Tours in Charleston

Step into the shadows of the Holy City and discover a side of Charleston that history books prefer to forget. On this spirited walking tour, you’ll sip your way through haunted pubs and eerie alleyways as we uncover chilling tales of colonists, cutthroat pirates, scandalous brothels, and Prohibition-era bootleggers. From ghostly whispers of the Civil War to the dark dealings of the city’s pirate past, this tour serves up strong spirits—both in your glass and from beyond the grave. Get ready for a thrilling night of history, haunts, and hops as we explore the not-so-holy side of Charleston. Our ghostly route may shift slightly from time to time—some pub stops might change depending on how busy the bars are. Don’t worry! We always aim to keep things flowing smoothly so you can enjoy your drinks, your spirits, and your spooky stories without delay. It’s all part of making your experience fun, seamless, and right on time!

Where pirates plotted and patriots perished, Charleston's dead refuse eternal sleep. Your licensed guide with 20+ years investigating the city's darkest corners will lead you through shadows most tours won't explore. Feel temperatures plummet at Judge Nicholas Trott’s house where 89 executed pirates seek revenge. Stand where Blackbeard schemed. Visit the cemetery where in 1987 a photographer captured the most authenticated ghost image in paranormal history. This tour isn’t actors reciting scripts. It's 60 minutes of haunted history tales and why locals avoid certain corners after midnight. Your guide has documented every cold spot, heard every whisper. Your small group experience ensures everyone hears stories that make Charleston one of America's most haunted cities. From St. Philip's ancient graves to hotel rooms where guests flee, we cover more documented paranormal sites than any tour. October books weeks ahead. Free cancellation 24 hours before. The dead are waiting.

Collect paranormal evidence using our tools in a small group setting of up to twelve ghost hunters total. This is not your average ghost storytelling tour, this is an interactive experience to learn the history of Charleston by being part of the story. You'll collect paranormal evidence, hear histories of Charleston and then receive all recorded data from all ghost hunters in your investigation. This includes videos, audio, along with any visuals and screenshots used to verify paranormal captures. An Estes Method will also be performed during your investigation, a very interesting and new method of ghost hunting. When booking, please provide a texting phone number. All guests receive a text with meeting point and parking instructions on the morning of their investigation. This also allows guests to receive all the recorded data/evidence from their investigation (provided the following day).

Enjoy a quintessential lowcountry cruise through the salt marshes of one of Charleston’s most scenic rivers where we see multiple dolphin sightings on 99% of our tours! The waters here are calm and less crowded with land always in sight making this private tour more relaxing, intimate, and enjoyable! You will be onboard a 27’ Coast Guard Certified vessel. “Marsh Mama” is designed with an open concept. She has comfortable cushioned seats, and Bluetooth stereo for your enjoyment. Spacious coolers with ice and waters will be provided. You are welcome to bring whatever food and drink you’d like! (BYOB) Your captain will be experienced, knowledgeable, and fun. He will keep you safe, teach you interesting facts, and take great care of you. Your captain has a Masters License. The tour is great for guests of all ages! It is perfect for families, friends, and celebrations! You can even bring your pet! Inquire for group rates for up to 20 guests.

Tour where carriages and motorcoaches are not allowed as you take a fascinating stroll with stories and traditions revealing Charleston’s rich history and colorful past. This two hour tour through America’s most charming historical district is sure to be the highlight of your visit.

Step back into the shadows of the 1920s, when Charleston was a city of contradictions—charming on the surface, rebellious underneath. On the Speakeasy Sagas Pub Crawl, you’ll walk the very streets where bootleggers dodged federal agents, secret bars buzzed behind locked doors. During Prohibition, alcohol was outlawed—but in Charleston, the party never really stopped. This wasn’t just a city of Southern charm and steeples. It was a city of hidden rooms, rumrunners, and lawmen who conveniently looked the other way. From elegant society scandals to rowdy waterfront crime, this tour reveals the untold story of Charleston’s wild side. Along the way, stop at hand-picked pubs where you can enjoy your favorite modern cocktails in the Holy City with a refusal to stay dry. If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please get in touch with the private & group sales coordinator with Ghost City Tours.

