CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — For the fourth consecutive yr, and the 14th time in the final 15 years, Charleston has been named the top city in the United States by readers of Condé Nast Traveler.
The journal’s Readers’ Choice Awards are thought of among the many most prestigious honors in the journey business, recognizing what the publication calls “the best of the best” in world journey.
“Retaining the distinction of Best U.S. City is a tremendous achievement and testament to the nearly 55,000 people working in our local travel and hospitality industry each day, as well as the welcoming community that makes the Charleston area a sought-after destination,” mentioned Dan Battista, chairman of Explore Charleston’s Board of Governors.
READ MORE | “Charleston crowned most popular U.S. city by Condé Nast Traveler readers for 12th time.”
Battista mentioned the popularity underscores Charleston’s continued energy in an more and more aggressive journey market.
“We’ve commented many times, especially in the post-COVID era, that competition in the travel industry grows more intense each year,” he mentioned. “This recognition from the readers of one of travel’s most respected publications strengthens the region’s legacy and is evidence of our ability to remain relevant and constantly provide a unique and highly valued visitor experience.”
Explore Charleston President and CEO Helen Hill mentioned the advantages of a robust tourism business lengthen far past guests.
(*15*) Hill mentioned. “Visitor spending supports local businesses and generates funding for infrastructure investments, public safety, education and cultural amenities. This enhances quality of life and reduces local municipalities’ reliance on property taxes paid by residents, ultimately improving the sustainability of our community.”
The College of Charleston’s Office of Tourism Analysis estimates the regional financial affect of tourism now exceeds $14 billion yearly, with almost 25 cents of each greenback spent in the world tied to journey and hospitality.
This yr’s Readers’ Choice Awards additionally acknowledged a number of Charleston-area locations.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort was once more ranked among the many Best Resorts in the World. Kiawah Island was named No. 2 in the Top Islands in the U.S. class.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, and Wild Dunes Resort all earned spots among the many Top Resorts in the South. The Dunlin, Auberge Collection, was ranked among the many top 10 in the Best 25 Hotels in the South class.
The following properties had been named among the many Top Hotels in Charleston for 2025 (listed alphabetically): The Charleston Place, The Dewberry, Elliott House Inn, Hotel Bennett, The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel Collection, The Loutrel, The Mills House, Curio Collection by Hilton, The Ryder Hotel, Wentworth Mansion and Zero George.
“These awards come at a pivotal moment, providing our market with valuable exposure to remain top of mind in this increasingly competitive industry, especially as people plan for the holidays and look ahead to 2026,” Hill mentioned. “From our vibrant urban core to our beautiful islands, visitors continue to make meaningful connections with the people and places of our unique and engaging community, and we can never take that for granted.”
Results of the thirty eighth annual Readers’ Choice Awards had been introduced Tuesday and will probably be featured in the November situation of Condé Nast Traveler.
The full record will be found here.