You will really enjoy Charleston - it's a beautiful city - full of history and great for walking around. It's also totally safe - even at night! We were there for four days last year and stayed at a lovely, historic B & B called Brasington House. The owners, Dalton and Judy Brasington, are very friendly and helpful - and the breakfasts are superb! The rate when we stayed was $72/night. There are many other B & Bs and small hotels in Charleston.

You should start your visit by going to the Visitor Center and taking one of their conducted tours - this will give you a good overview of the city and an idea of where you would like to spend more time. The area south of Broad Street is the most interesting and historic. "Catfish Row" of Porgy and Bess fame is located in this district.

There are lots of good restaurants - we liked "Jestine's" (which had just opened) and the "Primrose House" (expensive).

Hope this is of some help.

Hope I'm not too late for your trip. I recently moved from Charleston after living there for 8 years. The restaurants are wonderful!!! Try Carolina's, Slightly North of Broad, Magnolia's, Pinckney Cafe, Zebo's, or Anson's. There are hundreds! One suggestion... try the more expensive ones for lunch. You get the same great food for a lot less money. Have fun!

Has anyone stayed at the Elliott House? I would like to know what the immediate area is like, large buildings (3 or 4 story brick) or mostly single Charlston Houses? And what are the king rooms in the rear building with private balconies like? Which is better 1st or 2nd floor?
Also has anyone stayed at the Thomas Lamboll House a bed and breakfast on King St. Could you tell me what the rooms and third floor piazza are like?

In response to Catherine, we have stayed at the Elliott House twice and love it. Some of the rooms are quite small, however, so check that out. The surrounding is mixed, with the restaurant 82 Queen next door and the Mills House Hotel down the street. You can walk everywhere from the Elliott House. The courtyard with hot tub is lovely and the people who run it are very friendly and helpful.

My husband & I went to Charleston for our 8th Anniv. We found Charleston to be a very lovely & historic city. There are many tours to choose from. Make your first stop by the Visitors Reception Center. You can park there & take a trolley. The trolley goes to Many of the attraction without worrying about parking. Also, we found the prices for the tours less expensive at the Center, rather then buying right from the tour companys. Their located at 375 Meeting St. (803)853-8000. Enjoy Charleston! We loved it!