Time for a staycation? This South Carolina city ranks among best places for one in US
If you’re dreaming of a top-notch getaway close to home, you may be in luck.
That’s because South Carolina is home to one of the nation’s best destinations for a “fun-filled yet wallet-friendly staycation,” according to results published May 31.
Charleston ranks No. 6 on the list of top places for locals to take trips after the personal finance website WalletHub said it studied the “150 most populated U.S. cities, plus at least two of the most populated cities in each state.” Using data from the federal government and other sources, it scored each place in three categories: recreation; food and entertainment; and rest and relaxation.
Of the 182 cites considered for the rankings, Charleston was the only one in the Palmetto State to rank in the top 10.
The South Carolina destination made its biggest mark when it came to rest and relaxation, a measure of its summer weather conditions and the costs of getting pampered. Charleston also earned top scores in the other two categories, which considered restaurants, sports facilities, parks and other places to do staycation activities.
The results might not come as a big surprise, as they add to Charleston’s travel-related accolades.
This year, the city was named a top dining destination and ranked among the places that U.S. travelers love to visit the most. Recently, Charleston-area hotels and restaurants also have earned nationwide recognition, McClatchy News reported.
On the latest WalletHub list, the only other South Carolina city considered was Columbia, which landed at No. 25.
Overall, WalletHub said the best place in the country for staycations was Honolulu. Rounding out the top five:
- Orlando, Florida
- Las Vegas
- Tampa, Florida
- Salt Lake City
The lowest-ranking destination was Chula Vista, California, in the San Diego area.
