Private Charleston Walking Food Tour at the French Quarter
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for one of North America's most sought-after Secret Food Tours, and experience the culinary delights of Charleston's French Quarter like never before!
Our five-star rated tour takes you on a foodie adventure through the city's picturesque and historic streets with experienced guides passionate about sharing the stories behind the delicious dishes you'll be sampling.
Discover how pirates, pandemics, natural disasters, and wars have all shaped Charleston's unique food scene as you indulge in low-country cuisine, including Carolina-style BBQ, Shrimp & Grits, and an exceptional handmade ice cream… and you'll also get to enjoy a surprise Secret Dish, carefully selected by our expert guides to showcase the best of Charleston's culinary scene! For those who want to take their experience to the next level, we offer a thoughtfully curated Upgraded Drinks Package, with quality libations served at select stops throughout the tour.
Available options
Private Charleston Walking Food Tour at the French Quarter
What's included
Crisp benne wafers
Savory chicken bog
Fluffy cheese & chive biscuit
Handmade pecan cluster
Our Delicious Secret Dish!
Southern shrimp & grits
Creamy she-crab soup
Detailed itinerary
1
Majestically overlooking East Bay Street and the harbor, the United States Custom House is one of the most striking buildings in Charleston. It is an outstanding example of a public building and reflects the time when Charleston was one of the country's busiest port cities.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
You'll take a stroll through the Historic Charleston City Market and learn how the African slave trade introduced iconic ingredients such as benne seeds and collard greens to the local diet.
3
Charleston's Dock Street Theatre was the first theater building designed solely for theatrical performances in America. Its rich history reflects the theatrical tradition and cultural history of Charleston and America from the 1700s through the millennium.
What's not included
Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off
Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
186 reviews
5★
183
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We strongly advise wearing comfortable walking shoes to all of our guests. Our tour runs a little over 3 hours.
Please note: The itinerary and menu are subject to changes, based on the location's availability, weather and other circumstances.
Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.
Due to the nature of creating a well balanced and thoughtful gastronomy experience, many of our tours are unable to accommodate certain dietary restrictions. Please contact us prior to booking your tour to see if we are able to accommodate your dietary needs.
Meeting point
The meeting spot is in front of Port of Call Food + Brew Hall - 99 S Market St Suite 5, Charleston, SC 29401, we'll be waiting with an orange umbrella and a big smile!
Important notes
• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time to check-in with their guide.
• Our Secret Food Tours Guide will have an orange umbrella at the meeting point for easy recognition.
• Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can. [charleston@secrettours.com]
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated.
• The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol is 21 years old.
• Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.
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
