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History Walking Tours

Step back in time with historic walking tours through Charleston's cobblestone streets and moss-draped avenues of one of America's most charming and historically rich cities. With a variety of tours and historic topics to choose from, dive deeper into the stories behind gates of historic Charleston. 

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Morning History Walks

begins at Capt. James Missroon House
Monday, Wednesday, Friday mornings during the Festival
9:30–11:30 am
$35 adults
$10 ages 6-12

Step back in time...

with historic walking tours through Charleston's cobblestone streets and moss-draped avenues of one of America's most charming and historically rich cities. Discover the stories of Charleston's past as you pass by antebellum mansions, explore hidden courtyards and hear the stories behind Charleston's historic iron gates. 

Each tour will walk the streets of the Old and Historic Districts of Charleston and begin and end at the Foundation's headquarters at the Capt. James Missroon House. Space is limited for each walking tour. Tickets are required. 

Themed Walking Tours

begins at Capt. James Missroon House
9:30–11:30 am
$35 adults

$10 ages 6-12

Themed Walking Tour: Ironwork

March 13, March 20, April 3

Wander streets lined with masterworks of the medium, admiring the delicate filigree patterns, ornate twists, and rich details that characterize pieces dating to the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Learn about the skilled artisans who crafted these timeless pieces, and discover how they fit into the architectural and cultural fabric of the city. This tour, available ONLY through The Charleston Festival, celebrates the craftsmanship, history, and enduring beauty of Charleston's ironwork. 

Themed Walking Tour:
Churches and Steeples

MARCH 14, MARCH 25, APRIL 8

Delve into the stories behind Charleston's historic churches, steeples, and graveyards with on this walking tour, only available through this Festival. During the tour, guests will visit iconic churches such as St. Philip's, St. Michael's and the French Huguenot Church to learn about their roles in Charleston’s architectural and social history. Guests will also explore historic graveyards and cemeteries where ornate grave markers tell tales of the past residents who shaped the city we love today.

Themed Walking Tour:
The Living Museum

MARCH 15, MARCH 27, APRIL 10

Explore the living museum that is Charleston’s marvelously preserved historic district on a walking tour that navigates the evolution of the city’s famed architecture. We’ll examine how Charleston became a powerful and affluent colonial city, its roles in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, how stylistic and practical influences from other cultures were adapted into local architecture. The ebbs and flows of wealth are recorded in its built environment, visible to those who know how to look.

Themed Walking Tour:
Pink Houses

MARCH 18, APRIL 1

Step into a world where history is painted in shades of pink! Join us on a picturesque walking tour through Charleston's historic district, as we explore the city's charming pink houses. This unique walking tour will immerse you in the stories and secrets behind Charleston's rosy-hued architecture, showcasing how pink buildings span every architectural style and socioeconomic level. Discover the vibrant spectrum of pink houses, from quaint cottages to grand mansions. Each stop reveals a new layer of Charleston's rich architectural tapestry, adorned in pink!

Family Stroll and Storytime

begins at Capt. James Missroon House
12:00–2:00 pm

Join us for a family event, new for 2025!

Come join us for a fun and relaxing stroll along The Battery, one of Charleston’s most famous spots, filled with history and gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor. Learn a little about the stories behind the grand old houses, cannons, and the area’s role in the city’s past—don’t worry, we’ll keep it light and interesting for all ages!

 

We’ll finish up at beautiful White Point Gardens, a shady park at the end of The Battery, where a Historic Charleston Foundation staff member will host a cozy story time featuring local children’s books that celebrate Charleston and the Lowcountry. This free, all-ages event is a great way to enjoy the community, the outdoors, and a bit of Charleston’s charm—perfect for the whole family! Space is limited, and event registration is required. Children must be accompanied by a guardian.

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