Downtown Charleston Travel Guide
Charleston
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
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 top-notch restaurants.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
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.
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.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Rainbow Row
Find out about the history of Charleston with a stop at Rainbow Row. Make time for the churches and local tours in this walkable area.
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
The Francis Marion Hotel
"Clean room, stuff was helpful, great location, the fitness room was great we used it. Lovely lobby"
Reviewed on 25 Jun 2026
Emeline
"Definitely use the Valet because parking is a nightmare in downtown Charleston. Make sure when you book your stay to call the restaurant to make reservations as they get filled up quite quickly. Minutes away from the open air market. Beds are very comfortable."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
The Ryder Hotel
"Good stay over all. The hotel location is very convenient. The rooms are clean and spacious and comfortable beds. I would have loved a better food options at the bar/restaurant by the pool but the hotel is very cute. And I loved they had filter water fountains on each floor to refill our water bottles. ..."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
The Charleston Place
"Wonderful, can’t wait to come again"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
The Vendue
"Champagne upon arrival, rooms were a good size and very clean, breakfast was delivered to the room daily(pastries and fruit), macarons with turn down service, what else could you need? The hotel is in a great location and is definitely a vibe with a nice rooftop bar and good drinks. I would stay ..."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Hotel Bennett
"It’s a beautiful hotel worth visiting when you’re in Charleston"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
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Where to stay in Downtown Charleston
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.
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.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
