“If cobblestones could gossip, Charleston would never sleep.”
Charleston feels like an open diary where every street corner holds a secret. Founded in 1670 and shaped by revolution, trade, artistry, and conflict, the city grew into one of the most influential ports in early America. Those pastel facades and quiet lanes may look peaceful today, but they witnessed debates that stirred a nation and events that helped ignite the Civil War. Walk long enough and Charleston starts revealing its layers, from colonial ambition to Gilded Age wealth to the resilience that rebuilt the city after fire, war, and upheaval.
A self guided Charleston walking tour turns this elegant city into a storyteller. As you follow the route through the historic district, narration fills in the truth behind the beauty. Hear about the city’s founding and its early settlers, the patriots who rallied neighbors during the Revolution, and the political turmoil that played out at Hibernian Hall. Learn how Charleston became both a cultural capital and a flashpoint for national conflict.
Instead of marching stop to stop, the tour weaves Charleston’s landmarks into one fluid journey. The Circular Congregational Church introduces you to a patriot who helped change the course of the Revolution. The Four Corners of Law show how city, county, federal, and church power intersect at one famous crossroads. White Point Garden offers sweeping waterfront views along with the story of why South Carolina chose secession. Historic homes like the Palmer Home and the Edmondston Alston House frame dramatic tales of wartime decisions and quiet endurance. Longitude Lane whispers the charm of old Charleston, while Rainbow Row brings irresistible color and centuries of architectural history.
At the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, you step into a site where the British once held American prisoners. Other stops acknowledge the painful chapters of Charleston’s past, including the locations where enslaved people were once bought and sold and where a thwarted rebellion signaled rising resistance years before the Civil War.
Your walk ends at the Charleston Historic City Market, a lively reminder that the city still thrives on conversation, craftsmanship, and community.
Possible side effects include a sudden interest in pastel paint, strong opinions about porch architecture, and the urge to adopt phrases like bless your heart into daily conversation.
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Nearby Tours
Driving
38 Stories
2 - 3 Hrs
Driving
Each Tour 35+ Stories
Each Tour 2-3 Hrs
Walking
33 Stories
2 - 3 Hrs
Walking
50 Stories
1 - 2 Hrs
Driving
100+ Stories
2-3 Hrs
Charleston Walking Tour Map
Where To Start?
Starting Point: 152 Market St, Charleston, SC
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Charleston Audio Tour
Things to do on the Tour Include:
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Welcome
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King Street
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Native Nations
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The Cherokee War
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Marion Square
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Charleston’s Tea Parties
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Siege of Charleston
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Reclaiming Charleston
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Liberty Square
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Grimke Sisters' Home
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Cotton & Slavery
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Historic Charleston City Market
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Sweetgrass Basket Weaving
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William Lloyd Garrison
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William Lloyd Garrison
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Old Charleston Jail
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Nathaniel Russell House
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Washington Square Park
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Edmondston-Alston House
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Aiken-Rhett House Museum
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The Charleston Museum
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Joseph Manigault House
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South Carolina Aquarium
Preview The Tour
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or Wi-Fi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, get travel tips, hear narrated guides, and see hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
