Southern Charm Defined: The Mills House Hotel Charleston
Charleston may be the most colorful city in the US. The Holy City’s love of the pastel pallet was shared around the world following a 1980s photo spread in National Geographic that showcased 13 pastel-painted row houses titled "Rainbow Row." But its color goes far beyond the façade, as the city is rich in color as well as history, authenticity, and of course, Southern charm. One of its most colorful places to stay from its pastel pink façade to its luxury accommodations, low country cuisine and so much more is the Mills House Hotel, a member of the Hilton Curio Collection.
Arriving at the Mills House Hotel feels like stepping into the soul of the city itself—rich in history, yet pulsing with an energy that is distinctly contemporary. The hotel’s iconic pink façade is an indication of the Southern hospitality and sophistication beyond. What awaits inside is a blend of opulent design, celebrated art, and a legacy that spans over a century and a half, all while embracing modern luxury.
The Mills House is located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. A short stroll brings you to the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the iconic Rainbow Row, and the historic City Market. The location is ideal for exploring Charleston’s art galleries, high-end boutiques, or simply the pleasure of wandering Charleston’s storied streets and neighborhood while admiring their gas streetlights and delicious antebellum architecture.
The Mills House Hotel boasts a rich history that mirrors the multifaceted story of Charleston itself. Originally built in 1853, the hotel was designed to reflect Charleston's prominence as a burgeoning port city and commercial hub. Charles Mills, the hotel’s founder, envisioned an elegant establishment to rival the South’s finest, offering luxurious accommodations for merchants, dignitaries, and travelers.
Over the past century and a half, the Mills House Hotel has played a significant role in Charleston’s history. During the Civil War, it hosted General Robert E. Lee and served as a Confederate military hospital. It also withstood two of Charleston's most devastating fires—the Great Fire of 1861 and another in 1916. Remarkably, during the latter fire, hotel employees reportedly saved the building by draping it with wet rugs and blankets to prevent further damage. Ironically, it wasn’t fire but termites that necessitated the hotel’s demolition and reconstruction in the 1970s. The original structure was torn down and meticulously rebuilt, preserving its historic charm while emerging more resilient than ever.
The hotel’s most recent transformation came in 2004 when it was acquired by RLJ Lodging Trust, founded by Robert L. Johnson, the first African American billionaire and the founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET). Under Johnson’s stewardship, the Mills House Hotel was updated with the goal of preserving its historical significance while modernizing its amenities and design to meet the expectations of today’s luxury traveler. With a focus on maintaining Charleston's heritage, RLJ Lodging Trust has breathed new life into the hotel, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the city’s hospitality scene.
Haute Antebellum Design
Walking through the Mills House Hotel, it’s clear that no detail has been overlooked in preserving the building’s historical charm while elevating it with sophisticated modern touches. The hotel’s architecture, a blend of classic Southern styles, stands as a tribute to Charleston’s antebellum past.
The ironwork details that adorn the exterior are both functional and ornamental, recalling the historic craftsmanship found throughout Charleston. The color of the building, a soothing blush pink, is a defining feature that stands out against the nearby cobblestone streets, yet still blends harmoniously with the city’s historic palette.
The courtyard of the Mills House is a serene oasis tucked away from the lively streets of the historic district. The centerpiece is a tranquil fountain, providing the soothing sound of cascading water. On chilly nights, guests gather around the open-hearth fireplace. Classic garden furniture invites guests to relax and savor the ambiance, whether enjoying a morning coffee or an evening cocktail.
Inside, the Mills House continues to weave Southern charm with modern elegance. The common areas are designed to feel like an extension of Charleston’s famous porches, with antebellum influences and contemporary design with polished marble flooring, plush seating intriguing art installations. The central staircase at The Mills House Hotel in Charleston makes a striking impression as well with its elegant and symmetrical 'his and her' design. These dual staircases sweep upward from either side of a cozy seating nook at the base, where plush chairs and a small table invite guests to linger. This area feels more like an art gallery than a simple lobby.
Throughout the hotel, the walls are adorned with a remarkable collection of a collection of artwork and installations by talented female Southern artist. One notable artist featured is Tracy Murrell. Her art, characterized by modern aesthetics, contributes to the hotel's stylish and contemporary atmosphere.
Another distinguished artistist Rebecca Meixner, known professionally as Rebecca Illustrated. Her vibrant watercolor designs capture coastal landscapes and Southern life, adding a personalized touch to the hotel's ambiance. Guests can explore her exclusive storefront on the ground floor, offering prints, mugs, tote bags, ornaments, and custom Mills House merchandise.
Sublime Accommodations
The rooms and suites at The Mills House combine timeless décor with modern comforts. The design is exquisite with a tasteful yet colorful palette and whimsical pillow accents with southern phrases from Hey Y’all to Well, I do declare!
The Corner King Room is spacious and well-appointed with large windows offering panoramic views of Charleston’s historic streets below. The most popular room is the Pool Side Room with its own private wrought iron framed porch on the second-floor with views and access to the pool area.
Low Country Cuisine at its Finest
The Mills House stands out for its dining options, particularly at its signature restaurant, the Iron Rose. The space combines a polished yet welcoming vibe, with a sleek bar, lounge area, and an inviting courtyard for al fresco dining near a bubbling fountain. The menu focuses on Lowcountry cuisine with a contemporary twist, highlighting fresh ingredients from local farms and fisheries. Dishes like shrimp and grits are both flavorful and thoughtfully prepared, celebrating the region’s culinary heritage.
Brunch at the Iron Rose is a highlight, featuring live music that spans Charleston’s jazz, blues, and acoustic traditions. Standout dishes include the Surf & Turf Eggs Benedict, made with a petit filet mignon, crab cake, poached egg, and lemon Béarnaise sauce, as well as the sweet and savory chicken and waffle topped with spiced peach compote. The flavors are rich, satisfying, and reflective of Southern comfort food at its best.
The leisurely brunch experience is enhanced by creative cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists. One standout is the Amazing Grace, a smoky blend of Applewood Smoked Vodka, mango, citrus, and Maraschino liqueur.
For something quicker or to grab and go, the Black Door Pantry offers breakfast options in a relaxed setting. Guests can enjoy the aroma of fresh coffee while sampling pastries, seasonal fruits, and warm breakfast biscuits served with gravy or butter and honey—a simple yet quintessential taste of Charleston
Pool Time
The hotel’s pool area provides a relaxing retreat, ideal for soaking up Charleston’s warm weather. Comfortable lounge chairs line the pool, creating a casual yet stylish setting for unwinding with a drink in hand. The poolside bar serves a range of refreshing cocktails, perfectly suited to the laid-back atmosphere.
For those seeking a bit more privacy or shade, the cabanas are a popular choice. With attentive service delivering drinks and light snacks directly to your spot, the pool area becomes a perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon with friends or simply enjoy some quiet downtime.
The Mills House Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it is a portal into Charleston’s past and a testament to the city’s ability to blend history with modernity. The hotel’s rich history, stunning design, and unparalleled service make it a standout destination in one of the most charming cities in the United States. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch, relaxing by the pool, or simply taking in the intricate details of the hotel’s architecture, every moment spent at the Mills House is a reminder of why Charleston remains a must visit destination in the American South.
