Jewish Footsteps: The Walking Tour
At-A-Glance
Duration - 2 hours
Price - $250 for 1 or 2 people (+$50 for each additional guest, up to 10 total)
Schedule - 9 AM (year-round) and 3 PM (fall, winter, spring) every day
Included in your visit:
Local insights into Charleston’s layered history — with a spotlight on Jewish life, legacy, and landmarks woven throughout the tour.
Walking tour of downtown Charleston with a focus on historic Jewish sites — from homes to civic halls to hidden alleyways
Bonus stop at Rainbow Row — a guest favorite by popular request
With every tour, you help us give back — a portion of our profits supports Charleston’s local Jewish community
Important Note: This tour does not pass by or go inside the historic synagogue. If visiting the synagogue is important to you, we’d love to recommend one of our Signature Tours instead!
Tour Overview
We will set off on foot to explore a fascinating stretch of Charleston’s historic core. This walking tour highlights both well-known landmarks and lesser-known places tied to Jewish life — from homes once owned by Jewish merchants, including a steamship magnate from the 1800s and a successful clothier in the 1900s, to the site of America’s first Jewish-owned pharmacy. You’ll also see the Hebrew Orphan Society building — the oldest Jewish charitable organization in the country. And if time permits, we may even go past the colorful facades of Rainbow Row.
As we walk, we’ll also reflect on the vital role of African Americans in Charleston’s Jewish story, and explore the complex legacy of Jewish involvement in both the city’s slave economy and the Civil War.
This is more than a history tour — it’s a meaningful exploration of Jewish identity, community, and continuity in Charleston, led with insight, care, and a storyteller’s heart.
As with all of our tours, the experience is private, thoughtfully curated, and includes engaging commentary every step of the way.
Tour Note:
Charleston’s historic sidewalks can be uneven and sometimes challenging to navigate. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. We also suggest guests bring adequate water, especially during the hot summer months. Tours operate rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. In cases of severe or unsafe weather, we will contact you to reschedule or issue a refund.
Cancellation Policy:
We understand plans change. Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour are fully refundable. Within 24 hours, tours are nonrefundable.
Looking to enhance your experience? Consider adding a visit to the Jewish Heritage Collection at the College of Charleston—home to original documents, photographs, and oral histories that bring Charleston’s Jewish history to life.
