history tour charleston

Charleston History Walk, LLC

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Tour Schedule and Itinerary

All tours are 2.75 hours in duration, travel about 1.5 miles, and will never be larger than 12 people.

Schedule of Tours:

Monday: 9:30am and 2pm

Wednesday: 9:30am and 2pm

Friday: 9:30am and 2pm

Saturday: 9:30am & 2pm

Sunday: 9:30am and 2pm

Schedules are subject to change, please check the calendar on my website's booking engine for current availability.

All tours begin at 108 Meeting Street and the tour will end on the Battery next to Charleston Harbor and near the iconic Rainbow Row section of the city. Please arrive ten minutes prior to departure.  

Private Tours are available by appointment. Please call (843) 655-9551 to inquire.       

Sites To See

As we stroll along Charleston’s historic streets, you will see the oldest sections of the city, important public buildings, and its picturesque residential area. We will surely pass by:

The Mills House Hotel St. Phillips Church Dock Street Theatre Huguenot Church Cobblestone Streets French Quarter Hibernian Hall Fort Sumter The Fireproof Building Decorative Wrought Iron Work Washington Park St. Michael’s Church Heyward-Washington House First Baptist Church The Charleston Battery Catfish Row Historic Graveyards and Cemetery’s Quaint Alleys and Gardens Pink House Four Corners of Law Stories To Hear

Each tour begins with an introduction to the founding of Charleston in 1670, its economic development, and the rise of the modern preservation movement that created the historic district in 1931. We will cover a wide variety of topics and during our walk you will hear gripping stories about historic buildings and people, learn about the city’s architecture and culture, and depart the tour with a greater understanding and appreciation of Charleston's unique history.

Learn More About Charleston History Walk

For more information about my historical walking tours, please do not hesitate to reach out to me anytime. I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Tommy Dew's Walking Tour

Charleston, south carolina, (843) 853-tour (8687).

​​I'm Tommy Dew - and I would like to personally walk you through historic, downtown Charleston.  Amongst a backdrop of stately architecture and manicured gardens, we will explore the rich, cultural heritage of one of America's most charming cities.  From the Colonial period, through the War Between the States and Reconstruction, to her current renaissance, an incredible timeline of events will come alive.

My goal is to provide you with a historical overview of the city and region.  We walk from the Market - through the old walled city - to the Battery, and pass hundreds of historic homes, buildings, churches and gardens.  I recommend you take a tour on the front end of your visit to Charleston.  It will help orient you and highlight what parts of the city you'd like to visit more. 

"The Story of Charleston: The Way Life Used to Be, And Perhaps, Is Supposed to Be."

Our American Stories

"Charleston's Top 5 City Tours"  Top Historic Walking Tour -Southern Living Magazine

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Charleston Perspective

• Schedule a Tour
• Things To Do

843.460.8671

Discover the history, architecture and culture of Charleston with a local guide!

• All Charleston Perspective   walking tour guides are local Charlestonians.
• Explore the cobblestone streets, hidden passages and alleys, as you uncover the history, the architecture and the culture that make up the framework of this centuries old town.
• From the founding in 1670 through wars, earthquakes, fires, hurricanes, religious diversity, the slave trade, the Gullah/Geechee culture, economic swings to present day growth and expansion.
• See many historic sites along the route including Rainbow Row, the Old Exchange, the Old Slave Mart museum, Churches, the Harbor, High Battery and more.
• The 2 hour walking tour will end the courtyard of the Middleton Family Home, built in 1783, in the heart of the walled city district. Prince Charles visited the same courtyard in February of 1990.
• Check out our Things To Do  page to continue your experience in Charleston.

Charleston Perspective     Walking Tours

D iscover the history of Charleston with a local, licensed and   certified guide.

E xplore the cobblestone streets as you uncover little known history   of Charleston including the 50 years of Proprietory rule, the   Charleston Tea Party, the 1st decisive victory of the Revolutionary   War at Ft Sullivan, the African art form of the Gullah/Geechee sweet   grass baskets, the trash fill that makes up 50% of the peninsula of   Charleston, the religious diversity of the holy city, the unique   architectural style of the Charleston Single House and more.

