A Charleston Landmark Since 1924
For more than a century, the Francis Marion Hotel has welcomed presidents, celebrities, couples, families, and travelers from around the world. Overlooking Marion Square in the heart of historic Charleston, the hotel has stood as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since opening its doors in 1924.
Named for Revolutionary War hero General Francis Marion—better known as the “Swamp Fox”—the hotel was built during Charleston’s celebrated Renaissance, when the city’s art, culture, and hospitality were flourishing.
Today, thoughtfully restored and beautifully preserved, the Francis Marion Hotel continues to blend the elegance of the Roaring Twenties with the modern comforts today’s travelers expect.
Built to Impress
The Francis Marion Hotel opened in 1924 after being commissioned by local investors and designed by renowned New York architect W.L. Stoddard.
Built at a cost of $1.5 million, it was the largest and most luxurious hotel in the Carolinas—a symbol of Charleston’s growing prominence during America’s Golden Age of travel.
During the 1920s, rail travel connected visitors from across the country, and the Francis Marion quickly became Charleston’s premier destination for elegant accommodations, grand celebrations, and distinguished guests.
Today, the hotel remains one of the city’s most iconic historic buildings, continuing a tradition of Southern hospitality that spans more than 100 years.
At a Glance
1924 – Hotel Opens | Architect – W.L. Stoddard | Original Cost – 1.5 Million | Stories – 12 | Guest Rooms – 234
Restored for the Next Century
In 1996, the Francis Marion Hotel underwent an award-winning $12 million restoration recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Original architectural details were carefully preserved while modern amenities were thoughtfully incorporated, allowing guests to experience the grandeur of the 1920s without sacrificing today’s comforts.
Many guestrooms offer sweeping views of Charleston Harbor, Marion Square, the city’s famous church steeples, and historic King Street.
A Front-Row Seat to Charleston
One of the hotel’s greatest treasures is its location. Situated directly across from Marion Square, guests are within walking distance of Charleston’s most celebrated attractions, including:
King Street shopping | Historic homes | Museums | Waterfront Park |
The Charleston City Market | Award-winning restaurants | Art galleries | Historic churches
For over a century, the Francis Marion Hotel has served as the perfect starting point for exploring one of America’s most historic cities.
The Man Behind the Name
General Francis Marion earned the nickname “The Swamp Fox” during the American Revolutionary War for his remarkable ability to outmaneuver British forces through South Carolina’s swamps and forests.
Following the fall of Charleston in 1780, Marion led a small band of militia fighters using swift, strategic raids that became legendary throughout the colonies. His innovative tactics made him nearly impossible to capture and helped inspire generations of military leaders.
After the war, Marion served South Carolina as a state senator and remained a respected public servant until his retirement.