Viator Rating : 5 (2321 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.7/10 (Verified Excellent)
Charleston
Charleston's Hidden Alleyways: Small Group Walking Tour
120
Overview
Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour in Charleston. This two-hour walking tour takes folks on a special trip through Charleston's neat alleyways and historic spots. It's a small group, so everyone gets a good look! Charleston's alleyways are in the historic part of town, where you can see famous places and still find some secrets. This tour is great for folks who like to walk and learn cool stuff about history.
Get ready to see amazing places like the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Rainbow Row, and Heyward-Washington House. Walk down Philadelphia Alley and visit St. Philip's Church and Charleston Waterfront Park. You'll learn about Charleston's past and how it became what it is today. A friendly local guide will show you around the streets of the historic district. The tour includes places like Rainbow Row. This tour is just for a small group, so it feels more personal. It explores the history and beauty of Charleston's hidden alleyways.
This tour includes a professional guide who knows a lot about Charleston. It does not include tips for the guide, so bring some cash to tip the guide. With so many positive reviews, this tour is sure to give you a great time. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - 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 (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Explore Hidden Alleys: Discover Charleston's secret and charming alleyways.
See Historic Sites: Visit famous spots like Rainbow Row and learn their stories.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personal tour with a smaller group of people.
Learn Charleston's History: Hear about the events that made Charleston what it is today.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning interesting historical facts from the knowledgeable guides.
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Many enjoyed exploring the hidden alleyways and seeing unique parts of Charleston.
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The small group size allowed for a more personal and engaging experience.
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Visitors appreciated the opportunity to discover local history beyond the main tourist attractions.
A few customers felt the tour could have included more sites or lasted longer.
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Some visitors wished for more time at specific locations to take photos.
The Journey
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Delve into the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, a pivotal site in Charleston's history. Originally a customs house, it became a British military prison during the Revolutionary War, holding notable figures. Explore the dungeon's eerie chambers, where prisoners endured harsh conditions, and learn about the building's role in pivotal moments, from ratifying the U.S. Constitution to its alleged use as a slave market. A visit here provides a chilling glimpse into Charleston's complex past.
Rainbow Row
Stroll along Rainbow Row, Charleston's iconic street of thirteen colorful historic houses. These picturesque homes, dating back to the 18th century, were once dilapidated but were revitalized in the 1930s and 40s with vibrant paint. Discover the charming stories behind each hue and capture stunning photographs of this postcard-perfect landmark. Rainbow Row is more than just a pretty sight; it's a symbol of Charleston's enduring spirit and architectural beauty.
Heyward-Washington House
Step back in time at the Heyward-Washington House, a meticulously preserved example of Georgian architecture and a National Historic Landmark. Explore the former home of Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and later, a temporary residence of President George Washington during his 1791 Southern Tour. Wander through the elegant rooms, furnished with period antiques, and gain insights into the lives of Charleston's elite in the 18th century. Its rich history and authentic furnishings make it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Philadelphia Alley
Discover the hidden charm of Philadelphia Alley, a narrow, cobblestone lane steeped in history and local lore. Originally known as 'Cow Alley,' it gained its current name after the Revolutionary War in gratitude to Philadelphia's support. According to local legends, this alley was a popular spot for duels and clandestine meetings. Explore this atmospheric passage, imagining the echoes of the past and the secrets it holds within its weathered walls.
St. Philip's Church
Admire the architectural grandeur and historical significance of St. Philip's Church, Charleston's oldest religious congregation. This iconic church, with its towering steeple, has been a fixture of the city's skyline since its founding in 1680. Explore the serene interior and the churchyard, where notable figures such as John C. Calhoun are buried. A visit to St. Philip's offers a profound connection to Charleston's spiritual and cultural heritage.
Charleston Waterfront Park
Relax and soak in the breathtaking views at Charleston Waterfront Park, a beautifully landscaped oasis along the Cooper River. Stroll along the pier, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, and admire the iconic Pineapple Fountain. This park offers stunning vistas of the harbor, including Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney. It's the perfect place to unwind, take memorable photos, and appreciate the beauty of Charleston's waterfront.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a professional and licensed local guide who will share the history and stories of Charleston. Participants will stroll through the historic district, explore hidden alleyways, and see popular spots like Rainbow Row. The tour is designed for a small group, offering a more personalized experience. Gratuities for the guide are not included.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour! Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Also, keep some cash handy to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour to be an engaging and informative way to explore Charleston’s lesser-known alleyways and historic sites, with guides praised for their storytelling and local knowledge. Many appreciate the small group size and the opportunity to see hidden gems like Rainbow Row and St. Philip's Church. The main drawbacks mentioned are the lack of access inside some attractions and the uneven, sometimes challenging walking surfaces in the historic district.
Frequently Asked Questions
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