Charleston Area Convention Center: Parking, Events, Exhibits & Directions
The Charleston Area Convention Center is part of the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center campus at 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston, SC 29418. It hosts trade shows, conventions, consumer exhibitions, business meetings and private events.
Find the correct entrance, understand the shared parking facilities, choose an exhibit hall, access floor plans and make arrangements for an event without searching through multiple venue documents.
Charleston Area Convention Center: Quick Facts
North Charleston, SC 29418
Per passenger vehicle; larger vehicles may cost more.
Divisible into A1, A2, B and C.
Ballroom facilities handled through Embassy Suites.
Shared among the convention center, Coliseum and PAC.
Campus information telephone number.
Which Building Are You Visiting?
Three major venues share the North Charleston campus. Your event ticket or registration confirmation should identify the correct one.
Charleston Area Convention Center
Best for: conventions, business events, consumer shows, trade exhibitions, vendor expos and banquets.
Look for signs directing you to the Convention Center and its exhibit halls, ballrooms or meeting rooms.
North Charleston Coliseum
Best for: sporting events, arena concerts and large entertainment productions.
Uses the same overall campus address but has different entrance and show-specific security arrangements.
Performing Arts Center
Best for: theatrical productions, touring shows, orchestra performances and stage entertainment.
Do not confuse a PAC performance ticket with entry to a convention center exhibition.
Embassy Suites Event Spaces
Best for: ballrooms, meetings, weddings, breakout sessions and connected hotel stays.
The 2025 facility guide directs ballroom and meeting-room rental inquiries to Embassy Suites rather than the exhibit-hall booking team.
Charleston Area Convention Center Parking: Cost, Access & Tips
The North Charleston venue campus operates shared parking areas. The official published standard event rate is $10 per passenger car, payable with cash or credit card. Accessible spaces are available near the facilities on a first-come, first-served basis.
| Parking Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Standard parking cost | $10 per car under the published event parking policy. |
| Payment | Cash or credit card accepted for parking. |
| Oversized vehicles | Higher rates apply to vehicles occupying multiple spaces. |
| Accessible parking | Available with the appropriate state placard or accessible license plate. |
| Parking reservations | Do not assume space is reserved unless explicitly confirmed by the venue or organizer. |
| Overnight parking | Prohibited under the technical guide unless approved by the center. |
| Lot capacity | 4,128 spaces shared among campus facilities, not reserved solely for convention guests. |
Parking Checklist
- Open the event details and confirm whether your event is at the convention center, Coliseum or PAC.
- Check for a parking advisory for the day.
- Navigate to 5001 Coliseum Drive, then follow venue-specific lot signage.
- Have a payment method ready before approaching parking staff.
- For accessible parking, display the proper permit and follow designated routes.
- Photograph or save your parking location before entering.
Address, Map & Driving Directions
Charleston Area Convention Center
Address: 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston, SC 29418
General phone: 843-529-5000
Location: Near International Boulevard, Montague Avenue and Interstate 526.
Nearest major airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS).
Driving From I-526
For visitors arriving via the Montague Avenue interchange, the official directions distinguish the Convention Center route from Coliseum/PAC access.
When directed toward the Convention Center, continue through the appropriate interchange traffic signal and use International Boulevard according to venue signage.
Do not automatically follow the Coliseum parking approach if your show has separate access instructions.
Upcoming Events, Tickets & Admission
Charleston Area Convention Center hosts public expos, trade shows, professional conventions and private functions. There is no universal ticket price or entry time: each organizer controls registration, tickets and admission rules for its event.
| Event Type | What Visitors Should Check |
|---|---|
| Public trade show | Ticket cost, show hours, parking, re-entry and any age rules. |
| Professional conference | Badge registration, check-in location, event app and session schedule. |
| Vendor exhibition | Assigned booth, exhibitor credentials and setup deadlines. |
| Private meeting | Invitation, correct ballroom or meeting room, and registration instructions. |
| Ticketed entertainment | Check whether the performance is at the Coliseum, PAC or Convention Center. |
How to Find Your Event and Confirm Admission
Open the official campus event calendar
Search by event name or date and open the exact listing.
Check the assigned facility
Identify whether the event is at the Convention Center, Coliseum or Performing Arts Center.
Identify the ticket or registration provider
Use the authorized link supplied by the event organizer. Not every convention is open to the general public.
Review event-specific rules
Check parking advisories, entry hours, security, photography, bags and re-entry.
Save your confirmation
Keep the digital ticket, barcode or registration email available at arrival.
