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King's Club
Gabrielle
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The Spa at Hotel Bennett
Ballroom

Downtown Discovery

 

Discover the Holy City’s Most Iconic Sights

Experience Charleston at your own pace with a leisurely drive through one of America's most picturesque historic cities. Beginning at Hotel Bennett, this self-guided route showcases the city's vibrant shopping district, centuries-old churches, colorful architecture, waterfront promenades, and charming cobblestone streets. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop for photos, browse local boutiques, or enjoy a coffee or cocktail before returning to the hotel.

 

Best For

Guests experiencing Charleston for the first time, couples seeking a leisurely afternoon drive, and those who want to discover the city's timeless charm through its most iconic streets and waterfront views.

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Suggested Route

Hotel Bennett

  • Begin at the edge of Marion Square and head south on King Street.

King Street

  • Cruise through Charleston's premier shopping district, home to luxury boutiques, local retailers, art galleries, and cafés. This is an ideal place to park if you'd like to explore on foot.

Marion Square

  • Continue past one of Charleston's most recognizable public spaces, often home to seasonal events and the renowned Saturday Farmers Market.

Meeting Street

  • Turn onto Meeting Street to admire some of Charleston's most notable historic buildings and church steeples, earning the city its nickname, the Holy City.
  • Pass landmarks including Charleston City Market and St. Michael's Church.

Broad Street

  • Turn onto Broad Street, one of Charleston's oldest thoroughfares, lined with beautifully preserved homes, galleries, and historic buildings.

East Bay Street & Rainbow Row

  • Continue to East Bay Street and slow down as you pass Rainbow Row, Charleston's famous collection of colorful 18th-century homes and one of the city's most photographed landmarks.

The Battery

  • Follow East Battery along Charleston Harbor, where grand historic homes overlook the water and sailboats drift by. This scenic stretch offers sweeping views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the harbor.

White Point Garden

  • Park and enjoy a stroll beneath the live oaks at White Point Garden. Historic cannons, shaded pathways, and harbor breezes make this one of the city's most beloved parks.

Church Street

  • Head north on Church Street, passing hidden gardens, iron gates, and centuries-old residences that showcase Charleston's timeless character.

Return via King Street

  • Make your way back toward Hotel Bennett, stopping for lunch, a sweet treat, or shopping along King Street before returning.

Recommended Stops

  • Browse luxury boutiques and local shops on King Street
  • Walk through Charleston City Market
  • Photograph Rainbow Row
  • Stroll White Point Garden and The Battery
  • Stop for coffee or cocktails along Broad or King Street
  • Enjoy waterfront views of Charleston Harbor

Estimated Drive Time: 35–45 minutes (without stops)

Recommended Experience Time: 3–4 hours with shopping, sightseeing, and dining.