Planning a family trip to Charleston, South Carolina? This historic coastal city is known for its charming cobblestone streets, stunning waterfront views, and a rich blend of Southern culture and hospitality. But when traveling with kids, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference.
From spacious suites and kid-friendly amenities to convenient locations near top attractions, we’ve rounded up the five best family-friendly hotels in Charleston to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy inn with all the essentials, these hotels cater to families of all sizes. Let’s dive in!
The Ryder Hotel
Nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, The Ryder Hotel offers a perfect blend of laid-back luxury and family-friendly comfort. With its welcoming atmosphere, stylish decor, and convenient location, this boutique hotel is an excellent choice for families visiting the Holy City. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites, enjoy waterfront views, or simply relax by the pool, The Ryder ensures a stay that both parents and kids will love! 😊
Why It’s Great for Families
- Outdoor Pool Fun – Kids will love splashing around in the outdoor swimming pool, while parents can unwind with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar.
- Spacious & Cozy Rooms – The hotel’s well-designed rooms provide a comfortable and relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Many accommodations offer extra space, perfect for families traveling together.
- On-Site Dining – No need to go far when hunger strikes! The Little Palm café serves delicious bites that the whole family can enjoy, making mealtime a breeze. 🍽️
Average Price Per Night
A stay at The Ryder Hotel typically averages around $218 per night (check deals here), depending on the season and availability. It’s a great option for families seeking a stylish yet affordable place to stay in Charleston.
Attractions Within Walking Distance
One of the best things about The Ryder Hotel is its prime location, putting families just steps away from some of Charleston’s top attractions:
- Charleston City Market – Just a short walk away, this historic market is a must-visit for families. Kids will love browsing the handmade crafts and tasting local treats! 🛍️
- Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain – A 10-minute stroll will take you to this beautiful park, where little ones can run around while parents soak in the scenic views.
- South Carolina Aquarium – Perfect for curious young minds, the aquarium offers interactive exhibits, sea turtles, and plenty of marine life to explore. 🐠
- King Street Shopping District – Just one block away, this vibrant area is filled with charming boutiques, ice cream shops, and family-friendly restaurants.
Whether you’re visiting Charleston for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, The Ryder Hotel offers a fun, stylish, and convenient place for families to stay. With its modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and unbeatable location, it’s a top pick for an unforgettable trip! 😃✨
French Quarter Inn
For families looking to experience Southern hospitality with a touch of luxury, French Quarter Inn is a top choice in Charleston. Located in the heart of the city’s charming French Quarter, this elegant boutique hotel is known for its exceptional service, spacious accommodations, and thoughtful amenities that make it an ideal stay for families. From complimentary treats to a prime location near Charleston’s top attractions, this hotel ensures that both kids and parents enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation. 😊
Why It’s Great for Families
- Spacious & Elegant Rooms – Families will love the extra space, plush bedding, and cozy atmosphere of the beautifully decorated rooms. Some suites even include balconies, offering stunning views of historic Charleston. 🌇
- Complimentary Perks – Who doesn’t love free snacks? Guests are treated to complimentary breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese, and nightly cookies with milk – a hit with both kids and adults! 🍪🥛
- Personalized Service – The warm and attentive staff go above and beyond to make families feel at home, from offering kid-friendly recommendations to providing extra comforts like cribs and rollaway beds.
- Bicycles & Board Games – Families can explore the city on the hotel’s complimentary bicycles or enjoy a cozy game night with a selection of classic board games. 🚲🎲
Average Price Per Night
A stay at French Quarter Inn typically averages around $400 per night (check deals here), making it a luxurious yet family-friendly option for those looking to indulge in Charleston’s charm. While it’s on the higher end, the included perks, top-tier service, and unbeatable location make it well worth the price!
Attractions Within Walking Distance
One of the best things about French Quarter Inn is its central location, putting families within a short stroll of Charleston’s most famous attractions, including city market, pineapple fountain, aquarium. You can also Hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride right outside the hotel and take in Charleston’s history in the most fun and family-friendly way. 🐴🏡.
Francis Marion Hotel
For families seeking a blend of history, charm, and comfort, Francis Marion Hotel is a fantastic choice in downtown Charleston. As one of the city’s most historic hotels, this elegant 1924 landmark offers spacious accommodations, kid-friendly amenities, and a prime location right in the heart of the action. Whether you’re exploring nearby attractions, enjoying the scenic views of Marion Square, or indulging in Southern hospitality, Francis Marion Hotel makes family travel both easy and enjoyable. 😊
Why It’s Great for Families
- Spacious & Comfortable Rooms – Families will love the large, well-appointed rooms and suites, perfect for spreading out after a busy day of sightseeing. Some even offer breathtaking views of the Charleston harbor! 🌊
- Historic Charm with Modern Comforts – While the hotel embraces its historic roots, it offers modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush bedding to keep the whole family comfortable.
