Walking tours offer the best introduction to Charleston’s historic core. The city’s most worthwhile options include the evening ghost walks through the Unitarian Church Graveyard (wonderfully atmospheric), traditional history tours (excellent for Civil War and Colonial context), and food-focused walks sampling local Lowcountry cuisine.
I especially like the intimate small-group format used by most companies, and the guides truly know their stuff.
The historical tours covering Charleston’s pivotal moments are consistently good, while the spooky evening walks deliver just the right mix of history and haunted tales.
These carefully chosen tours will help you get the most from your Charleston visit.
Key Points
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Charleston offers a variety of ghost tours, including the Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour and the Charleston Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour, providing immersive experiences exploring the city’s haunted history.
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Historical walking tours, such as the Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour and the Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour, offer comprehensive insights into Charleston’s rich past and the impact of historical events on local culture.
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Culinary walking tours, like the Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour and the Charleston Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, provide opportunities to explore the city’s vibrant food scene and learn about its regional specialties.
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Specialty tours, such as the Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour and the Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour, offer unique perspectives on lesser-known aspects of Charleston’s history and cultural heritage.
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Themed tours, including the Boo Hag & Brews Tour, combine elements of Charleston’s history, folklore, and local attractions, providing a distinctive and immersive experience for visitors.
Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour With Unitarian Church Graveyard
The Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard offers a captivating 90-minute exploration of Charleston’s haunted history.
Led by professional and licensed guides, the tour takes visitors through the city’s most eerie sites, including the exclusive Unitarian Church Graveyard. Guests will hear tales of hauntings and supernatural events, strolling among tombs and vaults covered in southern foliage.
The tour also provides insights into the tragic figures buried in the graveyard and the mysteries surrounding their deaths. With a maximum group size of 20, the experience is praised for its engaging narratives and historical insights, though some travelers have reported issues with overbooking and cancellation policies.
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Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
One of the most popular walking tours in Charleston, the Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
With over 2,000 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Charleston.
Led by engaging and knowledgeable guides, the 2-hour tour explores the city’s historical role, including the slave trade and its economic impact.
Suitable for all ages, the interactive experience allows participants to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Charleston’s past.
Travelers praise the tour’s educational content, the guide’s expertise, and the overall enjoyable experience.
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Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Charleston’s historic highlights, the Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour is an excellent choice.
Led by professional and licensed local guides, this 2-hour walking tour covers the French Quarter, South of Broad, and other notable sites like Rainbow Row and Battery & White Point Gardens.
Guests can enjoy insights into Charleston’s rich history and architecture, as well as admission to the Powder Magazine Museum.
With 4,855 total reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this group tour format allows for social interaction and shared experiences.
Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
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Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour
Whereas the Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour offers a rundown of the city’s highlights, the Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour provides a more intimate exploration of Charleston’s lesser-known gems.
With a maximum of 13 travelers, this personalized tour takes visitors off the beaten path, delving into the city’s history through its often-forgotten alleys and hidden passages.
From the Old Exchange to Rainbow Row, Philadelphia Alley, and St. Philips Church, knowledgeable local guides share insights into Charleston’s Revolutionary and Civil War legacies.
Included is admission to the Powder Magazine Museum, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s military past.
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Charleston Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour
Charleston’s Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s haunted history.
Led by a costumed pirate guide, the 2.5-hour small-group tour takes visitors to historic bars and locations, where they can sip cocktails and hear captivating tales of local hauntings.
Participants will explore sites like the Powder Magazine, Charleston City Market, and Washington Square, learning about the city’s paranormal past.
The tour includes a commemorative cooler or cup and receives exceptional reviews, with travelers praising the engaging storytelling and knowledgeable guides.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels and is conveniently located near public transportation.
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Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
The Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour offers an immersive 90-minute exploration of Charleston’s haunted history.
Led by the host of the Pleasing Terrors Podcast, Mike Brown, the tour focuses on the city’s ghost encounters, folklore, and hidden historical insights.
