Westside Travel Guide
Charleston

Popular places to visit

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.

South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.

Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.

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.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
Things to do

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

Charleston: Haunted Carriage Evening Tour

Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston

Old Town Trolley Tour of Charleston

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Westside

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Dwtn - Westedge by IHG
Getting off the elevator on the 7th floor was concerning. There was molding that had been removed and plastic covering a wall. I think just a sign saying “pardon our dust” might have helped. Tasha was very helpful the evening of 4/26.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026

Charleston Marriott
The staff were super nice
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026

The Francis Marion Hotel
Very nice hotel. Great location in the middle of the heart of Charleston.
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026

The Ryder Hotel
Was okay, feel there are much better spots to stay at. Location was great though but expected more for the price. Premium king room was extremely small. Do not get a room on the 4th floor, it is a nightmare to go to your room as the main elevator only goes to the 3rd floor than you have to walk the ...
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026

Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant – Charleston
Shower pressure was a little soft, but that's typical of anywhere. The bar was closed due to being between owners.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026

Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
Property showing signs of age. Cracked but functional sink, caulking needs attention, etc.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Westside

Hampton Park Terrace
While there might not be top attractions in Hampton Park Terrace, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Upper King Design District and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.

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.

Radcliffeborough
While Radcliffeborough may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Music Farm and Charleston Music Hall.

North-Central
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in North-Central and surrounding area, you can visit Upper King Design District and Music Farm.

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.

Wagener Terrace
When in Wagener Terrace, you can plan a visit to Upper King Design District and Music Farm, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
