Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

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.

1. 1

   Circular Congregational Church

   1 hour

   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.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   5 min

   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.

3. 3

   South Carolina Historical Society Museum

   1 min

   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.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   5 min

   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.

5. 5

   South Carolina Society Hall

   5 min

   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.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   5 min

   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.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   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.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   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.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   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.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    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.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    10 min

    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.

12. 12

    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.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    10 min

    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!

14. 14

    Rainbow Row

    10 min

    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.

15. 15

    Stop 15

    10 min

    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.

16. 16

    Pineapple Fountain

    10 min

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

17. 17

    Stop 17

    5 min

    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.

18. 18

    Dock Street Theater

    5 min

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

19. 19

    St. Philip's Anglican Church

    5 min

    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?

20. 20

    Stop 20

    5 min

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

• 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.

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