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

Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District

10/10 Excellent

"It was very good!"

Church Street Inn Historic Charleston, Ascend Collection Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"The 2 level room with a full kitchen, living/dining space and 1/2 bath on the lower level and bedroom and full bath on the upper was a welcome change from most hotel rooms that have a bed and maybe an additional chair. The central location was an added plus."

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 holiday in 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, take a look at the 292 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

What's the best hotel 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 traveller data, and this hotel offers a restaurant and a fitness centre. Other good choices close by include The Vendue and The Francis Marion Hotel.

How many hotels will I be able to find close to Dock Street Theater?

Expedia has 292 hotels and other accommodation options 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! The majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to view the top deals on offer near Dock Street Theater.

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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