Charleston's Hidden Gem: Middleton Place Inn Unveiled!
Middleton Place Inn: More Than Just a Pretty Picture (A Slightly Unhinged Review)
Okay, so, Charleston. Dreamy, right? And Middleton Place Inn, right in the heart of it all, almost seemed too good to be true. Let's dive in, shall we? Buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your typical polished travel brochure!
First Impressions: Grand, But… Could Use a Spritz of Sass
Pulling up felt like arriving at a plantation… well, a slightly posh plantation. The historic setting is undeniable: majestic oaks, the Ashley River shimmering… it's picture-perfect postcard stuff. But, and this is a big but, it just felt… serious? Like, everyone was being incredibly polite, and the air practically crackled with the weight of history. Maybe I just needed a cocktail. Speaking of…
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Stomach's Tale of Two Cities
Alright, the food. This is where things get a little… complicated. The restaurants are a definite pro. I’m a sucker for Asian breakfast when I'm feeling fancy, and the Inn served a solid one - it's available. Western breakfast is available too if you don't feel like being adventurous. Coffee/tea in restaurant? Check. Poolside bar? Double-Check! (That happy hour was a lifesaver after navigating the artfully manicured gardens!) The problem? The prices. Let's just say, my wallet definitely felt the burn. And while I appreciate the attempt at international cuisine in restaurant, sometimes it felt a little… predictable. The vegetarian restaurant, on the other hand, deserves a shout-out. Delicious.
The bar and coffee shop are great for a quick respite. I was particularly obsessed with the bottle of water that was, thankfully, free, because by day 2 Charleston heat was sucking the life force out of me. And don't even get me started on the snack bar. Perfect for a mid-afternoon nibble after sweating my way through the formal gardens.
Wellness Woes and Spa Shenanigans:
Okay, the spa. The spa! Listen, I needed this. I absolutely needed this. My shoulders were practically touching my ears from all the Charleston charm. I started my self-care adventure with a Body scrub. Fantastic. Pure bliss. But then I got ambitious. Body wrap? Yeah, maybe I should have skipped that one. Let's just say, I spent a good portion of the wrap time wondering if I was going to suffocate.
The Sauna was a welcome respite (as was the steamroom), and yes, I took a dip in the Swimming pool [outdoor] which was delicious after too much sun. The Pool with view was a plus because I enjoyed the view. The Gym/fitness center? I glanced at it. I'm on holiday. The Spa itself was gorgeous, but I’m not sure I came out more relaxed than I went in. (Maybe slightly less tense, though.)
Rooms: Comfort, Plus the Ghosts of the Past (Maybe?)
The rooms. Oh, the rooms. They're undeniably luxurious. The Non-smoking rooms are a blessing, especially for a sensitive nose like mine. The Air conditioning? Crucial. Free Wi-Fi that actually WORKS? Hallelujah! The Bathroom phone? Unnecessary, but fancy! The Bathtub was a godsend after a long day of exploring. The Extra long bed was needed because I'm a floater.
I was obsessed with the Coffee/tea maker because I can't function without coffee. The Mirror was necessary because, hello, vanity!
But here’s the thing: the decor. It's… historical. Which means… well, let’s just say it’s not exactly minimalist. I spent a good bit of my first night convinced I’d seen a ghost. (Probably just wind rustling in the curtains, but still…) The Blackout curtains did a good job of keeping the ghostly apparitions out.
Cleanliness and Safety: Sanitized Sanity
Okay, big props to Middleton Place for taking safety seriously. Staff trained in safety protocol, check. Professional-grade sanitizing services, check. I loved seeing the Hand sanitizer everywhere. The Anti-viral cleaning products gave me peace of mind. Though, I have to wonder if they removed all potential ghosts during their Room sanitization opt-out available process.
Services and Conveniences: They've Thought of Everything (Almost)
The Inn offers a full suite of services. The Concierge was fantastic and helped me navigate the complex Charleston map. The Daily housekeeping was immaculate, and honestly, a lifesaver. The Doorman was charming and polite. The Elevator was also nice, but I will say, I didn’t see an abundance of Facilities for disabled guests, which is a minor point.
The Gift/souvenir shop was dangerously tempting. I may or may not have bought a ridiculous amount of Charleston-themed trinkets. The Laundry service was essential after a particularly messy oyster roast.
