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Charleston, SC Historic Hotels: The Vendue
#3 Hotel in Charleston in the 2020 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards
The Vendue is a combination of two unique Charleston, SC historic hotels – 19 Vendue and 26 Vendue – located across the street from one another. 19 Vendue is housed within five historic warehouses dating back to 1780 that have been combined to form one hotel. 26 Vendue is a combination of two historic warehouses dating back to the 1800s. Due to the historic nature of the buildings, no two rooms are alike and each is decorated with different period reproduction furnishings or true antiques.
The Vendue was renovated and “reborn” in 2014 to create Charleston’s first and only hotel dedicated to the arts – in all forms. Over 300 pieces of original art have been installed for our guests to enjoy. Our main exhibition space covers the entire public spaces of 19 Vendue. Additional installations are on display in all guestroom corridors, the public areas of 26 Vendue, and within our Gallery guest rooms.
Unique Accommodations
Due to the historic nature of the buildings, no two rooms are alike and each is decorated with different period reproduction furnishings or true antiques.
Charleston’s Art Hotel
The Vendue is the first and only hotel dedicated to the arts in Charleston. Over 300 pieces of original art have been installed for our guests to enjoy.
Distinct Dining Experiences
There’s no shortage of dining options at The Vendue, which offers three on-site restaurants. Our lobby lounge, Drawing Room, offers small bites and cocktails during the day. In the evening, sip cocktails at The Rooftop, while overlooking the Charleston Harbor and the city’s skyline. Check out our restaurant, Revival, open for dinner daily from 5-10 pm.
The Vendue’s History
Made up of several warehouse buildings dating back to the 1780s, great care has been taken throughout the years to preserve the historical character of The Vendue. Explore the best of historic hotels in Charleston, SC at The Vendue.
1785
The name, ‘The Vendue’, comes from the vendue masters (or auctioneers) who worked in the area. French merchants utilized The Vendue, originally known as Prioleau’s Wharf, to conduct trade. Prioleau’s Wharf quickly became a favorite, until the trade business halted at the onset of the Civil War.
1865
During the Civil War, Prioleau’s Wharf became a warehouse for blockade-runners. After the war, the building evolved into a warehouse for the fishing industry, and weary sailors looking for a place to stay encouraged the warehouse to add its first accommodations.
1872
Rebuilt in 1872 by Ms. Ann Ross, 19 Vendue’s granite post and lintel system from 1839 was preserved. In addition, several of the rooms in 26 Vendue still feature historical components of the original warehouses, such as exposed wood beams and original Charleston brick.
1973
The property lies within Charleston’s historic French Quarter Art District. Most of the buildings in the French Quarter were listed in the National Register of Historic Places prior to 1973 when a collection of mostly 19th century warehouses were saved from demolition by the “Save Charleston Foundation,” a group of local citizens who conducted a national campaign to raise money for that specific purpose. The irreplaceable warehouses on Queen Street, State Street and Lodge Alley were then conveyed to developers who rehabilitated the properties into valuable commercial businesses.
2012
Avocet Hospitality acquired The Vendue Inn (19 & 24 Vendue).
2013
Avocet Hospitality acquired The Anchorage Inn at 26 Vendue, later to be restructured and combined with 24 Vendue. The Vendue Inn closed its doors on November 11th, 2013 to begin a $5.5 million renovation.
Now
19 and 26 Vendue re-opened in 2014 as “The Vendue,” Charleston’s first boutique hotel dedicated to the arts, in all forms. The Vendue still carries the charm and structure of the original properties.
Featured at The Vendue Hotel in Charleston
Browse an exclusive and handpicked collection of our hotel packages, things to do in Charleston, art exhibitions and more.
The Rooftop
Recognized by the New York Times, Charleston’s most iconic rooftop restaurant and bar offers panoramic views of the Holy City skyline and legendary harbor.
Art at The Vendue
Our goal is to inspire guests through our robust art program. Explore the work on display at our Charleston art hotel.
Offers & Packages
Browse a collection of carefully crafted hotel packages to create a unique Charleston experience. We also feature special offers throughout the year.
