The picturesque coastal city of Charleston is well-known for its charm and beauty, with its cobblestone streets, majestic trees and brightly colored buildings. From the famous artisan’s market and historic district downtown to the nearby beaches and iconic Angel Oak Tree, this Southern city has a seemingly endless amount of interesting things to do and see.
But, if you’re going to stay in the middle of one of the region’s most charming cities, why not go for the whole experience and stay in one of Charleston’s quaint boutique hotels? These properties are brimming with character yet still offer all the conveniences and comforts of home.
The Ryder Hotel
The Ryder Hotel was voted a Top Charleston Hotel by Conde Nast Traveler, thanks to its mix of Southern hospitality and extensive amenities. Guests at the Ryder Hotel receive bicycle rentals, free drip coffee, a welcome cocktail at check-in and a daily food/beverage credit, free fitness passes, free Wi-Fi, beach equipment rentals and concierge services. Plus, there’s an outdoor pool with a sundeck to enjoy! In the rooms, you’ll find large-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and luxury bath products, as well as complimentary newspapers and bottled water.
Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel
The Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel may be a chain hotel, but it still offers a chic boutique experience, with guest rooms that feature both modern and vintage furniture, artwork by local artists, down comforters and wood floors. Room amenities include 55” flat screen televisions, mini-fridges, writing desks and marble bathrooms, while the property offers an outdoor saltwater pool, a modern fitness center and an on-site restaurant serving New Southern cuisine.
Indigo Inn
Located right in the historic district of downtown Charleston, the Indigo Inn stands out uniquely amongst its surroundings with its brightly colored exterior. Inside the Inn, you’ll find guest rooms with vintage-style furnishings, including four-poster beds, large armoires, and modern conveniences like television, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a garden and terrace on the property for strolling and relaxing, wine and cheese receptions and continental breakfast offered every day.
Belmond Charleston Place
The Belmond Charleston Place combines luxury with Southern hospitality, all in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. In addition to beautiful guest rooms featuring large beds, marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, high-end toiletries and plush robes and slippers, there’s also a health club, spa, a rooftop saltwater infinity pool and a four-star restaurant. Plus, the Shops at Belmond Charleston Place features a collection of well-known stores like Gucci, Kate Spade, Pandora and Tommy Bahama.
Francis Marion Hotel
The ornate Francis Marion Hotel dates all the way back to 1924 when it was considered “the place to be.” Since then, it has been meticulously restored to combine its historic past with the modern conveniences of today. Since the hotel is centrally located in downtown Charleston, it’s convenient to many of the area’s shops, restaurants and attractions. The restored guest rooms feature pillowtop mattresses, luxury linens, marble and granite bathrooms, flat-screen televisions, and in rooms on the upper floors – amazing views of the Charleston skyline. Also on-site are the Spa Adagio – a full-service day spa, and the Swamp Fox Restaurant, which features farm-fresh ingredients and award-winning shrimp and grits.
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
Originally opened in 1853, The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel is located right in the center of historic downtown Charleston and is within walking distance of many of the area’s most popular sites and attractions. The beautiful property is quintessential Charleston with its pretty pink exterior, garden courtyard and swaying palm trees. Inside, guest rooms feature a charming Southern vibe, as well as amenities like televisions, Keurig coffeemakers, work desks and complimentary newspapers. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site lounge, and restaurant.
The Vendue - Charleston's Art Hotel
The Vendue was named the #1 Hotel in Charleston by Travel and Leisure World’s Best Awards in 2017, and with one visit, you’ll see why. The hotel, renovated in 2014, is the city’s only hotel dedicated to the arts and features more than 300 pieces of original art. The beautiful rooms at The Vendue are spread throughout two separate buildings that reside across the street from one another and feature luxurious feather beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, flat panel televisions and unique design features like exposed brick walls. The hotel also offers daily art tours, bicycle rentals, an artisanal continental breakfast, a working art studio, an art reception with wine and canapes each afternoon, and milk and cookies every evening.