Things to Do (And My Mental Breakdown in the Gardens):
Okay, Middleton Place itself is a HUGE draw. The gardens are stunning. Stunning. But… and this is where I confess to my total lack of gardening chops… I got lost. Seriously lost. The sprawling paths, the perfectly manicured hedges, the sheer scale of it all… It was overwhelming. I wandered for an hour, feeling increasingly inadequate. Eventually, I just gave up and sat on a bench, silently judging the perfectly trimmed camellias. It was glorious, in its own chaotic way.
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair accessible: I can't personally attest to this, but the listing claims it is. Always best to confirm with the Inn directly.
- Elevator: Yes, thankfully!
For the Kids:
- Babysitting service: Available, which is great for parents seeking some downtime.
- Family/child friendly: Seems to be, but the historical setting might not be ideal for super energetic toddlers.
- Kids facilities: Unknown.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer: Available.
- Valet parking: available.
The Verdict: Worth It? (With Caveats)
Middleton Place Inn is a beautiful, historically rich experience. The setting is exquisite. The rooms are luxurious. The service is impeccable. BUT… be prepared for a slightly formal, potentially ghost-filled experience. It's pricey. It's sprawling. It can be a little overwhelming.
Would I go back? Probably. I've learned to embrace the chaos. Maybe next time, I'll bring a map, a flashlight, and a healthier dose of courage to face the perfectly-trimmed camellias. And, you know, maybe a ghost hunting kit, just in case.
SEO Keywords and Metadata:
- Keywords: Middleton Place Inn, Charleston, South Carolina, Hotel Review, Luxury Hotel, Spa, Restaurants, Historic Hotel, Gardens, Accessible, Wheelchair Accessible, Southern Charm, Travel Review, Inn, Hotel, Vacation, Getaway, Spa, Relaxation, History, Plantation
- Title: Middleton Place Inn: A Charleston Gem? (My Slightly Unhinged Review)
- Description: A hilarious and honest review of Middleton Place Inn in Charleston, SC! From luxurious rooms and stunning gardens to spa shenanigans and ghostly encounters, I share my unfiltered experience. Is it worth it? Find out!
- Meta Tags:
<meta name="description" content="A hilarious and honest review of Middleton Place Inn in Charleston, SC! From luxurious rooms and stunning gardens to spa shenanigans and ghostly encounters, I share my unfiltered experience. Is it worth it? Find out!"><meta name="keywords" content="Middleton Place Inn, Charleston, South Carolina, Hotel Review, Luxury Hotel, Spa, Restaurants, Historic Hotel, Gardens, Accessible, Wheelchair Accessible, Southern Charm, Travel Review, Inn, Hotel, Vacation, Getaway, Spa, Relaxation, History, Plantation"> - H1 Title: Middleton Place Inn: A Charleston Gem? (My Slightly Unhinged Review)
- H2 Titles:
- First Impressions: Grand, But… Could Use a Spritz of Sass
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Stomach's Tale of Two Cities
- Wellness Woes and Spa Shenanigans
- Rooms: Comfort, Plus the Ghosts of the Past (Maybe?)
- Cleanliness and Safety: Sanitized Sanity
- Services and Conveniences: They've Thought of Everything (Almost)
- Things to Do (And My Mental Breakdown in the Gardens):
- Accessibility:
- For the Kids:
- Getting Around:
- The Verdict: Worth It? (With Caveats)
This review, I hope, isn't just informative, but also entertaining and gives the reader a genuine feel for what to expect at Middleton Place Inn.
Escape to Atlanta: Luxurious Fairfield Inn Alpharetta Getaway!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly curated travel itinerary. This is a chaotic, beautiful mess, just like life. And we're going to the Inn at Middleton Place in Charleston, SC. Prepare for some serious charm… and maybe a meltdown or two.
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Charm Overload
- 1:00 PM: ARRIVE! Charleston airport, easy breezy (thank god). UBER to Middleton Place. Okay, maybe I'm already falling in love with Charleston. The Spanish moss… the heat… the feeling of being somewhere. Then… the drive, oh the drive was lovely, but not as lovely as the Inn.
- 1:45 PM: Check-in. Okay, this place is gorgeous. Seriously, Instagram-worthy everything. The staff is absurdly friendly, like they’re genuinely thrilled to see me. I half expect them to offer me a mint julep (which, by the way, I will be ordering later). The room – huge, overlooking the Ashley River (or is it a creek? I'll figure it out). I could stay here forever. I want to stay here forever.
