2 Best Hotels in Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston has a well-earned reputation as one of the most historic and beautiful cities in the country. Among travelers, it's also increasingly known for superior accommodations, ranging from lovingly restored mansions converted into atmospheric bed-and-breakfasts to boutique inns to world-class hotels, all found in the residential blocks of the historic downtown peninsula. Most are within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and museums spread throughout the nearly 800-acre district.

Chain hotels pepper the busy, car-trafficked areas like Meeting Street. In addition, there are chain properties in the nearby areas of West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, and North Charleston, where you’ll find plenty of Holiday Inns, Hampton Inns, Marriott Courtyards, and La Quinta Inns. Mount Pleasant is considered the most upscale suburb; North Charleston is the least, but if you need to be close to the airport, are participating in events at the Coliseum complex, or aim to shop the outlet malls there, it is a practical, less expensive alternative.

Overall, a visit to Charleston is a lifetime memory, and to know it is to love it. The city’s scorecard for repeat visitors is phenomenal. Charleston is a port of embarkation for cruise ships, and most cruisers wisely plan on a pre- or post-cruise stay. This premier wedding and honeymoon destination also draws many couples back for their anniversaries.

Lowcountry Conference Center

$$ | 406 Sigma Dr., Summerville, SC, 29483, USA
Combining a Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites, this spot draws groups away from the crowded peninsula to its modern complex set amid a pine forest just off I--26. Suites feature full-size fridges, views of the woods, and handsome, modern decor. The large outdoor pool, cabanas, and grills are a perk for families and summertime visitors, and a nature trail winds from the parking lot through the adjacent wetlands.

Pros

  • On-site restaurant serving breakfast and dinner
  • Modern lobby with a bar constructed from an impressive recovered cypress log
  • Lovely nature trails

Cons

  • Conference center can fill up on weekends with specialized groups
  • Pool is not heated
  • It's a drive to other restaurants and sights
406 Sigma Dr., Summerville, SC, 29483, USA
843-832–1304
hotel Details
250 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Woodlands Mansion

$$$$ | 125 Parsons Rd., Summerville, SC, 29483, USA

With the distinct feel of an English country estate, Woodlands offers 18 suites in a modernized 1906 Greek-revival-style inn. The grounds invite a leisurely stroll under grand live oaks and soaring magnolia trees. Immaculate and beautifully maintained, each guest room is individually decorated but all share elegant touches. Some rooms feature private patios, marble bathrooms, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces.

Pros

  • A country retreat excellent for de-stressing
  • Beautiful landscaping
  • Luxurious bedding and electronic blinds (with drapes) make it ideal for sleeping

Cons

  • Far (45 minutes) from downtown Charleston
  • The entire property often books out in advance for events and weddings
  • Only one room is ADA-equipped
125 Parsons Rd., Summerville, SC, 29483, USA
843-875–2600
hotel Details
18 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals, Credit cards accepted

Quick Facts