Downtown Charleston
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.
Port of Charleston
Explore the waterfront in Charleston with a trip to Port of Charleston. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
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.
The Citadel
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of The Citadel, during your travels in Charleston. Visit the area's stunning cathedral or amble around its beautiful beaches.
Things to do
Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
Sightseeing Bus Tour of Charleston with Adventure Sightseeing
Folly River Dolphin Adventure (options for private or public)
Charleston: See it All City Tour with Adventure Sightseeing
Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
Emeline
First we loved the lobby architecture and that we were upgraded to a suite. Secondly the bar was a real good vibe place to have a drink and even dinner, which we really enjoyed.
Reviewed on Dec 28, 2025
The Francis Marion Hotel
Great location with a comfortable room and accessible common area. Complimentary coffee and cookies in the lobby were a nice touch.
Reviewed on Jan 1, 2026
Planters Inn
Spacious rooms, great location.
Reviewed on Dec 28, 2025
Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District
Front desk staff were exceptional!!
Reviewed on Jan 1, 2026
The Ryder Hotel
Such a fun little hotel
Reviewed on Jan 2, 2026
Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton
The room was absolutely beautiful just like the hotel itself! The holiday decorations made me feel very festive!
Reviewed on Dec 27, 2025
Check Downtown Charleston hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Charleston
King Street
While visiting King Street, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall.
Radcliffeborough
While there might not be top attractions in Radcliffeborough, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Music Farm and Charleston Music Hall.
Harleston Village
If you're spending some time in Harleston Village, Marion Square and Colonial Lake are top sights worth seeing.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
While visiting Cannonborough Elliotborough, you might make a stop by sights like Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.
Charleston Historic District
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Charleston Historic District. Make a stop by Charleston City Market or Shops at Charleston Place while you're exploring the area.
Ansonborough
If you're spending some time in Ansonborough, South Carolina Aquarium and International African American Museum are top sights worth seeing.
