Charleston, South Carolina Motels

While the iconic novel and Hollywood movie, "Gone With the Wind," was set in Atlanta, Georgia, just the mention of Charleston, South Carolina, conjures up similar images of the Old South, Civil War-era plantations and grand southern mansions. Indeed, Charleston is a city steeped in Southern culture. While the city offers a wealth of man-made sites and attractions, there is an abundance of natural areas and wildlife to be seen in neighboring state parks, forests, wetlands and islands. Hike trails abound, such as the 42-mile-long Swamp Fox Passage of the Palmetto Trail, which winds through Francis Marion National Forest, according to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Choose from a variety of accommodations to get a restful night's sleep after a day of exploration in and around this historic harbor city.

French Quarter Inn

Treat yourself to luxury accommodations at the French Quarter Inn where you will receive free champagne and ladyfingers at check-in, and enjoy complimentary gourmet continental breakfast each morning, wine and cheese in the afternoon, and free fresh baked cookies and milk in the evening. The French Quarter Inn boasts of "over sized rooms and suites with 12-foot ceilings, triple sheeted beds, and classically simple European linens." Relax in your room in front of a 40-inch flat screen television. Room amenities also include Blu-Ray DVD player, CD player and clock radio, mini refrigerator, safe, and Internet access. Most suites have a fireplace and balcony. There is a restaurant on site. No smoking or pets are permitted at this historic hotel. Rates start at about $149 (as of 2009).

French Quarter Inn
166 Church Street
Charleston, SC 29401
(866) 812-1900
fqicharleston.com

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham

Only a little more than seven miles from Fort Sumter Tours and James Island County Park and 15 miles from Kiawah Island, the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham is an extended stay hotel with large suites. All rooms have kitchenettes with full-size refrigerators/freezers. Amenities include complimentary hot breakfast buffet, free Internet access, free local calls and free parking. Laundry facilities, a heated indoor swimming pool and a fitness center are all on site. Safe deposit boxes are available at the front desk. A free airport shuttle is also available upon request. Pets are allowed for an additional $50 per stay. Rates start at about $73 (as of 2009).

Hawthron Suites by Wyndham Charleston
2455 Savannah Hwy.
Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 225-4411
hawthorn.com

Best Western King Charles Inn

The historic Best Western King Charles Inn, a smoke-free property with 91 rooms with luxury baths, free wireless Internet access, LCD T.V.s, safes, mini refrigerators, and coffee makers. A gourmet breakfast is available each morning, and while it is not free, it is "affordable," according to the inn's website. There is an outdoor pool and fitness center. Pets are not allowed. Rates start at $79 (as of 2009).

Best Western King Charles Inn
237 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29401
(866) 546-4700
kingcharlesinn.com

Motel 6

If you do not plan on spending much time at your hotel and you just want a cheap place to rest your head at night, consider Motel 6. You can enjoy free coffee, free local calls and free cable T.V. here, but that is about it when it comes to complimentary amenities. Internet is available in all rooms for a $2.99 charge for 24 hours. Pets are allowed for an additional $10 per day fee, but there is no charge for service animals. Children under 17 stay free in the same room with at least one adult. Rates start at $42 (as of 2009).

Motel 6
2058 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 556-5144
motel6.com

Article Written By Kandra Sperling

Kandra Sperling is a freelance writer and photojournalist with more than 30 years' experience. She has worked as a community news editor, writer and photographer for the "Morning News of Northwest Arkansas." She has received three awards from the National Press Women's Association and numerous state awards. Sperling earned a bachelor's degree in English and journalism from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.

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