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

Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton

10/10 Excellent

"This was an excellent hotel. The staff was amazing. The little café inside was perfect. The location was one step from King Street. Definitely recommended."

The Meeting Street Inn

10/10 Excellent

"We had a wonderful stay at the Meeting Street Inn. We loved watching the sun rise and the moon at night from our private balcony. The hot tub provided a means to relax at the end of a busy day and the breakfast with different main courses each day was delicious. We also enjoyed the daily wine and cheese gatherings and the cookies at night. The beds were super comfortable, too. My only complaints are that the exhaust fan in the bathroom did not work well (steamy room after a shower) and the air conditioner was quite noisy. But we loved it here regardless."

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 292 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 292 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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The Loutrel

French Quarter Inn

HarbourView Inn

The Spectator Hotel

20 South Battery

The Pinch Hotel

Hilton Club Liberty Place Charleston

Zero George Street

The Nickel Hotel

The Iris Charleston

Planters Inn

Andrew Pinckney Inn

The Charleston Place

The Restoration

Hotel Richemont

The Dewberry Charleston

Hotel Bennett

Luxurious Private Suites in Downtown Charleston

The Vendue

Indigo Inn

Top Dock Street Theater Hotel Reviews

Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotels near other Dock Street Theater attractions

Pink House Gallery

Old Slave Mart Museum

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