With an impressive 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour combines engaging storytelling with visuals, creating a unique experience.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s blend of history and ghost stories.
While the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, visitors suggest incorporating visits to historical sites like the Old Jail for a more comprehensive experience.
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Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour
Offering a delightful contrast to the haunting tales of Charleston’s ghostly past, the Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour invites visitors to indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Earning a Badge of Excellence from Bulldog Tours, this 2.5-hour walking tour showcases 3-4 local restaurants, where guests savor regional specialties like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and pimento cheese.
With a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides an enjoyable history lesson while allowing participants to sample generous portions of these signature dishes.
Though not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Highly recommended for foodies, the tour often inspires guests to revisit the featured restaurants after the experience.
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Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour
Exploration of Charleston’s Chicora-inspired past awaits visitors on the Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour. This engaging, 2-hour walking experience covers the city’s history and the local Chicora Native American tribe.
Stops include St. Philips Church, Old Slave Mart Museum, and the iconic Rainbow Row. Travelers will learn about off-the-beaten-path locations and receive unique historical insights from the knowledgeable guide, Jonathan.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour offers a personalized experience. Guests should have a moderate fitness level and bring water.
Consistently earning 5-star reviews, this tour is a must for those seeking an informative and immersive Charleston experience.
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Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This 3-hour walking food tour takes visitors on a delectable journey through Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene.
Led by passionate local guides, the tour offers a chance to savor iconic Charleston delicacies like Carolina-style BBQ, She-Crab soup, and handmade ice cream. Guests can also look forward to discovering unique local favorites like Chicken Bog and Benne wafers.
Throughout the experience, guides share insights into Charleston’s rich history and culture, creating an immersive and engaging experience.
While the tour receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, some guests have noted issues with wait times and group size.
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Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour
Delving into Charleston’s lesser-known black history, the Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour takes visitors on a revelatory 2-hour journey through the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Led by writer and historian Damon Fordham, this highly-rated tour (97% recommended) explores key sites like Jehu Junes Hotel, Catfish Row, and the Old Slave Mart Museum.
Highlighting the stories of influential Black figures, the engaging, informative experience combines historical facts with personal perspectives and music.
Ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of Charleston’s complex past, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and a great option for families.
With an overall 5-star rating, it’s a must for anyone wanting to uncover the Lost Stories of Black Charleston.
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Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More
Embarking on the Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the city’s historic district.
This highly-rated walking tour, boasting a 97% traveler recommendation, showcases the city’s architectural gems, including the famous Rainbow Row, antebellum mansions, historic churches, and the Waterfront Battery.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share the area’s rich history and hidden stories, making the experience both educational and engaging.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour offers an intimate setting and the convenience of included admission to the Powder Magazine Museum.
Whether you visit in the morning or afternoon, this walking tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Charleston’s cherished landmarks.
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Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour
As the sun dips below the horizon, Charleston’s historic streets come alive with tales of the supernatural on the Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour.
This highly-rated 4.5-star experience takes visitors on a spooky journey through the city, stopping at eerie locations like the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour blends history and ghost stories, captivating both adults and children.
Though some reviewers noted concerns about group size, the tour is generally praised for its engaging storytelling and educational content.
Wheelchair accessible and near public transport, this tour is a must-do for visitors looking to uncover Charleston’s haunted past.
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Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour
While Charleston’s historic streets are often the backdrop for tales of the supernatural, the Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour offers a unique blend of haunting stories and local libations.
Led by a knowledgeable Charlestonian, this 2-hour experience takes guests on a journey through the city’s spooky past, visiting two bars along the way.
Guests will enjoy a complimentary snack at the first stop and hear chilling tales about Charleston’s most feared ghosts.
With a maximum group size of 10 and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour provides an engaging and educational look into the city’s haunted history.
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Charleston Historical Walking Tour With a Professor of History at the Citadel
What makes the Charleston Historical Walking Tour with Professor Eric Lager from The Citadel a must-do experience for history enthusiasts visiting Charleston?
