French Quarter Inn leads with a 9.8 Cleanliness score and a 9.8 Location in the historic district. Harbourview Inn counters with a perfect 9.9 Location overlooking Waterfront Park. Both deliver Charleston’s best block-by-block walkability.
Charleston’s hotel scene runs deep—historic inns on cobblestone lanes, modern suites near the harbor, and airport properties that skip the downtown markup. Here’s the shortlist.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 9600+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing properties with an average guest score of 9.0/10 across the board.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best French Quarter location: #6 Harbourview Inn→ Rates
#11 French Quarter Inn→ Rates - Best for families: #1 Drury Plaza Hotel→ Rates
#10 Staybridge Suites Mt Pleasant→ Rates - Pet-friendly with kitchens: #5 Candlewood Suites Mt Pleasant→ Rates
#18 Home2 Suites Daniel Island→ Rates - Highest Cleanliness score: #11 French Quarter Inn→ Rates
#20 The Pinch Charleston→ Rates - Best value for downtown: #3 Barksdale House Inn→ Rates
#14 The Charlestonian→ Rates - Airport convenience: #8 Hampton Inn Airport→ Rates
#13 Aloft Airport→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston | (1100+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Quality Inn Mt Pleasant – Charleston | (1050+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Barksdale House Inn | (900+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant – Charleston | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Candlewood Suites Charleston – Mt. Pleasant | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Harbourview Inn | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Iris | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Market Pavilion Hotel | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Staybridge Suites Charleston – Mount Pleasant | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 11. French Quarter Inn | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 12. The Spectator Hotel | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Aloft by Marriott Charleston Airport | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 14. The Charlestonian | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 15. 20 South Battery | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Staybridge Suites North Charleston | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 17. The Vendue, Downtown Art Hotel | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Home2 Suites By Hilton Charleston Daniel Island | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 19. The Jasmine House | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 20. The Pinch Charleston | (100+ Reviews) |
Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels in Charleston SC
1. Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston
The Vibe
Guests here talk about the food—free dinner, free breakfast, three free drinks a night—like it’s almost too good to be true. With a Staff score of 9.7 and Cleanliness at 9.7, this North Charleston property feels more like a full-service resort than a mid-range stopover. The outdoor pool and fitness center add to the value.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes access to the property’s free Wi-Fi (rated 9.8), and the free private parking is a genuine win for anyone driving into Charleston. The restaurant serves dinner included in the rate—use it. Upper-floor rooms are elevator-accessible, and the “Excellent Breakfast” label isn’t just marketing: guests consistently rave about the morning spread. Pets are allowed with possible fees. Families should note children 18+ are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You want meals and drinks folded into your room rate—the value is unmatched in the best hotels in Charleston SC
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston →
2. Quality Inn Mt Pleasant – Charleston
The Vibe
This is the budget-conscious entry in Mount Pleasant, trading downtown glamour for easy highway access and a solid breakfast spread. Staff score an 8.2, and guests call out clean rooms plus the convenience to Shem Creek (2-mile walk if you’re up for it). The seasonal pool opens Memorial Day weekend.
What You Actually Get
The free parking and included breakfast are the headline grabs here. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi (rated 8.0), and the property has a fitness center and outdoor pool—seasonal, so plan accordingly. Note the 25+ age minimum to check in without a parent or guardian. Pets aren’t allowed, and groups booking 5+ rooms see different policies. For a quick stopover near Isle Palms Beach, it’s functional.
Choose this if: You need a clean bed near Charleston without downtown prices
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn Mt Pleasant – Charleston →
3. Barksdale House Inn
The Vibe
This 1778 inn in historic Charleston leans into its age as a feature—uneven floors, European-style decor, and a location that puts you steps from downtown’s best. Staff score a stellar 9.7, and the Location 9.7 means you’re walking to everything. The private parking on-site is rare for the area.
What You Actually Get
Each room comes with a private bathroom (yes, all of them—guests asked) and access to free Wi-Fi (9.0). Breakfast is included and rated Exceptional. Note: no in-room microwaves or coffee makers, but Keurigs are available on the first floor of both the carriage house and main house. Pets are allowed on request with possible fees. Check-in ends at 7:00 PM sharp—plan your arrival. Group policy kicks in at 3+ rooms.
