Charleston’s walking tours pack history, food, and ghost stories into manageable 2-3 hour experiences. The city’s compact historic district makes these tours practical and rewarding.
We especially like the Highlights of Charleston tour for its thorough coverage of essential landmarks and local insights.
The Savor the Flavors food tour stands out for combining tastings at family-owned spots with cultural history.
After dark, the atmospheric Pleasing Terrors ghost tour delivers spine-tingling stories in the city’s shadowy corners.
The Lost Stories of Black Charleston tour thoughtfully examines the African American experience, while the Historic Women of Charleston tour illuminates often-overlooked perspectives from the colonial era through Civil War times.
Get started with these top walking tours of Charleston:
Key Points
Charleston offers a variety of guided historical walking tours, ranging from 2-hour to 3-hour experiences that showcase the city’s rich colonial, Revolutionary, and Civil War history.
Culinary walking tours provide an immersive exploration of Charleston’s vibrant food scene, allowing visitors to sample local specialties while learning about the city’s culinary heritage.
Ghost and supernatural walking tours offer captivating tales of Charleston’s haunted history, taking participants to eerie locations and providing an interactive encounter with the unseen spirits.
Thematic and specialty walking tours, such as the “Lost Stories of Black Charleston” tour, explore the lesser-known aspects of the city’s diverse past.
Many of the walking tours feature knowledgeable guides, small group sizes, and high ratings, ensuring an engaging and memorable experience for visitors.
Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
The Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and charming landmarks.
This 5-star rated tour covers the picturesque French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods, showcasing iconic sites like the colorful Rainbow Row, the poignant Old Slave Mart Museum, and the historic Old Exchange.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience provides deep insights into Charleston’s complex past, particularly the impact of the slave trade on the southern economy.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour allows for an intimate and immersive experience, making it a must-do for first-time visitors seeking to uncover the city’s compelling stories.
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Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour
Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour offers visitors a delightful way to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
This 2.5-hour walking tour takes participants on a journey through Charleston, stopping at multiple restaurants to sample a variety of local dishes, including the iconic Shrimp and Grits and She-Crab Soup.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, the tour provides historical context, linking Charleston’s rich history to its renowned food culture.
While some reviews mention concerns about portion sizes and restaurant proximity, the tour’s overall rating of 4.5 stars and 91% recommendation from travelers suggest an engaging and satisfying experience.
Suitable for most visitors, this tour offers a fun and flavorful way to discover the best of Charleston’s culinary delights.
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Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
By night, Charleston’s streets come alive with whispers of the past, as the Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour immerses visitors in the city’s supernatural lore.
Led by the engaging Mike Brown, host of the Pleasing Terrors Podcast, this 90-minute tour explores Charleston’s ghostly history through captivating storytelling and historical context.
Boasting a 95% traveler recommendation, the tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s most haunted locations, from Washington Square Park to St. Philips Church.
Complemented by visuals and complimentary bottled water, the tour’s educational value and entertaining narrative style have earned it a 5.0 overall rating, making it a must-do for those seeking a spooky yet enlightening Charleston experience.
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Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking to uncover Charleston’s harrowing past, the Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour provides a captivating exploration of the city’s haunted history.
Rated 4.5 stars from 446 reviews, this 90-minute tour takes guests through the historic district, sharing spine-tingling tales of the paranormal.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour highlights Charleston’s most eerie locations, from the Vendue Range to the water fountain.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience offers an intimate setting for travelers to enjoy the city’s ghostly lore.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a spooky adventure, this walking tour promises an unforgettable encounter with Charleston’s unseen spirits.
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Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour
Enjoy the lesser-known black history of Charleston on the captivating Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour.
Led by expert historian Damon Fordham, this 2-hour walking tour takes you through the city’s historic neighborhoods, uncovering the untold stories of Charleston’s African American community.
With a 97% traveler recommendation, the tour visits significant sites like Jehu Junes Hotel, Catfish Row, and the Old Slave Mart Museum, bringing the past to life through Fordham’s engaging storytelling.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Charleston’s cultural heritage, this tour promises to deliver an informative and eye-opening experience.
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Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Explore Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene on the captivating Charleston Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours. This highly-rated 3-hour walking tour showcases the city’s diverse food offerings, from classic Lowcountry dishes like chicken bog and she-crab soup to handmade local ice cream.
