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Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

28 Reviews 4.25 out of 5 stars Based on 28 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Charleston, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 10 (0.43) days in advance.

1 to 3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Get a taste of the authentic antebellum American south with this self-guided walking tour of Charleston, SC. Explore historic districts packed with lovely shops and beautiful architecture as you learn about the city’s founding, its growth into a major metropolis, and how the Revolutionary War and Civil War changed it forever. This tour offers a comprehensive view of this fascinating city and its past.

After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.

New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

What's Included

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

152 Market Street
Charleston, SC 29401, USA

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

188 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29401, USA

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Circular Congregational Church

The church was established in 1681, making it one of the oldest continuously worshiping congregations in the South. Originally known as the White Meeting House, it was built as a meeting place for Dissenters who did not conform to the Church of England. The current circular building was constructed in 1891 after the original building was destroyed by fire.NOTE: The tour is over 2+ miles long, with more than 45+ audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.Please note: This is a city tour, so construction, road closures, traffic, or local events may occasionally affect the route. We recommend checking current conditions and planning ahead before you begin.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Hibernian Hall

Hibernian Hall was constructed in 1840 and served as the meeting place for the Hibernian Society of Charleston. The Hibernian Society was established in 1801 by Irish immigrants and their descendants to provide aid, support, and cultural activities within the Irish community in Charleston.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

South Carolina Historical Society Museum

The South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) was founded in 1855 and is one of the oldest historical societies in the United States. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and promote the history of South Carolina and its people. The SCHS Museum serves as the primary public face of the organization, showcasing the society's extensive collection and offering educational programs to visitors.
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1 minute Admission Ticket Free

Four Corners of Law

The Four Corners of Law is a term used to describe the intersection of Broad and Meeting Streets in downtown Charleston. It refers to four significant buildings, each representing a different aspect of law and government. The name highlights the diverse legal and governmental institutions that converge at this intersection.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

South Carolina Society Hall

The South Carolina Society Hall, also known as the South Carolina Society for the Preservation of Spirituals, is an architectural gem that was constructed in 1803. The building was originally commissioned by the South Carolina Society, a social and charitable organization founded in 1737. The society played a significant role in Charleston's political, social, and cultural life.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

John Robert Pringle House

I know what you’re thinking! But no, Pringle has no connection to the popular snack. But his story is a great example of life for a European colonist in early Charleston.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Patrick O'Donnell House (pass by)

The ornate home two houses down from the Miles Brewton House is the Patrick O’Donnell House. Rumor has it that O’Donnell wanted this house to be perfect for his fiancee. So perfect, in fact, that it took 12 years to build this house.
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White Point Garden (pass by)

White Point Garden has a rich history dating back to the early days of Charleston. Originally known as Oyster Point, the park was a public gathering place as early as the 18th century. It has served as a defensive position during times of war and has witnessed significant events in Charleston's history.
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Confederate Defenders of Charleston (pass by)

Charleston was a strategically significant city during the Civil War due to its deepwater port and its role as a major center for the production and export of cotton. Controlling Charleston was vital for both the Confederate and Union forces.
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William Moultrie Monument (pass by)

The monument is dedicated to the memory of General William Moultrie, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War. Moultrie was the commander of the fort on Sullivan's Island, now known as Fort Moultrie, during the pivotal Battle of Sullivan's Island in 1776.
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The Palmer Home

The Palmer Home was built in 1825 for Thomas Bennett Jr., who served as the Governor of South Carolina from 1820 to 1822. The house is named after John Ravenel Palmer, who purchased it in 1861. The Palmer family owned the property for several decades.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Edmondston-Alston House (pass by)

The Edmondston-Alston House was built in 1825 and has a rich history tied to the Charleston area. The house has seen many notable residents and visitors throughout its existence.
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Longitude Lane

This alleyway is known as Longitude Lane, one of Charleston’s most picturesque attractions. Remember that fake cannon in White Point Garden? This is the lane where the real cannon was taken from!
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rainbow Row

The houses on Rainbow Row have a rich history. They were originally built as mercantile stores and residences for merchants and traders. Over the years, the buildings have been restored and preserved, contributing to Charleston's architectural and cultural heritage.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Slave Auction Site Memorial

This memorial marks the land where many slave auctions occurred in the late 1700s and early 1800s. It’s a stark reminder of what was actually at stake during the Civil War.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Pineapple Fountain

See that fountain shaped like a pineapple? It was built in 1990, but references a neat bit of Charleston history.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Old Slave Mart Museum

On your right is the Old Slave Mart Museum. It’s similar to the Old Exchange that we saw earlier, but with some notable differences.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dock Street Theater

This building began as a theatre in 1736, and reopened once more as a theatre in 1937. But what about the years in between?
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

St. Philip's Church

You may notice that this church juts out onto Church Street. In fact, the whole street bends a little all along the church, then straightens out again. What went on there?
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Charleston City Market

It’s been here since 1804, and houses arts and crafts from locals, Gullah sweetgrass baskets, and tons of delicious food.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 19 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Multi-device access: Use the same password on one device for each traveler included in your booking.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
  • Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-259648P20

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.25
28 reviews

Average 4.25 out of 5 stars based on 28 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
16
4 stars
7
3 stars
2
2 stars
2
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 10 (0.43) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
  • Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
  • Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
  • Private walking tour experience for your family or group.
  • Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
  • Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
  • Just bring your phone and headphones; the app guides your walk.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note: This is a city tour, so construction, road closures, traffic, or local events may occasionally affect the route. We recommend checking current conditions and planning ahead before you begin.
  • Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
  • Private tour: Follow the route on your phone without an in-person guide or crowded group.
  • At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
  • Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
  • Multi-device access: Use the same password on one device for each traveler included in your booking.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
  • Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
  • Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
  • Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
  • Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
  • Savings tips: Walking tours: couples can share a tour by using separate earbuds. We recommend using headphones or earbuds for clearer audio and to avoid disturbing nearby guests.

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