Days Inn by Wyndham Charleston Historic District

In a city packed with beautiful, historic properties, the Days Inn Charleston is certainly a budget outlier. The low-rise motel-style building sits behind stone entrance gates, and rooms are arranged around the parking lot. The small lobby has some period furniture, but it's really just a functional space. In fact, the hotel itself is only a place to recharge after a day spent touring. The seasonal outdoor pool is a plus though, especially for families. The hotel is also popular with couples who enjoy parking the car and being able to head out and explore the city on foot. 

Days Inn Charleston is located on Meeting Street, one of the main roads in the city's historic district. Numerous restaurants and shops line the street, and top shopping and dining in the boutiques on King Street is just a block away. Charlestown City Market -- for souvenirs and gourmet foods -- is a five-minute walk from the hotel. It's a 10-minute walk down to the waterfront for Battery Promenade and the park, with views of Fort Sumter, and about the same in the other direction for the Charleston Museum. Buses run up and down the street, with a stop two minutes away on foot. Ferries for Fort Sumter leave from Liberty Square, a five-minute drive from the hotel -- or it's a 20-minute walk for those who enjoy a city stroll. Liberty Square is also home to the South Carolina Aquarium. Getting to Charleston Airport takes about 30 minutes by car, or there are buses that run from downtown, taking around an hour.

Rooms have a traditional style that verges on entirely plain, with dark wood furniture, dark striped carpets, and touches of deep blue. Pale walls and artwork are the only decor. Pet-friendly and accessible rooms are available, plus larger rooms with two double beds that are better suited for families. However, keep in mind that the mattresses aren't queen-size. Standard features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safes, and irons -- plus useful additions like mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and basic toiletries. Previous guests have commented on issues of cleanliness and maintenance, with many shrugging it off using the old adage: "You get what you pay for."

The Days Inn Charleston has a seasonal outdoor pool tucked in the rear of the hotel. It's a bit tired, and sits beside the parking lot. There's a restaurant serving standard American dishes all day -- including breakfast, though it's not included in bookings. A computer station in the lobby includes a PC and printing, and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. This is a pet-friendly property, and provides pet welcome-bags on arrival. Parking costs extra, which is disappointing, though guests can leave their cars on-site for their final day after checking out.