The Governor’s House Inn

Built in 1760, the Governor’s House Inn holds National Historic Landmark status as the home of Edward Rutledge, the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence. One look at this stately mansion, and it’s easy to see why it draws a lot of couples -- it has that old-fashioned Southern charm that spells romance. With its chandeliers, pine-wood floors, antique furniture, and elegant prints and textiles, it's all about the atmosphere here. Several parlor rooms and a huge porch invite guests to mix and mingle, especially at breakfast, which is served at a communal table, although guests can take it in their rooms. With only 11 rooms, guests receive personal, individualized attention.

The Governor’s House Inn is in a historic neighborhood of Charleston, an area filled with charming shops, historic buildings, and entertainment galore. The shops and galleries on King Street are a five-minute walk away, while Charleston’s City Market is about a 15-minute walk. Waterfront Park is a 12-minute walk from the property. There are plenty of dining options that are less than 10 minutes away on foot. Middleton Place is a 13-minute drive from the hotel, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are about 30 minutes away by car. It’s a 25-minute drive to Charleston International Airport. 

The Governor's House Inn's 11 rooms and suites are individually designed to reflect old-fashioned Southern living, with pine floors, high ceilings, four-poster beds, antique wood furniture, and floral textiles. Those with furnished outdoor verandas transport guests back to a time before air-conditioning and high-tech gadgets, when a cool breeze, book, and a chat on the porch were life's chief pleasures. Rooms include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and robes. Some have coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and fireplaces, but flat-screen TVs are absent. Like the rooms, bathrooms differ in design and space, though most have white-marble elements. Bathrooms include either shower/tub combos, glass-enclosed showers, or separate showers and jetted tubs. Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are provided. Some guests have complained about cleanliness and lax housekeeping, and the ruffle- and lace-covered spaces may be entirely too fussy for a few travelers.

The Governor’s House Inn doesn't pack the features of a large hotel -- there's no gym, restaurant, business center, or bar. The focus here is on Southern ambience, and breakfast, included in the rates, is a standout, with dishes such as Pecan French toast or waffles, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice. Afternoons bring a tea, wine, and cheese hour, which is also included in the rates. Parlor rooms, along with the entire property, can be rented for meetings and events, including weddings. Other perks include beach towels and folding chairs upon request, free Wi-Fi throughout, and free parking, which isn’t common for this area.