C ome away from the walking tour with a better understanding of the   complex history of this centuies old town, and a better knowledge of   the distinctive architectural styles and features. You will have a   better understanding of the the culture and people who lived in and   built the structures that have withstood centuries of hurricanes,   wars, earthquakes and fires.

D iscover Charleston's history with Charleston Perspective !

Call or Text    (843) 460-8671

[email protected]

2 Hour Daily Walking Tour

$30 Adults, $15 Child(6-12), Free (Infants-5)

         10am Tour  (Year Round)           1pm Tour  (Limited - September thru April)

Click on BOOK NOW button to check availability

Private Tours Available   Call, Text or Email for more information

 For larger groups, g uests will have the option   to use a personal listening device to better   allow for social distancing. The guide will   provide an earpiece, the device has a 3.5mm   port. Feel free to bring your own headphones   or earbuds to use.

86 Church St Charleston Sc 29401 8434608671  | © Copyright Charleston Perspective, LLC  All Rights Reserved

Charleston SC Walking Tours

Explore Charleston's most comprehensive historic tours.

Choose your Charleston History Tour here!

Michael Trouche

Our founder

WALKING TOURS OF HISTORIC CHARLESTON, SC

Continuing the legacy of our founder, michael trouche, our staff of 4 professional and certified charleston tour guides have 90 years combined experience in the industry..

Discover the charm and character of Charleston, America's most historic city, with acclaimed tour guides whose knowledge of Charleston Traditions, heralded events, architecture and cultural heritage is unsurpassed.

• Most Popular!

Historic City Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 hours
• Map Marker Departure Location: 375 Meeting St. Charleston SC

Checkmark Easy Cancellations!

Discover Over 300 Years of City History

Take a journey through Charleston’s 300 years of living history with our licensed tour guides. Experience the Old Market area and the historic homes and churches where generations of Charlestonians worked, lived, and worshiped. Step out of the air-conditioned minibus onto the famous Battery Seawall.

• Charleston’s Historic Homes
• The Battery Sea Wall
• Historic Churches
• Old Market Area
• The Four Corners of Law
• Rainbow Row

Please Note

• Please confirm date and times before submitting reservation.
• Please note that booking times are exact and not an arrival window.
• Changes may be made on a space-available basis.
• Departs from the Visitors Center at 375 Meeting Street.
• Must cancel scheduled tour 24 hours prior to tour departure time in order to receive a full refund.
• Please note the City of Charleston does not allow hop-on-hop-off services.
• Daily tours begin at 10:00 a.m.
• We are committed to responsible tourism and traveler safety.

Related Sightseeing Tours

• Hour Glass 5 hours

Historic City Tour and Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter, “where the Civil War began,” plus visit historic areas around Charleston on this combo bus tour. Points of interest include Battery Seawall & more.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Historic City Tour & Charleston Museum

Enjoy your tour of Charleston as your guide points out important sights, and visit the Charleston Museum to learn all about the South Carolina Lowcountry and natural history.

Historic City Tour & Southern Mansion Combo

See historic Charleston’s many points of interest and tour the interior of a fully restored southern mansion on this exciting combo tour with Gray Line.

Historic Charleston Tours

Charleston's Premiere Tour Company

What We Offer

There are plenty of reasons why travelers gravitate towards Charleston — it’s a great place that allows you to enjoy a sunset sail and soak up the sun at neighboring beaches, admire the city’s colorful architecture, and sample the city’s finest southern fare. With centuries-old traditions and so much history, it’s important to choose the right tour guide to make your experience truly memorable.

Our licensed city guide, Mike Frederick, has lived in the old and historic district for over two decades. This allows him to give you a perspective that few others can. Mike will help you visit obscure pathways and learn 350-year-old traditions that are still exercised today. Anyone that meets our city guide will be able to witness how much he truly adores Charleston through the enthusiasm he brings to every tour he offers.

