Charleston named the No. 1 city in the US

Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC | Photo by Donnie Whitaker

Charleston’s still on the throne. Travel + Leisure has named the Holy City the No. 1 city in the US for the tenth year in a row, and we’re so not surprised. Our city was also recognized as the only US destination among the 25 Best Cities in the World — coming in at No. 23. 👑

Readers voted for Charleston as part of Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best Awards, which will appear in the August issue of the magazine. The Holy City was recognized for its culinary scene, Southern charm, and walkability. Holding the top spot for a decade, Charleston is now a World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree.

More bragging rights: The Loutrel + Wentworth Mansion were ranked among the 15 Best City Hotels in the Continental US and the 100 Best Hotels in the World. Kiawah Island was named the No. 2 island in the continental US and the No. 25 island in the world.

It’s not just Travel + Leisure singing Charleston’s praises. Our city was also named a top 2022 destination by Conde Nast Traveler last year, and the South’s best city by Southern Living this past spring.

Did you know? CofC’s Office of Tourism Analysis reported that the local visitor industry’s economic impact hit a record $10.6 billion last year. Now that’s some serious dough. 💸

Several other Southern destinations ranked among the top US cities, including Asheville at No. 13 + Nashville at No. 15.