Market Pavilion Hotel  

In the heart of downtown Charleston, this 4.5-star Beaux Arts luxury hotel sits steps from the Charleston City Market and the Port of Charleston, with Waterfront Park and the College of Charleston minutes away. Perfect for waterfront walks, history runs and downtown dining—ideal search terms: downtown Charleston hotel, luxury hotel, family-friendly stay.

Seventy guestrooms mix classic Southern decadence with modern touches. Expect pillowtop beds with down comforters and Frette Italian sheets, flat-screen TVs, laptop-compatible safes, desks and private baths with separate tubs and showers—some rooms include bathrobes and slippers. The vibe is polished and slightly edgy: designer toiletries, digital programming and 24-hour reception with multilingual staff keep things smooth.

Swim in the outdoor pool and sip at the poolside bar, or sweat it out in the 24-hour fitness center. Rent a bike to explore the waterfront, use concierge and tour assistance to book local excursions, and enjoy on-site parking and laundry/dry-cleaning services. Wake up to waterfront breezes and family-friendly touches like babysitting/childcare (surcharge). Complimentary wired and wireless internet is available throughout.

A 24-hour business center, meeting rooms and event facilities make this a good pick for small conferences and private events. Complimentary high-speed (wired) internet, concierge support and limo/town-car service are on hand for planners.

Three on-site dining options include Grill 225, an American steakhouse noted among the Great Steakhouses of North America, plus a coffee shop/café for snacks. Order room service during limited hours, or grab a cocktail at the Pavilion Bar—famous for city views—and the poolside bar for casual drinks.