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Private tour in Charleston Al R

Charleston Gardens and Architecture Walking Tour

4.8

(6) reviews

-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Al R.

4.9

Guide rating

56

Reviews

Tours delivered

16 hrs

Avg. response time

Welcome to Charleston! Charleston is a city of ancient memory and traditions. As a small child I devoured the tales of my ancestors related to me by my elders. I have always felt that this is not my first life in the City by the Sea. I have been a Certified Charleston Tour Guide since 1981, starting out as a stable hand and then a carriage driver. Later I moved on to bus tours. Today I do walking tours and private passenger driving tours of my lovely old home town My talent lies in creating a story line that is both entertaining and educational. Having spent numerous years in Health Care outreach, I attended many seminars that taught me strategies that convey information in a manner that is compelling , interesting and relatable. After all , you dont come for a college lecture, you come for the fun! I am a student of history, not just Charleston history, but national and international history as well. Charleston history did not happen in a bubble; I expose it in relation to the events that created it. My goal is that when we part ways, that you will have a better context on the city and that you will share my love of Charleston, SC , "America's Most Historic City"! Licensed Charleston Tour Guide 1981 - current Vice President , Charleston Tour Association 2009 -2011 President, Charleston Tour Association 2011-2015 No restrictions

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Al R.

Overview of your Charleston tour

I invite you to join me as we explore Charleston history within the context of the built environment, exploring not only what you are viewing but why they built it that way! Stroll the city and learn of the social, political, economic and environmental motivations that have resulted in a rich architectural legacy that is unique and absolutely Charleston! Along the way we can tour historic homes and gardens, public buildings, and graveyards as we discuss architectural styles and periods spanning 300 years. When possible I recommend this as a weekday tour in the morning as it allows access to buildings that may not be open on weekends. If you would like to enter historic house museums we can discuss that and they can be included in our time together. This is my very favorite tour and I forward to showing you beautiful Charleston!

Recent Reviews

Albert V.United States
March 2023

We booked an architecture tour, and thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon walking through much of colonial Charleston. Al Ray met us at our hotel, patiently answered our questions, and yet kept the walking tour moving along. We discussed not just the architecture, but also the historic local ordinances and immigration trends that contributed to design decisions for both homes and common areas that we still see in Charleston today. I would gladly book another tour with Al on our next visit.

Tricia B.United States
December 2022

We enjoyed our architectural walking tour with Al. We all learned something, even the architects among us. Thank you!!

Sue C.United States
December 2022

Al R. was a 5 out of 5 stars for both tours we took with him - Thursday, 3/17, Historical Walking tour with a group, and Friday, 3/18, a private walking tour of Architecture and Gardens. His love and knowledge of Charleston is unsurpassed, his delivery is engaging, and his overall manner one of 'come and enjoy this subject with me.'

James S.United States
October 2021

Awesome tour. Great guide. Knowledgeable, funny and a great ambassador for Charleston.

Stephen L.United States
April 2021

My tour of Charleston architecture and gardens yesterday by Al was the best guided tour I've ever had. He has in-depth knowledge of both history, personalities, and technical details of interest to either the amateur or the expert. Even though I am an ex-historian and architect, he was always constantly deepening my knowledge. He was also entertaining and funny. No matter your level of interest or background, he is fabulous!

Your Charleston tour itinerary

We spend three hours touring Charleston: - grand boulevards and back alleys discussing some of the best pre- Revolutionary, Antebellum, and Victorian Architecture in the nation - Touring Charleston gardens and graveyards where we discuss gravestone symbolism and garden elements and design. Depending on availability, we might also enter public buildings and churches including: - St Phillips Church - The Huguenot Church - St Michael's Church - The Dock Street Theater Options at additional cost can include: - The Powder Magazine (1713) - The Edmondston-Alston House (1828) - The Heyward-Washington House (1772) * where you will receive a docent-led tour where we will discuss decorative arts, furniture, and some incredible history! Please wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen in the summer and appropriate clothes for the weather.

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Transport details
Type: Walking

This is a walking tour.

What's included
Other
Private Guide
Tickets
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

196 Concord Street, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401, United States

Airport: ,Cruise: , By Guide: I suggest beginning this tour in the lobby at the Mi9lls House Hotel at 115 Meeting Street.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Architecture
Tour reference number
550319
Languages
English
Activity level
Minimal

Traveller reviews

4.8

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Charleston best suited for?

This private tour in Charleston is perfect for travellers who are interested in history, architecture, and gardens. It's ideal for those who want to explore the rich architectural legacy of Charleston and learn about the social, political, economic, and environmental motivations behind its unique built environment. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy beautiful gardens and historic buildings, this tour offers a deep dive into Charleston's past.

What should I bring or wear?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

Is this private tour in Charleston suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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