Charleston’s old-world charm can be experienced through cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriage rides, and antebellum architecture. Dating back to colonial times, its rich history is carefully preserved through many historic hotels; staying at one of the hotels in Charleston South Carolina historic district allows you to immerse yourself in its unique culture and atmosphere truly.
Charleston offers an extraordinary range of accommodations from small boutique inns to grand dame hotels that have welcomed visitors for decades, all set within historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries – most featuring lavish standard rooms featuring chandeliers, working fireplaces, antique furnishings, and historical details that transport you back in time to its most prosperous era.
These hotels in Charleston South Carolina historic district provide easy access to attractions like cobblestone streets adorned with pastel pre-Civil War homes, King Street shops and restaurants, art galleries, and City Market. Many hotels also boast desirable harbor views or welcoming interior courtyards for added charm.
Here are some of the most popular hotels in the Charleston South Carolina historic district
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The Wentworth Mansion – A 21-room luxury inn built in 1886 and located in downtown Charleston. Features antique decor and original architectural details.
History and Architecture – Originally completed as Francis Silas Rodger’s private residence, Wentworth Mansion dates back to 1886 as part of its Second Empire style architecture, featuring a Mansard roof, ornate ironwork, and columned portico elements.
Today this 21-room luxury inn retains much of the original details and layout from when first constructed.
Location – The hotel is in downtown Charleston, providing easy access to attractions like the historic district, City Market, and King Street shopping/dining. Charleston’s antebellum mansions and waterfront battery parks are just over one mile away.
Wentworth Mansion boasts luxurious accommodations for any guest stay imaginable, ranging from standard guestrooms to expansive 900 sq. ft suites. Each features original 19th-century details like fireplaces, 12-ft ceilings, and French doors – creating an eclectic decor blending Victorian and modern styles.
Amenities include a fine dining restaurant and lounge, spa services, art gallery exhibits, and vintage cars available for day use. Outdoor gardens and spaces provide tranquil refuge from downtown’s hectic pace, while complimentary services include breakfast WiFi and an evening wine/cheese reception.
Historical Details – Relive history with original details such as Tiffany stained glass windows, hand-carved marble fireplaces, mosaic flooring, gilded mirrors, and an authentic Circassian walnut staircase; each takes guests back in time. This immerses guests into this mansion’s Gilded Age roots.
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Planters Inn – A 64-room boutique hotel on the historic City Market housed in a series of restored 19th-century buildings.
Here are a few facts about The Planters Inn, another gem in the Charleston South Carolina historic district.
Planters Inn was constructed during the late 19th century as an array of cotton warehouses and merchant buildings before transforming into a hotel through reconstruction and restoration in 1996.
Location – Situated near City Market in Charleston’s Historic District, this hotel is convenient to many restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions such as Rainbow Row.
Rooms – The 64 rooms combine old-world charm with contemporary amenities to give guests a memorable stay experience. Each features antique reproduction furniture adorned with ornate moldings, high ceilings, and marble/wood burning fireplaces for warmth – as well as luxury bedding and free WiFi service as part of our services package.
Planters Inn offers its guests numerous amenities, from its lush courtyard with fountains to outdoor seating areas and restaurant featuring Southern fare from local sources and its rooftop bar with harbor views.
Historical Details – This vintage Charleston hotel retains many original 19th-century building details, such as exposed brick walls and beams made of cypress wood from 19th-century structures and original wrought iron railings from that era. Furthermore, the hotel features artifacts and antiques which pay homage to Charleston’s rich history and heritage.
Planters Inn is an internationally recognized Historic Hotels of America member and has received multiple AAA Four Diamond status recognition.
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The Mills House Grand Hotel – Dates back to 1853 and is the oldest operating hotel in Charleston. Known for its classic Southern charm and hospitality.
Here are some key details about the historic Mills House Grand Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina:
History – The Mills House Hotel opened in 1853 and is Charleston’s oldest continuously operating hotel. It was one of the few buildings that survived the Civil War.
Location – Conveniently situated in downtown Charleston right off King Street. This allows easy access to top attractions, shopping, dining, and historic landmarks.
Rooms – 215 guest rooms and suites are housed within the main building and two adjacent modern towers. The accommodations feature classic southern-style decor with four-poster beds, marble baths, and antique furnishings.