- 2:30 PM: Stroll around the grounds. Okay, this is where things get interesting. I stumble upon the "Stableyards". I’m a total history dork, so the history… the preserved buildings… it's all making my head spin. I keep thinking about the people who worked here, the lives lived. This is the part where I tear up a little. Don't judge me.
- 4:00 PM: The Butterfly Pavilion. Okay, this is where my inner child comes out. Hundreds of butterflies fluttering around. I almost got a butterfly-hair-accessory, close call.
- 6:00 PM: Happy Hour at the Inn's bar. Because, duh. I order a local beer (because I'm trying to be cultured) and actually enjoy it. Talk to a pair from Nebraska. They’ve been birdwatching. Ugh, it sounds boring, but they are so excited, maybe I will.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at the Inn's restaurant, where I have an amazing meal. I feel like I should put on a gown and waltz into the dining room, but instead, I just awkwardly eat my food.
- 9:00 PM: Collapse into bed and start writing, then stop because my brain is fried.
Day 2: Delving into the History (and Possibly Drinking Way Too Much Coffee)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up, disoriented. Coffee. Must. Have. Coffee. There's a Keurig in the room, but I also have to have "real" coffee, so I find the main cafe near the restaurant. It's strong. Excellent.
- 9:00 AM: Guided tour of the plantation house. Okay, this is where the history REALLY hits you in the face. It's a beautiful house, but it's also a reminder of the horrors of slavery. The tour guide is great – she's sensitive, honest, and doesn't shy away from the difficult truths. I'm both fascinated and heartbroken at the same time. The air must be heavy with their memories.
- 11:00 AM: Wander around the gardens. The formal gardens! They are stunning, perfect lines and colors. I can almost imagine the Middleton’s walking around. I get lost in the maze. I also find some butterflies.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at the cafe. Overpriced but delicious. I spill my tea (classic). The world keeps turning.
- 2:00 PM: THE BIG ONE: The Reflection Pool… and My Existential Crisis. Okay, this is where things get ridiculous. The Reflection Pool! Have you seen it? It's a huge, perfect mirror of the house and the sky. I sit there, staring at my own face reflected in the water. I start thinking about life, death, the meaning of it all. This is a dangerous place for someone with an overactive imagination. I spend a good hour just staring at the water, feeling utterly insignificant and yet connected to everything at the same time. I almost start crying again. I think I'd rather cry than laugh. I think it's the humidity.
- 4:00 PM: Bike Ride to the Ashley River for nothing, maybe just get away and do some meditation.
- 6:00 PM: Beer and some snacks. Time to just chill.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at the Inn. I’m too tired for anything else. I contemplate ordering room service, just because I can.
Day 3: Charleston City Adventure and Goodbye (For Now)
- 8:00 AM: Another coffee. The caffeine dependency is real. Check out, then head into Charleston.
- 9:30 AM: Driving into Charleston city. It's a beautiful drive.
- 10:30 AM: Walking the city. It’s hot and humid. I get lost. But I also find the cutest little shops. I buy a souvenir – a tiny, hand-painted Charleston house.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at a Charleston restaurant. I eat some shrimp and grits (because, when in Rome, or… Charleston). It's delicious, but I'm too busy people-watching to fully appreciate it.
- 2:00 PM: Time to go to the airport. The drive back to the airport is… fine. Emotional burnout.
- 4:00 PM: Flight home. Sunk completely into my seat.
- 5:00 PM: Land and go home to begin the memory processing immediately.
Random Observations and Ramblings:
- The Spanish moss makes everything look like a dream.
- I need to learn how to be a better packer.
- I definitely overpacked.
- I think I need a vacation from my vacation.
- I'm already planning my return.
This is it. My totally unfiltered, probably slightly embarrassing, and hopefully entertaining itinerary for Middleton Place. Hope you enjoyed the ride. Now, excuse me while I go lie down and recover.
Arlington's BEST Kept Secret: Crystal Gateway Marriott Review!
Okay, spill. Is Middleton Place Inn really a "hidden gem" or just… fancy?
Ugh, "hidden gem." It's *technically* true. You might stumble upon it, tucked away from the main Charleston hustle, but honestly? The word "gem" feels a little… overplayed. It's more like a beautifully tarnished antique, you know? They *try* to keep it quiet – like, not plastered all over Instagram (thank GOD). But it's still… a beautiful, sometimes fussy antique. And the fancy level? Oh, honey, it's there. Expect linen napkins, but also expect to trip over a rogue cobblestone on the way to the pool. More on that later, trust me.
