27 State Street Bed and Breakfast in Charleston: Historic Charm in the Heart of Downtown

What you'll find at 27 State Street

27 State Street is a bed and breakfast in downtown Charleston housed in a restored 19th-century building steps from the waterfront and the Historic District's main attractions. The property offers guest rooms with period details, a common area for guests, and a daily breakfast included with your stay. The location puts you within walking distance of Fort Sumter ferry departures, the Charleston City Market, and dozens of restaurants and galleries along King Street.

The building itself is part of Charleston's architectural heritage—the kind of structure that anchors the blocks tourists and locals navigate together. If you're planning a visit to Charleston and want to stay somewhere with historical character rather than a chain hotel, this is the type of property worth considering for its setting alone.

Key Takeaways

• 27 State Street sits in downtown Charleston within walking distance of Fort Sumter ferry access, the City Market, and King Street dining and shopping.
• The property is housed in a restored 19th-century building with guest rooms that reflect the home's historical period.
• Breakfast is included with your stay, which is typical for bed and breakfast properties but worth confirming when you book.
• The downtown location means street parking or paid lots—there is no on-site parking, so plan accordingly if you're driving.
• Peak season runs March through May and October through November, when rates are highest and rooms book further in advance.

The rooms and what's included

Guest rooms at 27 State Street vary in size and layout, with some featuring original hardwood floors, fireplaces, or views toward the harbor. Each room includes a private bathroom and access to common areas where guests gather. The daily breakfast is prepared on-site and served to guests—this is not a grab-and-go continental setup but a sit-down meal, which is one of the defining features of a traditional bed and breakfast.

Room rates depend on the season and how far in advance you book. Charleston's peak travel seasons are spring (March through May) and fall (October through November), when rates climb and availability tightens. Summer and winter are slower periods with lower nightly rates. Contact the property directly or check their website for current pricing and what's available for your dates.

Location and what's nearby

State Street runs one block from the Cooper River waterfront, putting you steps from the Fort Sumter National Monument ferry terminal. The Charleston City Market—a covered market with local vendors, restaurants, and shops—is a two-minute walk. King Street, the main commercial corridor, is one block away and lined with restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining, plus galleries, boutiques, and bookstores.

The Historic District spreads out from this corner. Rainbow Row (a row of pastel-painted historic homes) is a short walk. St. Michael's Church, one of Charleston's oldest and most photographed buildings, is nearby. If you want to explore on foot without a car, this location is ideal—most of downtown Charleston's main attractions are within a 10 to 15-minute walk.

Parking and getting around

27 State Street does not have dedicated on-site parking. If you're driving, you'll need to use street parking (which is free but limited and time-restricted in many downtown blocks) or pay for a parking lot or garage. Several paid lots operate within two blocks, with rates varying by time of day and length of stay. Many visitors find it easier to park once and walk, or to use ride-share services rather than drive around downtown.

Charleston's downtown is walkable, and the CARTA bus system runs routes through the Historic District if you want public transit. The waterfront is accessible on foot, and most restaurants and shops are within a 15-minute walk of State Street. If you plan to visit plantations or beaches outside downtown, you'll want a car or a tour service.

Booking and what to know before you arrive

You can book 27 State Street directly through their website or through bed and breakfast booking platforms. Many travelers find it helpful to call the property directly to ask about specific room features, accessibility needs, or questions about parking—bed and breakfasts are often owner-operated and can answer details that a booking site cannot.

Cancellation policies vary, so check the terms when you book. Some properties offer flexible cancellation up to a certain number of days before arrival; others have stricter policies, especially during peak season. If you have pets, dietary restrictions for breakfast, or accessibility needs, mention these when you book so the property can accommodate you.

When to visit Charleston and book ahead

Spring and fall are Charleston's most popular seasons. March through May brings mild weather and blooming gardens, but hotels and bed and breakfasts fill up weeks in advance. October through November offers similar conditions and attracts crowds for the same reason. If you're flexible on dates, visiting in January, February, August, or September means lower rates and easier booking, though weather varies—summer is hot and humid, and winter can be rainy.

During Spoleto Festival USA (late May through early June), Charleston's major arts event, downtown accommodations book months ahead. If you're planning to attend, reserve early. For a quieter visit with lower rates, aim for the shoulder seasons just before or after peak travel times.

Nearby bed and breakfast alternatives

Charleston has dozens of bed and breakfast properties scattered through the Historic District and nearby neighborhoods. Some are in single historic homes with just a few rooms; others are larger properties with more amenities. If 27 State Street is booked or doesn't fit your needs, properties on Legare Street, Church Street, and in the Ansonborough neighborhood offer similar downtown locations and historic settings.

Hotels and larger inns are also abundant downtown if you prefer more services or different pricing. The choice between a bed and breakfast and a hotel often comes down to whether you want the personal touch and included breakfast of a smaller property, or the front desk, housekeeping, and room service of a larger operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking included with my stay?

No. 27 State Street does not have on-site parking. You'll need to arrange street parking, use a nearby paid lot, or rely on ride-share. Several parking garages are within two blocks and charge daily rates; ask the property for their recommendations when you book.

What time is breakfast served?

Breakfast times vary by property and season. Contact 27 State Street directly to confirm the breakfast schedule for your dates. Most bed and breakfasts serve breakfast between 7 and 9 a.m., but it's worth verifying so you know when to plan your morning.

Can I walk to the waterfront and Fort Sumter ferry from here?

Yes. The property is one block from the Cooper River waterfront and the Fort Sumter ferry terminal. The walk takes about two minutes. This is one of the main advantages of the State Street location for visitors planning to visit the fort or take a harbor tour.

Do I need a car to explore Charleston from this location?

No. Downtown Charleston's main attractions—the City Market, King Street shops and restaurants, historic homes, and waterfront—are all within walking distance. If you want to visit plantations, beaches, or attractions outside downtown, a car or tour service would be helpful, but for the Historic District itself, walking works well.

What's the difference between a bed and breakfast and a hotel?

A bed and breakfast is typically a smaller property, often in a historic home, with fewer rooms and a personal touch from the owner or manager. Breakfast is included and usually sit-down. Hotels offer more rooms, front desk service, housekeeping, and room service, but breakfast may cost extra. Choose based on whether you prefer the intimate setting and included meal of a bed and breakfast, or the services and anonymity of a larger hotel.