Embark on an exclusive sailing adventure on board "Esprit de Joy," tailor-made for groups of up to 6 guests for a 2.5-hour charter embracing Charleston's scenic Harbor. The golden hour of sunset is our prime booking time, offering you the opportunity to witness one of the most awe-inspiring sunsets. Or join us for an afternoon sail with your friends and family. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Charleston and discover firsthand why it is affectionately referred to as "The Holy City." Be sure to note the iconic landmarks such as Castle Pinckney, Ravenel Bridge, USS Yorktown, and the historically significant Fort Sumter. You are welcome to bring your own selection of beverages and snacks. We provide chilled bottled water, and ice upon request. We also provide plastic champagne flutes and souvenir cups that you can take home as a cherished memento. Our dedicated captain is here to ensure every moment on board is nothing short of extraordinary.

Explore historic Middleton Place on this all-inclusive 5-hour excursion from downtown Charleston, SC. Home to two of America's Founding Fathers and boasting the oldest landscaped gardens in the country, Middleton Place is a must-see for those seeking to be immersed in American history and culture.  This exclusive tour includes round-trip transportation from Charleston aboard a luxury, air-conditioned motorcoach. Enjoy scenic views through the plantation's Gardens; a Narrated 45-min House Museum Tour; and self-guided tours through the Plantation Chapel, Butterfly Lakes, Plantation Stable Yards, Eliza's House, and the Museum Shop & Garden Market. Don't forget the Low Country lunch at Middleton Place Restaurant. Selection includes she crab soup, shrimp & grits, fried chicken, pulled pork, sides or a salad, and dessert. Guarantee your seat on this popular luxury tour to Middleton Place by booking today.

All tours conducted by local tour guide with 30 years experience. On all our tours you will see The Battery, Rainbow Row, The City Market, Iconic places of Worship, Fabulous Architecture, Cobblestone Streets, Lush Gardens, Quaint Alleys, Mansions of the Wealthy, where South Carolina Seceded from the Union and homes of a few celebrities. You also will have a chance to briefly exit the tour bus at The Battery and get a view of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter. Escape the heat, as our tours are conducted on a new sightseeing bus with a super cold air-conditioner. You are assured of receiving that "personal touch" since all tours are conducted by the owner who's family sailed into Charleston Harbor in 1740. Tours last 90 minutes.

Join us out on the water for sunrise, sunset, or somewhere in between in a search for our favorite saltwater mammal – the bottlenose dolphin! On this trip, we will cruise through the local tidal creeks behind Folly Beach to see how many of these amazing creatures we can spot. From a distance, you will get to experience the unique feeding techniques and socializing behaviors that our dolphins display out in the wild. Along the way, your experienced guide and certified captain will teach you all about our salt marsh estuary. You will also get to pass by the historic Morris Island Lighthouse during the trip, a great photo opportunity! This is the perfect trip for families, couples, and friends alike. We are a small, locally owned business who strives to make all of our guests experience unique, personable and unforgettable while visiting Charleston! If you are interested in making this experience private, contact us directly.

Unlock Charleston’s Darkest Secrets on the Death and Depravity Ghost Tour. Not for the faint of heart. This is Charleston like you’ve never seen it—raw, unfiltered, and crawling with the ghosts of its most sinister past. Pull back the veil on the Holy City’s most shameful secrets. From shadowy alleyways once lined with brothels to the bloodstained corners of true crime history, this adults-only experience exposes the city's twisted underbelly. You’ll step into a world of scandal, sin, and the supernatural—where desire turned deadly and justice was often anything but. Prepare to hear stories that chill to the bone: grisly murders, tragic suicides, restless spirits, and whispers that still haunt Charleston’s darkest corners. These are the tales most tours won’t dare to tell—and that Charleston itself would rather forget. Are you brave enough to walk with the dead?

