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Charleston History and Architecture Tour

9 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 9 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Charleston, USA
Book online or call us

from $29 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

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

What's Included

  • Guided walking tour
  • Expert tour guide
  • Gratuities
See 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

195 East Bay 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

Vendue Range
Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

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

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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Charleston City Market

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Philadelphia Alley

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.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

French Huguenot Church

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dock Street Theater

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Four Corners of Law

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.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rainbow Row

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.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Pineapple Fountain

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.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 6 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Charleston History and Architecture 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).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. 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-5669891P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
9 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 9 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
9
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Charleston History and Architecture 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).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Guided walking tour.
  • Expert tour guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Charleston History and Architecture Tour is as follows:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • 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
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Charleston History and Architecture Tour will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Guided walking tour
  • Expert tour guide
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • 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
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name