Charleston retains title of No. 1 small city in the U.S. in Condé Nast Traveler readers’ Choice Awards
October 2, 2024
For the third consecutive year, and 13th time in the last 14 years, Charleston has been named the most popular city in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are widely regarded as the longest-running and one of the most prestigious recognitions of excellence in the travel industry and are commonly known as “the best of the best of travel.”
“Earning the distinction of Best U.S. City is a testament to the nearly 54,000 residents working in our local travel and hospitality industry each day, as well as the welcoming community that makes the Charleston area a highly sought-after destination,” said Dan Blumenstock, Chair of Explore Charleston’s Board of Governors.
“Travelers today have more options than ever. We are both honored and humbled that Condé Nast Traveler readers continue to recognize the Charleston area’s uniqueness and charm,” continued Blumenstock. “World-class accommodations, distinctive culture and attractions, award-winning cuisine, breathtaking waterways and beaches, and a thriving arts scene offer visitors incomparable experiences.”
The College of Charleston’s Office of Tourism Analysis estimates tourism generated a record-high impact of $13.1 billion for the Greater Charleston Area in 2023. Almost 25 cents of every dollar spent in the region is attributable to tourism.
“Tourism propels economic activity, is one of the region’s largest industries and, in many ways, is the foundation of the Charleston area’s prosperity. Among other things, contributing to a stronger tax base reduces pressure on property taxes within local municipalities,” said Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston.
“Being relevant and staying top of mind in this increasingly competitive industry is critical to supporting local businesses and generating essential revenue for our community,” added Hill.
“Condé Nast Traveler has worldwide reach, so the accolades provide valuable exposure to a global audience. International travelers are essential to our industry’s future success,” said Blumenstock.
In addition to the No. 1 Small U.S. City award, Hotel Bennett was named No. 18 in the Best Hotels in the World.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort was ranked No. 23 in the Best Resorts in the World.
Kiawah Island remains a top destination for Condé Nast Traveler readers. The island community was again voted No. 2 in the Top Islands in the U.S. category.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina and Wild Dunes Resort secured top 10 spots among the Top Resorts in the South.
The following hotels were voted the Top Hotels in Charleston for 2024 (listed alphabetically): The Charleston Place, The Dewberry, French Quarter Inn, Grand Bohemian Charleston, Hotel Bennett, John Rutledge House Inn, The Loutrel, The Restoration, Wentworth Mansion and Zero George.
Results of the 37th annual awards were announced today and will be celebrated in the November issue.
The complete results of the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards can be found here.
About Explore Charleston
As the region’s destination marketing and management organization, Explore Charleston represents 11 local governments across three counties. It seeks to unify and lead the local travel industry in marketing the Charleston area, create overnight visitation, and support responsible development through travel and tourism strategies.
