Charleston Historical Walking Tour: Pirates, Patriots, and More

Charleston , United States

Charleston Historical Walking Tour: Pirates, Patriots, and More

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(47 reviews)

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About this experience

Our most popular and diverse tour, A Walk Through Charleston is a comprehensive overview of Charleston history through the centuries. Charleston was founded in 1670 and quickly developed into the most cosmopolitan seaport on the continent. Come walk with us and learn about bawdy taverns & pirates, heroic patriots, the grandeur of antebellum architecture, the devastation of the Civil War, and much more. History will come alive as we stroll through the historic streets and gardens of the “Holy City”

Available options

Charleston Walking Tour

What's included

90-minute Walking Tour of Historic Charleston

See some of the Charleston sites that can only be accessed on foot

Professional Guide

Learn about bawdy taverns & pirates, heroic patriots, antebellum architecture, Civil War and More

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Located in Downtown Charleston near High Battery, the Nathaniel Russell House Museum, 51 Meeting Street, is widely recognized as one of America's most important neoclassical dwellings.

Stop 2 Pass by

Completed in 1771 as the New Exchange and Customs House, recognized today as South Carolina's most historic building. Where Patriots were imprisoned, the Constitution was ratified and George Washington was entertained.

Stop 3 Pass by

Located close to The Market, the Riley Waterfront Park is considered one of the area's most visited and popular parks.

Stop 4 Pass by

One of the most popular areas in Charleston, Rainbow Row represents the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States.

Stop 5 Pass by

White Point Gardens is a 6 acre public park located at the southern most area of The Battery.

Charleston was founded in 1670 and quickly developed into the most cosmopolitan seaport on the continent. Start your Guided Historic Walking Tour through Charleston at the Circular Fountain located at one of Charleston's popular sites, Waterfront Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this historic city and listen as your guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of Charleston throughout the centuries.

History will come alive as you listen to stories of bawdy taverns & pirates, heroic patriots, the grandeur of antebellum architecture, the devastation of the Civil War, and much more. Popular stops along this route include the Battery, Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, Old Customs Exchange, Nathaniel Russell House, Whitepoint Garden, and St. Michael's Church.

Make sure to complete your visit to Charleston with this popular tour by booking ahead today!

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

16 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

31 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Departure Point: Tours will depart from the Circular Fountain in Waterfront Park
Address: Waterfront Park
1 Vendue Range
Charleston, SC 29401

Important notes

Tours will depart from the Circular Fountain located in Waterfront Park, please plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to departure time.

Directions to meeting location: https://goo.gl/maps/HD3uAEe5p312

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