Small-Group Tour: Charleston Old Walled City Historical Walking Tour
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Small-Group Tour: Charleston Old Walled City Historical Walking Tour

Active
(281 reviews)
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You have found the best tour in Charleston! Our Small Group Tour takes 15 people max, allowing for questions and photo opps. This leisurely stroll through the city's oldest neighborhoods is a 2-hour guided experience. Follow your licensed guide as they delve into the history, legends, and culture of Charleston, one of America's great cities. Explore the historic French Quarter and admire the stately mansions South of Broad Street, viewing virtually intact blocks of 200-year-old houses that stand among the best in North America. Your Charleston walking tour concludes at the "High Cotton" mansions along the High Battery and take in breathtaking views of e Charleston harbor and Fort Sumter, where the American Civil War began. Our guides have extensive knowledge of both Charleston and National history, and your input might inspire a changein direction! We hope that when we part ways, you will share our passion for Charleston, America’s Most Historic City!

Available options

Small-Group Tour: Charleston Old Walled City Historical Walking Tour

What's included

Local guide
All taxes, fees and handling charges

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

This congregation has worshipped on site since 1681. The church of the Colonial townspeople contains an incredible collection of clearly legible slate tombstones from the eighteenth century. Narration in the graveyard.

2

A city under constant seige built a gunpowder storage facility by 1713. It is the oldest surviving public structure between St Augustine and Williamsburg. Sidewalk narration.

3
Stop 3

The oldest Congregation in the Carolinas (1680) was the Church of Planters and Politicians. National figures, including signers of the Declaration and the Constitution , are at rest in the graveyard. Sidewalk and graveyard narration.

4

This elegant Gothic Revival Church is home to the only active French Calvinist congregation in North America. They have worshiped on site since 1706.

5

An 18th century style playhouse built as a WPA project in 1937. It is built on the very site of the first playhouse built in British North America in 1736.

6

This intersection has been dedicated to public use since 1680. Ripleys Believe It or Not! deems it the only intersection worldwide where the four governing laws of mankind intersect. Sidewalk narration.

7

The only surving structure in Charleston used as a showroom for slave sales houses a museum chronicling the sordid history of Slavery in the South Carolina Lowcountry.

8
Stop 8

This Revolutionary War Museum was the scene of events that founded the Nation. President Washington was entertained here four times in 1791. Sidewalk narrative.

9
Stop 9

the oldest surving church(1761) was targeted during the British Seige in 1780 and the Federal Seige from 1863-1865. Two signers of the Constitution are at rest in the graveyard.

10
Stop 10

A grouping of 18th century commercial buildings painted lovely pastels that harken back to Charleston's early connections to Barbados, Antigua and Nevis. Sidewalk Narration.

11

Grand waterfront mansions, many built in the first half of the 19th century as party palaces for the Winter Season. It was from one of these houses the General Pierre Beauregard gave orders to Fire at Fort Sumter, commencing the first battle of the Civil War.Sidewalk narration.

12
Stop 12

View Fort Sumter from the High Battery seawall. Hear the story of the siege and bombardment of both Fort Sumter and Charleston's civilian population. Hear about the dramatic fall of the city after 587 days.Sidewalk narrative.

13
Stop 13

We enter the garden at the Russell House (1808) to discuss horticulture and garden design. We discuss the layout of a an 18th century Charleston property. And then there is the story of the joggling board! Garden narration, no house admittance.

What's not included

Transportation to/from attractions
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6
93 reviews
5★
76
4★
7
3★
5
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor 4.8
188 reviews
5★
176
4★
4
3★
0
2★
2
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

We meet at the corner of Meeting Street and Chalmers Street

Important notes

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• A moderate amount of walking is involved
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Wheelchair accessible
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

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

Adults
Age 13-90
1
Childs
Age 6-12
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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