Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Tour where carriages and motorcoaches are not allowed as you take a fascinating stroll with stories and traditions revealing Charleston’s rich history and colorful past. This two hour tour through America’s most charming historical district is sure to be the highlight of your visit.
Available options
Charleston Walking Tour
What's included
Hidden Gardens & Courtyards
Historic Waterfront Battery
The Revolutionary and Civil War
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Historic Churches & Graveyards
A visual tour of Fort Sumter
Antebellum Mansions
Admission to the Powder Magazine Museum is included with tour purchase
Rainbow Row
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The longest Pre-Revolutionary structure in America is one of Charleston's most iconic historical sites. These 18th century homes are painted in a variety of colors thus the name, "Rainbow Row."
2
Stop 2
Historic Waterfront Battery is a great place for photos as you will see southern mansions, cannons, cannon balls, palmettos, incredible views of Fort Sumter and so much more.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
You will see everything from beautiful cobblestone streets and custom Iron Gates as well as an incredible collection of 18th and 19th-century architecture, including a large number of distinctive Charleston single houses. These houses are typically a single room in depth, and oriented with the short access toward the street, with the entrance area on a long side in the alley.
Our Charleston walking tour will take you through areas with a rich history and colorful past so you can get a good grasp of America’s most charming historical district to make sure you are immersed in our city. Throughout the tour you will see some of our incredible sites such as our beautiful Antebellum Mansions, Rainbow Row which is a series of thirteen colorful historic houses in Charleston. Historic Waterfront Battery is a great place for photos as you will see southern mansions, cannons, cannon balls, palmettos, incredible views of Fort Sumter and so much more.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Our Charleston walking tour will take you through areas with a rich Historic Waterfront Battery is a great place for photos as you will see southern mansions, cannons, cannon balls, palmettos, incredible views of Fort Sumter and so much more.
5
Admission to the Powder Magazine Museum is included with tour purchase.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
126 reviews
5★
118
4★
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1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
560 reviews
5★
521
4★
22
3★
9
2★
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1★
6
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The pace of our walking tour is leisurely
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
Operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately
Meeting point
Please arrive at 115 Meeting St, the Mills House Hotel. You will meet your guide outside near the courtyard gates. Please look for your Bulldog Tours guide.
Important notes
• Meet at the Mills House Hotel Courtyard-115 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund (for 2:00pm only).
• Please arrive 15 minutes in advance for each tour
• Mobile phone numbers are required at time of booking
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
