The Dock Street Theatre is Charleston's last surviving hotel from the antebellum period. The silhouette of its wrought iron balcony against the spire of St. Philip's church may be the single most photographed spot in the city. The main portion of the building was constructed around 1809 as Planter's Hotel. The hotel was built by Alexander Calder and his wife, who did so by renovating several pre-existing buildings at the site. The main entrance may not have been built until 1855 by J.W. Gamble.

The hotel was used extensively by planters from the midlands of South Carolina, who traveled to Charleston during horse-racing season. It was noted for its wonderful food and drinks during this era, and the South's famous Planter's Punch may have originated here. Guests to the hotel passed through the recessed porch with brownstone columns, into the lobby, and up a grand staircase that ascended to a drawing room. While much of the interior has been altered, these elements of the antebellum hotel remain and were adapted in subsequent uses of the building. A series of additions to the hotel throughout the 19th and 20th centuries can be easily identified by differences in brick coloration.

This theater is said to have been the first building built specifically for theatrical performances in America. Planter's Hotel occasionally housed one of the city's theatrical troupes, which performed at the nearby New Theatre during the mid-19th century. The most notable actor of this troupe was Junius Brutus Booth. Booth was the patriarch of an outstanding family of actors, which included John Wilkes Booth, President Lincoln's assassin. Junius Booth, who stayed at the Planter's Hotel, allegedly tried to kill his manager here in 1838. Today the Dock Street Theatre is home to the Charleston Stage Company, South Carolina's largest professional theater production company, and houses the city's Cultural Affairs office as well as The City Gallery, an exhibition space for local artists.

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Top Dock Street Theater Hotel Reviews

HarbourView Inn

10/10 Excellent

"The Harbor View Inn was spectacular. The service, the extras, the location was absolutely wonderful. 11out of 10 would definitely stay there again."

The Loutrel

10/10 Excellent

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely Perfect Stay! Every detail of our stay was truly perfect from start to finish! Leah and Riley were the most welcoming and friendly bartenders—we instantly felt at home, and their energy made every visit to the bar a blast. The hotel’s amazing rooftop happy hour was the icing on the cake: fabulous drinks, stunning views, and the perfect spot to unwind. The location is ideal—tucked just off the beaten path so it’s peaceful and quiet, yet still walking distance to everything. Rafael Abren was incredible as well; he greeted us with a warm smile and gave us a simple, thoughtful tour of the mezzanine and our room. His attention to detail and genuine hospitality set the tone for the whole stay. Everyone we encountered was wonderful. This is hospitality at its finest, and we can’t wait to come back!"

Hotels near other Dock Street Theater attractions

Pink House Gallery

You can browse the exhibits at Pink House Gallery, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Charleston. Add the area's churches or shops to your travel plans.

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Old Slave Mart Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Old Slave Mart Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Charleston. Discover the area's churches, or seek out its local tours.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Dock Street Theater?

Dock Street Theater is located in a historic area of Charleston known for its bar scene and array of dining options. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 294 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay close to Dock Street Theater?

Adjacent to Dock Street Theater, Emeline is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers a restaurant and a fitness center. Other good choices close by include The Vendue and The Francis Marion Hotel.

How many hotels can I expect to find close to Dock Street Theater?

Expedia has 294 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Dock Street Theater.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Dock Street Theater, will I receive a refund?

Yes, you'll find most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your arrival date. If your reservation is non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to get top deals close to Dock Street Theater.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Dock Street Theater?

To find more details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near Dock Street Theater, click here.

What can I see and do near Dock Street Theater?

Gibbes Museum of Art, International African American Museum, and Charleston Museum feature captivating exhibits. Charleston City Market, Rainbow Row, and Charleston Music Hall are some of the notable landmarks to see in the area. You can catch a show at Charleston Gaillard Center, Music Farm, and The Riviera Theater.

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Compare 5,428 hotels close to Dock Street Theater with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

HarbourView Inn

French Quarter Inn

The Spectator Hotel

20 South Battery

Hilton Club Liberty Place Charleston

The Nickel Hotel

The Charleston Place

Planters Inn

The Restoration

Hotel Bennett

The Dewberry Charleston

Emeline

Indigo Inn

The Ansonborough

The Meeting Street Inn

Church Street Inn Historic Charleston, Ascend Collection Hotel

The Jasmine House

Hotel Bella Grace

The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

Courtyard Charleston Historic District

Top Dock Street Theater Hotel Reviews

HarbourView Inn

Hotels near other Dock Street Theater attractions

Pink House Gallery

Old Slave Mart Museum

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