Choose this if: You value historic character over modern uniformity
4. Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant – Charleston
The Vibe
A 5-star hotel dropping a 9.0 overall rating, the Cambria sits on Highway 17 with easy Mount Pleasant access and a quiet reputation—guests note the building is easy to get in and out of. Cleanliness scores 9.4, and the Wi-Fi hits 9.5. It’s a polished stop near the attractions without downtown congestion.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor swimming pool stays open to guests at their leisure—no seasonal closure here. Rooms include a microwave and mini-fridge, though full kitchens aren’t available. Free on-site parking and a restaurant round out the amenities. No pets allowed, and group policies shift at 5+ rooms. King-sized beds are available on request. The Fitness center is a solid bonus.
Choose this if: You want a reliable 5-star with free parking and pool access
Check Tonight’s Price for Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant – Charleston →
5. Candlewood Suites Charleston – Mt. Pleasant by IHG
The Vibe
“Convenient location, very clean, and staff was wonderful” sums up the Candlewood experience. With a Staff score of 9.5 and Cleanliness at 9.4, this 2-star property punches above its rating. The patio with BBQ grills and in-room kitchens make it feel like a temporary home.
What You Actually Get
This is the kitchen suite option on the list: each unit comes with a full kitchen. Two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites are available—perfect for two couples traveling together. Pets are allowed with a non-refundable fee ($75 for 1-7 nights, $150 for 8+). A $100 damage deposit is required. Free on-site parking and an elevator with upper-floor access round it out. Check-in starts at 4:00 PM.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with pets and need to cook your own meals
Check Tonight’s Price for Candlewood Suites Charleston – Mt. Pleasant by IHG →
6. Harbourview Inn
The Vibe
Location 9.9 isn’t a typo—this French Quarter boutique overlooks both Historic Charleston Harbor and Waterfront Park. Staff score 9.6, Cleanliness 9.6, and guests rave about walking to shops and dining. Breakfast gets delivered to your room if you want it. No restaurant on-site, but with the neighborhood, you won’t need one.
What You Actually Get
Each room has a 49-inch flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi (9.2). Valet parking runs $32/night, or you can use nearby city garages for self-parking. There’s no restaurant or room service, but breakfast is included and can be brought to your room. Children 2+ are charged as adults. No pets. Minimum check-in age is 21. Group policy shifts at 4+ rooms.
Choose this if: Being in the French Quarter with harbor views is non-negotiable
7. The Iris
The Vibe
Cleanliness hits 9.6 at The Iris, and guests note the convenience of having a kitchen to make meals. It’s just off the main strip with easy access to free transportation around Charleston. The gated parking is a highlight—downtown Charleston doesn’t give that away for free. Comfort scores 9.6, meaning the beds do their job.
What You Actually Get
Private parking at the hotel and an elevator serve the 5-star building. Pets are allowed with a $175 fee per stay (max 1 pet). A $60 service charge applies per stay. Check-in is between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM, so late arrivals need to plan. The kitchen in-room is the big differentiator here—unlike many boutique properties, you can actually cook. Restaurant reservations can be arranged through the property.
Choose this if: You want to cook in a central Charleston location
8. Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport
The Vibe
Guests call this “great value” with an “awesome” breakfast and clean rooms—Cleanliness 9.6 backs that up. The outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are standard, but the 24-hour airport shuttle within a 5-mile radius is the real draw. Staff score 9.5, and the property feels well-managed from top to bottom.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking and a very good breakfast are included. The free airport shuttle runs 24/7 within 5 miles—schedule it when you need it. Pets are allowed with possible fees. Note: queen rooms don’t have microwaves, but the front desk can send one up. Group policy shifts at 9+ rooms. Upper-floor access isn’t specified, so request ground level if stairs are an issue.
Choose this if: You need an airport hotel that actually feels like a hotel, not a layover
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport →
9. Market Pavilion Hotel
The Vibe
The rooftop bar is the star here—guests love it. Location scores 9.9 in the French Quarter, steps from City Market and Waterfront Park. Wi-Fi hits a perfect 10.0, and Cleanliness and Comfort are both at 9.6 and 9.5. Staff rate 9.5. It’s polished, historic, and the elevated pool deck is a genuine perk.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have separate walk-in showers and soaking tubs—no step-over tubs here. The outdoor swimming pool sits on the property, and the restaurant and fitness center are on-site. Private parking is available at the hotel (valet). Note: the hotel is smoke-free except for portions of the rooftop. Minimum check-in age is 21. No pets allowed. The credit card holder must match the photo ID at check-in.
