Charleston , United States

Charleston Self Guided Walking Tour

Active

(38 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Charleston's past is alive and vibrant, waiting to be discovered around every corner. Go at your own pace, anytime, 24/7/365 on this smartphone guided (app/gps) walking tour.

On this tour you’ll see Charleston’s historic downtown, including the famous Rainbow Row, The battery, multiple alley ways, hidden gems, a hidden entranceway to a famous graveyard, 2 parks, statues and so much more!

Along the way you’ll learn the stories of the holy city, the people, the civil war, the battery, GW, Edgar Allan Poe, the history of the buildings, the streets, the fences and the city’s soul. If you like to wonder the streets and wonder what’s the history of this tour, then this tour is for you.

Charlestonians are known for taking it slow, and so should you. This tour is designed to go at your own pace. Stop anytime to explore more and continue when you are ready. The tour never expires, and you can take it as many times as you want!

Available options

Charleston Self Guided Walking Tour

What's included

The tour never expires, go anytime.

Tour on our walking Tour app for one tour

Go at your own pace and schedule, 24/7/365

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at gateway walk where you'll get a chance to walk through a easy to find but little known pathway to the : Unitarian Church Cemetery and hear the connection to Edgar Allan Poe.

Who's Poogan? Learn about the dog that named the restaurant and see his stone outside. This is also one of the best souther restaurants you'll find. Yum.

Stop 3 Pass by

The tour stops outside the museum and you'll learn about the history of Charleston's art scene, southern art and the history of the building.

Get a chance to see a a huge obelisk that's a miniature version of the Washington monument in Washington D.C. Learn the story of Washington here and take a rest.

Stop 5

See the iconic rainbow row and learn how it was created. This a great spot for pictures.

Walk around the battery and see the statues and learn about their stories and history as you walk. What role did the city play in the revolutionary war? The Civil War?

Explore sites on King Street, historic houses, churches, and sites and learn the history of the area. You'll see secret alleyways, historic sites, and so much more!

What's not included

No food, admission, drinks or in person guide, this is all navigated by the walking tour app

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

23 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts at the gate of gateway walk just to the left of 163 King St, Charleston, SC 29401. There you will see a gate. Once you get there please open your walking tour app and press start tour. You'll be guided around the city.

Important notes

Thank you for booking the Historic Downtown, King Street, Battery and Rainbow Row Walking Tour.

This is a tiny company, just me (Hi I’m Greg!), and I’m here to help :). If you have questions text +1-617-991-3269. Your ticket is below.

Quick overview:
1. Get the WalknTours app
2. Register
3. Unlock the tour by choosing the tour and use code poe0612 to unlock it

Full ticket:

HOW TO TAKE YOUR TOUR
*Do not purchase the tour in the WalknTours app. Use Code poe0612
*If you purchased more than one ticket make sure each user registers a unique account and email address. You will use the same experience code poe0612

Step 1: Download the WalknTours app on iPhone or Android.
https://onelink.to/ffpuug

Step 2: Register an Account or Login

Step 3: Open the Tour
Select Charleston
Select the Historic Downtown, King Street, Battery and Rainbow Row Walking Tour and click it.
Click "Enter Experience Code"
Enter the Experience Code poe0612
Click apply
The tour is now unlocked and you can take it anytime.

To take the tour go Gateway Walk Entrance just to the left of 163 King St, Charleston, SC 29401.

Have questions? Email us info@walkntours.com or text 617-991-3269.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience