Charleston Place The grand landmark
Market / King Street · $$$
Photo: Imran Khan
Why it made the list: The city's grand downtown hotel, an elegant landmark right at the top of the historic shopping district with a sweeping lobby staircase, a rooftop pool and polished service. It's the classic, central, do-it-all splurge.
The Wentworth Mansion The romantic
Harleston Village · $$$
Photo: Wentworth Mansion
Why it made the list: A lavish 1886 Second Empire mansion turned intimate inn, all Tiffany glass, carved woodwork and a rooftop cupola with a 360-degree view over the steeples. It's the most romantic stay in the city, with the acclaimed Circa 1886 restaurant on the grounds.
The Dewberry The design pick
Marion Square · $$$
Photo: The Dewberry Charleston
Why it made the list: A restored 1960s federal building reborn as a sleek 'Southern reveries' hotel on Marion Square, with a much-loved brass-and-marble lobby bar and a rooftop lounge. It's the stylish, design-forward counterpoint to the antebellum inns.
Planters Inn The classic inn
Market Street · $$$
Photo: Planters Inn
Why it made the list: A refined Relais & Chateaux inn on Market Street with a lush courtyard, four-poster beds and the celebrated Peninsula Grill, home of the legendary coconut cake. It's timeless, gracious old Charleston.
The Vendue The art hotel
French Quarter · $$$
Photo: The Vendue, Charleston's Art Hotel
Why it made the list: Charleston's 'art hotel', a warren of rooms in restored French Quarter warehouses filled with rotating contemporary art and topped by a popular rooftop bar with harbor and steeple views. It's characterful, central and fun.
⭐ Bonus Pick: Zero George & The Restoration
Two more strong stays: Zero George is a serene collection of restored 1804 residences around a courtyard with a acclaimed intimate restaurant, and The Restoration on King is a stylish all-suite hotel with a rooftop pool bar right in the thick of the shopping district.
