Getting Around Charleston
Find the best way to access the city from anywhere.
Charleston Airport information
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the main airport serving Charleston, South Carolina, and it’s located in North Charleston, about 12 miles from downtown. It’s a busy airport that also works with the nearby Joint Base Charleston, so it serves both civilian and military flights. The airport is easy to reach by car and has plenty of facilities that make travel smooth for business travelers and event planners. It recently started a major expansion with new gates and more space, which means more flights and better connections, including international arrivals.
If you’re planning an event or traveling for work, knowing the airport’s features and transport options can help you get to your meetings or venues on time and without stress.
Key Facts and Tips:
Located 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston, with easy access via Interstate 26 and 526.
The airport has two main concourses with numerous gates, including new gates added in a $105 million expansion project expected to finish by the end of 2026.
Offers international arrivals with a federal inspection station for smooth customs processing.
Multiple transportation options: taxis, rideshares (Uber and Lyft), public buses, shuttles, and car rentals.
Free cell phone parking lot available for picking up travelers.
Bus route 11 connects the airport to downtown Charleston in about 50-55 minutes, good for budget travel.
Rental car companies like Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz operate on-site with easy terminal access.
Many nearby hotels offer shuttle service to and from the airport, convenient for event attendees.
If you’re planning an event or traveling for work, knowing the airport’s features and transport options can help you get to your meetings or venues on time and without stress.
Key Facts and Tips:
Located 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston, with easy access via Interstate 26 and 526.
The airport has two main concourses with numerous gates, including new gates added in a $105 million expansion project expected to finish by the end of 2026.
Offers international arrivals with a federal inspection station for smooth customs processing.
Multiple transportation options: taxis, rideshares (Uber and Lyft), public buses, shuttles, and car rentals.
Free cell phone parking lot available for picking up travelers.
Bus route 11 connects the airport to downtown Charleston in about 50-55 minutes, good for budget travel.
Rental car companies like Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz operate on-site with easy terminal access.
Many nearby hotels offer shuttle service to and from the airport, convenient for event attendees.
Charleston Train Information
While Charleston International Airport does not have a direct train station, travelers can easily access nearby train services via downtown Charleston or North Charleston. Amtrak serves the Charleston area, providing connections to other cities in South Carolina and beyond. For event planners, trains can be a relaxing alternative to driving, with scenic views and comfortable seating.
Key Facts and Tips:
Amtrak serves Charleston with the Palmetto line, connecting major cities like Savannah, GA, and New York City.
The closest train station is in North Charleston, accessible via a short taxi or shuttle ride from the airport.
Plan travel in advance as train schedules can vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
Great option for group travel to events since train tickets can be booked together.
Consider shuttle or rental car arrangements from the station for last-mile connectivity to venues.
Key Facts and Tips:
Amtrak serves Charleston with the Palmetto line, connecting major cities like Savannah, GA, and New York City.
The closest train station is in North Charleston, accessible via a short taxi or shuttle ride from the airport.
Plan travel in advance as train schedules can vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
Great option for group travel to events since train tickets can be booked together.
Consider shuttle or rental car arrangements from the station for last-mile connectivity to venues.
Charleston Public Transportation Information
Getting around Charleston for business or events is quite manageable thanks to its public transportation system and options available from the airport. The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates bus routes that connect key points including the airport, downtown, and major shopping or hotel areas. For travelers and event planners, these buses are affordable and run regularly during the day.
Key Facts and Tips:
CARTA’s Route 11 links the airport to downtown Charleston with stops at visitor centers, shopping outlets, and hotels.
Buses run seven days a week, typically every 30 to 60 minutes.
Buses do not operate late at night, so plan rides accordingly.
Taxis and rideshare services are available immediately outside the baggage claim area.
If organizing an event, consider group shuttle services or private car rentals to ensure timely transportation.
Charleston is also a walkable city in central areas, and biking is popular during good weather.
Key Facts and Tips:
CARTA’s Route 11 links the airport to downtown Charleston with stops at visitor centers, shopping outlets, and hotels.
Buses run seven days a week, typically every 30 to 60 minutes.
Buses do not operate late at night, so plan rides accordingly.
Taxis and rideshare services are available immediately outside the baggage claim area.
If organizing an event, consider group shuttle services or private car rentals to ensure timely transportation.
Charleston is also a walkable city in central areas, and biking is popular during good weather.
