history. Built-in the late 1800s, the Wentworth Mansion radiates a classic charm that makes it an ideal Charleston residence for those who enjoy history.
#7. The Dewberry
The Dewberry Charleston, named for one of the most divisive and influential real estate entrepreneurs in the South, John Dewberry, is the product of over eight years of renovation work on a former federal structure.
#8. Hotel Bennett
Recent visitors think Hotel Bennett offers it all—luxurious rooms, excellent customer service, and a prime location. The property is located in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, so visitors can easily stroll to all the city has to offer, including Waterfront Park, the Charleston City Market, and King Street’s top-notch dining and retail options.
#9. The Spectator Hotel
According to previous visitors, The Spectator Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina, stands out from the competition thanks to its brand-new construction, historic design, and excellent customer service.
#10. The Charleston Place
The Nathaniel Russell House, several art galleries, and the Old Slave Mart Museum are all conveniently close by, as is the City Market, which is located directly outside the entrance. Put another way, for first-time visitors to our city, Charleston Place serves as a perfect starting point for sightseeing.
Best Hotels in Charleston
The town of Charleston has an abundance of hotels to choose from, but the top ten hotels in Charleston offer a unique blend of excellent cuisine, stunning rooftop terraces and bars, stunning architecture, and contemporary facilities. These are the places to reserve for your next journey.
#1. HarbourView Inn
The 52-room boutique HarbourView Inn, which is conveniently located across from Charleston Waterfront Park and a short stroll from the pastel mansions and Italianate structures of South of Broad, showcases Charleston’s maritime history. During a property-wide restoration in 2021, designers and architects redesigned common areas and guest rooms, producing decor that artfully combines Old World elegance with contemporary elements like tiled baths and large glass windows.
#2. The Loutrel
The Loutrel was an overnight sensation in Charleston hospitality when it opened in 2021. The lush rooftop terrace with views of the city and the porch swing daybed in the lobby are just two examples of how the hotel’s decor draws inspiration from the natural world.
#3. Hotel Bennett
The Hotel Bennett has more amenities than even some of the greatest downtown hotels in Charleston. The hotel, which debuted in 2019 on the corner of King Street and is close to historic Marion Square, features a rooftop pool and lounge, a fine dining restaurant with top-notch service, and a full-service spa.
#4. The Spectator Hotel
2015 saw the opening of the Spectator Hotel in Charleston’s historic center, which elevated the city’s standard of elegance and sophistication. Stepping inside the hotel’s Art Deco foyer, with its shiny surfaces and tier chandelier, instantly transports guests to the Jazz Age. Every visitor has a personal butler who can be called upon for anything from itinerary planning and clothing pressing to creating candlelit rose petal baths.
#5. The Charleston Place
The Charleston Place is the name of the city’s grand dame and one of the most pet- and family-friendly hotels in the area. It covers a whole city block and has 433 guest rooms and suites. Families can plan an activity like a walking tour of the area or a family-friendly boat ride in the harbor, or they can take a leisurely stroll to the four-block Historic Charleston City Market.
#6. Zero George
Zero George is a destination dining experience and one of the most atmospheric boutique hotels in town, set on a lovely cobblestone alleyway and made up of five buildings from about 1804. The highly regarded Zero Restaurant and Bar is located within the 16-room hotel, situated on a verdant piazza.
#7. The Dewberry
The Dewberry is a city center property situated directly across from Marion Square, but it’s also one of Charleston’s greatest wellness getaways. Visitors can find solace in the second-floor day spa or on the lush rooftop, where yoga lessons are available.
#8. Post House
Post House is a seaside tavern from 1896 that has been updated for a modern audience. It is located among the historic residences of Old Village, Mount Pleasant, 10 minutes’ drive from Charleston’s downtown.
#9. The Ryder Hotel
The Ryder Hotel, formerly the King Charles Inn, opened its doors in May 2021 and has since become one of the city’s most whimsical boutique accommodations. The 91 rooms feature a style that combines bohemian flair with coastal cool.
#10. Emeline
From the warm and welcoming public areas to the luxurious guest bedrooms featuring walk-in showers encased in glass and record players, Emeline has a lot to offer. The facility, which debuted in 2020, has 128 opulent apartments, 16 of which include double king beds for comfortable sleeping for families and friends.
Cheap Hotels in Charleston
Affordable lodging options in Charleston are well-liked by those on a tight budget. These motels, which cost an average of $125 a night, are less expensive than full-service hotels. The full-service hotels are in the West Ashley neighborhood, which is about a fifteen-minute drive from the downtown historic district.
