French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk
Charleston, US
Highlights
- Breathtaking walk through colonial and early American architecture
- Unique landmarks with intriguing narratives
- Colorful waterfront bay buildings on Rainbow Row
- Oldest private building in French Quarter
- Oldest remaining intact church building
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Duration: 2 hours
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Professional Guide
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Historic French Quarter Tour
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Operates in all weather
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Experience the beauty and history of Charleston's French Quarter with this captivating walking tour. Immerse yourself in colonial and early American architecture as you stroll through cobblestone alleys and passages, capturing the essence of this historic district with your camera. Discover unique landmarks with intriguing narratives of their origins from your native Charleston guide. As you walk along Charleston's majestic harbor, you'll learn about the castle and forts that shaped America's maritime and military history. Explore the top three most historic buildings in the U.S., including the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and admire the colorful waterfront bay buildings of Rainbow Row. Visit the oldest private building in the French Quarter, the Pink House Gallery, and witness the stunning Adamesque architecture of the Gabrielle Manigault-designed Civic Square. From the Old Slave Mart Museum to the oldest intact church building, St. Michael's Church, this tour will immerse you in history and leave you captivated by Charleston's rich heritage.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Explore Charleston's French Quarter on a 2-hour historic walking tour, guided by a local expert and filled with captivating stories and stunning architecture.
Included
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Historic look at the french quarter -
Professional guide
Excluded
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Gratuities
Meeting Point
Tour meets outside on the Prioleau Street side of City Gallery at 34 Prioleau Street. There are benches, shade trees, as well as water and public restrooms nearby.
34 Prioleau St, Charleston, SC 29401 , United States
End Point
Tour meets outside on the Prioleau Street side of City Gallery at 34 Prioleau Street. There are benches, shade trees, as well as water and public restrooms nearby.
34 Prioleau St, Charleston, SC 29401 , United States
What to expect
Charleston Waterfront Park
Walk through the historic Vendue Range of markets on low water land owned by the Prioleau family who arrived in Charles Town in 1687 as an escape from Catholic religious persecution in Pons, France. See the majestic harbor's Castle Pinckney, Fort Sumter, and beautiful marshy islands that create the passage to the Atlantic Ocean.
10 minutes
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
One of the top three most historic buildings in the U.S., according to the National Historic Registry. Guide explains in detail all of the unique attributes that make this building one of America's true historic gems.
10 minutes
Admission Not Included
Rainbow Row
Colorful waterfront bay buildings constructed along wharves with Dutch influence (Amsterdam) during the Age of Lord Proprietors and original walled city.
15 minutes
Pink House Gallery
Known to be the oldest private building remaining in the French Quarter (1694-1712). The handmade, asymmetrical house set on the longest cobblestone street is built of Bermuda stone and resembles a charming man-sized dollhouse.
10 minutes
Admission Not Included
Charleston City Hall
Gabrielle Manigault (French Huguenot architect) designed one of the finest examples of Adamesque architecture in 1800 as a development of the Civic Square of the original Grand Modell plan of the walled city.
10 minutes
Admission Included
Old Slave Mart Museum
One of the last vestiges of a barracoon (slave jail) which is a converted German fire station made into a gallery for the sales of the enslaved. 80 percent of what census term as African-Americans living in North America have ancestral roots in Charleston, South Carolina as a result of the 12 million people imported through the Atlantic slave trade.
10 minutes
Admission Not Included
St. Michael's Church
The oldest remaining in-tact church building left in the Holy City was built in 1752.
10 minutes
South Carolina Historical Society Museum
First Fireproof Building in America built by Robert Mills who also designed the Washington Monument in D.C. (probably wishes the monument has been built as earthquake proof).
5 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Powder Magazine
Oldest public building (1713) in the original walled city was used as a northern fortification during the age of Lords Proprietors.
5 minutes
Admission Not Included
French Huguenot Church
Gothic Revival French protestant church is the centerpiece of the French Quarter. This active church is the oldest and most famous in the U.S. Twenty-three of forty-five U.S. Presidents have French Huguenot ancestry!
10 minutes
Dock Street Theater
National historic landmark is known as the first building to hold theatrical performances in the U.S. First show was in 1735, a black comedy depicting the social and sexual exploits of two recruiting officers in Ireland.
10 minutes
Admission Included
Circular Congregational Church
First official "Meeting House" built on the corner of the original walled city in a Romaneque Revival Style. Three significant churches were created from the original congregation (Unitarian, First Scots, and United Church). Churchyard is home to the oldest tombstones on the peninsula.
10 minutes
Philadelphia Alley
Iconic alley way holds many historic attributes and lore.
10 minutes
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
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
What our experts say
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Stop by the Old Slave Mart Museum. -
Bring comfortable walking shoes.
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Check out nearby Waterfront Park.
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Don't forget your camera for photos.
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Consider visiting a local café after.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Take a step back in time and explore the charm and history of the French Quarter in Charleston with the captivating French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk. This two-hour tour will immerse you in the Holy City's rich colonial and early American architecture, as you stroll through cobblestone alleys and marvel at the breathtaking harbor views. Led by a knowledgeable native Charleston guide, you'll uncover fascinating narratives behind the unique landmarks and structures that shaped America's maritime and military history. Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate the beauty of well-preserved architecture, this tour is sure to impress.What to expect?
During the French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk, expect to embark on a leisurely and informative journey through the city's most significant points of interest. You'll wander through the historic Vendue Range of markets, soaking in the views of the majestic harbor and notable landmarks such as Castle Pinckney and Fort Sumter. The tour also includes visits to Rainbow Row, a vibrant row of colorful waterfront buildings, and the Pink House Gallery, the oldest private building in the French Quarter. Throughout the tour, your guide will share captivating stories and insights about the buildings' origins and their historical significance, offering a unique perspective on Charleston's past.Who is this for?
The French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and curious travelers seeking an authentic understanding of Charleston's rich heritage. Whether you're a local resident or visiting this charming city for the first time, this tour will provide you with a deeper appreciation of its unique history and architectural treasures. Everyone from families to solo travelers will find value in this captivating experience, as it offers a comprehensive overview of the French Quarter's highlights.Why book this?
Embark on the French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk and unlock the secrets of this enchanting city with an experienced native Charleston guide. This tour stands out from the rest by offering a curated exploration of colonial and early American architecture, providing you with an in-depth understanding of Charleston's historical significance. The chance to amble through cobblestone alleys and witness breathtaking harbor views adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. By booking this tour, you'll gain unique insights into the Holy City's past and create lasting memories of the architectural wonders and captivating narratives that flourish within the French Quarter.Good to know
Before joining the French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk, remember to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this historic district. The tour has a total duration of 120 minutes and begins at the City Gallery on Prioleau Street. You'll find benches, shade trees, and public restrooms nearby. The itinerary includes visits to notable sites such as the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and St. Michael's Church. Additionally, be prepared for a leisurely stroll along Charleston's majestic harbor, admiring the castle and forts that shaped America's maritime and military history. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the charm of the French Quarter by foot.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk rave about the knowledgeable guides and their ability to bring the city's history to life. Visitors are particularly impressed with the captivating narratives and architectural details shared along the tour. Many express their satisfaction with the tour's duration, finding it to be the perfect length to explore the highlights of the French Quarter. Whether you're a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for an immersive experience in Charleston, this tour comes highly recommended by those who have walked its path before you.
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