Charleston Historical Churches and Graveyards Tour

Step into Charleston’s past as you explore its rich historical tapestry through a walking tour of its most iconic churches and graveyards. This tour will captivate and engage history enthusiasts and architectural aficionados alike, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of this historic city.
In addition to the historic churches of the Holy City, we'll discover stories of Charleston rich colonial past - from pirate lore to understanding slavery in this southern city.

We will enter many churches and graveyards on this tour to honor the past and marvel at the architecture. While the buildings are open to the public, all entrances are subject to availability as these are working churches in use by their congregations.

Meeting Point

St. Philip's Church

142 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

The tour departs from outside St. Phillips Church Parking Lot at the corner of Church and Cumberland Streets. Meet your guide outside the gates to the parking lot on Church Street.

What's included:

• Professional, Licensed Tour Guide
• Entrance into 3-5 Churches & Graveyards (subject to availability as these are active churches)

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours

St. Philip's Church

142 Church St, , Charleston, 29401-2898, South Carolina

Perched elegantly on Church Street, St. Philip’s Church stands as one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1836, its stunning steeple is visible for miles. Inside, admire the grand interior and its treasured organ while pondering the notable figures interred in its graveyard.

5 minutes

French Huguenot Church

136 Church St, At the corner of Church and Queen sts., Charleston, 29401-2802, South Carolina

Experience Charleston's connection to French history at the Gothic Revival-style French Huguenot Church. Built in 1845, it’s the only remaining independent Huguenot church in America, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the French Protestant presence in the city.

5 minutes

Circular Congregational Church

150 Meeting St, Charleston, 29401-2218, South Carolina

With a unique architectural design that boasts a circular sanctuary, the Circular Congregational Church is one of the oldest congregations in the South. Founded in 1681, it features a graveyard with the oldest surviving Christian burials in Charleston, dating back to the late 17th century.

5 minutes

St. Michael's Church

71 Broad St, Charleston, 29401-2902, South Carolina

Marvel at the grandeur of St. Michael’s Church, known for its towering spire and magnificent Tiffany stained-glass windows. This 1752 structure is the oldest surviving religious structure in Charleston and was once frequented by historical figures like George Washington and Robert E. Lee.

5 minutes

First (Scots) Presbyterian Church

53 Meeting St, , Charleston, 29401-2536, South Carolina

Dive into the architectural beauty of the First Scots Presbyterian Church. Established in 1731, this historic church showcases beautiful wooden arches and an impressive stained-glass depiction of St. Andrew.

5 minutes

Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

120 Broad St, , Charleston, 29401-2437, South Carolina

Discover the striking Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. With its spires reaching skyward, this cathedral, built in 1907, features intricate masonry and elaborate stained-glass windows.

5 minutes

St John’s Lutheran Church

5 Clifford St, Charleston, 29401-1987, South Carolina

Built in 1817, St. John’s Lutheran Church is a historic gem boasting delicate stained-glass windows and a splendid balcony. Its graveyard houses the final resting place of several historic Charleston families, offering a quiet place for reflection.

5 minutes

Unitarian Church in Charleston

8 Archdale St, , Charleston, 29401-1959, South Carolina

Unitarian Church, renowned for its peaceful garden cemetery. Established in 1772, the Gothic-style architecture and tranquil grounds invite contemplation and admiration of its history.

5 minutes