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Charleston's African American History and Heritage

History Tours

Tour Details

Price

Adults: $37
Children: $27
3 and under free

Schedule

Please Call to Book

Duration

2h

Meeting Location

Liberty Square
340 Concord Street
Charleston, SC 29401
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Ending Location

Tour ends at Philip Simmons Prayer Garden, 91 Anson Street

Max Group Size:

20

Kid-Friendly?

Yes

Activity Level

Moderate

Wheelchair Accessible

Yes

What’s Included?

  • Professional Guide
  • Historic walking tour exploring Charleston’s past through slavery, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights Movement, visiting locations including the Mother Emanuel AME Church and the Philip Simmons Prayer Garden.

What’s Not Included

  • Gratuities
  • Water

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes

Cancellation Policy

  • Free cancellation up to 24h in advance
  • Tours run rain or shine

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Tickets

  • Instant confirmation
  • Email & mobile tickets accepted

Tour Overview

It's been said that no other culture has contributed more to the heritage and history of the Lowcountry than that of West Africa. Join us to explore the influence and experience of African Americans in Charleston from the brutality of slavery, through the struggle and oppression of Jim Crow, to the fight for civil rights.

Passionate Experts

On our history tours, you’ll meet our most veteran and experienced tour guides. Professionally licensed and endlessly knowledgeable about our city, there’s a reason they have accumulated more than ten thousand 5-star reviews!

History Brought To Life

We skip the dry historical soundbites and focus instead on the engaging stories, interesting people and critical moments that help you appreciate and understand modern-day Charleston.

Get Oriented

Our knowledgeable, local staff will help you navigate the city, answer your questions and offer personalized recommendations for after your tour - giving you the best possible start to your visit.

A Way to Give Back

A portion of your ticket purchase is donated to the properties we tour, which means you’re helping preserve Charleston’s most historically significant landmarks, structures and sites for future generations. Specifically, a portion of proceeds from this tour are donated to the International African American Museum.

Book With Confidence

The Lowest Price. Period.

Book directly on BulldogTours.com or call our office to get the best price on our tours. Find it cheaper? We'll refund the difference!

Free Cancellations

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a FULL refund. We know that plans can change, that’s why we offer one of the most generous cancellation policies in the industry.

Great Tour Guarantee

If you don't have a great tour, let us know and we promise to make it right with a full refund or voucher for a future visit.

What Our Guests are Saying

This tour was meaningful and very informative. Our guide was very knowledgeable and had so many stories to share about enslaved Africans and their contributions.

Mark - Google Reviews

We’ve taken several Bulldog Tours over the years, and their guides always impress me. Worth the time and money for sure.

James - Google Reviews
Facebook: 4.8 out of 1,462+ Reviews
Google: 4.5 out of 8,395+ Reviews
Travelers' Choice 2013 - 2021
Tripadvisor: 4.5 out of 8,060+ Reviews

A Brand You Can Trust

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  • Over 1.5 Million Guests Since 2001
  • 10,000+ 5-Star Reviews
  • $4.9 Million Donated to Charleston's Historic Sites

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Frequently Asked Questions


  • What do the Tour Activity Levels mean?

    • EASY – Walking tours are designed for a leisurely pace but may include uneven sidewalks, some stairs and a combination of walking and standing for up to two hours.
    • MODERATE – Tours will include a more active pace at times including stairs and uneven terrain. Expect to be on your feet for the duration of the tour covering a minimum of a mile and half of the area.
    • ACTIVE – A high physical activity level is required to walk and climb narrow stairs. This tour is not recommended for guests who require canes or walkers.

  • Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

    Advanced purchase is strongly recommended, as tours often sell out well in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance.

  • What if it rains?

    We present tours rain or shine, unless the conditions are dangerous. Charleston is famous for its summer afternoon passing showers.

  • Is the tour wheelchair- and/or stroller-accessible?

    Our downtown tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible, but it is advised that all guests take caution navigating the uneven terrain of Charleston.

  • How many stops?

    Guests will make several stops throughout their trip to hear stories, legends and facts about respective sites. Each tour guide’s route is unique, and will feature a number of stops depending on factors such as their route, the weather, and even your questions!

  • How much walking is involved?

    Our tours cover approximately one and a half miles of walking and we move at a relaxed and leisurely pace.

  • What if I am hard of hearing?

    Our professional guides are skilled public speakers and work hard to make sure everyone can hear during the tour. If you are hard of hearing, please let your guide know and we’ll ensure you get a front-row seat.

  • Is parking available?

    Suggested parking is at the Charleston Visitor Center, 375 Meeting Street.

  • What if I need to cancel or change my booking?

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a FULL refund. If you need to change or modify your tickets, simply call us at 843-722-TOUR (8687). We offer trip protection which ensures a refund within the 24 hours prior to the tour if you need to cancel.

  • What if I am unhappy with the tour?

    Our #1 priority at Bulldog Tours is giving great tours. If you don't have a great experience, let us know and we promise to make it right with a full refund or voucher for a future visit.

  • Are bathrooms available during the tour?

    Yes, we have a free restroom at our office for your convenience and most tours have regular opportunities to use the restroom throughout the tour.

  • Are tours offered only in English?

    Yes, we only offer tours in English at this time. Please email or call us if you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour.

  • Should I tip my Bulldog tour guide?

    If you feel your tour guide has provided a great experience, gratuities are encouraged— and welcomed—at the end of your tour. We believe that recognizing excellent service is a personal matter, though 15-20% of your booking fee is a good rule of thumb. Gratuities for your guide are always appreciated, but never expected.

  • What if I still have questions?

    We’re here to help! Simply call us at 843-722-TOUR (8687) if you have any additional questions or concerns.

PRIVATE GROUP TOURS

We’re happy to arrange private tours or build custom group tours for schools, corporate teams, non-profits, family reunions, and more. Simply contact us or call 843-722-8687 to book.

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Sustaining Charleston's Historic Places

A portion of your ticket purchase is invested back into the properties we tour, ensuring that Charleston’s most historically significant landmarks, structures, sites, and stories endure. As of today, Bulldog Tours has raised $5,419,287 for the preservation of our historic site affiliates in Charleston. Thank you for your generous support.

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