Florence – which is affectionately known as “Flo” – is conveniently at the intersection of two major highways, in the northeast section of South Carolina. It was first settled in the 19th century by subsistence farmers who produced indigo, cotton, and timber. By the middle of the decade, two railroads were built – the Wilmington and Manchester and the Northeastern. The area's fast growth and ideal location eventually attracted the president of Wilmington and Manchester railroad, who named the area Florence, after his daughter.
Today, Florence is a major hub of industry and infrastructure, with a regional focus on medicine, finance, art, and culture. The city attracts tourists from around the world to its revitalized downtown and many attractions. Whatever your reason for visiting Florence, it's important that you find the best hotel for your needs, so nothing stands in the way of you enjoying all that “Flo” has to offer.
The Best Time to Visit Florence, SC
The best time to visit Florence is between June and August, when the weather is warm and the events are plentiful. It's the perfect time to go paddling through Lynches River Park, catch a drag race at Darlington Speedway, or travel an hour away to coastal beaches. This is high season for the area, so you will face large crowds and lots of families. Just be sure to book your hotel in advance and prepare to share the sand with other excited visitors.
March through May is a mostly pleasant time to visit. Average temperatures will reach highs of the upper 60s to the mid 80s, but may also drop to lows of around 40, so pack a light jacket and brace for cool nights. Because this is shoulder season, hotel rates will be affordable and crowds won't be nearly as large – although if you spend time on the beaches you will run into spring breakers. But don't worry. You'll also be in town for many of the city's best events, like Taste of Symphony and Flo-Town 5k.
By early fall, much of the summer crowd will clear out and temperatures will begin dipping slightly. This seasonal change means lower hotel rates and more hotel room availability. It also signifies a great time to view local produce at the Downtown Florence Farmers Market, bird watch at Woods Bay State Park, and take an afternoon drive through Florence and surrounding areas.
Between November and February, the weather is too chilly to enjoy the beach, and many beachside attractions have closed for the season. Though it is the perfect time to enjoy indoor attractions within the city like Florence Museum, Francis Marion Planetarium, and Hartsville Museum. Plus, hotel rates will be low and crowds will be few, making your trip even better.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Florence, SC:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Florence, SC. Analyze these line graphs to calculate the best time to book a room in Florence for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Florence, SC
If you're looking for a luxury hotel, you'll find plenty of them in Florence. Hotel Florence, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member is located in Florence's historic downtown district, near Florence Museum, Magnolia Mall, and Florence Civic Center. This boutique hotel offers true Southern Hospitality with its elegantly designed guest rooms, featuring pillowtop mattresses and luxurious bedding, 37-inch flat-screen TVs with premium cable, spacious work desks and chairs, and Keurig coffeemakers with K-cups.
The hotel is best known for its highly rated restaurant Victor's Bistro, but boasts a stylish lobby, premium spa, and concierge services. The hotel also offers a variety of special stay packages, such as Golf Getaway, which includes a room and round of golf at a local country club, and Valentine's Staycation, which includes a room and spa massage for two.
Another great luxury hotel is Courtyard by Marriott Florence – a stylish option conveniently located in the center of Florence, near restaurants, shopping, and Florence Civic Center. In your spacious guest room, you'll enjoy a new pillowtop mattress, 32-inch flat-screen TV, mini-refrigerator, and free internet. The hotel pumps up the luxury with its state-of-the-art lobby featuring welcome pedestals; beautiful outdoor patio; upgraded fitness center; relaxing indoor pool; and extravagant spa. In the hotel's on-site restaurant, you'll find healthy meal options, a full service bar, and Starbucks specialty coffee.
Affordable Hotel Options in Florence, SC
3 Star Average Prices: $116.77
There are many affordable hotel options in Florence. The newly renovated La Quinta Inn & Suites Florence is located right off the highway, near Florence Regional Airport, Darlington Raceway, and local universities. Its spacious rooms feature top-of-the-line bedding and décor, along with refrigerators, microwaves, coffeemakers, and flat-screen TVs. Wake up to a free Brightside breakfast each morning, and enjoy extra hotel amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and business center.
For another affordable hotel option, Quality Inn & Suites Civic Center is a great choice. It's centrally located near the heart of Florence, and is within walking distance to Magnolia Mall and Florence Civic Center. Also nearby are museums, golf courses, and universities. You'll enjoy one of 80 guest rooms featuring a refrigerator, microwave, 32-inch flat-screen TV, and coffeemaker. Additional hotel amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, exercise room, business center, and a free, hot and healthy breakfast.