A few things you should know when choosing your guide. At one point it was illegal for an unlicensed person to give a tour in Charleston. That law was challenged and now anyone can give a tour. Also, you should know that tour guide companies are allowed to have tours with up to 20 people. We feel that’s too many both for the person taking the tour and for the neighborhood. Finally, the larger tour guide companies have wonderful guides, of course, but the turnover is high and you have no way to choose your guide. Our licensed city guide, Mike Frederick, has lived in the old and historic district for over two decades. This allows him to give you a perspective that few others can. Mike will help you visit obscure pathways and learn 350-year-old traditions that are still exercised today. Anyone that meets our city guide will be able to witness how much he truly adores Charleston through the enthusiasm he brings to every tour he offers. As one of Charleston’s best tour guide, Mike’s main priority is to ensure you truly familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of this beautiful city before the tour comes to an end.

-Mike Frederick

Pleasantly surprised! Tripadvisor review: Historic Charleston Tour, Civil War in Charleston Tour Mike was extremely friendly and well informed about the area we were in. His stories mixed with the history was great at showing the character and history of Charleston and some of its unknown facts. Was a nice and easy tour and you would never of known of so...

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Charleston Historic Tours

Ready For The Best Charleston Tour?

Bryan Blalock is a 7th generation Charlestonian of Huguenot heritage, a people that would have been among the first immigrants to this historic city. His mastery of the local waterways, knowledge of the history of Charleston, and love to share this information has allowed for a great opportunity for tourists and locals alike to enjoy Charleston on a variety of tours with a licensed guide.

History and Hops Tour

Two Bars and a Ton of History, this tour is a great way to experience the French Quarter in Historic Downtown Charleston

• Includes small complimentary appetizers at the two bars

Shem Creek Bar Tour

One of Charleston’s best known stomping grounds is the famous Shem Creek. Here you can often find a mixture of libations, live music, and an abundance of food choices.

• Includes a a variety of complimentary appetizers

Historic Walking Tour

• Includes small snack for the group

Boo-Hag and Brews Tour

Located in historic Downtown Charleston within the charming French Quarter, this unique tour is a combined ghost and bar tour. Some even consider it “the best of both worlds.” 

• Includes complimentary appetizers

Historic Harbor Tour

This one of a kind perspective cruising the waters of Charleston Harbor on a private tour provides insight into how this historic city developed since its founding in 1670.

• Includes small snacks for the group

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The 15 best charleston tours of 2024.

See everything this historic South Carolina city has to offer on one of these guided excursions.

The Best Charleston Tours

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History and culture lovers will relish a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, for its variety of historic churches, forts and mansions that rank as Charleston's most popular attractions . Or, perhaps you're most interested in its cuisine or the sea creatures that populate its waterways. Either way, these tours – identified by U.S. News using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment – offer just what you need for a fulfilling visit to the Holy City.

Palmetto Carriage Works – Daytime Group Carriage Ride – Charleston Residential District

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $40 Duration: 1 hour

This tour with Palmetto Carriage Works focuses on the residential district of downtown Charleston. During the ride, the horse-drawn carriage winds through 25 to 30 city blocks, passing houses, mansions, parks and gardens, while the driver shares information regarding architecture, the landscape and regional history. Patrons consistently laud the guides for their knowledge, friendliness and good humor. They also appreciate how well the company cares for its horses. Palmetto Carriage offers a variety of "add-ons," such as a plantation tour at Middleton Place or a harbor boat tour.

Daytime tours leave every 30 minutes between 9 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the month. Carriages hold up to 16 people; children younger than 4 may ride as a lap child for free. The company also offers evening carriage tours.

Check prices & availability on:

Two Sisters Tours

Price: From $25 Duration: 2 hours

Take the name of the Two Sisters Tours literally: sisters, who are seventh-generation Charleston natives, lead every tour. Along the 2.5-mile walking tour, you'll traverse 18 city blocks and visit St. Michael's Church, the Battery and various centuries-old houses, among other attractions. The sibling guides earn effusive praise for the historical information and colorful anecdotes they share with travelers.

Groups are limited to 20 participants. Tours are available Monday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. An additional 2 p.m. tour may be offered, depending on the month.

