Fodor's Expert Review HarbourView Inn

With tidy rooms, smiling staff, and a breezy private rooftop bar, the HarbourView Inn serves as a relaxing home base for travelers wanting to sleep in the heart of historic Charleston. While it’s calm and quiet inside the locally owned inn, outside, sweetgrass basket weavers work and kids splash about in the fountains of the iconic Waterfront Park. Iced tea and M&Ms left out in the lobby are a homey touch you’ll appreciate after a day of exploring the French Quarter on one of the inn’s chic beach cruisers.

room

The historic suites are stunning, but they overlook Vendue Range, a street that gets a lot of foot traffic during the day. It’s not a problem if you plan to be out and about, but may be noisy if you hope to sleep in or take a siesta.

bathroom

Rooms with queen beds offer a shower-tub combination while king suites have updated walk-ins. A wide granite vanity provides plenty of storage space and holds luxurious Antica Farmacista bath products.

lobby

Upon arriving to the ground floor, you’ll walk up a curved staircase to the lobby, where you’ll find a flickering fireplace in the cooler months, friendly attendants, comfy lounge furniture, refreshments, and gorgeous views of Waterfront Park.

gym

Though there’s no facility onsite, hotel guests have complimentary access to the nearby Pivotal Fitness (16-minute walk). For groups—think a wedding party—a private yoga session can be arranged with mats provided.

Want to workout outdoors? Ask the front desk for their three-mille map: a handy pamphlet that draws out a picturesque 5K through the historic district.

dining

Locally made pastries and quiche, along with other continental staples, are served in the atrium. Return between 9 and 10 p.m. for milk and cookies.

drinking

A daily wine and cheese reception from 5 to 6 p.m. prompts mixing and mingling with fellow travelers, and a small bar cart on the rooftop terrace sells adult beverages from 5 to 9 p.m., when weather permits.

Check the schedule as special events like rooftop skyline tours led by a historic tour guide, local beer and wine tastings, and live music are often hosted on the rooftop terrace.