Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours

Charleston, US
98% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (374 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Private transportation

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Andrew Pinckney Inn
Cambria Hotel Charleston Riverview
Candlewood Suites Charleston - Mt. Pleasant, an IHG hotel
Charleston Cruise Terminal
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston
Courtyard Charleston Historic District
Courtyard Charleston Waterfront
Days Inn by Wyndham Charleston Historic District
Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District
Emeline
Francis Marion Hotel
French Quarter Inn
Grand Bohemian Charleston, Autograph Collection
HarbourView Inn
Hilton Club Liberty Place Charleston
Holiday Inn Charleston-Riverview, an IHG hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Dwtn - Westedge, an IHG hotel
Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District
Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant, an IHG hotel
Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District
I will contact the supplier later
Indigo Inn
John Rutledge House Inn
Kings Courtyard Inn
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston Riverview
Market Pavilion Hotel
Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton
Residence Inn Charleston Riverview
Springhill Suites Charleston Riverview
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
The Charleston Place
The Cottages on Charleston Harbor
The Dewberry Charleston
The Limited Hotel
The Loutrel
The Meeting Street Inn
The Pinch Charleston
The Restoration Charleston
The Ryder Hotel
The Spectator Hotel
The Vendue - Charleston's Art Hotel
Two Meeting Street Inn
Wentworth Mansion
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off at downtown Charleston locations. I do not pick-up or drop-off at the Charleston International Airport, North Charleston, Summerville, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Daniel Island, John's Island, Goose Creek, or Kiawah Island.

What to expect

1

Charleston Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a picturesque destination that offers sightseers a breathtaking panoramic view of Charleston harbor. Here you get unobstructed views of the Ravenel Bridge, the U.S.S. Yorktown at Patriots Point, and Fort Sumter.

2

Dock Street Theater

In 1736, the Dock Street Theatre opended. The Dock Street Theatre was the first building in America built exclusively to be used for theatrical performances.

Duration 15 minutes
3

The Citadel

Founded in 1842, The Citadel is one of six senior military colleges and with over 2300 in the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, the Citadel is one of the largest uniformed bodies in the U.S. with the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. The college is located on a 300 acres along the banks of the Ashely River.

4

Rainbow Row

Rainbow is the longest continuous cluster of intact Georgian row houses in America. Highlighted by beautiful pastel colors it is one of the most photographed parts of the city.

5

Battery & White Point Gardens

Located at the tip of the peninsula, or what locals like to say "where the Ashley and Cooper rivers come together and form the Atlantic Ocean." Also known as Oyster Point, the location provides beautiful views of Fort Sumter and the harbor. Overlooking the park are some of Charleston's most impressive southern Mansions.

Duration 10 minutes
6

St. Michael's Church

St. Michael's Church, circa 1761 is the oldest church in downtown charleston and represents ecclesiastical law at the Four Corners of Law. The churchyard is resting place of two signers of the U.S. Constitution, John Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney.

7

Charleston City Hall

Built on the site of a colonial marketplace, this Adamesque building initially served as The First Bank of the United States. In 1818, it became the City Hall and now represents municipal law at the Four Corners of Law. One of the most beautiful buildings in the city, it was constructed between 1801 and 1804 on a site set aside as part of the civic square laid out in the Grand Modell, the 17th century plan of the city.

8

Hampton Park

At 60 acres, this beautiful park is the largest on the peninsula. Once the site of the Washington Race Course, today centuries old Live Oaks and Southern Magnolia trees encircle it's lush gardens

9

Charleston County Courthouse

This neoclassical building was designed by Irish architect James Hoban and is likely the model for Hoban's most famous building, the U.S. White House, both buildings are modeled after the Leinster House, the current seat of the Irish Parliament in Dublin.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Jeff Zimmerman

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit the historic Dock Street Theater.
  • icon
    Check out the views at Battery Park.
  • icon
    Grab lunch at Fleet Landing nearby.
  • icon
    Explore less touristy areas of the city.
  • icon
    Dress comfortably for a relaxing tour.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the charm and beauty of Charleston with Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours. This two-hour citywide private driving tour, led by the knowledgeable local guide Jeff Zimmerman, offers a stress-free and personalized way to explore this historic city. Sit back and relax in a comfortable full-sized weatherproof SUV as Jeff takes you on a journey through Charleston's intriguing past, eclectic architecture, vibrant culture, and even its natural wonders. With his twenty years of experience as a licensed tour guide, Jeff provides a unique narrative that brings the city to life.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect a comprehensive overview of Charleston's most iconic sights and hidden gems. From the panoramic views of the Ravenel Bridge and Fort Sumter at Joe Riley Waterfront Park to the historic Dock Street Theater, the tour encompasses the city's rich history and artistic heritage. Marvel at Rainbow Row, the longest cluster of intact Georgian row houses in America, and stroll through Battery & White Point Gardens while enjoying the breathtaking views of the harbor. Pass by St. Michael's Church, the oldest church in downtown Charleston, and the City Hall, a beautiful Adamesque building. The tour also includes a drive through the expansive Washington Park, surrounded by centuries-old Live Oaks and Southern Magnolia trees.

Who is this for?

Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours is ideal for anyone seeking an intimate and tailored experience of Charleston. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the charm of this Southern gem, this tour will cater to your interests. Jeff's personalized approach ensures that the tour can be adapted to meet the preferences of each individual.

Why book this?

What sets Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours apart is the expertise and passion of Jeff Zimmerman. With his extensive knowledge of the city and its hidden gems, he brings Charleston's history and culture to life in a captivating way. The tour takes place in a comfortable weatherproof SUV, ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the weather conditions. Unlike carriage or bus tours, you will have the opportunity to explore the lesser-known nooks and crannies of Charleston that are off-limits to larger groups. By booking this tour, you can expect a personalized experience that goes beyond the typical tourist route.

Good to know

During the two-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to explore Charleston's most famous landmarks without the crowds. The tour is conducted in a private vehicle, allowing for a more intimate and flexible experience. While you will have the chance to step out and explore some sites on foot, most stops will be pass-by visits, ensuring that you have ample time to see as many highlights as possible. Don't forget your camera, as Charleston is a photographer's dream with its picturesque streets and stunning architecture.

Reviews

Individuals who have taken Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours rave about the insightful and engaging narration provided by Jeff Zimmerman. They appreciate his deep knowledge of the city's history and his ability to make it come alive. Travelers also commend the flexibility of the tour, allowing them to explore Charleston at their own pace and customize the experience to their interests. Overall, guests are impressed with the value and quality of this private tour, making it a must for anyone visiting Charleston.

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