Discover Charleston’s Historic Highlights and Hidden Gems
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Discover Charleston’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture on this engaging 2-hour walking tour. Starting in the historic French Quarter, you'll stroll through charming alleyways and cobblestone streets while learning about the city’s fascinating past through stories about its buildings and notable events.
Next, explore the South of Broad area, home to beautiful 18th and 19th-century houses. You'll also visit the Nathaniel Russell House garden, offering a glimpse of Charleston’s hidden gems. The tour continues to the Battery waterfront, where you can enjoy views of Charleston Harbor and imagine the opening shots of the Civil War at nearby Fort Sumter.
This isn’t just a history lesson—it's a lively walk through Charleston’s past and present, revealing what makes this city so special. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover in Charleston.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 10 people.
Is the tour suitable for children and accessibility needs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What is included in the tour?
A knowledgeable tour guide is included.
Can I cancel the tour for a refund?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Tour guide
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Our starting point is a historic building from around 1771 where the Declaration of Independence was read in 1776. It also served as a British prison during the American Revolution and hosted George Washington in 1791.
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Stop 2
View the longest row of attached Georgian houses in the U.S., originally mariner's stores from the 18th and 19th centuries, restored in the 1930s with bright Caribbean colors.
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Stop 3
Visit the site of Ryan's Slave Mart, an auction house for the interstate slave trade in the 1850s. We discuss Charleston’s role in slavery, with on-site museum options available.
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Stop 4
See a Gothic Revival building from 1845 that houses one of the few practicing Huguenot churches in the country.
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Stop 5
Depending on availability, visit the Dock Street Theatre, built on the site of the first theater in the British colonies, and learn about Charleston’s vibrant performing arts scene.
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Stop 6
View City Hall, built in 1801 on one of Charleston’s 'Four Corners of Law,' and learn about its history as one of the oldest continuously operated city halls.
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Stop 7
Visit the oldest church in Charleston, dating from around 1761, with original woodwork and Tiffany stained glass. Learn about Charleston’s religious history and notable burials.
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Stop 8
Enter the garden of Nathaniel Russell’s Federal-style townhouse, built in 1808, once owned by a wealthy shipping merchant from Rhode Island.
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Stop 9
Walk along the High Battery wall to admire waterfront mansions and discuss the start of the Civil War, with Fort Sumter visible in the distance. The Edmonston Alston House, where Gen. Beauregard watched the bombardment, is also featured.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
We gather on the north side of the historic building, next to a tree and two park benches on Gillon Street (cobblestone).
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $25.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
