East Central Travel Guide
Charleston
Visit East Central
Popular places to visit
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Medical University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Medical University of South Carolina during your travels in Charleston. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
Things to do
Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
Sightseeing Bus Tour of Charleston with Adventure Sightseeing
Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
Old Town Trolley Tour of Charleston
Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
Charleston: Boone Hall Plantation Entry & Tour w/ Transport
Top hotels in East Central
The Francis Marion Hotel
"We got to the property a little early and they more than accommodating. Since our room was ready they let us in early. We had a clogged sink and they were quick to address it. Perfect location."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
The Ryder Hotel
"We LOVED the location of Ryder. Very walkable to most everywhere we visited. It was great having a pool onsite and the coffee counter was amazing!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Emeline
"Had a water leak in our room floor near table was wet smelled a bit musty. Wanted a late night snacker and nothing realistic and no sweet tea!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Tru by Hilton Charleston Ashley Phosphate
"This property was very clean, and the rooms were spotless. The staff was always friendly and helpful. I would definitely stay at this property again."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
"The pool was great. Wait staff at the restaurant were great. The only complaint is construction/hammering waking us up both mornings at 0710/0715 both mornings. Hate to mention that because the facility can certainly use the updates, but we were comfortable, otherwise. Amenities were good, breakfast ..."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
The Charleston Place
"Everything was fine"
Reviewed on 15 Jun 2026
Where to stay in East Central
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown Charleston
Travellers to Downtown Charleston praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Charleston Music Hall and Music Farm.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