2 Star Average Prices: $68.01
Best Discounts in Florence, SC
There are many hotels that offer great discounts in Florence. Comfort Suites provides AAA, AARP, Military, and Government discounts on its many suites. Conveniently located near downtown Florence, the hotel is a short distance away from the Florence Symphony Orchestra, Darlington Raceway, and Magnolia Mall. It provides a mix of spacious accommodations that feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, sofa sleepers, and more.
Hotel amenities include a 101-person meeting center, indoor heated pool, exercise room, nightclub, sundry shop, and popcorn machine. Save even more money by taking advantage of free hot breakfast, served daily in the hotel's dining area.
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Florence offers AAA, Military, and Government discounts on many of its King and Queen guest rooms, and is situated near top attractions like Darlington Raceway, Florence Civic Center, and Magnolia Mall. Its 80 guest rooms feature Serta Elite pillowtop mattresses, microwaves, refrigerators, sleeper sofas, and work desks. If you're in town for a romantic getaway, opt for a Whirlpool suite, which features a King bed and whirlpool tub.
Hotel extras include an outdoor pool, fitness center, business center, guest laundry facility, and free cookies in the lobby.
Best Value Options in Florence, SC
There are many great value hotels in Florence. TownePlace Suites Florence is located a short distance away from downtown Florence, and is perfect for short- or long-term stays. Its comfortable and functional guest rooms feature separate sleeping and living areas, fully equipped kitchens, Serta pillowtop mattresses, and flat-screen TVs.
Outside of your room, you can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour convenience store, and business center. You can also take advantage of free hot breakfast, served buffet-style every morning.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Florence is located east of downtown, near commercial shopping, excellent restaurants, and beautiful parks. It's a modern property, offering flexible studio and one-bedroom suites that feature kitchenettes with dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, and hotplates, along with 42-inch LCD TVs, cable programming, and free internet access.
The hotel boasts an indoor saline pool, contemporary game room, and cozy lounge space. If you need to stock your kitchenette, you can visit the convenience store, or request items via the hotel's free grocery service. You can even do your laundry while working out in the hotel's combined laundry/fitness facility, Spin2Cycle.
Top Attractions in Florence, SC
No matter which hotel you choose in Florence, you'll be close to many of the city's top attractions. Darlington Dragway is a legendary NASCAR-sanctioned race track in northwest Florence that's been hosting major drag events since 1976. It's nicknamed the “Lady in Black” and “The Track Too Tough to Tame” by racing fans, who have grown to love its egg-shaped design and unique structure. If you visit the dragway, be sure to check out its famous raceway museum and legends walk.
Lynches River State Park is a Florence-area gem. This river swamp is located south of downtown, and features 676 acres of towering cypress trees, sand hills, and lush vegetation. You can become one with nature while fishing, hiking, kayaking, or simply eating lunch under a picnic shelter. The park also hosts fun events like River Jamboree and Wild Weekends, which give guests an opportunity to view live stage performances, meet their favorite animals, and venture out on park excursions.
For a step backward in time visit the Florence Stockade, which served as a prison for Union soldiers during the Civil War. Located within the downtown historic district, the site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980. It is now one of Florence's most popular attractions and an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Whether you're searching for an affordable hotel in the center of Florence or a luxury one a short distance away, you'll find just what you're looking for – and more in Florence.
FAQs about hotels in Florence
How much does a cheap hotel in Florence cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Florence can be as cheap as $68.01 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Florence cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Florence has been $116.77 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Florence?
Below are reviews of the city of Florence, SC from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Great Restaurant"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurant across the street.
Deena K., from 27-Feb-2024
"Perfect!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Perfect for a motor trip to Florida. We plan to stay on our return.
Frank C., from 23-Feb-2024
"Nice Place to Visit"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice place to visit!
Ron S., from 18-Feb-2024
"Many Eateries Nearby"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many places to grab something to eat in the area.
Paul B., from 16-Feb-2024
"Very Nice City"
Score
5.0 / 5
The city of Florence is very nice.
Julia M., from 10-Feb-2024
"Very Good Restaurant"
Score
5.0 / 5
Victor's Restaurant is very good.
Brian F., from 02-Feb-2024
"Convenient Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Convenient location off I95 with access to plenty of restaurants.
Daniel S., from 19-Jan-2024
"Horse Show"
Score
5.0 / 5
Horse show.
Michelle B., from 10-Jan-2024
"Horse Show"
Score
4.0 / 5
Horse Show
Michelle B., from 09-Jan-2024
"The food and Southern hospitality!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The food and Southern hospitality!
Rebecca H., from 01-Jan-2024
"Lots of Restaurant"
Score
5.0 / 5
There are a lot of restaurants in the area.