Knowledgeable guides share engaging historical insights that enhance the experience. While some reviewers noted variable guide engagement, the majority praise the expertise and humor of guides like Crystin, Perry, Joe, and Robin.
The tour’s flexible meeting points and smaller group sizes allow for a more intimate exploration of Charleston’s flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or history buff, this tour promises a delightful taste of the Holy City.
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Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More
Bulldog Tours’ Historic Charleston Walking Tour provides a captivating exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Guests embark on a 2-hour journey, marveling at the colorful facades of Rainbow Row, strolling along the historic Waterfront Battery, and discovering antebellum mansions and secret gardens.
The tour also delves into Charleston’s rich Revolutionary and Civil War history, with stops at historic churches and graveyards.
Highly knowledgeable guides bring the city’s past to life through engaging storytelling, ensuring an informative and enjoyable experience for all.
With a maximum group size of 20 and free cancellation, this 5-star tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the charm and history of Charleston.
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Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour
A small-group walking tour of Charleston’s hidden alleyways and historic sites offers visitors a chance to uncover the city’s enchanting past.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores significant landmarks like the 300-year-old Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, the iconic Rainbow Row, and the Heyward-Washington House.
Along the way, you’ll discover often-overlooked alleys and hidden gems, learning about Charleston’s Revolutionary and Civil War history through engaging storytelling.
Capped at 13 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience, with admission to the Powder Magazine Museum included.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to experience Charleston’s charm, this tour is sure to delight.
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Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
Charleston’s historic charm is best uncovered on the guided Historic Charleston Sightseeing Walking Tour. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, this 2-hour outing takes visitors to key landmarks like Charleston City Hall, the French Quarter, and Rainbow Row.
Led by passionate, local guides, the tour provides an engaging and informative look at the city’s rich history and architecture. Along the way, you’ll visit the Powder Magazine Museum and stroll through the Battery and White Point Gardens.
With a maximum group size of 20, this tour offers an intimate experience at an affordable starting price of $26.50. Suitable for all ages and abilities, it’s a must-do for anyone seeking to discover Charleston’s treasures.
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Charleston Historical Walking Tour With a Professor of History at the Citadel
For those seeking an immersive and educational exploration of Charleston’s captivating history, the Charleston Historical Walking Tour with Professor Eric Lager of The Citadel provides an unparalleled experience.
This 3-hour tour, rated 5.0 by 854 travelers with a 99% recommendation, offers an intimate and interactive journey through Charleston’s colonial era, American Revolution, Civil War, and architectural legacy.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour allows for personalized engagement with the knowledgeable Ph.D. guide.
Highlights include stunning historic homes, gardens, churches, and significant sites, all brought to life through Lager’s engaging presentation and passion for South Carolina history.
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Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour With Unitarian Church Graveyard
Embarking on the Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard, travelers uncover the city’s haunting past and its lingering spirits.
Led by professional, licensed guides, this 90-minute tour blends captivating storytelling with exclusive access to the historic Unitarian Church Graveyard. Guests stroll through Charleston’s old city, passing by landmark buildings and hearing tales of supernatural occurrences from the book “The Ghosts of Charleston.”
The highlight is the eerie graveyard exploration, where visitors discover overgrown southern gardens and the tragic stories behind the tombs.
With a maximum group size of 20, this atmospheric experience earns high praise for its knowledgeable guides and engaging content.
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Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour
Shem Creek, a picturesque waterway in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, sets the stage for the captivating Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour.
With 130 glowing reviews and a 5-star rating, this 1.5-mile stroll promises an immersive experience into the local shrimping industry.
Led by the knowledgeable Captain Bryan, guests embark on a journey filled with historical insights, interactive activities, and insider perspectives on this thriving coastal community.
The tour’s meeting point at the corner of Coleman Boulevard and Mill Street and its end point along the Shem Creek boardwalk bookend an engaging exploration of the area’s rich maritime heritage.
Highly recommended for families, the tour offers a unique learning opportunity through its blend of education and entertainment.
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Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour
The Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour whisks visitors on an engaging exploration of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable guide, Jonathan, the tour offers a unique perspective on Charleston’s past. Donning a distinct black shirt featuring a Charleston-Abbey Road design, Jonathan captivates participants with his storytelling, blending historical facts with humor.
Over the course of 2 hours, the group traverses the city, visiting key landmarks and uncovering hidden gems. Renowned for its 5-star reviews, the tour provides an immersive and personalized experience, often with smaller groups.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this walking tour promises an entertaining and informative glimpse into the heart of Charleston.
