French Quarter Hotels
Establishment
neighborhood
Zero George
0 George St., French Quarter
Zero George Hotel (so-named for its address, which actually is 0 George Street) is made up of five restored historic homes that all face each other around a quaint, landscaped courtyard. Two of them are actually transplants that were moved here from another part of town—ask the concierge for the full story, which is fascinating and fittingly Charlestonian. The buildings have all the charm of old Charleston, but the rooms themselves feel modern, with a neutral color scheme, cozy beds, and big, bright bathrooms, plus verandas for looking out into the common space. The original 1804 carriage house plays host to the lobby and a recently renovated kitchen, where chefs host cooking classes and a wine-and-cheese happy hour that’s an excellent perk of any stay.
Mills House
115 Meeting St., French Quarter
Another terrific hotel just off King Street in the historic district area, the Mills has been open since 1853. It's part of the Hilton chain but reads more boutique thanks to its Southern decor. It has an outdoor pool, which is a welcome amenity on a hot Charleston day, and an open courtyard with a romantic fountain at its center. From the Mills, it's an easy walk to drinks at Pavilion.
The Charleston Place
205 Meeting St., French Quarter
Located on the edge of the French Quarter in downtown Charleston, The Charleston Place is a gorgeous hotel, with very good service. The hotel opens into an expansive marble-floor lobby with a double staircase split by a gleaming chandelier. The rooms, likewise, feel grand. Bonuses include the on-site spa, and a rooftop, heated, saltwater pool made indoor/outdoor by a retractable glass roof.