Amenities – The hotel has a large heated outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and business center. There are two on-site restaurants – the Iron Horse and the Black Door Cafe. Complimentary WiFi is provided.
Historical Details – Original 19th-century details can be seen in the lobby and Barbados Room, like chandeliers, marble fireplaces, and large Palladian windows. The iconic grand staircase remains from 1853.
Recognition – Part of the Historic Hotels of America. Has received the AAA Four Diamond award for its well-appointed accommodations and service. Member of the Southern Living Hotel Collection.
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Market Pavilion Hotel – Located in a restored 19th-century home with elegant dining rooms and a rooftop bar. Steps away from shopping on King Street.
Here are some key details about the Market Pavilion Hotel, one of Charleston’s premiere historic hotels:
History – Originally built in 1865 as a series of luxury commercial buildings and high-end shops for the Pavilion Market marketplace. Fully renovated and turned into a hotel in 2003.
Location – Situated right on the western edge of downtown Charleston, close to the City Market and other popular areas like King Street.
Rooms – 70 stylish and intimate guestrooms and suites. All feature French fabrics, marble baths, antique furnishings, and custom-made beds. Some have working fireplaces.
Dining – Award-winning on-site restaurant called Pavilion Bar & Grill provides upscale dining with seasonal Lowcountry cuisine. There is also a lobby lounge and rooftop bar.
Amenities – 24-hour gym, relaxing spa lounge, and daily complimentary continental breakfast provided. French Quarter-inspired interior courtyard.
Historical Details – Original 19th-century architectural details like exposed brick walls, wrought iron gates, and gas lanterns can be seen. Care was taken to preserve the historic charm during renovations.
Recognition – AAA Four Diamond award rating for the past 15+ years. Named in Conde Nast Traveler’s Top U.S. Hotels list.
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The Spectator Hotel – A 1920s-style boutique hotel with ornate, vintage interiors. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1640.
Here are some key details about The Spectator Hotel, a luxurious 1920s-style hotel in Charleston:
History – The original four-story building dates back to 1640, making it one of the oldest structures in Charleston. It has served many purposes over the centuries, including being a bordello in the 1800s.
Location – Centrally situated in downtown Charleston’s historic French Quarter district. Close to famous sights like the Battery waterfront park.
Decor – The property was renovated in 2015 into a lavish 41-room boutique hotel inspired by the 1920s Jazz Era. The interior design features bold patterns, velvet furniture, and antique pieces.
Rooms – Spacious accommodations with luxurious amenities like rainfall showers, plush robes, and toe-warming floors. Many rooms have original exposed brick walls from the 17th-century building.
Bar – The Spectator features a 1920s-style Speakeasy bar that is too good to be true!
Amenities – Heated outdoor pool lined with palm trees, 24-hour fitness studio, free bicycles to explore the city, and Tesla house car available upon request.
Recognition – Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection hotels. Named one of the Top 10 Hotels in Charleston by Conde Nast Traveler.
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French Quarter Inn – A 50-room inn housed in structures dating back to the 1860s. Set in the famous French Quarter district.
Here are some key details about the French Quarter Inn, one of the most charming hotels in Charleston South Carolina historic district:
History – The hotel comprises a series of restored 19th-century buildings, formerly old homes, and a boarding house. It was converted into a 50-room boutique hotel in 2002.
Location – Situated in the famous French Quarter district, full of restaurants, galleries, and historic architecture. Just a short walk from the City Market and Waterfront Park.
Rooms – Spacious accommodations with exposed brick walls, tasteful decor combining antiques and reproductions, gas fireplaces, and marble bathrooms. Some have private balconies.
Amenities – Complimentary breakfast, evening wine and cheese reception, and milk and cookies before bed. Heated outdoor pool and hot tub in the courtyard.
Historical Details – Original pine floors, gas lanterns, and iron gates dating back to the 19th century add historic charm throughout the property and guest rooms.
Recognition – AAA Four Diamond rating. Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels in the World.
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The Vendue – Boutique hotel comprises 19th-century warehouses renovated in the 1970s. Overlooking Charleston harbor.
Here are some key details about The Vendue, a unique historic hotel in downtown Charleston:
History – The Vendue is housed in two restored 19th-century warehouses once part of Charleston’s bustling commercial waterfront. They were renovated into a hotel in the 1970s.
