11 Best Cheap Hotels In Charleston, South Carolina

South Carolina’s Charleston is one of the best-preserved historic cities in the US. Thanks to the pastel-colored buildings, palm trees, and elegant mansions, it’s impossible not to be charmed by this beautiful city. Apart from that, it’s also a popular travel destination because of its pleasant weather, stunning sandy beaches, and excellent cuisine! No wonder it’s listed as one of the most famous destinations in the country. That said, looking for a cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina might need an extra effort. Unlike some cities, cheap hotels in downtown Charleston are super limited. Most of the affordable options are located in other neighborhoods. Thankfully, they’re not too far away from all the actions. Today, we’re going to show you our recommendations. Enough with the introduction, and let’s get into it!

Motel 6 Charleston North

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Kicking off this list is Motel 6 Charleston North, one of the best cheap hotels in North Charleston South Carolina. This simple budget hotel is the perfect option if you need a comfy place to spend the night. What’s amazing about this motel is that there are plenty of freebies. Guests can start their day by sipping a cup of morning coffee, which is free. On top of that, parking is free, and you can also access the seasonal outdoor pool for free.

Each casual room on the property is fully equipped with everything you need. You can keep yourself entertained by watching your favorite show on the flat-screen TV or simply taking a nap on the plush bed. Better yet, kids 17 and under are allowed to stay at this Charleston hotel for free with an adult. However, you should note that Wi-Fi isn’t free.

Quality Inn & Suites North Charleston

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Off Interstate 26, Quality Inn & Suites North Charleston is another hotel that’s considered one of the best cheap hotels in North Charleston South Carolina. Like many other options on this list, parking is free at this hotel. If you travel by car, this is a huge plus. Not to mention, many of the city’s top attractions are only a short drive away from the hotel. The Northwoods Mall, Tanger Outlet Charleston, North Charleston Coliseum Performing Arts Center, and others are a short distance away.

Moreover, the comfy rooms at this hotel offer many amenities that promise you an enjoyable stay. There’s free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a microwave, a coffee maker, and a mini-fridge. If you’re here with your family, you might want to opt for the suite, which adds a living area. Better yet, kids can stay for free! Furthermore, breakfast is complimentary, and there’s also a seasonal outdoor pool that allows you to relax.

Sleep Inn Charleston – West Ashley

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Up next is Sleep Inn Charleston – West Ashley, a cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina, that won’t let you down! Set near Interstate 26 and Interstate 526, this hotel allows you to explore Charleston and the surrounding area easily! Staying here means you can reach the heart of historic Charleston within minutes. Other places like The Citadel, Cannon Park, Charleson Museum, and more are also just a short drive away. Speaking of which, parking is free!

At this hotel, you can start your day right with complimentary coffee, a weekday newspaper, and a hot breakfast at the breakfast bar. Of course, there’s also free Wi-Fi to help you stay connected. On top of that, guests can also access the outdoor pool and fitness center for free. Meanwhile, the rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and other amenities that’ll please you.

Quality Inn Charleston – West Ashley

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The charming Charleston will be even more attractive if you spend your nights at Quality Inn Charleston – West Ashley, a cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina. Set near the historic downtown Charleston, this is a nice option for those looking for cheap hotels in downtown Charleston. It puts you near the city’s sandy beaches, cobblestone streets, shopping centers, and much more, all for a bargain price.

Here, you can start your day by eating freshly cooked waffles, pastries, fruit, or other choices, all for free. Speaking of freebies, the hotel also offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. After a day of exploring the city, feel free to chillax in your room, which is fitted with a desk, plush bed, flat-screen TV, and comfy seating area. Some also include a mini-fridge and microwave.

La Quinta by Wyndham Charleston Riverview

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It’s no secret that the number of cheap hotels in downtown Charleston is limited. Thankfully, there’s La Quinta by Wyndham Charleston Riverview, a cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina that’s only minutes away from downtown. Located off the James Island Expressway, this pet-friendly hotel in Charleston is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, and it also offers easy access to the College of Charleston, The Citadel, Charleston International Airport, and other hotspots.

Like other cheap hotels in North Charleston South Carolina, this hotel offers plenty of free perks. You can start your day by enjoying a free breakfast, which includes eggs, waffles, fresh fruit, and others to get you energized. There’s also free Wi-Fi to help you stay connected, and access to the outdoor pool is free! If you’re not in the mood to socialize, you can unwind in your room, fitted with a flat-screen TV, work desk, coffee maker, hairdryer, and ironing facilities.

Comfort Suites Charleston West Ashley

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Have fun exploring everything historic Charleston, and the area has to offer by staying at Comfort Suites Charleston West Ashley! This cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina has the perfect location, allowing you to easily see and explore the city’s world-famous historic district, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Folly Beach, and more. Better yet, those who want to splurge can visit one of the many shopping centers nearby!

Another reason why this hotel is named the best cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina, by some people is that it knows how to make you feel at home. Each guestroom on the property is fitted with a microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and flat-screen TV. Of course, there’s free Wi-Fi to help you update your socials. In addition to the cozy bed, you can also request a room with a sofa bed to maximize sleeping space. Other notable amenities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and vending machines.

Holiday Inn Express Charleston US Highway 17 & I-526

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If you’re searching for cheap hotels in downtown Charleston, Holiday Inn Express Charleston US Highway 17 & I-526 might be a good option. This cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina is only minutes from downtown Charleston, offering you both value and convenience. Apart from that, it’s also only six miles away from Charleston International Airport. Another thing that we love is that it knows how to please budget travelers. Here, breakfast is free, and guests can park their vehicles for free! Of course, there’s also free Wi-Fi to help you stay connected 24/7.