#1. Town and Country Inn and Suites rates starting from $119
The Town and Country Inn and Suites, which is roughly fifteen minutes from Charleston’s historic downtown, offers contemporary amenities like soaking tubs, Keurig coffee makers, and Egyptian cotton linens. Savor cuisine from the Lowcountry at the hotel’s on-site eatery.
#2. Sleep Inn rates starting from $99
Situated around fifteen minutes away from the historic core, the Sleep Inn is a chic haven in this busy metropolis. Free parking, free Wi-Fi, a seasonal outdoor pool, a complimentary Morning Medley Breakfast, and rooms with refrigerators and microwaves are examples of contemporary amenities.
#3. Best Western Charleston Inn rates start from $99
Situated approximately three miles away from the historic area, it provides tourists with easy access to award-winning restaurants, immaculate beaches, and historic plantations. Free parking, a free continental breakfast, and a sizable outdoor pool are available to guests.
#4. Holiday Inn Express West Ashley rates start from $179
The historic district of Charleston is not far from the Holiday Inn Express, which is situated next to the Medical University of South Carolina. The hotel offers a free Express Start hot breakfast buffet, views of the Ashley River, and an outdoor pool.
#5. Comfort Suites West of Ashley rates start from $119
Spacious suites featuring contemporary amenities like flat-screen TVs, WiFi, and indoor pools are available at the Comfort Suites West of Ashley. A short drive away lies the historic neighborhood, which offers plenty of dining options and shopping. When it comes to motels in the area, this one is affordable.
#6. La Quinta Inn & Suites Riverview rates start at $99
Situated 10 minutes away from picturesque beaches and the downtown historic district, the La Quinta Inn offers modern conveniences in its spacious rooms and suites. Pillow-top beds, a complimentary Bright Side Breakfast, free parking, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi are all available to guests.
#7. Shem Creek Inn: rates starting at $98
Shem Creek is on the other side of Ravenel Bridge. Those who want a little getaway from the city will love this peaceful haven. This area has many excellent eateries and is close to Patriots Point and the beach. The Shem Creek Inn resembles an old-fashioned motor lodge. The pool is amazing; however, the accommodations are a little rudimentary.
#8. King Charles Inn: rates start at $116
Location is key in The King Charles. Situated on Meeting Street, it’s very near all the sights in the area. Large porches with rocking chairs are a feature of certain rooms.
#9. Fulton Lane Inn: rates starting at $127
In addition, the Fulton Lane Inn has charming rooms with elaborate décor and four-poster beds. They are situated near the Charleston Market’s history. This resort not only provides a complimentary breakfast but also hosts a cheese and wine event every evening.
#10. Not So Hostel: rates starting at $49
Consider staying at the Not So Hostel if you’re feeling daring. Here, private rooms begin at $49 per night. You might even wish to stay in the dorms if you want to visit in November. You might even get the entire dorm to yourself here because there aren’t many visitors.
What Area Is Best to Stay in Charleston?
The Historical District is the ideal area to stay when visiting Charleston. This neighborhood is home to several well-preserved historic homes, monuments, and landmarks.
Is Charleston an Expensive City?
The most crucial fact regarding Charleston’s cost of living is that it is comparatively typical for the country. Charleston’s index score of 111.5 was 11% higher than the national average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research. Charleston, South Carolina, has an average cost of living of $2086.
Is Charleston a Good Area?
One of the greatest places to reside in South Carolina is Charleston, which is located in Charleston County. Most people in Charleston own their homes, and the city has a thick suburban feel to it. There are lots of eateries, coffee shops, and parks in Charleston.
What Is the Richest Part of Charleston?
The priciest communities are located on the beaches of Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms (IOP), as well as downtown on the peninsula south of Broad Street. Kiawah Island is located about 45 minutes south of Charleston. That’s a whole other level of expenditure.
Is Charleston SC a Big City?
With a population of slightly over 153,000 and an area of over 115 square miles, Charleston is the biggest city in South Carolina. However, the Charleston metro region today has a population of over 830,000, with over 30 new residents moving in every day. June 28, 2023
Summary
Many of Charleston’s historic inns are among the best in the country, even better than Savannah’s. The cost of hotels and motels is directly correlated with how close they are to the Historic District. There are bed and breakfasts in almost every area of the city, ranging from small cottages to ancient buildings and carriage houses.
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