Michael T., from 29-Dec-2023
"Friendly Folks!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Friendly folks!
Dale F., from 29-Dec-2023
"Nice HS Sports Facility"
Score
5.0 / 5
Sports facility at high school was very nice.
Carole C., from 10-Dec-2023
"Great Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Only stayed overnight but the area near the hotel seemed to have a wide variety of restaurants, stores, etc.
Edward S., from 02-Dec-2023
"The Veterans Park"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Veterans Park.
Shirley L., from 25-Nov-2023
"Delicious Restaurant!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurant recommended by the staff, 1776 Burgers, was delicious!
Barbara G., from 09-Nov-2023
"Very Exciting & Accommodating!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very exciting and accommodating for the visitors.
Robert B., from 19-Oct-2023
"The staff were very efficient and friendly and the room was clean, quiet and comfortable. "
Score
4.0 / 5
The staff were very efficient and friendly and the room was clean, quiet and comfortable. Nothing everything is good
Dwayne D., from 08-Aug-2023
"Close to I-95"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to I-95.
Diane O., from 01-Aug-2023
"Great Location Close to I-20 and I-95"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lot's of restaurants to choose from. Close to I-20 and I-95.
Joyce B., from 24-Jul-2023
"Convenient to Convention Center"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great choice of restaurants. Convention Center was super convenient to access.
Ida C., from 06-Jun-2023
"Close to Courts for State Tennis Tournament"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were visiting Florence for State Tennis Tournament. Courts reasonably close to the hotel.
Stephanie L., from 06-Jun-2023
"Conveniently Located Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
The convenience of the hotel location and its surroundings.
Nelly L., from 07-May-2023
"Clean hotel close to 95 with a free breakfast!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It was clean and close to 95 with a free breakfast!
Nancy K., from 03-May-2023
"Close to Veterans Park"
Score
4.0 / 5
The hotel is near Veterans Park and close restaurants.
Darlene M., from 28-Apr-2023
"Nice Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice hotel and everything was easy accessible.
Selma F., from 24-Apr-2023
"Nice!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice!
Marie P., from 09-Apr-2023
"Florence is a gem of a small city!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Florence is a gem of a small city!
Joseph L., from 01-Apr-2023
"Room was clean with clean sheets and bathroom."
Score
5.0 / 5
Room was clean with clean sheets and bathroom. Everything was pretty quiet here.
Donna G., from 30-Mar-2023
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Many restaurant options and the quaint "The Peddler" all within minutes of the hotel.
Christine L., from 19-Mar-2023
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel is in a great location. Many choices of restaurants and gas stations, close to I-95.
Luis V., from 14-Mar-2023
"Plenty of places to eat!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Plenty of places to eat!
Steven H., from 22-Feb-2023
"Near the Mall & Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Didn't visit anywhere but hotel but the area the hotel is in has a lot of restaurants and a mall across the street.
Gilberto G., from 19-Feb-2023
"Near Buc-ee's"
Score
4.0 / 5
Near a Buc-ee's.
John G., from 30-Jan-2023
"Great Restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great restaurants! Stopped over on my way to Charleston.
Robert S., from 23-Jan-2023
"Gorgeous Christmas Decorations!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Traveling, did not have time to enjoy the city but Christmas decorations were gorgeous!
Melinda M., from 14-Dec-2022
"Great Convenient Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I come at lease twice a year and the convenience is great. Everything is on Lucas Street!!
Melody W., from 22-Nov-2022
"Hotel is located right off of I-95 "
Score
4.0 / 5
We were only there overnight. The hotel was right off of I-95 so very convenient.
Rosemary S., from 13-Nov-2022
"Conveniently Located"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything was close together, nice.
Mary M., from 12-Nov-2022
"Shopping Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
The hotel is in the midst of all the shopping stores.
Beverly W., from 30-Oct-2022
"Beautiful"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful
Antonia V., from 24-Oct-2022
"Great Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Varied restaurant choices convenient to hotel and accessible to entrance to I-95.
Christopher F., from 22-Oct-2022
"Large Variety of Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Large variety of restaurants. Hotel was staffed with pleasant personal.
Roger G., from 11-Sep-2022
"Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurant selection!
David S., from 07-Sep-2022
"Convenient Location Near Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Restaurants in one area.
Muhammad A., from 04-Sep-2022
"Didn't stay long enough!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Didn't stay long enough!
Denise S., from 02-Sep-2022
"Easy on and off 95. "
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy on and off 95. I didn't see or drive around.
Doris P., from 08-Aug-2022
"Convenient Location Off I-95"
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy on and off I-95.
