What it is

The center of the action.

What it isn't

Historic. The Georgian-style double staircase in the lobby notwithstanding, the hotel was built in the 1970s.

What we think

In a city filled with enviable locations, Charleston Place has perhaps the most covetable: the historic market is just outside the front door, King Street's boutiques are out the back. Within are 435 rooms that exude Southern charm, with poster beds, reading nooks and original art; plush bathrooms are tiled in Italian marble. There's also a hopping lobby bar, a pool with a retractable roof, a high-end shopping arcade, three restaurants (the Charleston Grill features live jazz) and a spa. But it's the service—personal, helpful and genteel—that keeps guests coming back again and again.

You're here because

You want that famous Charleston charm, but also the amenities, service levels and convenience of a large hotel.

The Moment

Up on the fourth floor, you're floating in the warm salt- and mineral-water pool, gazing up at the skylight—when suddently the glass roof begins to retract, allowing the warm Carolina air to rush in. .

Restaurants & Bars

Charleston Grill - American

Palmetto Cafe

Thoroughbred Club

The hotel lobby bar

Location

Right in the middle of Charleston's historic downtown, 20 minutes from the international airport.