Exhibit Hall Floor Plans, Dimensions & Capacity
The convention center’s exhibit area covers 76,960 square feet when combined. Its floor plan separates the space into A1, A2, B and C; larger setups can combine adjacent areas.
| Exhibit Hall | Area | Dimensions | 10 × 10 Ft Booths |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 15,340 sq ft | 130 × 118 ft | 81 |
| A2 | 11,700 sq ft | 130 × 90 ft | 60 |
| A Combined | 27,040 sq ft | 130 × 208 ft | 141 |
| B | 24,960 sq ft | 120 × 208 ft | 139 |
| C | 24,960 sq ft | 120 × 208 ft | 145 |
| All Combined | 76,960 sq ft | 370 × 208 ft | 425 |
Measurements and example booth capacities come from published official/visitor-bureau facility drawings. Actual layouts are subject to fire-code aisles, entrances, staging, equipment and organizer approval.
Exhibit Hall Ceiling
37 ft floor-to-ceiling height; 30 ft to the bottom of trusses, according to the June 2025 facility information guide.
Loading Facilities
Six cargo bays, two loading ramps and three cargo doors serve the exhibition area.
Exhibit Hall Utilities
Electrical floor boxes are arranged on approximately 30 × 30-foot centers. Services are requested separately.
Room Dividers
Movable air walls are controlled by venue personnel and may involve labor charges.
Cargo Door Dimensions
| Hall | Cargo Door | Practical Use |
|---|---|---|
| A | 16 × 16 ft | Coordinate deliveries and vehicle access with show management. |
| B | 16 × 20 ft | Largest published cargo door opening. |
| C | 16 × 16 ft | Use assigned load-in times and designated dock. |
Ballrooms, Meeting Rooms & Who Manages Them
Ballrooms and smaller meeting spaces are associated with Embassy Suites on the convention campus. The technical guide specifically assigns those rental inquiries to Embassy Suites, while exhibit-hall management is handled through the convention-center team.
| Space | Published Area | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ballrooms combined | 24,960 sq ft | Large banquets, conferences and receptions. |
| Ballroom A | 7,200 sq ft | Published 700 theater / 350 banquet. |
| Ballroom B | 7,200 sq ft | Published 700 theater / 350 banquet. |
| Ballroom C combined | 10,560 sq ft | Published 850 theater / 600 banquet. |
| Meeting rooms | 14 rooms in the 2025 venue guide | Smaller sessions and breakout meetings. |
A 2017 campus diagram also identifies the convention center’s ground-level exhibit halls, first-floor ballroom foyer, upper meeting rooms, hotel connection and neighboring Performing Arts Center. Use the current event organizer’s plan for entrance and registration assignments.
Exhibitor & Vendor Guide: Loading, Shipping and Services
Exhibitors must follow their show management manual. Public attendees should not enter loading docks or service corridors.
Shipping and Deliveries
- The center does not generally accept advance freight or C.O.D. shipments directly.
- Shipments during approved move-in should be addressed to show management or the authorized expo decorator.
- Deliveries arriving before scheduled load-in may be refused.
- Coordinate freight material handling with the show’s designated contractor.
Technical Requests
- Order electrical service before setup.
- Confirm internet requirements and charges.
- Request rigging approval for hanging displays.
- Check water and compressed-air service needs.
- Do not install or move exhibit-hall air walls yourself.
Key Deadlines and Rules From the Technical Guide
| Requirement | Published Rule |
|---|---|
| Rigging plan | Submit for approval at least 4 weeks before designated load-in. |
| Premium internet | Order approximately 2 weeks in advance. |
| Loading docks | Assigned by event coordination; unauthorized exhibitor parking not permitted. |
| Overnight parking | Requires center approval. |
| Freight | Do not ship directly to the venue outside approved arrangements. |
| Insurance | Event licensees and contractors may need proof of coverage under their agreement. |
Event Service Contacts
| Service | Published Phone |
|---|---|
| General Convention Campus | 843-529-5000 |
| Convention Center / Trade Show Questions | 843-529-5059 |
| Event Booking Coordinator | 843-529-5001 |
| Sodexo Catering | 843-744-0168 |
| PDA Lighting & Sound | 843-554-3466 |
| PRX Exposition Services | 843-714-2767 |
Contacts are published by the venue’s trade-show resources; staff assignments and third-party providers may change.
Official Exhibitor & Trade Show ResourcesHow to Book the Charleston Area Convention Center
Choose the type of space
Use the exhibit halls for trade shows and expos. Use hotel-managed ballrooms or meeting rooms for appropriate smaller functions.
Estimate attendees and required layout
Include exhibitors, staff, registration counters, staging, accessible routes, seating, storage and catering areas.
Review technical requirements
Use the official PDF for ceiling clearance, cargo doors, rigging, utilities and equipment restrictions.
Request an event proposal
Ask about date availability, room rental, staffing, setup days, services, catering, parking and cancellation rules.
Finalize the agreement
After reviewing all fees and conditions, sign through the authorized facility booking team and retain the event plan.
