Charleston Great Values

This contemporary, boutique hotel provides a respite for those tired of Charleston’s seemingly ubiquitous, frilly, antebellum décor. Fifty rooms have a simple, classic look; the hotel restaurant, Tristan, has a chic, ultra modern vibe and an upscale, American menu.

Smack in the middle of the historic district, this chain hotel has great regional touches, such as an interior courtyard, high-ceilinged lobby, and 182 spacious, modern suites.

Clip-clop around the city in an old-fashioned buggy pulled by an enormous Percheron, draft horse while a guide expounds on three centuries of Charleston history. Classic Carriage is one of several popular horse tour operators in town.

South Carolina soul food at its finest, this homey cafe has checkered tablecloths and to-die-for...more

You can’t miss this bustling outdoors market, a Charleston institution since the late 18th century. Vendors hawk souvenirs like sweet grass baskets, local art, and candies to huge crowds of tourists.