Choose this if: You want the French Quarter social scene with flawless internet
10. Staybridge Suites Charleston – Mount Pleasant by IHG
The Vibe
Spacious suites with balconies and a “great breakfast with variety” are the repeating themes in reviews. Staff score 9.4, and the location near USS Yorktown State Park puts you close to Mount Pleasant’s attractions. The outdoor seasonal pool and free on-site parking seal the deal for families.
What You Actually Get
One-bedroom suites have a TV in both the living room and bedroom; two-bedroom suites offer three TVs total. Balconies are available on studio king and one-bedroom king suites—the two-bedroom suite doesn’t have one. Very Good Breakfast is included. Pets are allowed with fees ($75 non-refundable for 1-7 nights, $150 for 8+). Free parking. A $75 damage deposit is required. Check-in starts at 4:00 PM.
Choose this if: You want a suite with a balcony near Mount Pleasant attractions
Check Tonight’s Price for Staybridge Suites Charleston – Mount Pleasant by IHG →
11. French Quarter Inn
The Vibe
Champagne at check-in, a daily wine and cheese hour (5:30-6:30 PM, free), and Cleanliness at 9.8—this is the elevated French Quarter experience. Staff and Comfort both hit 9.7 and 9.8. Guests call the added amenities “very special.” This is a property where the service matches the building’s historic pedigree.
What You Actually Get
Balcony options exist on the King Balcony Suite, Luxury King Balcony Suite, and Premium Market View Balcony rooms—other rooms don’t have one. Exceptional Breakfast is included. Private parking is available. The Fitness center means you don’t skip your workout. Note: the closest beach is about a 20-minute drive. No pets allowed. Group policy shifts at 4+ rooms. The daily wine and cheese hour offers 2 white and 2 red wines.
Choose this if: You want exceptional cleanliness and a champagne greeting
12. The Spectator Hotel
The Vibe
Staff 9.8 is tied for the highest on this list—guests call it “five star service.” The 1920s boutique styling runs through every detail, from the quiet street views to the continental breakfast. Location 9.8 puts you in the heart of the French Quarter. Beds score high for comfort (9.7), meaning you’ll actually sleep well.
What You Actually Get
Private parking at the hotel and a very good breakfast included are both rare at this level downtown. The fitness center and free Wi-Fi (9.6) cover the basics. Note: there’s no pool—the nearest is within walking distance. This is a smoke-free facility with no public smoking area. Handicapped-accessible bathrooms are only in 2 rooms. Minimum check-in age is 21. Group policy shifts at 10+ rooms.
Choose this if: Service quality matters more to you than any single amenity
13. Aloft by Marriott Charleston Airport & Convention Center
The Vibe
Location 9.3 is the headline here—this Aloft sits right next to Tanger Outlets and near the convention center. Guests walk to shopping, restaurants, and concert venues. The free bikes and indoor swimming pool are solid extras. Staff score 8.8, and the property is pet-friendly.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a mini refrigerator. Free on-site parking and a free airport shuttle (running 7 AM to 11 PM, not 24 hours) are included. The indoor pool means swimming is year-round. Pets are allowed with fees. Breakfast is available (not always included—check your rate). Group policy shifts at 9+ rooms. Wi-Fi scores a weak 4.4, so don’t count on streaming.
Choose this if: You’re in town for an event at the convention center or shopping the outlets
Check Tonight’s Price for Aloft by Marriott Charleston Airport & Convention Center →
14. The Charlestonian
The Vibe
Repeat guests love this property—”we have stayed there several times” is a real review. Free parking and kitchens make it feel more like a home rental than a hotel. Comfort scores 9.6, and Location 9.5 puts you within walking distance of downtown. The terrace and barbecue facilities add outdoor living space.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking on-site is the big draw—rare in central Charleston. The compound includes four buildings with unique units, so confirm which one you’re booking. Kitchens and laundry surprised more than one guest positively. Check-in runs until 11:00 PM. No pets allowed. The property provides free Wi-Fi (8.5) and has a terrace. Contact them directly to confirm bed configurations for larger groups.
