Downtown Charleston Travel Guide
Charleston
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Medical University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Medical University of South Carolina during your travels in Charleston. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its lively bars.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
Rainbow Row
Find out about the history of Charleston with a stop at Rainbow Row. Make time for the stunning cathedral and local tours in this walkable area.
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
Emeline
"in our room , every detail is top of the range and the restaurants and common areas are super. the front desk staff, especially Tania the head of staff, were extremely helpful in dealing with a particular matter we needed resolved . way beyond the normal assistance xx"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
The Ryder Hotel
"Great location. Very friendly staff. Awesome amenities. This was my second time here and I love it."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
The Francis Marion Hotel
"Great location for your time in Charleston. The staff is friendly and helpful. The hotel is older and shows its wear and tear. The bed is comfortable though."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
The Charleston Place
"Wonderful"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
The Vendue
"Great location, very good amenities."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District
"Great location. Clean spacious room. Great brreakfast."
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Charleston
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
Radcliffeborough
While Radcliffeborough may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Music Farm and Charleston Music Hall.
Harleston Village
While visiting Harleston Village, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and Colonial Lake.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Ansonborough
If you're spending some time in Ansonborough, South Carolina Aquarium and International African American Museum are top sights worth seeing.