Walk down the most unusual and photographed street of Charleston city. 13 brightly-colored houses are waiting for you. Discover the hidden gems only locals know about. See how historic buildings can turn into a modern piece of art. Get ready to see the city at its finest! This vibrant experience will stay with you forever in the photos. In additional to that photo session can be done: - Boone Hall Plantation; - Cypress Gardens; - Charles Towne Landing; - Isle of Palms; - Shem Creek. Aside from the professional photography, we are always happy to share some tips, so you could enjoy the time spent in this majestic city. This experience would be an ideal match for: Secret proposal session; Family session; Anniversary session; Elopement session; Maternity session; Bachelor session; Engagement session; Session for dating couples. Unfortunately, I don’t do single portrait session.

See what the Upper King Street fuss is all about with this relatively new tour featuring bites from the trendy neighborhood’s most delicious spots. Experience the unique Savor the Flavors food tour in the famous Upper King Street district. Sample mouth-watering dishes of Lowcountry cuisine from the popular culinary innovators in this ever-evolving restaurant district. Come join Charleston’s original food tour company as we enjoy what Charleston’s best Upper King Street restaurants are bringing to the table. Please note this tour is extremely seafood heavy and not recommended for travelers with allergies.

WELCOME TO THE OFFICIAL OBX FILM LOCATIONS TOUR! Fans of the Netflix series Outer Banks are in for a thrill! As a background actor on Season One, Two, Three, Four AND Five! I share tons of behind-the-scenes stories of the cast, crew, and other fun stuff. Tour includes snacks, bottled water, and other surprises. Parents will love this tour because as a licensed tour guide, I share some history while we're traveling from one location to the other. It's such a fun and new way to visit Charleston! 3-hour private tour MINIMUM 2 GUESTS - MAXIMUM 4 GUESTS (Sorry, no solo travelers.) Tour vehicle is fully insured for liability and City Certified. Luxury SUV On occasion, private events can cause a location to be unavailable. Instagram account @obxfilmlocationstour

Experience Charleston and the surrounding area like a local with your own Private Guide Come explore one of the oldest cities in America with its historic homes, French Quarter, and beautiful waterfront. Then let us take you out to discover the charming Old Village in Mt. Pleasant. The tour will pause for a lunch break* in the middle of the day in either Downtown Charleston or Mt. Pleasant (guest's choice) before continuing on. In the afternoon, guests will tour either Boone Hall Plantation or the McLeod Historic Site - two historic and beautiful plantations near Charleston. Let us do the driving and show you the best Charleston has to offer - both inside and outside downtown! *cost of lunch not included in tour price

Sail the Charleston Harbor, see dolphins, amazing sunsets or even participate in real sailing yacht regattas. Fate is not only the most demanded but also the largest and nicest sailing yacht available for Charter in Charleston, known for her beauty under sail, exquisite appointments below deck and the best customer service in the industry. Charters depart from Downtown Charleston just minutes from most hotels. Standard sails are 2 hours, sailing to Ft Sumter or the Ravenel bridge depending on wind conditions. We can narrate and give a full history tour or we can just put on some great music and let you enjoy yourselves and take in the beautiful sights of the Charleston Harbor. Its up to you We provide complimentary bottled water and soft drinks but you're welcome to BYOB or make it easy and have it catered through Caviar Bananas and enjoy charcuterie, wine, champagne, beer or dinner on board during your trip, delivered directly to the boat.

Unlike many tour companies in town that allow up to 20 people in each group, my Charleston tour is guaranteed to have no more than 12. The most unique aspect of my tour is the high level of historical professionalism that I deliver to my guests. Earning a Ph.D. in history meant spending thousands of hours reading and researching primary sources in the South Carolina archives. I use the knowledge that I have obtained from that hard work and pass it off to you on the tour. Because I limit the number of guests to 12 and offer a tour that is 45 minutes longer than most in town, you will receive a degree of exclusivity and historical depth that is far greater than what is offered by the larger tour companies in Charleston.

