Last Updated on April 11, 2025 by Capt. R.C.
The George Hotel: Not Georgetown’s First Front Street Boutique Hotel
Georgetown’s “Front Street”, originally called “Bay Street”, has seen some hotels throughout its history, but the new “George” is the only hotel currently located on Front Street. Nonetheless, Front Street has seen some exceptional hotels in its past.
The Prince George Hotel was built by Harry Fogel soon after a fire destroyed his family’s store in the 1930s. Many folks referred to it as “The Hotel on Front Street”, but its original name was the Lafayette Hotel. The hotel was also home to the original River Room restaurant in Georgetown, SC. The Prince George Hotel was part of a downtown modernization as a third story was added to the building, expanding from 22 to 50 rooms; and it remained in business until around 1980.
The Gladstone was another hotel located on Front Street in Georgetown, SC. It was also three stories, but not quite as big as The Prince George. The first floor was the hotel’s cafe, and it carried a reputation for delicious food. The Gladstone resisted modernization in the downtown district during the 50’s, but it eventually was closed and demolished in 1967.
Nearly 60 years later, and Georgetown finally has another hotel on Front Street. The George Hotel’s boutique style is an attractive option for anyone visiting, or passing through, Georgetown.
The George Hotel’s Features
The George Hotel is located at 615 Front Street, and offers a total of 56 rooms ranging is size and amenities. Suites are available, and most of the rooms boast waterfront views!
The George Hotel also offers on-site dining, and access to a variety of local excursions.
The George Hotel’s Restaurants: The Independent and Eliza’s
Named after Georgetown’s cherished waterfront seafood market, Independent Seafood, The Independent is located on the first floor of The George Hotel. The Independent features upscale service and a fine dining menu offering fresh coastal flavors, just as its namesake also did.
Eliza’s is The George Hotel’s outdoor bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and waterfront views. It’s named after Elizabeth Pinckney, who is credited with establishing indigo as a lucrative cash crop to the area. Eliza’s is a perfect spot to enjoy the breeze and relax during your stay at The George Hotel.
The George Hotel’s Events
The George Hotel also serves as a memorable venue for your special events. Special spaces for weddings, receptions, private parties, business meetings, and more are sure to provide an exceptional experience for your guests at The George.
| MEETING SPACE | SQ. FT. | CLASSROOM | THEATER | CONFERENCE | BANQUET | RECEPTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Indigo Room | 1,200 | 30 | 74 | 50 | 60 | 74 |
| Event Patio | 1,329 | – | – | – | – | 74 |
| Eliza’s Lawn | 2,483 | – | – | – | 130 | 130 |
| River View Lawn | 2,300 | – | 150 | – | 120 | 120 |
| Eliza’s Waterfront Bar | 923 | – | – | – | – | 50 |
| The Independent | 1,400 | – | – | – | 50 | 69 |
The George Hotel’s Local Fishing
The George Hotel is located on Georgetown’s Sampit River which feeds in to Winyah Bay, a destination known for superb fishing. A total of 5 rivers flow through Winyah Bay, making it one of the richest ecosystems on the East coast.
Winyah Bay offers year-round inshore fishing for Redfish and Speckled Trout. Seasonal species include Flounder, Tarpon, Tripletail, and more!
The ocean is only a 12 mile run from the docks in front of The George Hotel. There you can find exciting nearshore species like Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Cobia. Further offshore you can find Tuna, Dolphin, Wahoo, and even Billfish!
If you’re looking for a fishing charter while staying at The George Hotel, I would be happy to accommodate your group. All trips are private, and all skill levels are welcome!
Redfish can be caught minutes away from The George Hotel.