Adventure Harbor Tours – Morris Island Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $36 Duration: 3 hours

To reach the uninhabited Morris Island, hop on this boat tour offered by Adventure Harbor Tours. After setting sail from the Charleston Harbor, you'll head to Morris Island where you'll have 90 minutes to explore. You can roam the island on your own for a self-guided visit, or heed the advice of previous tourgoers and follow your guide to learn more about the island's ecology, animals and tidal mechanics. Your guide will also help you spot interesting shells and shark teeth that you can take home with you – a particular highlight for reviewers.

Due to unpredictable tidal conditions, tour times and daily availability may vary. You can see the various departure times when booking. Adventure Harbor Tours also offers private charters, as well as sunset cruises.

Old South Carriage Company – Historic Charleston Carriage Tour

Old South Carriage Company's Historic Charleston Carriage Tours cover about 30 blocks of the city. During the excursions, guides provide facts about the churches, mansions and gardens passed on the approximately 2.5-mile route (which may vary from tour to tour). Tour-takers enjoy the guides' personality and extensive knowledge of the city. Visitors also say both guides and horses are friendly.

Tours take place multiple times daily between 9 or 10 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m. (depending on the month). Groups are limited to 16 passengers. Old South Carriage Company also offers a haunted carriage tour.

Courtesy of Lowcountry Walking Tours

Lowcountry Walking Tours – Charleston's Alleys and Hidden Passages

Price: From $30 Duration: 2 hours

Go behind the scenes, as it were, with Charleston's Hidden Alleys and Passages tour. You'll explore unique cobblestone and brick pathways that are largely inaccessible by car and often overlooked. Tour guides consistently receive fulsome praise for their insight and enthusiasm. Even Charleston residents report they learned something new about their hometown and its history. Plus, since the tour takes place mostly in the shade, reviewers say the stroll offers a nice reprieve from the city's sweltering heat.

Outings depart from the Old Exchange Building daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Lowcountry Walking Tours also leads a Historic Downtown Tour, among others.

Charleston Outdoor Adventures – Dolphin Eco Tour

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $32 Duration: 1.5 hours

If you hope to see dolphins in their natural habitat, then Charleston Outdoor Adventures has a tour for you. Its Dolphin Eco Tour takes visitors over the creeks, inlets and marshes near Folly Beach , where approximately 300 wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins reside. During the boat rides, the captain imparts information regarding the local environment, wildlife and history. Reviewers frequently report learning quite a bit about dolphins and Charleston's ecosystem.

Tours depart several times daily (including around sunset on select days). Charleston Outdoor Adventures also offers a Morris Island Lighthouse boat tour and several kayak tours.

Charleston Harbor Tours – Historic Charleston Harbor Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27 Duration: 1.5 hours

This boat tour offers views of many of the city's popular landmarks, including forts Sumter , Moultrie and Johnson, St. Michael's Church and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. During the sightseeing ride aboard the Carolina Belle, the captain provides commentary on the various sights and Charleston's history, which reviewers find informative and entertaining. Plus, many report seeing dolphins during the ride.

Charleston Harbor Tours depart several times daily; exact times vary by season. Food and beverages are available for purchase on board. Charleston Harbor Tours also offers sunset cruises.

Charleston Culinary Tours – Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour

Price: From $95 Duration: 2.5 hours

The Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour focuses on the city's historic French Quarter and City Market, and includes visits to a handful of local restaurants. Samples during the walking tour may include classic Southern fare like pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, or shrimp and grits. Guides share their knowledge of regional food and Charleston history along the way. Reviewers enthusiastically describe guides as equally entertaining and informative. Travelers also praise the food, calling it delicious.

Tours are offered daily at a variety of times. Specific restaurants visited and meeting points vary by tour time. Tickets include all food and nonalcoholic beverage tastings. Charleston Culinary Tours also offers a pub tour, as well as a food tour of Upper King Street, among other options.

Courtesy of Coastal Expeditions

Coastal Expeditions – Shem Creek Kayak Tour

Price: Adults from $58; kids from $48 Duration: 3 hours

Coastal Expeditions' Shem Creek Kayak Tour, which travels its namesake waterway into Charleston Harbor, affords views of Castle Pinckney, the Charleston Peninsula, Fort Sumter and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Along the trip, you may also spot creek residents like pelicans, dolphins, manatees and sea turtles. The company's guides and staff regularly receive high marks for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism.

