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The Best of Charleston: History, Culture & Architecture Tour

5 (268)
Charleston, US
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The Best of Charleston: History, Culture & Architecture Tour

5 (268)
Charleston, US
Share
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Experience the best of Charleston on this captivating History, Culture & Architecture Tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming city as our knowledgeable tour guides share fascinating anecdotes and researched history. Tailored to your interests, we make connections that bring Charleston's history to life, ensuring it's not just another boring history lesson. Whether it's your first visit or your twentieth, Charleston always has something new to offer. Discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make this city a special place to visit. Join us and be amazed by the captivating stories and architectural wonders that await you. Book now and embark on a journey of discovery through the heart of Charleston.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • Admission Not Included
  • 2 hours
  • Suitable for 1-10 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Tour guide

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More about this experience

Introduction

The Best of Charleston: History, Culture & Architecture Tour is a captivating journey through one of the most historically significant cities in the United States. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Charleston's rich past, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. It goes beyond the typical "boring history lesson" by offering researched history, intriguing anecdotes, and tailored experiences to cater to the interests of each guest.

What to expect?

During the tour, participants can expect an immersive and informative experience that lasts approximately 120 minutes. The itinerary covers various iconic locations, such as the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Rainbow Row, Old Slave Mart Museum, City Hall, Dock Street Theater, Edmondston-Alston House, St. Michael's Church, and Nathaniel Russell House. Each step of the tour provides a glimpse into Charleston's fascinating history and showcases its architectural gems.

Who is this for?

The Best of Charleston tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and architecture admirers. Whether it's your first visit to Charleston or your twentieth, this tour offers something new and exciting for everyone. It is designed to cater to a diverse audience, welcoming travelers of different ages, backgrounds, and interests. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour is a must-have experience for anyone looking to delve into the heart and soul of Charleston.

Why book this?

Unlike other tours, The Best of Charleston sets itself apart with its unique selling points and advantages. Expertly guided by experienced tour guides, this adventure provides authentic, well-researched information that brings Charleston's story to life. Rather than a monotonous recitation of facts, the tour immerses participants in interactive storytelling, making the history of Charleston engaging, entertaining, and above all, memorable. From the fascinating tales of the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon to the stunning architecture of the Nathaniel Russell House, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this captivating journey.

Good to know

It's important to note that the meeting point for the tour is on the north side of the building near a tree and two park benches next to a cobblestone street. The tour duration is approximately 120 minutes, ensuring there is plenty of time to explore each location and absorb the historical significance. Please keep in mind that some entrances are subject to availability, but the tour provides ample opportunities to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Charleston's landmarks.

Reviews

Feedback from previous participants highlights the exceptional quality of The Best of Charleston tour. Travelers consistently express their satisfaction with the tour guides' knowledge and engaging storytelling. Many rave about how the tour exceeded their expectations, providing a newfound appreciation for the city's history and architecture. Overall, participants unanimously agree that this tour is a must-do experience in Charleston, and it leaves them feeling both enlightened and entertained.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

Our starting point is one of the most historical buildings in South Carolina, c. 1771. The Declaration of Independence was read here in 1776, it was used a British prison for roughy two years during the American Revolution, US Constitution ratified in SC in 1788, George Washington was entertained during week-long visit in May 1791, plus many more events.

Admission Not Included

Rainbow Row

See the longest row of attached Georgian row houses in the country. These were mariner's stores in the 18th & 19th centuries. Restored in the 1930's during Charleston's preservation efforts to a bright Caribbean color scheme.

Old Slave Mart Museum

Known as Ryan's Slave Mart in the 1850's, this building was an auction site of the interstate slave trade. We will speak about Charleston's role in the slave trade. The City of Charleston operates the museum and tours are available on site. We do not enter the building.

Admission Not Included

Charleston City Hall

This building sets on one the "Four Corners of Law", named by Robert Ripley (Ripley's Believe it or Not). Built in 1801 as a bank, City Hall has been as such since 1818 and is one of the oldest continuously run city hall's in the country. During the weekdays, visitors can enter the council chamber and see their collection, complimentary.

Dock Street Theater

Entrance depending on availabilty. Built on the site of the first theater in the British colonies, The Dock Street Theatre, c. 1937 was restored from the old Planter's Hotel, c. 1809. The Charleston Stage company operates as the largest professional theater company in South Carolina. Roughly 120 performances take place every year.

Edmondston-Alston House

We walk up on the High Battery wall to take a look at the waterfront mansions and discuss the beginning of the Civil War. Ft. Sumter is in the distance. The Edmonston Alston House has been in the family since 1838 and was a site where Gen. Beauregard watched the bombardment of Ft. Sumter with other onlookers.

Admission Not Included

St. Michael's Church

Entrance depending on availability. Oldest house of worship in the city, c.1761. We speak about Charleston's religious history of the past and present. The building has much of the original woodwork and beautiful Tiffany stained glass windows. John Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, US Constitution signers, are buried in the churchyard.

Nathaniel Russell House

We enter the garden of this beautiful Federal style townhouse built in 1808 and owned by Nathaniel Russell. Reigning from Rhode Island, he was a wealthy merchant involved in shipping.

Admission Not Included

Reviews

(268)

5 (268)

318nateh

Fin was our tour guide and did a fantastic job. He had a deep knowledge of the history of Charleston, and the 2+ hours flew by as we visited historic sites throughout the area. It was a great way to obtain a basic knowledge of the history of the city. I'd highly recommend the tour.

Lin_M

Great Tour! Fun way to learn the history of Charleston & explore the town. Guide was very knowledgeable & personable.

Mark_R

Very knowledgeable, personable, comprehensive., and insightful. Very good introduction to Charlestown.

louannl802

Brian was amazingly informative and humorous. I’ve been to Charleston many times over the years and done tours before but I learned a lot new and different information from Brian. The two hours flew by. If you can, ask for Brian as your tour guide!

Rhonda_A

Brian had an extensive amount of knowledge and enthusiasm for Charleston. We had an interesting afternoon and covered a lot of ground on our walking tour.

Collene_W

We had a great tour with Brian. He is so knowledgeable of Charleston’s history. We took his tour the first day in town and it was a wonderful overview.

John_M

Brian was knowledgeable and personable. Small groups and great time. he spent extra time with us and had great stories.

Jessica_S

Brian is an excellent guide. Professional, friendly, punctual and very knowledgeable. This tour was supposed to be 2 hours but ended up being longer because he had free time before his next tour. Very kind of him! Highly recommend this tour for anyone especially a first time visitor to Charleston, like me! Thank you!!

T1706ZBjessicas

Brian is an excellent guide. Professional, friendly, punctual and very knowledgeable. This tour was supposed to be 2 hours but ended up being longer because he had free time before his next tour. Very kind of him! Highly recommend this tour for anyone especially a first time visitor to Charleston, like me! Thank you!!

VAB101010

Brian gave a wonderful tour experience. There were just two people on my visit and he was indefatigable, we all three lost count of time. So a really good value trip and an illuminating approach to Charleston which Brian knows backwards - and most of the people in it, it would seem! I thoroughly recommend.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-08 04:50