Location – Some rooms overlooking the Charleston harbor are situated in the French Quarter district. Walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Rooms – Accommodations blend old warehouse details like exposed brick and beams with updated amenities. There are four room styles, including Artisan rooms with original wood shutters.
Amenities – Rooftop bar overlooking the water, complimentary bikes to explore, locally-inspired Southern breakfast included. Evening wine and snacks reception.
Dining – The on-site Revival serves award-winning New Southern cuisine in an intimate dining room with a fireplace. The Rooftop bar offers craft cocktails and harbor views.
Historical Details – Original pine floors, exposed brick walls, beams, and shutters have been preserved from the 19th-century warehouses. Refurbished set of original 1780 warehouse doors at the entrance.
Recognition – Part of the exclusive National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. Voted Best Hotel in Charleston by Conde Nast Traveler readers. Voted top 500 Hotels in the World by Tavel+Leisure.
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Belmond Charleston Place – Luxury hotel located downtown and initially built in 1986. Blends classic and contemporary Southern style.
Here are a few key details about Belmond Charleston Place, one of downtown Charleston’s premier historic hotels:
History – Built on the site of an abandoned railroad depot in 1986 and designed to blend seamlessly into nearby 19th-century structures through classic architecture, this monument stands proudly today.
Location – Situated conveniently along King Street in historic downtown Charleston. Enjoy easy access to attractions, shopping, and dining opportunities within reach.
Rooms – The hotel boasts 367 exquisitely furnished guestrooms and suites featuring Italian fabrics, marble baths, mahogany furniture, and original art from around the World – some even come complete with working fireplaces!
Amenities offered here include an award-winning spa, indoor heated pool, fitness center, and club-level rooms; additionally, the Club Lounge provides complimentary food and beverages throughout the day.
Dining options at this hotel include Charleston Grill restaurant, which serves sophisticated Lowcountry cuisine in an upscale environment. There is also an afternoon tea service and a cognac and cigar bar on the premises.
Historical Details – This hotel fits seamlessly among nearby 18th and 19th-century buildings, while inside, there are nods to Charleston’s heritage through chandeliers, oriental rugs, and mahogany furnishings.
Recognition – AAA Five Diamond Award and Forbes Four Star rating have been bestowed upon this spot, consistently voted among the best hotels in Charleston South Carolina historic district!
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Zero George Street – An intimate 16-room boutique inn with early 19th-century charm and a central courtyard.
Here are some key details about Zero George Street, an intimate historic boutique inn in downtown Charleston:
History – Comprised of three restored 1804 residences initially built for wealthy merchants and families. They were converted into a 16-room luxury inn in 2009.
Location – Tucked away on a quiet street in downtown Charleston while still an easy walk to key attractions like Battery Park and King Street.
Rooms – Elegant accommodations decorated with antique furnishings, art, and luxe amenities. Many feature original details like exposed brick walls, fireplaces, and vaulted ceilings.
Dining – The on-site intimate restaurant serves a daily multicourse breakfast utilizing local seasonal ingredients and traditional Lowcountry recipes.
Amenities – Private gardens and courtyard with wading pool, complimentary bicycles, and evening wine reception. Heated mineral salt soaking tub.
Historical Details – Original hardwood pine floors, arched doorways, exposed brick walls, and marble mantled fireplaces were meticulously restored during the conversion to an inn.
Recognition – Forbes Four Star rating, AAA Four Diamond award rating, member of Select Registry: Distinguished Inns of North America.
Let’s wrap up our tour through the best hotels in Charleston South Carolina historic district!
Charleston is a historic city known for its charm. Boasting elegant antebellum architecture style and old-world Southern splendor, you can fully experience all this bygone age when staying in one of Charleston’s historic hotels.
Mills House Wyndham provides classic accommodations at a leisurely pace. Planters Inn and Zero George Street provide intimate luxury accommodations that open windows into Charleston’s colorful history while boasting original architectural detail and offering comfortable amenities to ensure comfort and luxury during their visit.
From your tranquil hotel, exploring famous attractions and eateries is easily within your grasp. Friendly local staff members will share stories and offer insights, making the trip all the more fascinating!
Charleston boasts an assortment of historical accommodations that cater to travelers of every kind. These storied structures combine southern hospitality and contemporary amenities into cozy, relaxing accommodations.