- On-Site Dining – The Swamp Fox Restaurant & Bar serves delicious Southern-inspired cuisine, offering kid-friendly options for even the pickiest eaters. 🍽️
- Adjacent to Marion Square – Located right next to Marion Square, the hotel gives kids plenty of space to run around, play, and enjoy the occasional farmers’ market or seasonal events. 🌳
Average Price Per Night
The Francis Marion Hotel typically averages around $220 per night (check deals here), making it an affordable yet upscale option for families looking to experience Charleston’s charm without breaking the bank.
Attractions Within Walking Distance
One of the biggest perks of staying at Francis Marion Hotel is its convenient location, allowing families to explore many of Charleston’s top attractions on foot:
- King Street Shopping District – Just steps away, this lively street is packed with kid-friendly boutiques, ice cream shops, and casual dining spots. A great place to grab souvenirs or a sweet treat! 🍦
- Charleston Museum & Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry – Just a 10-minute walk away, these museums are perfect for young explorers, featuring hands-on exhibits, historic artifacts, and interactive play areas. 🏛️
Mills House Charleston
For families looking to experience historic Charleston in style, Mills House Charleston is a fantastic choice. With its stunning pink facade, charming courtyard, and warm Southern hospitality, this iconic hotel offers both comfort and convenience for parents and kids alike. Located in the heart of the historic district, it’s just steps away from some of Charleston’s best attractions, making it easy to explore the city on foot. Whether you’re relaxing by the outdoor pool or strolling through the nearby cobblestone streets, Mills House promises an unforgettable family stay. 😊
Why It’s Great for Families
- Spacious & Stylish Rooms – Families will appreciate the comfortable, well-appointed rooms and suites, many of which offer beautiful views of downtown Charleston. The plush beds and modern amenities ensure a relaxing stay for everyone. 🏨
- Outdoor Pool & Courtyard – Kids will love splashing around in the outdoor pool, while parents can unwind in the gorgeous courtyard oasis—the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. 🌿🏊♀️
- On-Site Dining – The hotel’s restaurant, Iron Rose, serves up delicious Southern-inspired dishes that appeal to all ages, plus there’s plenty of kid-friendly options for even the pickiest eaters. 🍽️
Average Price Per Night
A stay at Mills House Charleston typically averages around $300 per night (check deals here), depending on the season. While it leans toward the luxury end, the prime location, beautiful amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable Charleston trip.
Attractions Within Walking Distance
One of the best parts of staying at Mills House Charleston is its prime location, allowing families to explore the city’s top spots without needing a car:
- Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon – A fun and educational stop, this historic site offers interactive tours that kids will love, bringing Charleston’s past to life. 🏛️
- Rainbow Row – Just a short stroll from the hotel, this colorful row of historic homes is perfect for a family photo op and a little history lesson for the kids. 🌈📸
The Restoration Charleston
For families seeking a mix of modern luxury and Southern charm, The Restoration Charleston is an excellent choice. This boutique hotel offers a warm, home-like atmosphere while still providing all the amenities of a high-end stay. Its spacious suites, rooftop views, and central location make it perfect for families who want both comfort and convenience. Whether you’re unwinding in your expansive suite, grabbing breakfast from the hotel’s gourmet provisions shop, or setting out to explore Charleston’s historic streets, The Restoration offers an unforgettable family experience. 😊
Why It’s Great for Families
- Spacious & Apartment-Style Suites – Unlike traditional hotel rooms, The Restoration offers loft-style suites with full kitchens, living areas, and plenty of space, making it ideal for families who need a little extra room. Some even feature balconies with beautiful city views! 🌆
- Complimentary Breakfast Baskets – Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast delivered to your suite each morning, featuring fresh pastries, fruit, and coffee – a great way to fuel up before exploring the city! 🥐☕
- Rooftop Pool & Lounge – Kids will love splashing in the rooftop pool, while parents can relax and take in the stunning views of downtown Charleston. 🏊♂️
- In-Room Movie Nights & Library Access – Families can cozy up for a movie night in their suite or pick out a great book from the hotel’s library collection. 📚🎬
Average Price Per Night
A stay at The Restoration Charleston typically averages around $350-$450 per night (check deals here), depending on the season. While it’s on the luxury end, the extra space, top-tier amenities, and central location make it a fantastic investment for families looking for a comfortable and stylish stay.
Attractions Within Walking Distance
One of the best things about The Restoration is its prime location on King Street, meaning families can easily walk to many of Charleston’s top attractions.
