Many hotels in downtown Charleston, South Carolina are nothing short of dreamy and sophisticated. I have had the privilege of being hosted in several, and can tell you for a fact that The Charleston Place, and Hotel Bennett are luxury redefined. Each and every Charleston hotel has its own charm, and personality. So it may be challenging to choose the right place for you and your family.
My family was hosted at The Charleston Place and Hotel Bennett in December of 2023. So, the weather was cooler, Christmas decorations were up, and holiday events were taking place. Costs, food and other activities may differ from season to season so always check online for current prices, menus, offerings and activities.
So let’s talk about The Charleston Place (pictures above). We were invited to stay at this 5 star hotel in December of 2023. The decorations were up, and the “snow” was falling each night in the courtyard, which we had a great view of from our room! The lobby is stunning year round. With the staircase, chandelier, and live music playing, you see right away that your visit is going to be special.
–Location : Located at 205 Meeting Street, Downtown Charleston makes this easily walkable to the Charleston Market, shopping, and other off-site dining options.
–Rooms: There are around 434 rooms total. The standard room size, according to Travel US News is 400 square feet. Alongside these lovely room options, they also offer one and two bedroom suites. Check online for all of the room and suite options offered here.
–Cleanliness: This place is clean, comfortable and beautiful. As my teenager would say, the “aesthetic” is divine.
–Staff: Friendly, and helpful. From the people at the front desk, to the valet, to the room service, you will not miss out on that Southern charm and friendly faces.
–Family Friendly: This hotel is fancy, yet family friendly. They host multiple family friendly events throughout the year, with children in mind. The balance between luxury and comfort is perfect here. I wonder how they do it? It’s perfection.
–Pet friendly: Pets are welcomed to stay here, but are not allowed in dining areas or left unattended in the guest rooms. Ask the concierge for pet sitting options!
–Dining: Several Dining Options on site to choose from, as well as wonderful in-room service. (If you can swing it, try the room service for breakfast. The coffee is SO good.) Restaurants on site include The Charleston Grill (classic Charleston food), The Palmetto Cafe (Lowcountry classics to French-inspired dishes), the Thoroughbred Club (drinks, desserts and live music) and Meeting at Market (classic pub vibes where you can watch your favorite team on the big screen).
–Amenities: There is a rooftop saltwater pool, workout facilities, sauna, jacuzzi, pool bar, and relaxation rooms. There are shops located on the main floor of the hotel. The Charleston Place offers a Club Level with a two story lounge, complimentary beverages, luxury rooms and more. They offer free bike rentals for all guests so you can easily get around downtown. Oh and if you need a facial, massage or nails treated, book an appointment at the Spa here. They even offer two spa treatments for children 12 and under! Needless to say, the amenities are on point.
–Parking: The hotel itself only offers valet parking at $52/night. However, there is a parking garage directly next to the hotel.
–Cost: If you are looking for a cheap, budget friendly place to stay, this is not it. But the offerings here really are wonderful for the price. And since the location allows you to walk to most places, you will save in other ways such as gas and parking.
Next up is Hotel Bennett. From the moment we pulled up to the hotel, and saw the valet come out in his coat with tails, we knew this was going to be an experience. My kids told us we “didn’t belong here” and I told them that we were going to pretend like we did, and enjoy every second. And we did.
Being a 5 star boutique hotel, Hotel Bennett is all about luxury. It may be better suited for a couple’s vacation or one with older children or teenagers in tow. The room we stayed in here was quite large, and the bathroom was huge. There were less guests staying here at the time we went (in between Thanksgiving and Christmas), which made it nice and quiet. We were given access to the King’s Club, which is a private area full of games, drinks, and meals. When we were staying here, the weather was chilly but if we had been staying here in warmer months, we would have enjoyed the outdoor terrace at the club. Instead, we enjoyed the fireplace inside instead.
–Location: Located at 404 King Street, this is the perfect place to stay for all the dining and shopping in Downtown Charleston.
–Rooms: There are around 179 rooms total. The standard room size, according to Travel US News is 355 square feet. Alongside their many room options, they also offer one and two bedroom suites, some with private seating areas and even private terraces. Check out all of the options online.
–Cleanliness: This place is sparkling. No worries about being clean. Take a bath and enjoy yourself.
–Staff: The staff at the front desk is so helpful! Make sure to ask them for any advice on where to eat, or what to do.
–Family Friendly: It is family friendly, and they do host events for families throughout the year. Especially at Christmastime, don’t miss their gingerbread house in the lobby and hot chocolate!
–Pet Friendly: Dogs are allowed in guest rooms but not in public spaces. They may dine with you if you are seated outdoors. Only two dogs per room, and they must at or under 25 lbs. An additional $200 cleaning fee will be charged to your room.
–Dining: Wonderful dining options on site such as Gabrielle (elegant dining spot), Fiat Lux (rooftop dining & bar), Camellias (drinks, charcuterie, seafood, and desserts), and La Patisserie (Parisian cafe).
–Amenities: This hotel has something for everyone. The (heated) rooftop pool is a great place to relax, take the kids for a swim or enjoy a cocktail with a view. You can even rent a cabana while you’re here. If you need a massage or a facial, book an appointment with the Spa at Hotel Bennett . And the fitness room is here so you don’t have to worry about all the delicious food you will enjoy. There is even a boutique on the premises with clothing, jewelry, and gifts. And of course, they offer the King’s Club level access if you want even more privacy, dining options, or concierge to help plan your stay in the Holy City.
–Parking: The hotel offers valet parking for $47/overnight or $18/day with complimentary in and out access all day in case you need your vehicle. For oversized vehicles, there is the Charleston Visitor’s Center Parking Garage located at 63 Mary Street (8 minute walk to Hotel Bennett).
–Cost: I am going to be real with you. This is not easy on the pocket book, but if you want to be spoiled and enjoy a gorgeous hotel, this is definitely the place to splurge. Spoil yourself or someone you love with a staycation here! They will never forget it. Trust me on this.
What can I say? Both of these hotels are worth all the hype. Their hospitality, amenities, locations and luxury are unsurpassed. Truly two of the nicest places we have ever stayed as a family.
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