Tickets include use of all necessary gear (including a kayak and paddle). Tours typically depart Tuesday through Sunday at 9 a.m. from Shem Creek, just across the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant. (Offerings may vary by month.) Coastal Expeditions also offers kayak tours to Isle of Palms , along with boat and paddleboard excursions.

Walks of Charleston – Charleston History Tour

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $18 Duration: 2 hours

The Charleston History Tour promises to take visitors to some of Charleston's most significant structures. While the walking routes may vary, sites typically include St. Michael's Church, St. Philip's Church and the Battery. Patrons say guides have wonderful historical insight, humor and storytelling abilities. Reviewers also say this tour is especially suited to first-time visitors to Charleston, as it passes by top sights and features a broad overview of the city's history.

Tours run from city hall multiple times daily, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Children 6 and younger can tour for free. Walks of Charleston also conducts tours of the city's alleyways and also offers private excursions.

Carolina Polo & Carriage Co. – Group Carriage Tours

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $35 Duration: 1 hour

Carolina Polo & Carriage Co.'s group tours show visitors the historic streets and structures of downtown Charleston. Guides offer information regarding the various gardens, homes, parks and churches on display. Routes vary, but specific attractions may include the Battery, the Edmondston-Alston House , the Old Exchange building and the Nathaniel Russell House Museum . Patrons say guides are informative and entertaining.

Horse-drawn carriages, which carry a maximum of 16 riders, depart from the Charleston City Market every 30 minutes or so between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Planning a special outing? The company also offers private tours.

Courtesy of Tour Charleston at Buxton Books

Buxton Books – The Ghosts of Charleston Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Ghosts of Charleston Tour walks through the Unitarian Church graveyard. On the outing, guides recount tales from "The Ghosts of Charleston" book, written by the company's founder, Julian T. Buxton III. No two tours are alike, as guides change up the stories shared during each experience. The storytellers receive accolades for being both entertaining and informative.

Tours depart nightly at 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Participants interested in Charleston's Black history will also want to check out the company's The Lost Stories of Black Charleston Tour.

Bulldog Tours – Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour

The Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour takes up to 12 foodies to various bakeries, markets and eateries to sample local Lowcountry fare like collard greens, fried green tomatoes, grits and sweet tea. In total, you'll visit three restaurants and two specialty shops. Tourgoers appreciate the quality and quantity of food. They advise future participants to eat light (if at all) before the excursion to take full advantage of the food on the tour.

Tours are offered at multiple times between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Tickets cover all tastings and must be reserved in advance. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately at some stops. Bulldog Tours also offers food tours through Upper King Street, as well as ghost tours.

SpiritLine Cruises – Charleston Harbor Tour

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $25 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Charleston Harbor Tour directs tour-takers' attention to some of the city's significant historical landmarks, including the Battery, Castle Pinckney, the USS Yorktown and more. As you glide through the harbor, your onboard guide will share details of Charleston's history and former residents. Patrons generally praise the guides for their knowledge and humor. Many also reported spotting dolphins during the cruise. What's more, snacks and beer are available for purchase on board.

Cruises depart from two sites multiple times daily (except in the winter). Children 3 and younger ride for free. SpiritLine also offers dinner cruises.

Charleston Footprints Walking Tours

Price: From $28.50 Duration: 2 hours

Charleston Footprints Walking Tours spotlight many of the city's unique characteristics, including its old churches, graveyards, parks and gardens, wrought iron gates, distinctive architecture, cobblestone streets and alleys. Among the specific destinations on these 18-block walks are the French Quarter, the Charleston harbor and the Battery. Tours are led by licensed guides, who receive praise from recent travelers for their extensive knowledge of Charleston's art, history, architecture, nature and more.

