History drips from every facet of the gorgeous Charleston, South Carolina’s very own 17th-century port city. Pastel-hued mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and cobblestone streets will make you feel like you’ve arrived in 18th-century America. Whether it’s the cuisine or the sights, the city drips with Victorian charm is one of the most sought-after getaways in the Deep South. One of the commonest and easiest ways of getting into the city is Charleston Airport. Since it lies almost 13 mi (km) northwest of the city, staying in hotels near Charleston International Airport is something that many travelers do. This is especially helpful if you’re arriving by a red-eye flight or are flying out early in the morning.
While you have more choices between various stays in the city, airport hotels in Charleston don’t let you down either. Not only are they affordable, but they dish out all amenities that you’d possibly need for a short, but comfortable stay. What’s more, some of them boast absolutely picturesque setting, embodying the South Carolinian charm.
Where to Stay near Charleston Airport
Charleston International Airport lies in the area of Wilsonville in North Charleston, around 20 minutes northwest of the city center. In fact, it lies right next to the United States military facility of Joint Base Charleston. Barring the Stay Express Inn which lies right outside the airport, most other hotels lie either north or just south.
To begin with, the closest hotel cluster is the one near the Charleston Area Convention Center in the heart of North Charleston. One of the most central landmarks of the area is the Tanger Outlets Mall, which is surrounded by a host of restaurants. So, staying in the hotels here allows you to have lots of choices for food. The next set of hotels near the airport lie just north in Ashley Heights along the I-26. The area is a mix of residential and commercial, and enjoys quick connectivity to the airport and a good choice of hotels too.
If you want to stay away from the bustle of both the airport area and downtown, then we’d highly recommend West Ashley. The lush, largely residential neighborhood on the banks of the Ashley River is home to not only boutique spas and restaurants and bars, but even lush green spaces and hiking trails.
Crowne Plaza Charleston
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Located in the heart of North Charleston, Crowne Plaza Charleston is one of the best hotels near Charleston airport. The rooms and suites at the hotel are unlike any other; they come with plush and sleek headboards, moody hues and lighting, and an overall restful feel. Premium cable TV and free Wi-Fi aside, you’ll also find a chic bathroom, coffee/tea-making facilities, and even a spacious work desk. Finally, comfy seating areas right next to floor-to-ceiling windows complete the picture of perfection.
Despite being an airport hotel, Crowne Plaza is not without facilities. There’s a superb freeform outdoor pool, complete with daybeds and lounge chairs by the side. If you feel like sweating it out, then the 24-hour fitness center is perfect. Moreover, the on-site restaurant serves lip-smacking American meals, while the on-site convenience store offers light snacks and meals. Rounding up the amenities here are photocopying and fax services, a gift shop, and dry cleaning and laundry facilities.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2.4mi (3.8km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 minutes.
Aloft Charleston Airport and Convention Center
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Aloft Convention Center is one of the best hotels near Charleston International Airport for younger travelers. The rooms boast a minimalist and sleek design with high-tech touches such as smart TVs and concierge iPad kiosks, which are in-line with Aloft’s hip vibe. Spartan yet light-filled, the rooms also boast king/queen window-facing beds and a one-stop charging station for devices. Bathrooms are slick, complete with bespoke Bliss Spa bath products.
The rest of the hotel is equally jazzy, totally unlike an airport hotel. The lobby is a riotous kaleidoscope of vibrant throw pillows, lights, and bright wall panels. You’ll find a pool table in the Re:mix lounge area, where continental grab-and-go breakfast items and snacks are available. If you’re here for the night, then end your evening at the W XYZ bar with live music and neon lights. Besides a nice gym, the hotel also has an excellent indoor pool, which is perfect for a dip and a lounge on the daybeds later on.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2.2mi (3.5km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 minutes.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charleston North/Ashley Phosphate
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The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charleston North/Ashley Phosphate is one of the best all-suite hotels near Charleston airport. Located in Ashley Heights, Fairfield Inn & Suites offers a lot of extras for an airport hotel, starting with a complimentary hot breakfast of made-to-order eggs, pastries, meat, fruits, and waffles. A fitness center ensures that you don’t miss out on your fitness regimen, while you can get any last-minute work done at the business center. Finally, the seasonal outdoor swimming pool offers some much-needed respite and is an inviting space to relax and unwind.
You’ll not be disappointed by the rooms at the Fairfield Inn & Suites either, which feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and fridges.