Choose this if: You want apartment-style living with free parking near Marion Square
15. 20 South Battery
The Vibe
“Location was perfect and it was a beautiful mansion” is the kind of review that writes itself. This bed and breakfast sits on Battery Row with quiet street views and landmark views of Charleston’s historic waterfront. Staff score 9.6, and Location 9.7 keeps it in the top tier. Breakfast is included and can be continental or to-go depending on the day.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is included—another downtown rarity. The terrace and garden are available for guests. Deluxe Suites are ground-floor carriage house units overlooking the courtyard. Note: children over 10 are welcome, but under 10 are not allowed. No pets (though trained service animals may be accommodated—confirm direct). A quiet street view means less noise than Battery-facing rooms. Check-in ends at 9:00 PM.
Choose this if: You want a historic mansion B&B experience in the heart of Charleston
16. Staybridge Suites North Charleston by IHG
The Vibe
Comfort 9.5 and Value 9.2 are the standout scores here—guests specifically call out the 1-bedroom with queen beds as a great option. The indoor swimming pool means swimming season never ends, and full kitchens in-suite make longer stays practical. Free parking and a very good breakfast are included.
What You Actually Get
Two-bedroom suites are available with two bathrooms. Kitchens come in every suite. Pets are allowed with a $75 non-refundable deposit for stays of 30 nights or fewer, $150 for 31+ nights. A $100 security deposit is required. The fitness center and indoor pool round out the amenities. Upper floors are elevator-accessible. Check-in is from 3:00 PM. Barbecue facilities on-site.
Choose this if: You’re staying for a week or more and need kitchen and laundry access
Check Tonight’s Price for Staybridge Suites North Charleston by IHG →
17. The Vendue, Downtown Art Hotel
The Vibe
Location 9.9, right in the French Quarter, and an art focus that turns the hotel into a gallery—this is for travelers who want culture in their stay. Two buildings, one dating to 1780, house rotating art exhibits and tours. Guests rave about the walkability to restaurants, the harbor, and City Market.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (8.0) and an elevator serve the property. Parking is available (valet style—no underground option). Breakfast is complimentary for all rooms. Note: the main lobby underwent a makeover from January to March 2022—check if that’s relevant to your dates. Late check-in is available until midnight. Pets are allowed with fees. Minimum check-in age is 21. Cancellation is free up to 72 hours before arrival.
Choose this if: You want an art-focused stay with a perfect French Quarter location
Check Tonight’s Price for The Vendue, Downtown Art Hotel →
18. Home2 Suites By Hilton Charleston Daniel Island, Sc
The Vibe
“Rooms were big, clean and beautiful. Breakfast was amazing” is the kind of consistency Home2 Suites delivers on Daniel Island. Wi-Fi hits a perfect 10.0, and Cleanliness scores 9.4. The property has an outdoor swimming pool, and kitchens come standard. It’s a solid extended-stay option in a quieter part of Charleston.
What You Actually Get
In-room kitchens are standard across all suites. Free Wi-Fi with a perfect 10.0 rating means seamless streaming and work calls. Pets are allowed with fees. Free parking is on-site. The outdoor pool and elevator access round out the amenities. Group policy shifts at 9+ rooms. Check-out runs until 11:30 AM—slightly later than average. Daniel Island itself is a planned community with parks and walking trails.
Choose this if: You need reliable internet and kitchen access on Daniel Island
Check Tonight’s Price for Home2 Suites By Hilton Charleston Daniel Island, Sc →
19. The Jasmine House
The Vibe
“Stunning and historical. Exceptional location!” and “The breakfast literally took my breath away” are not exaggerated reviews—The Jasmine House delivers on both. An 1843 Greek Revival mansion in Ansonborough, it’s a piece of living Charleston history. Location 9.8 and Staff 9.6 earned through genuine Southern hospitality.
What You Actually Get
This is a full bed-and-breakfast experience. Breakfast is currently grab-and-go style (confirm if that’s changed). Private parking is included—rare at this level. All rooms have hair dryers and iron/ironing boards. Free Wi-Fi (8.5) is available. Note: there is no front desk on-site—plan your check-in accordingly. Children are not allowed. No pets. Group policy shifts at 4+ rooms. The proprietor’s flat is on the third floor.
Choose this if: You want a historic Charleston mansion B&B that’s walkable to everything
20. The Pinch Charleston
The Vibe
“Conveniently located just off King Street but never heard any of the street noise” is the ideal review for a downtown hotel. Cleanliness 9.8 and Comfort 9.8 put The Pinch at the top tier. Free bikes mean you can explore Charleston without a car. The property is in soft-opening phase with a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast featuring local pastries.
