Review Author

Britney Eschelman

Contributing Writer & Editor

Hotel Snapshot 

In a city defined by intimate historic guest houses, Hotel Bennett brings something entirely unique to King Street: grand European scale wrapped in pure South Carolina hospitality. "Southern charm" is an overused phrase, I know, but the feeling is undeniable the moment you cross the threshold.

Ideally situated amidst the city's pedestrian-filled, cobblestone action, the property commands a prime location. Overlooking Marion Square and across from St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church—which boasts the tallest spire in the city marking the maximum height for any building in downtown—the Before you even step foot inside, the welcoming valet service and bellhops set a regal tone for the stay.

Design & Character 

French-style architecture lends an authentic chateau look and feel to the property: white travertine, cream marble, gold accents, and pale blue window shutters shape your first impressions. Inside, the chandelier-centered foyer features a striking realist mural of the port, complete with sailboats, the bay, and the historic skyline. It paints a perfect picture of your environs as you move toward the ground-floor check-in, the concierge desk, and the entryway to distinct culinary concepts.

The Rooms 

The hotel's 179 rooms and suites span nine floors, blending contemporary decor with a traditional, residential feel. A sophisticated palette of soft grays, sky blue, pearl white, and brushed gold flows through each space. In the en-suite bathrooms, pristine marble surrounds freestanding bathtubs, while sliding mirrored doors open up the space to the bedroom for a seamless, airy flow.

My own room featured a sunlit window nook and a corner bookshelf that practically begged me to pull down a hardback and plop down for a morning read.

Guests staying on the upper levels gain access to the sixth-floor King's Club. This private sanctuary serves complimentary lattes, breakfast, lunch, and snacks—alongside a morning Bloody Mary or two upon request. A cozy library with a fireplace offers a quiet nook to catch up on emails, while the outdoor terrace yields sweeping views of the Charleston skyline.

Food & Drink 

While you could (and should) eat your way through Charleston’s legendary dining scene, Hotel Bennett holds its own as a culinary hotspot. Look no further than Camellias, the elegant, jewel-box bar drawing in fine-dining lovers. Centered by a glittering crystal chandelier, the entirely pink champagne lounge features reclaimed marble from the historic library that once stood on this very site.

Whether you're there for Afternoon Tea or pairing caviar bumps with crisp champagne flutes, Camellias masterfully sets the scene. For a taste of Paris in the morning, La Patisserie serves flaky croissants, scones, and macarons crafted by 2024 James Beard Award nominee Rémy Fünfrock.

When morning turns to afternoon, the hotel’s day-to-night eatery, Gabrielle, takes center stage. The sophisticated restaurant pairs brunch classics like Eggs Benedict and Brioche French Toast with a savory evening menu of steak tartare, oysters on the half shell, and a true Southern staple: Lowcountry Purloo, a hearty rice dish packed with little neck clams, shrimp, and market fish.

The Amenities 

Boasting one of the city's only rooftop pools, Hotel Bennett offers a pristine setup for soaking in the South Carolina sunshine. Private cabanas, plush lounge chairs, and a glittering, turquoise-hued lido deck set the stage for a lazy afternoon. At the chic poolside eatery, Fiat Lux, bartenders shake up ocean-inspired libations like the Calypso (rum, lime, and hibiscus) and the tequila-based Black Pearl (a sweet-and-spicy mix of chipotle, lime, mango, and agave).

Pair those with pork belly corn dogs or shrimp salad tacos, and you have the recipe for an ideal afternoon.

Wellness 

If you need a wellness reset between indulgent meals, the second-floor, guest-only gym packs everything you need into an intimate space, including treadmills, elliptical machines, Peloton bikes, and a strength-training area. Afterward, the Spa at Hotel Bennett provides the ultimate escape from the urban core. It's the perfect detox post-boozy brunch; treatments like the Camellia’s Green Tea & Stone Renewal nourish the body with warm stones and a soothing, green tea-infused balm.

Location & Neighborhood 

Having been recognized as the "No. 1 City in the U.S." by Travel + Leisure for 12 consecutive years, Charleston easily lives up to its celebrated reputation. The people are genuinely kind, the food is world-class, the shopping is bountiful, and the European flair is unmistakable. History runs deep here, floating through the air of a seaside town where the views always deliver.

While I might not be an expert after just one visit to the Holy City, I can confidently say this: Charleston is undoubtedly a place you will want to visit time and time again.

Fast Facts

Location: Charleston, South Carolina

The vibe: A beacon of European elegance with a grand, traditional style that makes guests feel entirely pampered, welcomed, and immersed in luxury all at once.

Rating: 5-Star

Room Count: 179 guest rooms and suites (including 26 suites)

Pricing: Rates typically start around $415 to $500 per night, depending on the season.

Dining: Gabrielle (sophisticated day-to-night Southern-inspired eatery), Camellias (celebrated pink champagne lounge and Afternoon Tea destination), Fiat Lux (chic rooftop pool bar and lounge), and La Pâtisserie (authentic Parisian-style café).

Amenities: Rooftop pool and private cabanas, The Spa at Hotel Bennett, exclusive multi-tiered King’s Club lounge access, 24-hour in-room dining, a pet-friendly policy, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS)