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Charleston, SC

North America

United States

# NotSo Hostel – Affordable lodging in Charleston SC, community-focused, vibrant atmosphere, ideal for travelers

NotSo Hostel, located in Charleston, SC, offers a unique blend of affordability and community spirit for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. This hostel features a variety of accommodations, from private rooms to shared dorms, catering to different preferences and budgets. Established with a vision to provide a welcoming environment, NotSo Hostel has become a popular choice among visitors looking for a social atmosphere while exploring the historic city. Guests often highlight its central location, allowing easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a convenient base for both relaxation and adventure.

## History
### The story of NotSo Hostel
NotSo Hostel was founded with the intention of creating an inclusive space for travelers to connect and share experiences. The founders envisioned a place where guests could feel at home while exploring the vibrant culture of Charleston. This vision has guided the hostel's development, ensuring that it remains a welcoming haven for visitors from all walks of life.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a budget-friendly lodging option in downtown Charleston
- Expanded offerings to include both private and shared accommodations
- Developed a community-focused environment with shared spaces and events
- Gained recognition for its commitment to cleanliness and guest satisfaction

### Cultural and local influence
NotSo Hostel has played a significant role in promoting local culture by hosting events that showcase Charleston's rich history and vibrant arts scene. The hostel collaborates with local businesses to provide guests with authentic experiences, such as food tours and cultural workshops, enhancing their understanding of the area.

### Continuing the tradition
As NotSo Hostel continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of community and affordability. The management actively seeks feedback from guests to improve services and maintain a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that the hostel remains a beloved choice for travelers.

## Community
### Community involvement
NotSo Hostel prides itself on being an integral part of the Charleston community. It encourages guests to engage with local events and activities, fostering a sense of belonging among visitors. The hostel often partners with local organizations to support community initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility.

### Community notion about the place
Guests frequently describe NotSo Hostel as a friendly and inviting space where they can meet like-minded travelers. Many reviews highlight the sense of camaraderie that develops among guests, making it an ideal spot for solo travelers or those looking to make new friends.

### Events and gatherings
The hostel hosts various events, including game nights, cooking classes, and local tours, which allow guests to immerse themselves in Charleston's culture. These gatherings not only enhance the guest experience but also promote interaction among visitors, creating lasting memories.

## Offerings
### What NotSo Hostel offers
NotSo Hostel provides a range of accommodations designed to meet the needs of different travelers. From private suites to dormitory-style rooms, guests can choose the option that best suits their preferences. The hostel also features communal spaces, including kitchens and lounges, where guests can relax and socialize.

### Dining and food experience
While NotSo Hostel does not have an on-site restaurant, it offers a fully stocked communal kitchen for guests to prepare their meals. This feature allows travelers to save on dining costs while enjoying the flexibility of cooking their favorite dishes. Additionally, the hostel is located near numerous restaurants and cafes, providing ample dining options within walking distance.

### Events and packages
NotSo Hostel frequently offers special packages and events that cater to different interests. These may include guided tours, group activities, and seasonal promotions, allowing guests to make the most of their stay while exploring Charleston.

### Facilities and features
- Fully stocked communal kitchen
- Comfortable lounge areas
- Outdoor seating spaces
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Secure entry with coded access
- Laundry facilities nearby

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of NotSo Hostel reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many guests appreciate the affordability and central location, while others express concerns about the lack of staff presence and amenities.

### Compliments and strengths
Guests frequently commend NotSo Hostel for its cleanliness, affordability, and vibrant atmosphere. The hostel's location is often highlighted as a major advantage, allowing easy access to Charleston's attractions and nightlife.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews mention issues such as noise from the street and the absence of staff for assistance. While many guests enjoy the self-check-in process, others find it impersonal and unwelcoming. The mixed feedback suggests that while the hostel excels in certain areas, there is room for improvement in guest services.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, NotSo Hostel presents a compelling option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a community-oriented atmosphere in Charleston. While there are areas for improvement, the hostel's strengths in location and affordability make it a noteworthy choice for visitors.

## Lodging & Accommodations
### About NotSo Hostel
NotSo Hostel features a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, creating a unique ambiance for guests. The architecture reflects Charleston's rich history, while the interior spaces are designed for comfort and convenience.

### Rooms and suites
NotSo Hostel offers a variety of room types, including:
- Private suites with attached bathrooms
- Shared dormitory-style rooms
- Female-only dorms
- Family rooms

### Amenities and services
- Free Wi-Fi
- Communal kitchen
- Outdoor seating areas
- Laundry facilities nearby
- Secure entry with coded access

### Dining and culinary experiences
While NotSo Hostel does not have an on-site restaurant, the communal kitchen allows guests to prepare their meals. The hostel is also conveniently located near various dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

### Location and accessibility
NotSo Hostel is situated in downtown Charleston, making it easily accessible for guests arriving by car or public transportation. The hostel's central location allows visitors to explore the city's attractions on foot, enhancing their overall experience.

### Stay at NotSo Hostel
Staying at NotSo Hostel provides guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Charleston's vibrant culture while enjoying affordable accommodations. The hostel's community-focused approach ensures that visitors feel welcome and connected during their stay.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
NotSo Hostel is located at 156 Spring St, Charleston, SC 29403, in the heart of downtown Charleston. This prime location places guests within walking distance of popular attractions, including historic sites, shopping districts, and a variety of dining options. The neighborhood is known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Guests often appreciate the convenience of nearby public transportation, allowing easy access to further attractions in the Charleston area.

## FAQs
**What types of rooms are available** NotSo Hostel offers private suites and shared dormitory-style rooms.
**Is there parking available** Yes, there is off-street parking available for guests.
**Are meals provided at the hostel** No, but there is a communal kitchen for guests to prepare meals.
**Is the hostel suitable for families** Yes, family rooms are available for those traveling with children.
**What is the check-in process** Guests can use a unique code for self-check-in upon arrival.

## Visit NotSo Hostel Today
NotSo Hostel invites you to experience the charm of Charleston, SC, while enjoying affordable and comfortable accommodations. With a focus on community, cleanliness, and convenience, this hostel is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a welcoming environment. Explore the vibrant local culture, connect with fellow travelers, and create lasting memories at NotSo Hostel.

e8fe1081-228f-4bda-a0cd-e9158d4b3747

Great hostel centrally located in Charleston. Stayed in a private room at their main building in the Kenya room. Know that this has a shared door with the next room so you will hear more than you probably would in other rooms. There's a ceiling fan and screen door so if you are lucky enough to get good weather then it's perfect. Private tiny half bath with a shared shower a few doors down. Shared fully stocked kitchen as well if you want to cook. Loved the porches where you could hang. In a very walkable location and people brought their cars to get around. Expect a high uber fare from the airport though. A few things I didn't love was that they said there was coffee and tea, but couldn't find any supplies at all. We also didn't have soap in the bathroom so had to borrow some from the shared bathroom. The room was clean and had blankets. The mattress could be better, but is to be expected. Contactless check in and no staff on site. There was no one really around so not much of an atmosphere, but that is typical for the US hostels. The dorms might have been more social.

323c2521-5099-4fb9-a6af-484c6af370a4

I stayed at the Annex location in the Kendall Suite. Good value for downtown, though I have a few caveats. The building and neighborhood are kind of loud. The air-conditioner outside, trucks rolling down the street, old plumbing, other guests walking around on the wooden floors... (The hostel provides complimentary earplugs, though.) There is no sink in the bathroom, only the sink in the mini-kitchenette area of the room, which is also the sink for washing dishes/food prep. The shower is tiny, which I don't mind, but there did seem to be a bit of grime stuck in the cracks where the shower walls meet the floor. Personally I would recommend wearing shower shoes if using. The thermostat is controlled centrally to the house, so I had no temperature control over the room. I found myself getting very hot in the middle of the night (normally I FREEZE at night, so the thermostat must've been set pretty warm). Now for the positive. After tax, I paid $105 for the Kendall Suite, which is an OUTSTANDING price for downtown Charleston. I was able to walk to upper King Street in under 3 minutes. The room was clean & bright, tastefully decorated. I had a reserved parking spot (the parking lot is a little tight: my Camry did just fine, but anyone in a large SUV might want to take note). I was allowed to park from 2pm (check-in time) until 2pm the next day. This is a MAJOR bonus for Charleston, as parking downtown can be an expensive pain. Even after checkout, I had access to the main area of the hostel until 6pm, which was great. (I had restaurant leftovers which needed to stay cold, so I was able to leave them in the community frig, while I explored the city for a few more hours before driving home.) There are multiple amazing restaurants close by, & a corner Mom-&-Pops convenience store just 2 blocks away. The little balcony outside my room had a small seating area. It was surprisingly comfortable, & I enjoyed reading a book outside in the cool evening weather. Overall this was a decent place to stay for the price. If you are looking for quiet & luxury, this might not be your place. But if you just need somewhere convenient, safe, & clean to crash after a night of heavy bar-hopping, it would be perfect.

5a898a33-361d-4dd7-b10f-6afd29e4f781

Good times good friends and good music I love it here in Charleston South Carolina stay positive and good vibes only......

abef8643-4f5b-436e-ad78-d34c41ad7b49

Overall very disappointing compared to the many other hostels I've stayed in around and outside of the country. No staff or anyone at all to greet me when I arrived in the afternoon, which felt lonely and unwelcoming. I booked two separate nights, and the two separate check-in emails left it unclear as to which bed I was to take on the first night, with no one around to ask. I found a sticky note on my bed frame later the next day scolding me for taking the wrong bed! The small amount of cupboard and fridge space was nearly all labeled for staff only, leaving little space for guests to store their food -- again, very unwelcoming. The check-in email mentions oatmeal for breakfast, but there was none anywhere to be seen. No staff person around to make coffee. There was a container of powdered coffee creamer on the counter the first morning and then nothing the second morning. No drawer containing eating utensils -- I only lucked out at each meal by finding a solitary spoon and fork in the dish drainer. Also a dirty plate and fork in the sink that sat there for a whole day. Only 3 restrooms for all the guests, and one of them out of TP with no extra rolls anywhere. On my second day, after being gone all day and finding the note scolding me for taking the wrong bed, I found also my own small hand towel gone from where I'd hung it to dry on my bedframe, a staff person having apparently collected it along with used bedding -- but there was no access to the laundry room for me to retrieve it. I replied to the check-in email, as it advised for relaying a problem, asking that a staff person retrieve the towel for me before my check-out next morning at 9am. Instead of a reply to that, I soon rec'd a cheery and oblivious email thanking me so much for staying there! They eventually replied to the lost-towel email saying they'd ask staff about it, not seeming to notice that I was long gone by then. No followup from them on that -- I'm just out one hand towel now. In addition, the wifi seemed to be slow and therefore not of much use. The overall experience was of a penny-pinching establishment providing the barest minimum and showing little concern for guests. A friendly and present staff could make a world of difference.

92a77dc6-2001-48c7-b1ce-4f9c481a32f7

This is the only hostel in town I believed. It was like $60 for 2 nights. The email they sent in beforehand was super helpful on how to take the $15 airport shuttle and getting around town. This such an interesting concept because it's self check in. They give you a unique code to get in. They have free oatmeal and coffee and tea. Also, if you forget anything, they have stuff there for you. The showers were super clean. They have 2 bathrooms for use. They provide free towels and sheets. I stayed the 4 bed girl dorm.The 1st night I stayed with only one girl and the next night, I was by myself. I wish they did put the sheets out already because I felt bad making the bed at 2 am. Also, I wish the top bunks had an outlet. They also have this massive front porch if you want to relax. It's also pretty close to King street.

1cc45f17-b185-4b6b-a910-da155eec29c7

I recently experienced two firsts: a first visit to Charleston and my first stay at a hostel. The NotSo Hostel turned out to be the perfect place to unwind at the end of each day. The historic building blends old world charm with modern amenities. I stayed at the main location on Spring Street, in the Brazil Suite, which includes a queen bed, a small closet, a small private bathroom with rain head shower, and a desk. The mattress was comfortable, the bedding soft, and there were plenty of pillows to choose from. The first floor, middle-building location of the room was quiet, easy-to-find, and the coded entries felt secure. (Note: The suite is next to a community kitchen and a community bathroom, but the noise from other visitors was minimal.) There is also a small outdoor patio with seating, and private, off-street, parking. Restaurants, coffee shops (try Bad Bunnies), and other small businesses are within walking distance. Initially, I was hesitant about booking a hostel stay, but NotSo Hostel was a wonderful first experience!

48bbb3d4-2264-41c6-a5a5-42d0e4ec6100

Stayed at the Annex location near King st. This hostel has a nice swing seating on the porch where its great for having your morning coffee. There are a good amount of bathrooms where we really didn't have to wait for more than a few minutes at most. Just be aware that this location does not have laundry available. There's a great takeout place around the corner called Dave's carryout which has very affordable fried seafood platters to go. Place is kept immaculately clean. Would recommend for anyone seeking a location that's in the middle of the action in downtown Charleston.

214f3f80-83e7-4236-ab6b-24b15b2aec4d

After a night with a few issues, which I'm sure isn't the norm, the owner was able to make up for it and corrected a few things in house to make sure no guests would have the same issues in the future. Berry accommodating. Thank you .

d5b57ba3-b435-466c-b211-4a23dc98cc02

We stayed at the Annex location at 33 Cannon street from Sunday 6/12/22 to Wednesday 6/15/22. I was a little leery because I've never stayed at a Hostel before but I was pleasantly surprised by the accommodations. When we first arrived, we checked in and went to the room on the second floor. It wasn't a large room but it was clean, cool and had a working ceiling fan. The room had a Full size bed, 2 lamps above the bed, a closet and an alcove with 4 large shelves. There's a small bathroom right across the hall from the room which was very convenient until I discovered a send large bathroom around the corner by the bookshelf that held more towels. wash cloths, hair dryer and clothes steamer. There's a small but adequate kitchen on the first floor as well as a small livingroom with a tv. When you first walk in the front door and to the left there's a table with guide books and great info about Charleston which we found very helpful. The room was comfortable except there needs to be boards out underneath the mattress on each corner to stabilize the mattress. If you sit on the corner of the bed, the mattress will sink down between the footboard The only other small issue we had was opening the front door with the code. Sometimes it worked perfectly and others we had to turn the handle & pull or pushed the door so we could enter the code and open the door. These rooms also had a room key for added security. I would recommend staying here and we will definitely stay here when we come to Charleston again

eee0492a-28ac-4109-bd37-376c16622a25

I stayed in the Kendall Room, and this has a separate entrance from everything else and is a private room with attached bathroom, so I can only comment on this space. This self-described hostel has two locations and is no longer offering dormitory-style sleeping due to COVID. The private room I reserved was not fancy, with a small bathroom with no sink, and a kitchenette with a microwave, fridge and a sink. It was a bit chilly when I got there and I was concerned, but the heat kicked in nicely. They had wifi, but it was the sort of wifi that was slow and balky enough that I'm glad I have unlimited data and don't have to rely on wifi. You do have to calibrate expectations. Walls are thin and there could be issues if your neighbors aren't quiet. It's limited space. But when you consider the market in Charleston, normally I pay a similar rate and stay in an Airbnb well outside the city. This place is walkable to most anywhere you'd want to go in Charleston, and they have off-street parking (albeit in a small gravel lot which was filled with gratuitously large vehicles on my visit). Parking in Charleston is valuable, and you can use that parking even beyond the hours of your reservation. leeping in town is valuable. So if you're willing to put up with the limitations of a hostel, it's an okay deal.

Discover NotSo Hostel in Charleston, SC, a unique spot offering cozy accommodations and vibrant local vibes. Book now for an unforgettable stay in Charleston.

NotSo Hostel in Charleston, SC - Unique Stay in the Heart of the City

Charleston

NotSo Hostel

South Carolina

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at NotSo Hostel in Charleston, SC. Perfect for travelers seeking social vibes, local tours, and city adventures. Book now!

NotSo Hostel in Charleston, SC | Unique Stay & Social Hub

Learn about NotSo Hostel in Charleston, SC. A friendly, budget-friendly hostel offering a great social atmosphere, modern amenities, and easy access to Charleston's best spots.

About NotSo Hostel, Charleston, SC | Your Social Travel Base

Opening hours for NotSo Hostel, Charleston, SC. Find opening hours for NotSo Hostel, Charleston, SC on 156 Spring St, Charleston, SC.

NotSo Hostel Menu Overview

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Experience the Menu at NotSo Hostel

Elliotborough Mini Bar

Jimmy John's

Kultura