Lodging

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 ideal alternative 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.