When The Ryder hotel opened its doors in May 2021, a new choice of boutique lodging was born in Charleston, South Carolina. Replacing the King Charles Inn with a whole new look and feel, The Ryder provides travelers with a central location without sacrificing comfort.
Upon entering, guests will be greeted by the bellman to whisk luggage to their room and park the car if needed. Parking is valet-only and costs 40 USD per day. In the lobby, you’ll find reception, the coffee café, and a staircase leading upstairs. Above reception find an intimate lounge with a fireplace, comfy seating in armchairs, a sofa, or two-seat café tables. After checking into your room or suite, it’s time to explore the hotel. Guests are encouraged to relax over complimentary morning coffee, afternoon drinks, or reading time in the lounge.
Rooms and suites
Visitors have 91 guest rooms and suites to choose from with 17 different layouts. Rooms and suites calm the senses with soft hues, local art, custom rugs by Moattar, and mesh drapery chosen by Courtney Bishop Design. Bathrooms have an eco-friendly approach, evident in the large format toiletry dispensers. Notice the eco-friendly theme in the ceramic tumblers found on the dresser top instead of plastic cups. Even the blankets sourced from Happy Habitat feature an eco-friendly aspect.
Queen and king rooms are a good value and have most of the amenities guests will want. An armoire holds clothing that requires hanging, while chests of drawers contain three ample spaces for foldable clothes. Soft robes are a nice touch after showering and lounging. A workstation includes a desk, chair, and phone if a bit of work is required during your stay.
Amenities
The Ryder hotel offers free high-speed WiFi in the rooms and Little Palm areas. A fitness center partnership with Pivotal Fitness offers state-of-the-art workout equipment next door. Just pick up your fitness pass at reception desk when you are ready for a workout. Yoga mats are provided in each room if you desire some mind and body time in privacy. Pets are welcome, but guests will need to pay 150 USD for the length of stay and an additional 50 USD for a second pet.
Suites come in three configurations. Choose either a junior king suite, studio suite, or one-bedroom suite to spoil you. The one-bedroom suite provides 1,045 sq ft/97.08 m2 living space, a kitchen, dining table, and adds a bathtub as well.
The Pool
The Ryder Hotel’s focal point is the Little Palm Bar & Swim Club, with a pool, indoor-outdoor bar, and restaurant featuring lunch or dinner. Several seating areas offer a space for an intimate meeting with friends or family, including a small outdoor area hidden just off the main dining area. On sunny days, Little Palm and the pool are bustling with guests enjoying this inviting place. Due to its popularity, the Little Palm Bar & Swim Club limits your visit to two hours during times of high occupancy. In the off-season, this two-hour policy is often waived.
What's Nearby
The Ryder hotel is very close to some of Charleston’s best restaurants, attractions, and parks, making a car not necessary. If you require local transportation, you can use Uber, Lyft, DASH shuttle, or local pedicabs to travel short distances within the downtown historic district.
Restaurants within walking distance of the hotel include Fig, Hyman’s Seafood, Circa 1886, Peace Pies ice cream sandwiches, and several others in or near the Historic Charleston City Market. Take a stroll on nearby King Street for trendy shops, ethnic cuisine, and Lowcountry eateries like Miller’s All Day Breakfast.
The Explore Charleston Visitor Center is about a ten-minute walk away on Meeting Street. Begin your stay at the visitor’s center to find out all that’s close to The Ryder Hotel. The free DASH shuttle bus makes stops at the visitor center and the staff can help you navigate this helpful transportation resource.
Charleston has several museums and historic homes you can visit while in town. Across from the visitor’s center, find The Charleston Museum and the Joseph Manigault House, where for a reasonable fee you can take a deep dive into local history.
Great location and hospitality
Charleston is famous for its history, dining, and hospitality. Staying at The Ryder Hotel will facilitate getting the most out of your visit due to its convenient Meeting Street address and friendly staff. Location is important when choosing a hotel and The Ryder provides a great home base for lodging.
Disclaimer: My stay at the Ryder hotel was hosted by C&R PR but all opinions expressed are my own.
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