Tours are available daily in the morning and afternoon. Exact times vary by month, but in general, morning tours take place at 9:30 or 10 a.m. and afternoon tours take place at 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Charleston Ghost Tours
• The Best Charleston Walking Tours
• The Best Hotels in Charleston
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Best Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Charleston, South Carolina , South Carolina Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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10 Best Historic House Tours in Charleston

By Allston McCrady

Charleston's history is central to its experience, and the city's Historic Charleston Foundation, along with several other organizations, maintain several historic homes and properties that will give you a deep dive into the area's background. Here, our list of some of the most informative, professional, and enriching ones to check out.

Joseph Manigault House Arrow

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Arrow

Heyward-Washington House Arrow

Nathaniel Russell House Arrow

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

McLeod Plantation Historic Site Arrow

Aiken-Rhett House Arrow

Philip Simmons Foundation Arrow

This is certainly an unusual house museum in Charleston, but it is one absolutely worth visiting. Not only does it provide a pleasing contrast to the grand residences South of Broad, it also tells the story of those whose skills and determination formed the backbone of Charleston’s built environment.

Edmondston-Alston House Arrow

Drayton Hall Arrow

Middleton Place Arrow

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Charleston Self-Guided History Tour

Charleston’s history dates back to 1670 when it was founded by English colonists. Luckily, it has retained much of its culture, monuments, and original architecture over the years. Walking down the streets of Charleston, you feel as though you’re walking back in time.

This free self-guided walking tour of Charleston details the city’s history from its conception to modern-day Charlestonian life.

Learn about some of Charleston’s most historically important sites, such as the Charleston Market, Fort Sumter and Patriots Point, Rainbow Row, and the Old Slave Market in this Charleston self-guided history tour.

Based on our popular Charleston history tour, this self-guided walk will take you past many of the city’s most popular sites. If you’re interested in learning more about Lowcountry history, check out our full list of tours .

Yet, if you’d rather explore the city on your own, the stops on this self-guided tour are a great place to start.

Tour Stop 1: Charleston Market

You can’t visit Charleston without stopping at its historic market .

The market’s history dates back to 1788 when famous Charlestonian Charles Cotesworth Pickney gave up a plot of land to the City of Charleston for use of a public market. The market was finally built between 1804 and the 1830s. Today it’s one of the best spots in Charleston for shopping. Visitors can browse the stalls, get a quick bite to eat, and check out the market’s most famous wares — handmade sweetgrass baskets.

Walk east on Market St., and take a right on Concord St; you’ll hit the Waterfront Park in a few blocks. Walk until you see the Pineapple Fountain.

Tour Stop 2: Waterfront Park/ Fort Sumter

The second stop on our Charleston self-guided history tour is the Waterfront Park. Charleston’s Waterfront Park offers one of the best viewpoints in the city — and some of the best photo opportunities. The park runs half a mile down the Cooper River. The focal point of the park is the famous Pineapple Fountain, which was built in 1990 and symbolizes the Charlestonian love of hospitality.

From here, you can see the Ravenel Bridge, Patriots Point, and Fort Sumter — the location where the Civil War began.

Walk two blocks east of the park, and take a right on Church St. St. Philip’s Church is located between Cumberland and Queen sts.

Tour Stop 3: St. Philip’s Church

St. Philip’s Church is where you can find the oldest congregation in Charleston — and South Carolina. Established in 1680, this church is the mother church of the Diocese of South Carolina. The current structure was built in 1838, and the tower served as a lighthouse for Charleston’s harbor. Several notable Charlestonians are buried in its cemetery, including Charles Pickney and Edward Rutledge.

Head south on Church St., and stop outside the French Huguenot Church at Church and Queen Sts.

Charleston Tour Stop 4: French Huguenot Church

The French Huguenot Church was built in 1845 — and is the third church to stand on this site.

It’s just one of Charleston’s many churches that lend the city its moniker, The Holy City. Its nickname is the “Church of Tides”, thanks to its original service schedule that revolved around the tide schedule as most attendees arrived by boat. Today services are held in French.

Tour Stop 5: Dock Street Theatre

Across the street from the French Huguenot Church is the Dock Street Theatre, which is the fifth stop on our Charleston self-guided history tour.

