Charleston is the perfect city to walk in; the historic part is flat and quite easy to navigate. There are a variety of tours that are offered for every interest. Here are some of the best walking tours in Charleston.
Organized by second generation tour guide and 13th generation Charlestonian Anna Taylor Blythe, this walk takes you to the darker side of Charleston’s history. This could well be the most exciting hour and a half you will spend in Charleston. Learn the stories of Theodosia and Perdita, just two of the mysterious happenings that will be part of this walking tour. Visit cemeteries and other historic sites. Tours meet at 160 Church St. (Tommy Condon’s) at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
They also offer a House and History Tour at 10 a.m and 2 p.m. meeting at 119A Church St. and including refreshments.
Architectural Walking Tour
Join Fern Williams Tuten as she takes you on a historic architectural tour of Charleston. Tours are conducted daily except Tuesdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and depart from The Meeting House Inn at 173 Meeting St. Reservations are recommended. Cost is $20 and there must be a minimum of 10 people for the tour to be conducted.
This tour will touch on what makes the architecture in Charleston special and steps that are being taken to preserve the wonderful examples that have survived. Tours last for two hours and visit seven public buildings. Private tours can be arranged.
If you want to take the walking tour recommended by the New York Times and by Southern Living then this is your tour. Walk through the cobblestone streets and into some of Charleston’s hidden gardens. Hear the history of Charleston from guides who are in the know. Charleston has a long and interesting history and you will get a feel for the important part the city and her residents played in Colonial times right through to the present.
One of the beauties of a walking tour is that it can take you to places that other tours can’t go. This tour meets daily at 10 a.m. at the Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting St. They do offer some courtesy pick up at two locations, please check their website to see when and where. Cost is $20 for adult $10 for children 7-12. Charleston Strolls can also arrange private special tours with many different focus’ to please any group.
Civil War Walking Tours of Charleston
Jack Thompson is a local historian who uses his love of Charleston and his vast collection of historic photographs to set the mood. The year is 1860 and you will meet some characters who will help you to understand the mood and the historical significance of Charleston in the Civil War. This tour is handicapped accessible.
Meet at the Historic Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting St. at 9 a.m., the cost is $20 and tickets may be purchased in advance to guarantee your spot.
These are just a few of the best Charleston walking tours that are available. No matter which one you chose, you will find a whole new perspective on this wonderful and historic city.
