This historic coastal city has so much charm and beauty to it, causing people to visit for a variety of reasons. Between the wonderfully southern twist on seafood, shopping along King Street, touring one of the many historic Houses and Plantations, or simply spending a day at the beach, each visit can be uniquely different.
This is why Charleston is one of my favorite places to explore, and why I want to give you options for places to stay in the different areas of the city along with some of the highlights.
What are You Here to Do or See?
With the many sites to see, there’s a lot that’s located in Downtown Charleston as well as the surrounding areas. Downtown can be a very walkable area, but getting outside the peninsula to visit the surrounding areas is something to think about. Parking is another cost on top of renting a car. There are several historic properties to visit both downtown and outside the penisula, along with various stores and restaurants.
Staying in the different parts of the area can play a major factor in what you wind up doing in the area. When one thinks of Charleston, images of historic buildings and Plantations, giant oak trees, shopping, beaches, and more comes to mind. This is something to keep in mind when you’re planning your visit to Charleston, which is why I created this post.
Best Areas to Stay
With so much to see and do, it can make each trip unique. I’ve broken down the different areas as well as different properties as well (not everyone comes here has the same budget). Keep in mind that not everything is located within Charleston’s Downtown peninsula. ** indicates more budget friendly options
Downtown Charleston & the Historic District
If you’re here to visit any of the Award-Winning restaurants, walking down cobblestone streets and seeing Rainbow Row, taking a carriage ride or walking tour, or simple wandering throughout the Battery district, Charleston’s French Quarter has several options, but can also with heftier price tags given the location.
There are more options in and around the Ansonborough neighborhood (some which can be more moderately priced while still putting you closer to different attractions such as the Charleston Museum and the South Carolina Aquarium.
- Andrew Pinckney Inn
- Courtyard by Marriott Historic District**
- Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District**
- Hotel Bennett
- Wentworth Mansion
Charleston Suburbs
West Ashley (this suburb is suitable for its location: west of the Ashley River), It’s a mix of residential areas and historic sites. Here are a few spots that are more suitable for when you’re checking out the Ashley River Plantation district, Charles Town Landing State Historic Sites, enjoying the area beaches, or visiting several hot spots on James or Johns Island.
- Cambria Charleston Riverview **
- Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston – West Ashley **
- The Inn at Middleton Place – this is great for an exclusive experience.
- The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Resort on Kiawah Island
- Water’s Edge Inn – Folly Beach
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina & Suburbs
This area is right across the Cooper River, with the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge connecting it to Downtown Charleston. Mount Pleasant has plenty of dining and lodging options that appeal to families. Patriot’s Point, Shem Creek, and Boone Hall Plantation are all located in Mount Pleasant, along with the beaches at Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Patriots Point **
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Harbor Mt. Pleasant **
- Post House
- Springhill Suites by Marriott Charleston Mount Pleasant **
- Wild Dunes Resort – beach resort at Isle of Palms
Visiting Charleston
I hope this guide helps you in finding places to stay and things to do when you come back to Charleston! There’s so much to do here, which helps make every visit unique. Looking for more Travel Resources for the Charleston area? Check out these other posts:
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