Exploring the best of Charleston, with cheap flights from Louisville

Exploring the best of Charleston, with cheap flights from LouisvillePhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on July 25, 2019

You don’t necessarily have to go far, far away to have a memorable vacation: There are plenty of U.S. cities worth exploring. One option is Charleston, a top travel destination in the American South. The oldest and largest city in South Carolina, Charleston is known for its history, architecture, food, culture and hospitality. The city sits on a harbor at the nexus of three rivers, and it boasts a vibrant music and arts scene, along with numerous museums and family-friendly attractions.

Whether you’re trying to get away ASAP or you’re looking to plan your trip around the future’s cheapest fares, take a look at these forthcoming flights between Louisville and Charleston, which we pulled from travel site Skyscanner.

We've also included popular hotels, restaurants and attractions in Charleston to get you started on planning your ideal getaway. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Flight deals to Charleston

Currently, the cheapest flights between Louisville and Charleston are if you leave on Sept. 7 and return from South Carolina on Sept. 11. American Airlines currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $168.

American Airlines also has tickets at that price point in October. If you fly out of Louisville on Oct. 7 and return from Charleston on Oct. 9, American Airlines can get you there and back for $168 roundtrip.

Top Charleston hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are some of Charleston’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel (115 Meeting St.)

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $123.

Set in the heart of Charleston, this hotel is close to attractions such as the Gibbes Museum of Art, the Charleston County Courthouse and all that Meeting and King streets have to offer.

The Market Pavilion Hotel (225 E. Bay St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

There's also the 4.7-star rated The Market Pavilion Hotel, which has rooms for $199/night.

This hotel is located right beside the open-air market, close to the Waterfront Park, bars, restaurants and shops.

Embassy Suites Charleston - Historic Charleston (337 Meeting St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A third option is the Embassy Suites Charleston - Historic Charleston. The 4.4-star hotel has rooms for $143/night.

The all-suite hotel is in the original Citadel Military College and is a short walk or carriage ride from all that the downtown area has to offer. 

Featured Charleston restaurants

Don't miss Charleston's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.

The FIG (232 Meeting St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to The FIG, which has an average of 4.9 stars out of 40 reviews on Skyscanner. 

"FIG is a great place to eat, if you can get a reservation ahead of time," wrote visitor Wythe. "[The] menu changes daily, which makes it interesting."

Halls Chophouse (434 King St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Halls Chophouse, with 4.9 stars from 31 reviews.

"Absolutely delicious," wrote reviewer Maria. "Everything tasted fresh. [The] staff was so friendly — they truly made it an unforgettable experience."

Hominy Grill (207 Rutledge Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is the Hominy Grill, with 4.6 stars from 47 reviews.

Nationally acclaimed and locally beloved, Hominy Grill is a Charleston institution that serves classic Southern specialties, all prepared from scratch with fresh, locally raised ingredients.

"Very popular for brunch," wrote Lois. "Their grits and shrimp are fantastic. They also have excellent bloody marys."

Top Charleston attractions

To round out your trip, Charleston offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.

Downtown Charleston (King Street)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is Downtown Charleston, an experience not soon forgotten by the thousands of tourists who visit each year. Its main feature is the historic row homes, many of which have been renovated and restored to their original Revolutionary War appearances. 

"Downtown offers many options. ... Take a carriage tour, or just walk the Battery and market," wrote visitor Sarah. "Either way, you will love downtown Charleston."

The Battery 

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The Battery is another popular destination. This iconic landmark was originally built as a defensive seawall and promenade.

"This is a waterfront park, consisting of park benches under the oaks," wrote visitor Tracy. "As a tourist, the draw is walking [through] the beautiful South of Broad homes."

Charleston Waterfront Park (1 Vendue Range)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, spend some time at the Charleston Waterfront Park. It has 4.8 stars from 87 reviews. 

Stroll along the pier and behold the beauty of Charleston Harbor. Bring your entire family to view the calming dance of the water fountains as you enjoy a picnic in the park. You can even let the children play under the cooling water of the fountain.  


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.