- Airport Shuttle Service: No.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 6.7mi (10.7km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 12 minutes.
Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center
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If you’re traveling with your furry friend, then Hyatt Place at the Convention Center is one of the This makes it one of the Top Pet-Friendly Hotels In Charleston. What’s more, it’s also one of the best hotels near Charleston International Airport, and also one of the closest. Even then, it features an airport shuttle so that you don’t need to worry about getting late for your flight. The hotel also boasts an indoor pool that’s pet-friendly, so you can actually relax with your pets! The on-site Guest Kitchen serves pizzas, salads, and hot sandwiches, while the Bakery Café with the grab-and-go snack bar and 24-hour Starbucks coffee help you load up on calories. Rounding up the facilities are the on-site laundry, business, and fitness facilities too.
All rooms and suites at the hotel come with living areas with sofa beds and flat-screen TVs where you can relax instead of your bed. Moreover, the room also comes with coffee-making facilities, iPod docking stations, and modern bathrooms.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2mi (3.2m).
- Estimated Drive Time: 4 minutes.
Sleep Inn Charleston – West Ashley
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Do you want a break from the run-of-the-mill hotels near Charleston airport? Then you need to look at Sleep Inn in West Ashley, which is also one of the Best Hotels In Charleston, South Carolina. Not only is it just 15 minutes from the airport, but it’s also tucked away in the cozy West Ashley – a welcome break from the airport and its sights. The newly-renovated rooms feature contemporary artwork, sleek dark wood furnishings, and a soothing green-hued scheme. Start the day by brewing a fresh cup of coffee with the in-room coffeemaker. You can even whip up ready-teat meals in the microwave and store leftover food and beverages in the fridge.
The inn also has a slew of amenities, beginning with much-needed free Wi-Fi everywhere. If you’re a fitness fanatic, then you don’t have to miss your workout thanks to the fitness center. Check work e-mails in the business center or enjoy swimming in the outdoor swimming pool. Rounding it up is the superb breakfast buffet that’s served every morning. What’s more, Downtown is all but 15 minutes from here, in case you wanted to explore some of the Top Things To Do In Charleston.
- Airport Shuttle Service: No.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 8.4mi (13.5km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 15 minutes.
DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston Convention Center
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The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites is one of the best hotels near Charleston International Airport. Located in Ashley Heights in North Charleston, the hotel is much sought-after since it’s just 10 minutes from the airport. Plus, it boasts impeccable and unfailing service, which begins right at the door with a serving of freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies. There’s nothing about the hotel you won’t like, right from the all-day water and coffee available in the lobby to the amenities.
The outdoor pool, for instance, is an excellent place to refresh and reinvigorate, complete with daybeds and even cabanas! If you’re a fitness fanatic, then the well-equipped fitness center is more than adequate. Finally, the on-site restaurant kicks off your day on a high note with a Southern-inspired breakfast buffet, and also serves other meals and drinks throughout the day as well. Rounding up the amenities are the souvenirs gift shop, launderette, business center, and free Wi-Fi.
You’ll fall in love with the moody color palette and lighting of the rooms here, which immediately put up in a restful and tranquil state. Large floor-to-ceiling windows, ergonomic work desks, cloud-like beds, and chic bathrooms complete the intimate vibe.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 6.7mi (10.8km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 10 minutes.
Rodeway Inn North Charleston
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If you’re looking for an affordable hotel near Charleston airport in the Ashley Heights neighborhood, then look no further than Rodeway Inn. The wallet-friendly hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms for the night before your flight. Apart from soft beds and spotless bathrooms, they also have luggage store space, work desks, flatscreen TVs, and even separate seating areas in some larger rooms and suites. Mood lighting and heavy drapes help you catch up on sleep as well.
Located just 15 minutes from the airport, the Rodeway Inn is not without amenities. For instance, it features a sprawling pool deck with an inviting outdoor pool. Besides free Wi-Fi everywhere. the hotel also has vending machines with snacks and beverages. Finally, the place even serves a continental breakfast every morning.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 6.9mi (11.1km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 15 minutes.
Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport
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The Hampton Inn & Suites is one of the few hotels near Charleston International Airport that actually boasts a garden! Located in North Charleston, the hotel also features a shared lounge where you can relax or wait for your airport shuttle. The rooms at the hotel boast free WiFi and flat-screen TVs, ensuring that you’re not short on entertainment as you wait for your flight. Cloud-like beds and blackout curtains help you sleep well too. Chic ensuite bathrooms and lots of space ensure an overall comfortable stay.