Accessibility, Wheelchairs & Visitor Assistance
The venue provides accessible parking, a covered drop-off area, ramp access, automatic-door entrances and an elevator between its first and second levels.
Accessible Parking
Designated accessible spaces require the appropriate placard or license plate and are allocated first-come, first-served.
Assisted Listening
Assisted listening devices are available on request. Contact the venue or event organizer before arrival.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs may be arranged through show management ahead of time. A valid driver’s license may be required for rental usage.
Service Animals
Service animals are permitted. Ordinary pets are not generally allowed inside the convention center.
For a specific accommodation, contact the organizer and venue well before the event, especially if you require a seating arrangement, interpretation, accessible loading/drop-off or mobility assistance.
Hotels, Airport Access & Nearby Attractions
Charleston Area Convention Center sits in North Charleston near Charleston International Airport and the airport-area commercial district, not in historic downtown Charleston.
Embassy Suites on the Campus
The adjacent Embassy Suites Charleston Area Convention Center is useful for meetings because accommodation and some ballroom/meeting facilities are linked to the convention campus.
Confirm your event’s exact meeting room and entrance rather than assuming every function is inside the hotel’s main lobby.
Charleston International Airport
CHS is located nearby. Taxi, rideshare and rental vehicles are common arrival choices. Check pickup points and traffic conditions for your flight.
Tanger Outlets Charleston
A shopping destination in the North Charleston airport corridor, useful before or after a show when schedules permit.
North Charleston Fire Museum
A nearby local attraction featuring fire-service history and exhibits, suitable for visitors with time outside their convention schedule.
Compare Other Convention Center Visitor Guides
For visitors and planners comparing Southeastern convention destinations, these related guides provide practical examples of parking, event access and larger venue layouts.
Charlotte Convention Center
Our Charlotte Convention Center visitor guide covers Uptown Charlotte event arrival, transit, parking and entrance selection.
Orlando Convention Center
Compare campus navigation and event planning with the Orlando Convention Center guide, including its West and North-South buildings.
Georgia International Convention Center Area
The Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway convention guide explains airport connection and GICC access.
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
Read our Pittsburgh convention center guide for garage access, floor plans, accessibility and event logistics.
George R. Brown Convention Center
Our George R. Brown guide compares parking, event hall selection and downtown Houston access.
Before Leaving: 8-Point Visitor Checklist
- Confirm the event date, start time and registration opening.
- Check the ticket or badge requirements.
- Identify Convention Center versus Coliseum versus PAC.
- Confirm your hall, ballroom or meeting-room name.
- Check parking costs and same-day traffic advisories.
- Review bag policies and event security requirements.
- Plan accessible entry or special assistance if needed.
- Save venue directions, registration confirmation and organizer contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the Charleston Area Convention Center?
The venue is at 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston, South Carolina 29418, on the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center campus.
2. How much is parking at Charleston Area Convention Center?
The campus publishes a standard event parking rate of $10 per passenger vehicle, with cash or credit card accepted. Oversized vehicle charges and special-event arrangements may differ.
3. Is the convention center in downtown Charleston?
No. It is in North Charleston, close to Interstate 526 and Charleston International Airport, not the historic downtown Charleston waterfront district.
4. How big is Charleston Area Convention Center?
Its primary exhibit hall totals 76,960 square feet and can be divided into A1, A2, B and C. Additional ballrooms and meeting spaces form part of the wider convention campus.
5. Where can I find Charleston Area Convention Center events?
Use the official North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center events calendar and select the exact event. Check whether it is in the convention center, Coliseum or PAC.
6. Is parking shared with the Coliseum?
Yes. The campus has shared parking facilities serving the convention center, Coliseum and Performing Arts Center. Multiple simultaneous events can affect availability and traffic.
7. Is Charleston Area Convention Center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue provides accessible parking, ramp and automatic-door entrances, an accessible drop-off area and an elevator between the first and second floors.
8. Which hotel is connected to Charleston Area Convention Center?
Embassy Suites Charleston Area Convention Center is located on the campus and handles rental inquiries for its associated ballrooms and meeting rooms.
9. Can exhibitors ship packages directly to the venue?
Advance freight and C.O.D. shipments are generally not accepted directly. Exhibitors should arrange delivery through show management or the authorized decorator during approved load-in periods.
10. How do I book a trade show or conference?
Review the venue’s room sizes and technical guide, estimate attendance and services, then contact its official event booking team for availability, pricing and a written agreement.
Official Venue Resources & Contact
Charleston Area Convention Center
5001 Coliseum Drive
North Charleston, SC 29418
General telephone: 843-529-5000
Reviewed October 17, 2026. Facility figures are based on official venue information and published technical documents. Parking arrangements, event policies, staff contacts, admission requirements and rental quotes can change. This is an independent visitor guide and not the venue operator.