After a day of exploring every corner of the city, head back to your room and relax on the triple-sheeted bed! Turn on the 32″ flat-screen TV and catch up on your favorite series, or you can also make a snack using the microwave and mini-fridge. When you’re not in the guestroom, you’re most likely working out in the fully-equipped fitness center or swimming in the outdoor pool. After a good workout session, feel free to visit one of the nearby restaurants or cafes before calling it a day.

DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston – Convention Center

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Those searching for cheap hotels in North Charleston South Carolina should take a look at DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston – Convention Center! This cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina is the perfect base for travelers who have an early morning flight to catch. Like other hotels near Charleston Airport, it has a free airport shuttle that’s ready to take you to and from the airport! Oh, there’s also a shuttle that can take you to some nearby attractions. Pretty convenient, right? What’s more, guests who arrive by car can also park their vehicles for free in the hotel’s designated parking area.

Like other cheap hotels in North Charleston South Carolina, the rooms and suites at this hotel are nothing short of amazing. Each of them features modern and comfortable decor with luxe amenities such as free Wi-Fi, granite countertops, and stone showers. Meanwhile, guests who want to relax can take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. If swimming isn’t your thing, you can work out in the fitness center instead!

Hyatt House Charleston – Historic District

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Looking for cheap hotels in downtown Charleston can be hard. Normally, mid-range and budget hotels in Charleston are located away from all the actions. However, the Hyatt House Charleston – Historic District is an exception. It enjoys a plum spot on Upper King Street, allowing you to reach the city’s history highlights easily. You don’t need to order an Uber as everything can be reached on foot. Places like the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Morris Island Lighthouse, Charleston Museum, Martins Park, Marion Square, and others are only a short walk away. You can rest assured that there are plenty of fun things to do in Charleston!

As expected from this cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina, staying here means you’ll be able to save plenty of money. The yummy free breakfast and on-site mini-market will save on expensive meals. And if you’re in the mood to relax, you don’t have to go far as there’s a pristine indoor swimming pool on-site. After a tiring day, head back to your room! Each guestroom at the hotel is fitted with a 42″ flat-screen TV, work desk, microwave, coffee machine, and small fridge.

Best Western Charleston Inn 

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Another cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina that you’ll love is the Best Western Charleston Inn. Just like our previous pick, this hotel has a super convenient location. It’s easily accessible to Interstate 26 and Interstate 526. Moreover, the hotel is surrounded by countless restaurants and cafes, meaning you’ll never have an empty stomach. When it comes to the attractions, there are plenty in the vicinity. The Citadel, Village Square Shopping Center, Ashley Plaza Mall Shopping Center, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, and more are within easy reach.

Apart from its convenient location, this hotel also makes sure you’ll have an enjoyable stay. This pet-friendly hotel offers a clean place to rest. Each guestroom is clean, spacious, and equipped with standard amenities. During your spare time, feel free to lounge around the largest pool deck in the city, grab some snacks from the vending machine and chillax in the lounge area. When it comes to freebies, there’s free Wi-Fi and free parking!

Town & Country Inn and Suites

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On the top of this list is Town & Country Inn and Suites, a cheap hotel in Charleston South Carolina, that allows you to feel like you’re staying at a five-star Charleston hotel! Every air-conditioned room on the property comes with all the essential amenities you need for an enjoyable stay. They include a flat-screen TV, free toiletries, plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and a microwave. Some even come with a comfy seating area to relax in after a busy day. If you’re here with your loved ones or are okay with spending a bit more, you can stay in the suite, which comes with a fully-equipped kitchen!

Though this isn’t one of those cheap hotels in downtown Charleston, it doesn’t mean you’ll be far away from all the fun. The downtown is only a short drive away, and there are countless shopping centers near the hotel. The Shoppers Port Shopping Center, The Quadrangle Shopping Center, Citadel Mall Shopping Center, Westwood Plaza Shopping Center, and more are nearby, so get your wallet ready! After a tiring shopping session, don’t forget to stop by one of the nearby restaurants or cafes to gain your energy back!

Top Affordable Bars in Charleston, South Carolina

• FUEL Charleston – Looking for cheap drinks? This is the place to be! It has many deals for you from 4 PM to 7 PM during the week, as some of its drinks start from only 3 USD.
• The Cocktail Club – Another option that has happy hour is The Cocktail Club. Every Wednesday from 5 PM to 7 PM, you can get its brown liquors for just 5 USD, which usually cost 10 USD. The atmosphere here is great, and the service is unbeatable.
• Mynt – Where else can you get 1 USD vodka and bourbon? Offering cheap booze, this dance club is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers. If that’s too cheap for you, try the 3 USD mojitos!

Top Affordable Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina

• Hannibal’s Kitchen – Since 1985, this restaurant has been serving delectable Gullah cuisine. You can expect crab rice, lima beans with smoked neck bones, local shark, okra soup, and more.
• D’Allesandro’s Pizza – When in the mood for pizza, make sure to visit this place! Apart from the pizzas, it also offers some sophisticated pies! You can usually find a coupon to make everything even cheaper.
• The Griffon – You can’t go wrong by eating at this restaurant. The burgers are to die for, and many of them cost less than 12 USD. Want something cheaper? Order the salad! Most of them are less than 6 USD.

Free Things To Do in Charleston, South Carolina

• Angel Oak Tree – When in Charleston, make sure to visit this 400-year-old tree and take a few pics of it. It provides 17,000 square feet of shade, with many of the limbs resting on the ground. The park that houses this tree also has picnic tables and a gift shop.
• Riverfront Park – Those who are in North Charleston must stop by Riverfront Park. Sitting on the bank of the Cooper River, this green space features a large meadow and performance pavilion.
• Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge – This cable-stayed bridge over the Cooper River connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. You can have a morning walk or a morning ride on this bridge.