For starters, the tour is led by an expert with a Ph.D. in South Carolina history, providing unparalleled insight into the city’s colonial era, American Revolution, and Civil War.
The small group size allows for engaging storytelling and plenty of interaction.
Travelers will be captivated by the tour’s emphasis on Charleston’s rich architecture, gardens, and historical sites, all while enjoying a personalized and immersive experience.
With stellar reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this walking tour is a standout way to discover Charleston’s past.
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Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
Visitors seeking to enjoy Charleston’s captivating history, stunning architecture, and charming neighborhoods can embark on the Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour.
This 2-hour walking excursion takes participants to significant sites, including Chalmers Street, the Old Slave Mart, and the iconic Rainbow Row. Along the way, knowledgeable local guides provide in-depth narratives, sharing historical anecdotes and architectural details that bring Charleston’s past to life.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour offers an intimate experience and includes admission to the Powder Magazine Museum. Rated highly by 98% of travelers, this walking tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the rich heritage of Charleston.
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Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
Travelers can enjoy the inspiring stories of Charleston’s influential women on the Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour.
Led by licensed guide Jonathan Green, the 2-hour tour explores the city’s rich history through the lens of its trailblazing female figures. With a maximum group size of 20, you will discover personal narratives and gain insights into Charleston’s architecture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Reviewers consistently praise Jonathan’s engaging storytelling and the tour’s educational value, making it a must-do for history enthusiasts.
The tour departs daily at 1 PM from Bitty and Beau’s Coffee, with tickets starting at $34.
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Charlestons Best History Walking Tour – 10 AM
For those seeking a comprehensive historical exploration of Charleston, the Charlestons Best History Walking Tour at 10 AM is a must-consider option.
Led by the knowledgeable and engaging Cooper, a retired history teacher, this 2.5-4 hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich past.
With a maximum group size of 20, travelers can expect personalized attention and a tailored experience.
Highlights include immersive storytelling, insights into Charleston’s role in the Civil War, and an opportunity to learn about the area’s local culture.
Positively reviewed for its educational value and Cooper’s exceptional guiding abilities, this tour is a fantastic way to uncover Charleston’s history.
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Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour
Enjoy the captivating world of Charleston’s shrimping industry on the Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour.
This 1.5-mile guided walking tour takes you through the historic South Carolina shrimping hub, offering an insider’s view of the local fleet in action.
Led by the knowledgeable Captain Bryan, you’ll learn about the area’s rich history, ecology, and culture, including interactions with shrimping businesses.
The tour culminates on Mount Pleasant’s scenic waterfront boardwalk, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary seaside snack.
With consistently high reviews, this small-group experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike, though not recommended for those with mobility issues.
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Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
The Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s notorious history. Operated by Bulldog Tours, this 90-minute tour takes visitors through Charleston’s seedier past, delving into the city’s debauchery and scandalous affairs.
Catering to mature audiences, the tour emphasizes the historical underbelly, touching on topics like brothels and criminal activity. With a 4.5-star rating from 192 reviews, the tour is led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Randy and Bruce.
Participants appreciate the unique perspective, contrasting it with traditional historical tours. The leisurely-paced tour operates in all weather conditions and is accessible for wheelchair users and those with service animals.
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Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour
Charleston’s Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s spooky past.
This highly-rated tour leads guests through Charleston’s historic streets, sharing engaging tales of ghostly encounters and macabre legends. With a local licensed guide, visitors will learn about the city’s haunted history, including the stories of Edgar Perry and Anna Bell.
The tour often includes visits to cemeteries and other eerie locations, providing an atmospheric experience. Suitable for most travelers, the leisurely-paced tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Guests are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early and can expect an entertaining blend of historical insights and supernatural narratives.
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Recap
Charleston offers a variety of captivating walking tours that cater to diverse interests. From ghost tours and historical explorations to behind-the-scenes experiences, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich heritage and uncover its hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in the supernatural, culinary delights, or simply want to soak in the charm of this coastal gem, Charleston’s walking tours provide an engaging and enlightening way to explore the city.