Downtown Charleston
Charleston
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor
Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Old Town Trolley Tour of Charleston
Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston
Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
The Francis Marion Hotel
"Very outdated. Tiny bathroom. Didn't warrant the price. Parking was expensive and inconvenient. Couldn't control air conditioning."
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
The Ryder Hotel
"Located in close proximity to all of the attractions in the French Quarter. We were able to walk to everything. The property itself was so quaint and all the staff were very friendly and helpful. The food was great in the restaurant too and it was so nice to end our day with a dip in the pool. We ..."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Emeline
"Had a water leak in our room floor near table was wet smelled a bit musty. Wanted a late night snacker and nothing realistic and no sweet tea!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
The Charleston Place
"Wonderful stay! Love the renovation. Looking forward to the spa opening eventually. I assume it will exceed expectations as The Charleston Place always does!!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
The Vendue
"You enter into an art gallery with lots of paintings, sculptures and more to look at and engage with. A very nice fine dining restaurant and a great rooftop bar/cafe. Excellent service and can walk to almost anywhere you'd want to go."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Hotel Bennett
"It’s a beautiful hotel worth visiting when you’re in Charleston"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
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.
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.
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.
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