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Charlestons Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour
Leaving the historic charm of Charleston’s Chicora neighborhood behind, visitors can now indulge in a different kind of adventure – a culinary exploration of the city’s renowned Upper King Street district.
The Charlestons Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour offers a 2.5-hour guided journey through this vibrant area, showcasing the best of Charleston’s food scene. Guests can sample 5-6 local specialties, from seafood-heavy South Carolina staples to historical insights from knowledgeable guides.
While some found the portions small, most praised the engaging stories and delicious bites. At $110, this tour provides a unique way to experience Charleston’s thriving culinary culture.
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Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
On Charleston’s historic streets, the Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour takes visitors on an enlightening journey through the city’s rich past.
Over the course of 2 hours, knowledgeable guides lead small groups of up to 20 travelers to explore the French Quarter, South of Broad, and other iconic neighborhoods.
Along the way, they share captivating tales of Charleston’s pivotal role in American history, from the American Revolution to the Civil War.
Guests marvel at the city’s stunning architecture, including the Old Exchange Building, St. Michaels Episcopal Church, and Rainbow Row.
With excellent reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an educational and enjoyable experience for anyone seeking to uncover Charleston’s fascinating heritage.
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Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour
Shifting gears from the informative Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour, the Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour offers a thrilling and atmospheric exploration of the city’s haunted past.
Led by the engaging Captain Bryan, this 2-hour excursion combines captivating storytelling with visits to local bars. Guests will learn about the legends of Charleston’s infamous boo hags while sipping on tasty libations.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate and immersive experience. Rounding out the experience, reviewers praise Captain Bryan’s knowledgeability and the tour’s perfect blend of history and ghostly tales, making it a must-do for both history buffs and thrill-seekers alike.
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Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a captivating exploration of Charleston’s remarkable women, the Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour offers a unique and enlightening experience.
Lasting two hours, this walking tour focuses on the stories of influential women who’ve shaped the city’s rich history.
Led by the passionate and knowledgeable guide, Jonathan Green, guests will visit landmarks like the Pink House Gallery and Rainbow Row while learning about the contributions and resilience of Charleston’s female trailblazers.
With engaging storytelling, architectural insights, and a mix of fun and educational content, this tour provides a fresh perspective on the city’s past, earning it a 5.0 rating and a badge of excellence from 154 enthusiastic travelers.
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Small Group Historic Walking Tours With Certified Guides
Set out on a captivating journey through Charleston’s historic streets with the Small Group Historic Walking Tours. These 153 highly-rated tours are led by licensed and certified guides who share their deep local knowledge and engaging storytelling.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, you’ll enjoy personalized interactions and unique insights into the city’s history, customs, architecture, and folklore. Awarded the Badge of Excellence, these tours provide an immersive experience not easily obtained independently.
Praised for their adaptability, guides like Steve Bailey, Kay, and Russ offer an informative and friendly experience, ensuring travelers leave with a newfound appreciation for Charleston’s rich heritage.
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Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
Charleston’s historic streets take on a more sinister tone after dark on the Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour. This 90-minute excursion explores the city’s lesser-known history, focusing on tales of prostitution, gangsters, and other illicit activities.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers a unique perspective, with stories that include humor and vivid descriptions. While not a ghost tour, the minimum age is 18 and some profanity may be used.
Participants can expect to learn fascinating facts not covered in traditional Charleston tours. Though not suitable for all, the tour is ideal for adults interested in the city’s darker past.
Just be prepared for a leisurely walking pace and dress appropriately for the weather.
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Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour
Take a chilling stroll through Charleston’s haunted past on the Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour.
This highly-rated 4.5-star experience takes you through the city’s spooky sites and graveyards, led by local licensed guides known for their captivating storytelling.
You’ll hear tales of notable figures like Edgar Allan Poe and explore historical locations, though some guests felt the tour focused too much on history over ghost stories.
With a leisurely pace and a minimum of 4 participants, it’s an engaging way to uncover Charleston’s dark side.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately and arrive 15 minutes early for an unforgettable night.
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Break Down
Charleston offers a wealth of walking tour options that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re seeking historical insights, culinary adventures, or spooky encounters, the city’s guided tours provide an immersive and engaging way to explore its rich heritage. With knowledgeable local guides, small group sizes, and a range of themes, visitors can discover the many facets that make Charleston a captivating destination.