In spite of being categorized as an affordable hotel, Hampton Inn & Suites serves a nice continental buffet breakfast. Besides a business center, you’ll also find a handy vending machine with snacks and drinks available on the property. All-in-all, if a budget hotel near Charleston International Airport is what you’re looking for, then this is it.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2.1mi (3.4km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 minutes.
TownePlace Suites By Marriott Convention Center
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The TownePlace Suites By Marriott Convention Center is one of the best hotels near Charleston airport set amidst some of the loveliest surroundings. Located right next to the Tanger outlets, the hotel is very comfortable for a short stay. All rooms and suites are slick and come with separate seating areas, kitchenettes, and dining areas too. Besides a flatscreen TV and other mod-cons like coffee machines, you’ll also be enamored by the immaculate and sleek bathrooms.
Since it’s a new property, the facilities at TownePlace Suites are all top-notch. The highlight is the outdoor pool, which is peppered with chaise lounges, daybeds, and chairs and tables under parasols. The shared lounge is another great spot to relax, or you could sweat it out in the fitness center. If you’re an outdoors person, then the property also has free bikes. If that wasn’t enough, you begin your day with a splendid breakfast spread. Rouning up the amenities are a sun terrace, business center, and an outside barbecue.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2mi (3.2km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 minutes.
Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport
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The Hilton Garden Inn is another excellent hotel near Charleston International Airport. The budget hotel offers free 24-hour shuttles to and from the airport. Despite being a budget hotel, Hilton Garden Inn offers a whole lot of amenities. To begin with, there’s a nice indoor pool area, complete with a whirlpool to soak your sore muscles. The on-site restaurant, besides a scrumptious breakfast, also serves lunch and dinner. If snacks during the day are what you want, then the 24-hour market stocks everything from wine and beer to sandwiches and salads. Rounding up the amenities is the 24-hour fitness center where you can work out anything.
The rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn come with free Wi-Fi as well as a flatscreen TV with not just HBO but even video games! Coffeemakers, fridges, and even microwaves are standard, making this one of the most value-for-money stays.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 1.5mi (2.4km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 minutes.
North Charleston Marriott
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There’s more than one reason that the Northern Charleston Marriott is sitting atop the list of hotels near Charleston airport. To begin with, it boasts a superb location less than 3 mi (4.8 km) from the airport. Secondly, it boasts an incredible set of amenities in a setting that makes it look completely unlike an airport hotel. Finally, it even has an airport shuttle to get you quickly to the airport!
So, what makes staying here such a great experience? To begin with, the hotel features a striking outdoor pool area lined with palm trees and cushy daybeds. Furthermore, the on-site restaurant serves not only a hearty breakfast but also other meals and drinks – think crafted tap beers and coastal fare. The casual bar is perfect for a sundowner or nightcap, especially if you’ve gotten off a long flight. The fitness center aside, you’ll also find a 24-hour business center.
All rooms and suites at this hotel come with coffee-making facilities and cable TVs, as well as contemporary ensuite bathrooms. Large windows with sheer and heavy drapes ensure a fitful sleep as well as nice views of the surrounding countryside.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Free, available 24/7.
- Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport at 2.9mi (4.6km).
- Estimated Drive Time: 7 minutes.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars near Charleston Airport:
- Community Pizza House – There cannot be better food than pizza to tuck into before you get on or after you get off a long flight. Community Pizza House in North Charleston is an easy stop for delicious wood-fired pizzas. Additionally, there’s a superb rooftop bar that serves craft beers too.
- La Nortena – If you want to tuck into hearty fare before boarding a flight, then La Nortena and its Mexican fare are your best bet. Whether it’s the delectable tacos or huge platters with spicy chorizo, there’s something for everyone here.
Recommended Activities near Charleston Airport:
- Historic Carriage Tour Of Charleston – No matter how much you read about it, Charleston’s beauty will leave you spellbound when you actually see it. the best way to experience the city’s history and splendor is by boarding a horse-drawn carriage. Your guide will take you down the history lane of Charleston by weaving rich tales of grandeur. Sit back and enjoy an hour-long ride through the city’s historic district, seeing it’s stunning structures, historic churches, stately homes, and verdant parks and gardens.