Doris P., from 08-Aug-2022
"Hospital"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hospital
Rhonda L., from 04-Aug-2022
"Beautiful architecture in downtown area."
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful architecture in downtown area.
Robert D., from 10-Jul-2022
"I always enjoy visiting Florence."
Score
4.0 / 5
I always enjoy visiting Florence to spend time with my family & friends!
Czai C., from 04-Jul-2022
"quick stay"
Score
5.0 / 5
Didn't see it. On our way to PA to see our grandchildren.
Harold B., from 19-Jun-2022
"Good location to I-95 and good dining."
Score
4.0 / 5
Good location to I-95 and good dining.
Carolyn B., from 28-May-2022
"Good location."
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel is in a good location with lots of choices for eating.
Leta R., from 15-May-2022
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great location on/off main highway and near all shopping and restaurants.
Todd B., from 09-May-2022
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great location on/off main highway and near all shopping and restaurants.
Todd B., from 08-May-2022
"Good Stop for the Night!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Good stop for the night for travelers.
Edward S., from 01-May-2022
"Florence is a convenient city to visit."
Score
5.0 / 5
Florence is a convenient city to visit.
Alice R., from 24-Apr-2022
"Great downtown and restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great downtown and restaurants!
Laura L., from 24-Apr-2022
"Great downtown and restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great downtown and restaurants!
Laura L., from 23-Apr-2022
"Convenient Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were travelling north from Florida so we found Florence to be a convenient stop over. We did not see the surrounding area.
Regina O., from 27-Mar-2022
"Beautiful Welcoming Feeling"
Score
4.0 / 5
The history and welcoming feeling is beautiful.
Cindy U., from 15-Mar-2022
"I like Florence."
Score
5.0 / 5
I stop in Florence every time I pass through, I like the city.
Harry G., from 13-Mar-2022
"The best place to relax!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The best place to relax!
Judy I., from 28-Feb-2022
"Conveniently located near I-95"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ease and proximity to I-95. Plenty of restaurants nearby.
Suzanne K., from 15-Feb-2022
"Nice Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's a nice place.
Destiny S., from 15-Feb-2022
"Conveniently Located!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Convenient location off I-95 with an extreme amount of options for food and gas.
Dorene D., from 14-Feb-2022
"Downtown Florence has really blossomed!"
Score
4.0 / 5
My children live there, and over the last 3 years it has been great to see the downtown area blossom.
Robert R., from 27-Dec-2021
"Good restaurant nearby."
Score
4.0 / 5
Liked the small restaurant next to the fresh market just down the street.
Charles J., from 20-Dec-2021
"Great staff and clean hotel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Perfect midway point from Florida to DC. Great staff and clean hotel.
Jennifer M., from 18-Dec-2021
"It had everything!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything!
Hallie M., from 17-Dec-2021
"Good Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Less Traffic in the downtown area of Florence than Charleston; many of the Resturants near the Hotels.
Jennette W., from 15-Sep-2021
"PRETTY"
Score
4.0 / 5
Because we were there for a conference, there wasn't a lot of free time to explore but the surrounding area was in the center of many eateries and shops. I would stay in that area again and I'm sure shopping would be a priority on my list.
Leatha C., from 31-Jul-2019
"Great Restaurant "
Score
5.0 / 5
I really like the Venus restaurant in the pharmacy right there was pretty cool Sexton Dental Clinic was excellent
Eugene M., from 28-Jul-2019
"Dissatisfied "
Score
4.0 / 5
Not much.....Went to Percy Willie (or something like that)...it was expensive, extremely slow service and not good food. Went to Buffalo Wild Wings the next night and it was a complete disaster. The service was horrible and the food was unbelievably bad. Restaurants and ball fields surrounded by bad neighborhoods. Not planning on returning to Florence anytime soon.
Angela Van D., from 20-Mar-2017
"Great and Convenient Food Nearby "
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants are close in this area. Could eat somewhere new every day without traveling far.
Loretta G., from 04-Jan-2017
"Biker Event"
Score
4.0 / 5
The people were nice, the food was good, and the town was clean. 50,000 of us were there for five days for an event.
Candis L., from 10-Aug-2015
"Enjoyable Visit"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything was right in the area such as restaurants, stores, gas, etc.
Sharlene P., from 09-Jul-2015
"A Quaint City with Friendly People"
Score
5.0 / 5
Plenty of options for food and shopping. The revitalization of the downtown area is a sight to see as well!
Niki M., from 09-Jun-2015
The average traveler rating of the city of Florence, SC shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 79 reviews