Charleston History and Architecture Tour

5.0 (7 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

7 reviews

5.0

Charleston History and Architecture Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Charleston History and Architecture Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the best of Charleston with this popular History and Architecture Tour of Charleston’s Historic Downtown. Take an immersive journey through secret alleys and colorful corridors, uncovering the city’s rich history and colorful architecture.

Expert guides will provide fascinating insights into Charleston’s past and present, making this tour an unforgettable experience.

The tour starts in the Historic Downtown. From there your guide will lead you through the South of Broad the French Quarter Districts with their charming architecture, cobblestone streets and historic homes, and finishes at the famous Pineapple Fountain.

Highlights include visits to three hidden alleys, the beautiful wrought iron work on centuries old gates, famous Rainbow Row, bustling City Market and the Pineapple fountain

Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low Agent Low Quality Product

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Empire Tours - Charleston

Ages: Children (0–6 years) · Youth (7–12 years) · Adults (13–64 years) · Seniors (65–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Expert tour guide
Included: Guided walking tour

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Charleston City Market

10 min

Explore the historic Charleston City Market, the bustling 19th-century heart of the city. Admire its classic architecture and discover traditional Lowcountry culture, including beautiful handwoven sweetgrass baskets, as your guide shares the market's fascinating history.
Philadelphia Alley

15 min

Discover the quiet charm of Philadelphia Alley, a hidden, brick-lined pathway that was once known as "Dueler's Alley." Stroll through this picturesque passage as your guide shares fascinating stories of its origins and the historic 18th-century duels that took place right where you are standing.
French Huguenot Church

10 min

Discover the beautiful French Huguenot Church, a true masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. Learn about the early French settlers who sought refuge in Charleston and admire the stunning exterior details of this historic landmark as your guide shares its centuries-old legacy.
Dock Street Theater

10 min

Admire the elegant exterior of the historic Dock Street Theater, the site of America's first purpose-built theater. Learn about its fascinating origins, tragic fires, and beautiful Depression-era reconstruction as you explore the heart of Charleston's picturesque French Quarter.
Stop 5

15 min

Walk past the iconic Four Corners of Law, a unique Charleston intersection where four beautiful historic buildings represent federal, state, city, and religious law. Take in the impressive architecture of these towering landmarks as your guide shares the fascinating story behind this famous moniker.
Rainbow Row

15 min

Walk past the world-famous Rainbow Row to admire thirteen beautifully preserved, pastel-colored historic townhouses. Take in the vibrant beauty of this iconic 18th-century streetscape as your guide shares the story behind its colorful restoration.
Pineapple Fountain

15 min

Visit the iconic Pineapple Fountain nestled in the beautiful Waterfront Park. Snap a photo in front of this famous symbol of Southern hospitality while your guide shares the history behind the city's welcoming pineapple motif, all while enjoying gorgeous views of the Charleston harbor.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you in front of the Charleston Tours and Activities window underneath the small black awning beside the Lodge Alley Inn

End point

Your tour will end In Waterfront Park, very close to the original meeting point

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Options

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Charleston History and Architecture Tour