If you are visiting Charleston, SC and hoping to visit both the historic downtown and surrounding beaches, the town of Mt. Pleasant could be the best place for you to book a place to stay.
Mt. Pleasant is located just across the Cooper River from downtown Charleston and you can see it from the east side of the Charleston peninsula. You can also get there by bike or foot if you plan to walk or run the Ravenel Bridge during your visit.
Mt. Pleasant’s proximity allows visitors to enjoy all the attractions of Charleston without being immersed in the hustle and bustle of the city center. And perhaps more importantly, depending on what kind of vacation you are planning, it is equidistant from downtown Charleston and two of the most popular beaches – Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.
So in terms of location, Mt. Pleasant offers the best of both worlds! Overall, the town of Mt. Pleasant has a more relaxed, suburban atmosphere than downtown Charleston, but there is one section of town that feels and looks like you stepped back in time.
History of the Old Village Neighborhood
The Old Village neighborhood in Mt. Pleasant is a historic, hidden gem that Charleston tourists often miss. First established in the 18th century by Charlestonians who wanted to build a summer home on the water, this area still has some of the most desirable (and expensive) real estate in the metro Charleston area.
Locals still view the Old Village as the heart and soul of Mt. Pleasant, with its many well-preserved antebellum homes, buildings, and small downtown. Many of these structures have been meticulously restored, showcasing traditional Southern architecture with wide porches, grand columns, and intricate woodwork.
The Pitt Street Pharmacy and the historic Alhambra Hall are notable local landmarks that evoke a sense of nostalgia and historical significance, although you’ll see neighborhood residents zipping by them in golf carts today. Pitt Street Bridge is one of my favorite spots to watch a Charleston sunrise or sunset.
This guide highlights why the Old Village Mt. Pleasant is worth visiting, what you can see and do in the historic neighborhood. But let’s talk about the local, boutique village inn that you should stay in during your Charleston trip or staycation.
Stay at The Post House Inn
The Post House Inn is truly a hidden gem that will have you falling in love with local village life. Back in the day, it was the Old Village post office, it’s now a neighborhood restaurant and inn that is equidistant from downtown Charleston and Sullivan’s Island.
Over my years of living in Charleston, I’ve come to Post House for plenty of cocktails and celebratory dinners (the bar and restaurant stays busy with locals), but staying at the Inn for a recent anniversary opened up a whole new side of just how special this local spot is. Let me tell you everything you need to know to make the most of your stay at Post House.
What’s Special about Post House Inn?
Charming Accommodations
Post House Inn has 7 rooms, all different shapes, sizes, and price points (but all contain a mini bar with an emergency bow tie, obviously). Book Room #2 to stay in the old solarium and be flooded with natural light and village views – I truly had a hard time leaving the room during my stay. Each room is uniquely decorated, blending modern comforts with vintage touches that reflect the character of the Old Village.
Local Accents
The inn’s decor is charming and thoughtfully curated, with a recurring snail motif that pays homage to its postal history. Look for these snail designs in the decor and product design throughout the inn, adding a whimsical touch, since snail mail is definitely an old post office’s love language!
Plus, things are really local here, y’all. Like any of the accents in your room? It’s very likely they came from the boutique down the street, and staff can help you purchase them. Most of the art on the walls is procured from the nearby Charleston Artist Collective too. This commitment to local artisans and businesses will definitely add a local, cultured touch that will make you feel like you’re really absorbing your southern surroundings. The Inn’s staff is happy to help you purchase any items you fall in love with during your stay, plus any of their own Post House swag, snails and all.
Explore the Village on Two Wheels
Bike rentals are free for guests, allowing you to explore the neighborhood on the Inn’s iconic red bikes during your stay, or bike the three miles to Sullivan’s Island. We rode out to Pitt Street Bridge for the perfect sunset view before circling back for dinner and a nightcap following. After all, you just have to walk upstairs after if you book a room!
Other Complimentary Perks
Complimentary cocktails from the Post House bar and breakfast from the restaurant come with each room booking. On the weekdays, you can wake up and wander down to the restaurant whenever you’re for a home cooked meal. On the weekends, since the restaurant offers brunch, the staff will bring you a breakfast basket directly to your room. Trust me, I fell far too comfortable with my coffee and berries in bed lifestyle while there.
Personalized Experience
Folks are real friendly here, and the staff want to personalize your experience. I told them we were celebrating our anniversary and when we entered our room there was chilled champagne and a handwritten note. They also provide local recommendations and a hand-drawn map to help you navigate the area and can assist with booking any services or experiences throughout Charleston. Whether it’s arranging a spa day, a guided tour, or a special dinner, the staff will go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. I’d recommend making any restaurant dinner reservations when booking your room to ensure they don’t fill up—or shoot the staff an email and they’ll handle it for you.
Conclusion
Staying at the Post House Inn in Mt. Pleasant will give you a great blend of historical charm, modern comforts, and Southern hospitality. This could be the perfect spot for you to book a stay if you are hoping to spend time soaking up historic small town feels, visiting downtown Charleston, plus some of the surrounding beaches. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a full Charleston vacation, Post House Inn provides a cozy and welcoming home base for you to wander the Old Village and then venture out to the greater Charleston area.
I’ll be back, Post House!
