Charleston Place is more than just a hotel—it’s an immersion into the charm and sophistication that define the city. Positioned on Meeting Street, Charleston Place is within walking distance of the city’s most cherished landmarks, from the Charleston City Market to the pastel-painted homes of Rainbow Row. It serves as the perfect launching pad for exploring the cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture that make Charleston one of the most beloved cities in America.
Staying on the
Club Level at Charleston Place elevates the experience even further. Accessible by private keycard, the Club Level offers an intimate, personalized escape from the bustle of the city below. From the moment I stepped off the elevator, I was greeted by attentive staff ready to assist with any need, whether it was dining reservations, activity planning, or simply offering a glass of chilled champagne.
The Club Lounge itself is a haven of quiet elegance, offering guests complimentary all-day refreshments, including breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening hors d'oeuvres. Sipping a morning coffee while overlooking the rooftops of Charleston from the lounge’s balcony became a favorite ritual. The staff exudes genuine Southern hospitality, making you feel less like a guest and more like a VIP in your own private residence.
On my first night, I chose to ease into my stay with a visit to the Thoroughbred Club, Charleston Place’s intimate, yet sophisticated lounge. Located just off the grand lobby, the Thoroughbred Club offers a warm ambiance reminiscent of the city’s aristocratic roots. Decorated with rich wood, leather seating, and equestrian-themed art, the space evokes Charleston’s love affair with horse racing.
I settled in with one of their signature cocktails, an artfully crafted Southern classic that paired perfectly with live jazz music filling the air. The Thoroughbred Club offers a menu of light bites, so I enjoyed a few small plates—perfectly seared scallops and a charcuterie board brimming with local cheeses and meats. The ambiance, paired with impeccable service, made it an ideal way to begin my Charleston experience.
The following morning, I set out to explore the city, energized from the Club Level’s breakfast spread of freshly baked croissants, fresh fruit, and locally sourced Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits. Charleston’s charm lies not only in its architecture but also in its walkability, and staying at Charleston Place means you’re within steps of many of its most famous landmarks.
My first stop was the Charleston City Market, one of the nation’s oldest public markets, where local artisans sell everything from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry. Just a short stroll away was Rainbow Row, a collection of 18th-century homes painted in vibrant pastel hues, each one telling its own story from Charleston’s storied past. I wandered through The Battery, lined with historic mansions, while gazing out at Fort Sumter in the distance, imagining the city during its heyday in the Civil War era.
Charleston’s streets are alive with history, and every corner holds a new story. Whether you’re admiring the colonial-era churches, snapping photos of hidden gardens, or enjoying a leisurely carriage ride, the city invites you to slow down and absorb its rich past at every turn.
The pièces de résistance dinner that evening was at Charleston Grill, the hotel’s renowned signature restaurant. A Charleston classic, the refined, award-winning Charleston Grill is renowned for its unparalleled dining experience and warm hospitality. Helmed by Chef de Cuisine Suzy Castelloe, who was mentored by legendary chef Michelle Weaver, the Charleston Grill offers a menu that draws deeply from the flavors and traditions of the South. The seasonal menu highlights locally sourced ingredients from purveyors across the Lowcountry, delivering dishes that are both innovative and rooted in regional history.
The evening began with an indulgent appetizer of truffle caviar, an elegant and surprising start. The rich, earthy notes of the truffles combined with the delicate saltiness of the caviar created an extraordinary harmony of flavors—luxury on a plate. Paired with a glass of vintage champagne, it was a sensory experience that set the stage for what would be a memorable meal.
For my main course, I chose the Colorado Lamb Loin, a dish as refined as it was hearty. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, with a delicate crust that gave way to its perfectly pink center. Served alongside seasonal vegetables and a rich, flavorful reduction, each bite was a testament to Chef Castelloe’s mastery of blending modern techniques with classic Southern flavors. The depth of the lamb’s natural flavors was enhanced by subtle spices and herbs, making it the kind of dish that lingers in your memory long after the meal is over.
Charleston Place’s history is as intertwined with the city’s renaissance as the landmarks that surround it. Opened in 1986 as part of the revitalization of downtown Charleston, the hotel was envisioned as a grand tribute to Charleston’s architectural and cultural heritage. Its designers meticulously crafted its classic exterior to blend seamlessly with the historic district, paying homage to Charleston’s golden era. Today, the hotel is a cornerstone of the city’s luxury travel scene, offering guests a seamless blend of past and present.
Charleston Place is more than just a luxurious place to rest your head—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Charleston itself. From the exclusive Club Level to the historic streets just steps outside the door, every moment is steeped in comfort and culture.