What's the vibe? Like, am I going to feel out of place in my slightly-worn jeans?
Okay, here's the honest truth: it depends. During the day in the gardens, it's pretty relaxed. Jeans are fine. Even kinda *encouraged* because, hey, garden exploring! However, Dinner? You might feel a *little* underdressed in those jeans, unless they're designer and strategically ripped. I saw one woman in a full-on silk caftan and *still* looked slightly underdressed. Honestly, the vibe leans towards "effortlessly elegant." Think the kind of elegance that comes after the third gin and tonic… In short: Dress *nicely*, but don't stress. Comfortable chic is the sweet spot. Just avoid the "I haven't changed out of my travel clothes" look, unless you want side-eye from the perfectly coiffed ladies.
The gardens – everyone raves about them. Worth the hype?
YES. A thousand times, *yes*. The gardens… ugh. They’re breathtaking. I'm honestly not a "garden person," but these are something else. The geometric beauty, the perfect symmetry… I spent a good hour just wandering around, practically drooling. The reflections in the ponds? Forget about it. Seriously, get lost in them. They're a balm for the soul. Just watch out for the mosquitos at dusk! They're not as elegant as the gardens themselves. I learned that the hard way, and I’m still itching.
The room, what's the deal? Are they all the same, or do they vary widely?
Okay, room-speak. They’re each unique, and that’s nice. But there’s a definite “rustic chic” aesthetic. Think muted colors, four-poster beds, and claw-foot tubs. Some are in the main inn, which is supposedly the "good" ones. Others are in smaller cottages and houses scattered around. I’m not sure which is better, because I got the one with the view of the freaking parking lot. No, wait. That’s harsh. It was a *very* nice parking lot. And the bed was comfortable. But I still wanted a room with a view of the river, but oh well. It was still *mostly* good.
The food. Tell me about the food, please tell me it’s good.
Oh, the food. It *is* good. Really good. The restaurant is called "Middleton's," and it's fantastic, not just "good." The shrimp and grits are legendary. I'm *still* dreaming about them. And the biscuits? Fluffy clouds of heaven. BUT (and there's always a but, isn't there?), be prepared for a price tag that matches the elegance. Breakfast is included with the room, which is awesome because you can load up on those biscuits and then not spend money on lunch. Dinner, however, is a splurge. Worth it? Depends on your bank account. But listen, I’d sell a kidney for another plate of those grits.
Okay, swimming pool time! Is it as glorious as it looks in the brochure?
The pool… Hmm. It *looks* glorious. Pictures? Stunning. In reality… it's… well, let's just say my experience was less "glamorous resort" and more "slightly awkward encounter with a rogue cobblestone." Yes, I tripped. Twice. On the way to the pool and then on my way back (blame the champagne). Then there were the kids. I love kids. But maybe not in the pool when you’re trying to read a book in blissful silence. But, the pool itself is still great! It's long enough for laps, with nice sun beds. Just watch your step, especially after a few cocktails. And maybe bring earplugs.
How much time should I realistically spend there? Is a weekend enough?
A weekend? Perfect. Ideally, arrive early on Friday and don't leave until Sunday afternoon. That gives you ample time to explore the gardens, eat your weight in shrimp and grits, relax by the pool (safely!), and generally soak up the atmosphere. Any less than that, and you're doing yourself a disservice. You'll feel rushed. You won't have enough time to truly unwind and maybe – just maybe – completely forget your worries. Take the time. You deserve it. And that's an order.
Anything I should *really* know before I go? Secret tips?
Okay, listen up. Here's the unvarnished truth: * Book in advance, especially for dinner. Seriously. * Bring bug spray. Those gardens are gorgeous, but the mosquitos are relentless. * Embrace the slow pace, or you'll lose your mind. This isn't a place for rushing. * Take the historic tour. It's fascinating, even if you're not a history buff. The story of Middleton Place is complex, and it pays to know it. * Don't be afraid to ask for help. Seriously, the staff is lovely. And most importantly don't let the perfectly coiffed ladies from the hotel ruin your vibe.
Would you go back? In a heartbeat?
Ugh, yes. Despite the parking lot view (minor issue!), the mosquitos, and the near-death experience with the cobblestones… yes. Absolutely.Hotels With Balconys
Post a Comment for "Charleston's Hidden Gem: Middleton Place Inn Unveiled!"