This distinctive-looking hotel is one of the most affordable options in Downtown Charleston (1 block from the College of Charleston)—in the off season, at least—with small but cozy period rooms. The outdoor pool and free parking add to the appeal. Though it looks older, the inn was actually completed in 1958 on the location of the old Pavilion Hotel, where Edgar Allan Poe spent his weekends 1827 to 1829 (when he was enlisted at Fort Moultrie), and wrote “The Gold Bug.” Each room contains a flatscreen LCD TV and an iPod docking station, and the on-site BREW pub and cafe is open for breakfast, complimentary reception (4:30–5:30pm), drinks, and dinner. While there is no gym, adjacent Eco Fitness is open to guests for $5 per day.