The lobby of The Ryder Hotel, on popular Meeting Street in lively Charleston, SC. | All photos by Joe Thomas
Jet down south to enjoy Charleston’s new hotel, The Ryder, which offers a retro vibe with easy access to the city’s historic district.
When Westchesterites are looking for a romantic getaway, bachelorette party destination, or food-centric excursion, many jet down to Charleston, South Carolina. While there isn’t a direct flight from HPN (yet), you can arrive at Charleston International Airport (CHS) from New York City in about two and half hours — right in time for a midmorning breakfast. The lively city (the setting of Bravo’s popular reality show Southern Charm) proffers appeal, history, and trendy bars and restaurants. To experience all it has to offer, stay at The Ryder Hotel (237 Meeting St), downtown in the Historic District. Just 12 miles from CHS, the new hotspot is the work of South Carolinian design sensation Cortney Bishop (who has also designed a home in Westchester). The 91-room boutique has a summery, retro vibe, cloaked in warm earth tones and pastel hues. It features eco-friendly elements, light-stained wood throughout, and artistic furniture. Visit the hip, on-site bar and restaurant, Little Palm, which boasts creative cocktails and bites. Gin lovers, try the Easy Breezy; for a snack, the panisse (chickpea fries). The pet-friendly Ryder is one of the few hotels in Charleston that boasts a swimming pool — a must to beat the Southern heat. The Ryder sits in proximity to such local favorites as 167 Raw Oyster Bar, Gibbes Museum of Art, and King Street shopping boutiques. From $279 (seasonal).
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