Charleston Hotel Round-Up
Words by Christiana Roussel
Photos provided by Emeline and Lindsey Shorter, The Ryder Hotel, and Hotel Loutrel
FWIW, Charleston is always a good idea – this historic Southern city plays host to so many fun annual events: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, Charleston Food & Wine Festival, Spoleto Festival to name a few. Equal parts arts, culture, outdoor activities, and phenomenal food, there is no bad time to visit the Holy City. And with more travelers on the road than ever, these three new hotels should be tops on your list, for the best Lowcountry getaway.
Emeline
VIBE: Nestled amongst the cobblestone streets and brightly colored row houses in Charleston’s historic district, Emeline feels at once fresh and new yet grounded and connected to the history of this city. While the layout of the lobby is wonderfully untraditional (take the ramp to check-in, so you’re sure to pass the gallery of found objects), guests entering the hotel will immediately sense the property’s intentional hospitality. Frannie & The Fox, the hotel’s wood-fired eatery, is a hot spot with guests and locals alike while the Clerks Coffee Company café makes getting your morning joe a delight.
DON’T MISS: Guest suites come with Crosley turntables and custom vinyl, perfect to set the mood for your next adventure, while the Wildsam Field Guide will help you unearth new nooks and crannies to explore in this Southern city. Guests may reserve Emeline bikes or Mini-Coopers to get around town in style. And if Fido has joined you on your travels, be sure to ask for your custom dog mat, bowls and treats. If you’re looking for just the right memento of this trip, pop into the hotel’s Keep Shop where a curated array of goods from local artisans will making choosing just one thing, that much harder.
RATES: Rates start at $349 a night but check the hotel’s website for special offerings.
Ryder Hotel
VIBE: Sand, coral and soft palm-green-colored interiors, with a modern coastal aesthetic, the Ryder hotel will definitely help you tap into your inner bohemian spirit. Rooms are well-considered for free-spirited guests who appreciate light-wood tones and soft organic lines to their furniture; luxe linens and amenities feel anything but spartan. The cozy lounge furniture provides some pretty Insta-worthy spots for catching up on texts. You could be somewhere in southern California, or Austin, Texas with how hip this place feels but you’re smack dab in one of the best parts of the Holy City.
DON’T MISS: The hotel’s Little Palm poolside café and bar on the second floor is the big draw here. Locals want what hotel guests have ready access to – cocktails like the Raspberry Beret or Seven Day Weekend, tuna poke, ice cold briny oysters and gooey smash burgers – set against the backdrop of rattan and wicker furniture. This is prime ray-catching space where the sounds of Meeting Street just below, remind you of how in-the-middle-of-it-all this hotel is. Your local friends will be clamoring for an invite.
RATES: Rates start at $229 a night but check the hotel’s website for special offerings.
The Loutrel
VIBE: Wonderfully situated in Charleston’s historic district and a short stroll to the best of King Street shopping, the Loutrel is a sophisticated respite from the hustle-and-bustle of the Holy City. An airy white-and-marine-blue hued lobby, with soaring ceilings and diffused light, sets the tone for your stay. While only open since last fall, notes of both old and new Charleston can be found throughout the hotel – bath amenities from local purveyor Deep Steep will have you feeling like a local right away. Guest rooms feel richly residential, like your favorite aunt has loaned you her home for the weekend.
DON’T MISS: Even though the entire city will be beckoning you to see and do, the Loutrel’s thoughtful comforts beckon you to stay just a bit longer. Their rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city where you can share a preprandial cocktail with other guests and hear local lore from the hotel’s resident tour guide. The exclusive guest-only lounge on the mezzanine level features snacks from local makers like Craize and Grey Ghost Bakery. Board games, puzzles and books on loan ensure indoor entertainment when the inevitable afternoon rain shower passes through.
RATES: Rates start at $299 a night but check the hotel’s website for special offerings.