What You Actually Get
Private parking at the hotel is included. The fitness center and free bikes are available for guest use. Breakfast is complimentary grab-and-go with coffee, tea, local pastries, fresh fruit, and yogurt—no full restaurant on-site yet (they’re in soft-opening). Late check-in is available until midnight. No pets allowed. Wi-Fi scores 7.5. The area is quiet despite being near King Street. Children of all ages are welcome.
Choose this if: You want a clean, quiet stay steps from King Street with free bikes to explore
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#1 Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston
The highest-rated property on the list (9.5) with free dinner, drinks, and breakfast—unbeatable all-in value.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston →
đź’° Best Value
#3 Barksdale House Inn
Historic inn with Staff 9.7 and Location 9.7 in downtown Charleston—excellent pricing for the French Quarter.
🏖️ Best French Quarter Location
#6 Harbourview Inn
Location score 9.9 overlooking Waterfront Park with breakfast delivered to your room.
How We Ranked These Charleston Hotels
I evaluated 20 hotels across Charleston using 9600+ verified guest reviews, filtering for properties that scored 8.0+ overall and delivered consistent performance across cleanliness, location, and staff categories.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to French Quarter, City Market, and Waterfront Park for downtown properties; airport and highway access for suburban picks
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Charleston hotels?
Several properties on this list welcome pets. The Drury Plaza Hotel North Charleston, Candlewood Suites Mt. Pleasant, Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport, Staybridge Suites Mt. Pleasant, Aloft by Marriott Airport, Home2 Suites Daniel Island, Staybridge Suites North Charleston, and The Vendue all allow pets with possible fees. The Iris charges $175 per pet per stay. Properties like Harbourview Inn, French Quarter Inn, and The Spectator Hotel do not allow pets. Always confirm the specific pet policy and fees directly with the hotel before booking.
Which hotels offer free cancellation in Charleston?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and property across all hotels in this guide. The Vendue offers a 72-hour cancellation policy with no charge—cancel inside that window and you lose the first night’s room and tax. Most other properties, including the Drury Plaza Hotel, Cambria Hotel Mt. Pleasant, and Market Pavilion Hotel, have policies that vary depending on the rate you select. When searching for rates on Booking.com, filter for “Free cancellation” to see which rooms and dates qualify before you book.
When is the best time to visit Charleston?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are Charleston’s sweet spots—temperatures sit in the 60s-70s and humidity drops. Summer brings crowds and heat, but also outdoor events like Spoleto Festival. Winter is the quietest and cheapest season, with daytime highs in the 50s. If you’re booking the Quality Inn Mt. Pleasant, note their seasonal pool opens Memorial Day weekend. For French Quarter properties like Harbourview Inn or Market Pavilion Hotel, spring and fall offer the best walking weather for exploring the historic district.
Can I check in late at these Charleston hotels?
Most hotels have flexible check-in windows. The Vendue allows check-in until midnight, and The Pinch Charleston accepts late arrivals until 12:00 AM. Barksdale House Inn has a strict 7:00 PM check-in cutoff—if you’re arriving after that, contact them directly. The Charlestonian allows check-in until 11:00 PM. Properties like the Drury Plaza, Cambria Hotel, and Hampton Inn Airport offer standard 3:00 PM check-in times without a strict late cutoff, but it’s best to notify them of late arrivals. French Quarter Inn and Market Pavilion Hotel open check-in at 4:00 PM.
What’s the most walkable area in Charleston to stay in?
The French Quarter is Charleston’s most walkable neighborhood—it connects City Market, Waterfront Park, East Bay Street restaurants, and the historic district within a few blocks. Properties like Harbourview Inn (Location 9.9), Market Pavilion Hotel (Location 9.9), French Quarter Inn (Location 9.8), and The Spectator Hotel (Location 9.8) are all located here. The Ansonborough district is also highly walkable, with The Jasmine House scoring a 9.8 Location. For suburban walkability, the Aloft by Marriott Charleston Airport is walking distance to Tanger Outlets and nearby restaurants.
How do I get from Charleston International Airport to downtown?
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is about 12 miles from downtown. Several properties offer free airport shuttles: Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport runs a 24-hour shuttle within 5 miles, and Aloft by Marriott Airport offers a free shuttle from 7 AM to 11 PM. Staybridge Suites North Charleston provides shuttle service within a 5-mile radius. If you’re staying downtown without a shuttle, rideshare costs roughly $25-35. Properties with free on-site parking like The Charlestonian and 20 South Battery make renting a car a viable option for exploring Mount Pleasant and the beaches.