Who We Are

I’m Ronnie Ludwin, a licensed Charleston tour guide and passionate storyteller. I grew up in New Jersey, but Charleston has been my home for the past several years. I studied business at Georgia Tech (go Jackets!), spent time teaching English in public schools across Spain, and later worked in the corporate world for two years. But while I was building a career, I kept feeling pulled toward something more personal — more rooted in meaning and storytelling. That pull led me here.

I founded Charleston Jewish Tours with a simple but powerful goal: to share Charleston’s Jewish story — richly, honestly, and unforgettably — within the broader scope of the city’s layered and often complicated past.

After years leading trips around the world — from Alaska to Israel — I created these tours to offer something different: immersive, private experiences that explore Jewish life in Charleston while also engaging with the city’s larger historical narrative.

Charleston’s Jewish story is not only fascinating — it’s foundational. Our tours bring that history to life, from Jewish privateers and Revolutionary patriots to brothel owners, merchants, and community builders. We explore not only the inspiring milestones but also the difficult truths — including the role of Jews in Charleston’s slave economy, their participation in the Civil War, and the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to Jewish communal life.

Each tour is unique, always private, and delivered with warmth, insight, and style to make every moment seamless and memorable.

Our Mission

  • To Share what was: Bring to light the authentic stories, voices, and legacies of Charleston’s Jewish community over the past three centuries

  • To Preserve what matters: Support local synagogues, cemeteries, archives, and institutions through meaningful partnerships and financial contributions.

  • To Inspire what’s next: Spark conversation, connection, and curiosity across generations, helping ensure Charleston’s Jewish community continues to thrive.

We proudly donate a portion of our profits to support Jewish preservation efforts and community life in Charleston through the Charleston Jewish Federation. When you book with us, you’re not just taking a tour — you’re investing in the future of a remarkable story.

We’d love to have you along for the journey.

Why Charleston Jewish Tours?

  • Private, Personalized Experiences – Every tour is exclusive to your group for a more intimate, tailored journey.

  • Comfortable, Door-to-Door Service – Relax with roundtrip pickup and drop-off from your downtown Charleston hotel in a premium SUV — no hassle, just ease.*

  • All entry fees included — So you can relax and focus on the experience, not the logistics.

  • Complimentary Snacks & Water – Thoughtful touches to keep you refreshed and cared for throughout your tour.

  • Charleston’s Hidden Jewish History – Go beyond the guidebooks with powerful stories, overlooked landmarks, and insider insight.

  • Deep Local Connections – Access to historic sites and cultural institutions thanks to trusted relationships within the community.

  • Give Back With Every Tour – We proudly donate a portion of our profits to support Charleston’s local Jewish community through the Charleston Jewish Federation.

    *Guests will meet the guide at the designated starting point for Jewish Footsteps: The Walking Tour. Hotel pickup is not included for this particular experience.

Contact Us

Interested in a tour? Fill out your info and we’ll be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to connect with you!