Jewish History Private Walking Tour of Charleston

5.0 (8 reviews) Charleston, USA
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Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Charleston History. Jewish Soul.

Charleston was home to the largest Jewish community in the U.S. until the 1820s — even surpassing New York.

Experience iconic landmarks and hidden gems on a private tour that weaves Jewish heritage into the broader story of Charleston.

We will explore a fascinating stretch of Charleston’s historic core, visiting homes once owned by Jewish merchants, including a steamship magnate and a successful clothier, as well as the site of America’s first Jewish-owned pharmacy. You’ll also see the Hebrew Orphan Society building and stroll past the colorful facades of Rainbow Row.

As we walk, we’ll reflect on the vital role of African Americans in Charleston’s Jewish story and 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.

What's included

  • Government Fees

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    See the Farmers & Exchange Bank Building, Charleston best example of Moorish Revival architecture, built by prominent Sephardic Jewish Charlestonian David Lopez
  2. Pass by
    Learn about Dock Street Theater, once owned by Milton Pearlstine, and pass by the Sasportas Tenements, once owned by prominent French-Jewish privateer and Revolutionary War soldier Abraham Sasportas
  3. Pass by
    Hear the story of Francis Salvador, the first Jewish person to die in the American Revolution (also known as the "Paul Revere of the South")
  4. Pass by
    See Dr. Jacob de la Motta's former pharmacy, which became the first Jewish-owned pharmacy in the U.S, as well as the Hebrew Orphan Society, the oldest incorporated Jewish charity in the U.S.
  5. Pass by
    Hear the stories of business magnate and Confederate Moses Cohen Mordecai, as well as pass the home of Isaac Harby, one of the leaders of the American Reform Judaism movement

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet your guide at the benches under the trees on the North side of the building (left side if you are facing it from the street).

End point

Please meet your guide at the benches under the trees on the North side of the building (left side if you are facing it from the street).

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (8)
From
$445.00 per group
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Charleston Jewish Tours · Booked through Viator
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