Discover historic Drayton Hall, the oldest preserved Plantation house in America still open to the public. Founded in 1738, Drayton Hall is the nation’s earliest example of fully executed Palladian architecture. Enjoy a 1-hour interpreter-guided tour of this historic estate and complete your visit with a self-guided tour of the grounds as well as access to two galleries, a conservation lab and an 18th century African-American cemetery. Explore Drayton Hall on this family-friendly excursion from downtown Charleston; guarantee admission to this popular site by booking ahead. Ticket includes admission to all Drayton Hall attractions. Plenty of free parking makes for an easy drive.

No other tour captures the Complete Charleston experience like this one. Snap! takes you where no others go on this 6 hour adventure! Spend the day with me on this small group (limited to 8 people), full day adventure and learn what makes the Charleston Lowcountry so historical, controversial and beautiful, all in the comfort of my 2021 Mercedes Sprinter. I am a city certified tour guide that takes you outside the limits. Stroll down Charlotte Street. Hike to Snap! a picture of the Morris Island Lighthouse. Shag down Folly Beach Pier. Behold the Angel Oak Tree. Contemplate Drayton Hall. Magnolia Plantation and Old St Andrew's Church. Salute Citadel College. Learn of Sullivan's Island notorious past. March around Fort Moultrie. Visit Charleston Lighthouse. See the USS Yorktown. Cruise across Charleston harbor on the Water Taxi. This is an active tour (8000 total steps!) with several walks during the day. We will stop for a quick lunch to-go or bring your own.

Join Charleston Terrors for an adventure where the charming streets of Charleston take on a sinister edge. As you walk the cobblestone paths, you'll uncover eerie tales of hauntings that have lingered for generations, with each step bringing you closer to the spirits that still roam these grounds. Prepare for a mile-long exploration of one of South Carolina’s most haunted cities, where each stop is steeped in ghostly lore and historical significance. Even as we admire private buildings from the outside, the chilling atmosphere will make the supernatural feel strikingly real. As you wander through the historic district, stay alert—this isn’t just a tour; it’s an immersive experience that makes you a part of Charleston’s haunted history. Expect an evening filled with suspense, eerie stories, and moments that will leave you questioning what lies beyond the world of the living.

Not your typical Water Taxi. Best value in Charleston! includes dolphin sightings(frequent but not guaranteed). Most affordable and convenient harbor cruise + transportation to 4 point around the Harbor. $14/All Day Pass!

This 2-hour, walking tour explores Charleston's Historic District by visiting the streets of the French Quarter and the residential area "South of Broad". Hear the stories of Charleston's founding, see historic homes and churches and view the city architecture. Learn the story of this beautiful city—from its first settlers to today.

This is a small group tour which includes a brief driving tour of Charleston's Old and Historic District and one of Charleston's premier plantations. Your guides Mike and Nancy are licensed city guides who's lived in the historic district for more than 30 years. One of them will provide you with interesting historic facts and amusing stories of 300 year old traditions that exist in this wonderful city today. Mike and Nancy are considered to be two of Charleston's premier guides. See why Charleston's leading hotels recommend Mike and Nancy to their guests. Then on to Middleton Place Plantation, the most authentic of all of the public plantations in the area and by far the most historic.

Step into the shadows of Charleston’s past on The Ghosts of Liberty Tour—an unforgettable walking adventure that brings history and hauntings to life! Perfect for families and curious minds of all ages, this tour shines a ghostly light on the brave souls who risked everything for freedom and unity in the Holy City. As twilight falls over Charleston, you’ll uncover chilling tales of Revolutionary heroes and haunted legends, weaving together the city's most iconic ghost stories with hidden supernatural secrets only the locals whisper about. This is not your typical ghost tour—it’s a spine-tingling journey through time, where patriotism meets the paranormal on cobblestone streets and historic graveyards. History has never been this haunting… or this exciting! If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please get in touch with the private & group sales coordinator for additional availability.