I lived in the Charleston area for 20 years and I agree staying downtown in the Historic District is the way to go. Once you park the car you can walk all over. There is a Best Western that is very nice. You need to stroll through the Charleston Place Hotel, and if you are so inclined make a reservation there for High Tea. Its a great experience plus the added attraction of sitting and people watching! The quilt shop that is a MUST is in Summerville (30-45 minutes up Highway 26) is People Places and Quilts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Well worth the drive and Summerville itself is very cool. There is also a yarn store there and a number of great little boutiques. There is also Sew n Sew in Summerville, a little cramped but well worth it, they also carry a number of smocking patterns and supplies if that is of interest. I highly recommend Blossom if you are into seafood or its sister Magnolia's. Both are fantastic and lunch at either one of this is great. It will be warm in May so don't bother with heavy clothes. Jeanne is correct that Fort Sumter is a great place to visit. They will ferry you out there from either the Aquarium or Patriot's Point. Both are wonderful as well. Go onto the Charleston website and start planning your adventure now. In addition don't neglect to take a horse drawn carriage ride around the city. The guides are wonderful and know so many hidden secrets!