Viator Rating : 5 (1264 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 9.1/10 (Verified Excellent)
Charleston
Charleston History Tour: Walk with a Citadel Professor!
180
Overview
Charleston historical walking tour with a Professor of History at The Citadel takes guests on an engaging journey through Charleston's rich past. This walking tour offers a unique experience, exploring the city's historical and cultural landmarks with a Ph.D.-holding history expert.
Guests can expect to visit iconic sites like the Mills House Hotel, Dock Street Theatre, and the Oldest Building in Charleston, dating back to circa 1712. The tour also includes Charleston's Historic Square, Charleston City Hall, the Old South Carolina Statehouse Site, and Charleston's Oldest Church Edifice. Visitors will also see the Site of George Washington's Stay (1791), the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, French Huguenot Church, and the charming French Quarter. Other notable stops include the Building Where Seeds of Disunion Were Sown and a view of Fort Sumter from The Battery.
This tour stands out by ensuring a small group size of no more than 12 people, offering a more intimate and in-depth exploration. Unlike larger tour companies, this experience provides a higher degree of exclusivity and historical insight. Please note that while the tour enhances the experience with expert knowledge, it does not include bottled water or private transportation. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (9 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (10 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (10 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Expert Historian Guide: Learn Charleston history from a Citadel professor with a Ph.D.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personal tour with a maximum of 12 guests.
Iconic Charleston Sites: Visit historical landmarks like the Mills House and French Quarter.
In-Depth Historical Knowledge: Gain deeper insights into Charleston's rich past.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about history from a real professor.
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Many enjoyed the small group size that made the tour more personal.
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People appreciated the depth of historical knowledge.
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Guests highlighted the longer tour duration for a more thorough experience.
Some wished bottled water was included.
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A few found the pace a bit fast.
The Journey
Mills House Hotel
Step back in time at the Mills House Hotel, a pink landmark that played a significant role during the early days of the American Civil War. Admire its iconic facade, a symbol of Charleston's enduring elegance, and imagine the historical figures who once graced its halls. Experience the charm of a bygone era in this beautifully preserved hotel.
Dock Street Theatre
Discover the Dock Street Theatre, one of the first theaters built in North America. Unearth tales of its colorful past and the infamous characters who shaped its legacy. Experience the thrill of a performance in this historic venue, where art and history converge.
Oldest Building in Charleston (Circa 1712)
Marvel at one of Charleston's oldest surviving structures, dating back to around 1712. This building stands as a testament to the city's enduring heritage. Explore its architecture and imagine the lives of those who inhabited it centuries ago, gaining a glimpse into Charleston's colonial past.
Charleston's Historic Square
Wander through a historic square adorned with monuments that tell the story of Charleston's past. Reflect on the figures and events commemorated in these tributes, and soak in the atmosphere of a city steeped in history and culture. Discover the hidden stories behind each monument and appreciate the square's significance as a gathering place for generations.
Charleston City Hall
Explore Charleston City Hall, a building with a fascinating evolution. Once a bustling meat market and then a bank, this beautiful structure now serves as the seat of city government. Discover the architectural details that reflect its diverse history and appreciate its role in shaping Charleston's civic life.
Old South Carolina Statehouse Site
Visit the site of the former South Carolina Statehouse and delve into its history. Learn about the important decisions and events that unfolded within its walls, shaping the state's political landscape. Understand the building's legacy and its impact on the region's development.
Charleston's Oldest Church Edifice
Experience the spiritual grandeur of Charleston's oldest church edifice, completed in 1761. Admire its stunning architecture, reflecting centuries of faith and community. Step inside to discover its rich history and the stories of those who have worshipped within its walls for generations.
Site of George Washington's Stay (1791)
Stand where George Washington once rested during his visit to Charleston in 1791. Imagine the excitement and anticipation that surrounded his presence. Reflect on the significance of this historical moment and its connection to the founding of the nation.
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Explore the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, the last public building constructed by the British in North America. Discover the site where the Constitution was ratified in 1788, a pivotal moment in American history. Experience the stories of revolution, imprisonment, and the birth of a nation within these historic walls.
French Huguenot Church
Discover the history of the French Huguenots in Charleston and the elegant French Huguenot Church, built in the Gothic Revival style. Admire its architectural beauty and learn about the stories of religious freedom and cultural heritage that define this community. Experience the unique blend of French and American influences in this historic landmark.
French Quarter
Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Charleston's French Quarter. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the historic architecture, and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood. Discover hidden courtyards, art galleries, and boutiques that reflect the area's unique character and cultural heritage.
Building Where Seeds of Disunion Were Sown
Uncover the history of the building where the seeds of disunion were sown and the connection to Greek Revival architecture. Understand the events that led to the American Civil War and appreciate the architectural style that reflects the era's ideals. Reflect on the complexities of history and its enduring impact on the present.
Fort Sumter View from The Battery
Stand on The Battery and witness the location where the first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter. Although the tour does not visit the fort, observe it from a distance and reflect on the significance of this pivotal moment in American history. Appreciate the strategic importance of the harbor and the events that unfolded here, shaping the nation's destiny.
Know Before You Go
This historical walking tour includes an expert guide. It does not include bottled water or private transportation. The meeting point is in downtown Charleston. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, try to grab a bite to eat in the French Quarter after the tour to soak in the atmosphere.
Review Summary
People usually say the Charleston historical walking tour with Professor Eric Lager is exceptionally informative and engaging, praising his deep historical knowledge and the small group size for a more personal experience. Many highlight the tour’s depth and the professor’s ability to bring Charleston’s history to life, though some note it may not be suitable for young children or those with limited mobility due to the amount of walking and standing involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
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