Opened in 1736, this theater was the first that was built solely for theatrical performances. The first performance was The Recruiting Officer, and the first opera, Flora, was the first-ever performed in America. The Dock Street Theatre is a public building, and visitors can enter the lobby and public areas during the day.

Head south on Church St., and take left on Chalmers St. The Pink House is on the south side of the street.

Indoor stops such as this are a must if you’re visiting Charleston in January or February, as weather during South Carolina winters can be unpredictable!

Tour Stop 6: The Pink House

Though no longer a gallery open to the public, the Pink House is still delightful to see from the outside. Historians believe it is the second oldest structure in Charleston — built in 1712. It has lived many lives and seen many decades of Charleston’s history. In the 1700s, it was a tavern and a brothel. It has also housed a publishing house and law office before becoming a gallery. It is now a private residence.

Tour Stop 7: Old Slave Mart Museum

A few doors down from The Pink House sits the Old Slave Mart Museum. Once an antebellum slave auction gallery, the Old Slave Mart is now a museum dedicated to teaching the history of the slave triangle, slave boat conditions, and the path of the enslaved once they reached the market and plantations.

Head east down Chalmers St., and take a right on State St. Take a left on Broad St. The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon are just across East Bay St.

Tour Stop 8: Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

By the late 1700s, enslaved African Americans made up half of Charlestons’ population, though the city wasn’t usually their final destination. Many were here only long enough to be sold to owners in other areas of the American colonies. The Old Exchange is where many of the slave auctions took place.

The Provost Dungeon was where American soldiers were held prisoner by the British in the American Revolutionary War.

Although the Old Exchange Building is easy to find on your own, you can learn more about this famous Charleston site on our guided history tour . In addition to learning about the history of the Exchange Building, you can learn about most of the sites on this list from our knowledgeable tour guides.

Head south one block on E. Bay St., and take a left on E. Elliot St.

Tour Stop 9: Coates’ Row

The buildings at 114-120 East Bay St. are known as Coate’s Row and were built between 1788 and 1806. Originally owned by Thomas Coates, the structures were once commercial buildings, homes, a tavern, and a coffee house. 120 East Bay St. was once a meeting place of the Jacobin Club.

Head south on E. Bay St. to N. Adgers Warf.

Tour Stop 10: Rainbow Row

Possibly one of the most famous and picturesque rows of homes in Charleston, Rainbow Row shows off the Caribbean influence on Lowcountry homes.

This is one of the prettiest streets in Charleston ! Built in the 1740s, these brightly colored homes were once owned by elite Charleston merchants. Though the rainbow colors have made these homes famous, historians can’t seem to agree on why these exact colors were chosen.

Head north on E. Bay St., and take a left on Broad St. City Hall is at Broad and Meeting St.

Tour Stop 11: Charleston City Hall

The building that became Charleston’s City Hall was built from 1800 to 1804 and is a great example of the Adamesque style. Originally the Bank of the United States, the building was transformed into City Hall in 1818. Visitors can head into the building for a free tour.

Head west on Broad St., and take a left on Legare.

Tour Stop 12: Legare Street

Many of the buildings that sit on Legare St. are of historic significance, including the Robert Trail Chisolm house at 23 Legare. This house survived an earthquake and was once owned by George A. Trenholm, who is considered by some to be the “real” Rhett Butler.

You can discover the history of many Legare Street homes like this on our Charleston’s Alleys and Hidden Passages tour , where you’ll see everything you would on our regular History of Charleston guided tour — just with a little “extra.”

Head south on Legare, and take a left at S. Battery. You’ll see White Point Gardens a block down the street.

Tour Stop 13: White Point Gardens (The Battery)

The last stop on our Charleston self-guided history tour is White Point Gardens. First built as a public garden in 1837, White Point Gardens was converted into a battery during the Civil War. We highly recommend strolling along the boardwalk at The Battery – from here, you can get spectacular views of the Ashely and Cooper Rivers, Fort Sumter, and Charleston Harbor.

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Charleston History Tour

Discover the essentials of historic Charleston on this leisurely walking tour with our knowledgeable tour guides.

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