Charleston Jewish Heritage Historical Walking Tour

Charleston was once home to the largest, most prolific, and most influential Jewish community in the U.S. - even more than New York!
Experience both Sephardic and Ashkenazi roots as we explore historic synagogues and city streets. Your tour begins with a comfortable ride as your certified guide shares the unique role of Jewish life in Charleston’s story. Discover iconic landmarks and hidden sites tied to Jewish heritage - from “Little Jerusalem” to two of America’s oldest synagogues: one, the oldest in continuous use and birthplace of Reform Judaism; the other, the oldest Orthodox Ashkenazi synagogue still active in the U.S. See the first Jewish-owned pharmacy and a brothel once owned by a Jewish woman, among other notable Jewish homes and civic centers. Along the way, we honor African Americans’ vital contributions and address Jewish involvement in the slave economy and Civil War. Each tour is private, unhurried, carefully curated, with refreshments and engaging narration.

Meeting Point

Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim

90 Hasell St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

Go to the front gate on Hasell Street and the guide will meet you there.

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours

Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim

90 Hasell St, , Charleston, 29401-1418, South Carolina

Learn about the Sephardic roots of Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the U.S. and birthplace of American Reform Judaism.

Pass by without stopping

Fulton Street

Fulton St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

Hear the story behind Grace Peixotto, daughter of a religious leader, and the brothel she owned and operated here.

Pass by without stopping

Broad Street

Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

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.

Pass by without stopping

Brith Shalom Beth Israel Synagogue

182 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, 29403-5820, South Carolina

Learn about BSBI, the oldest Ashkenazi Orthodox synagogue in continuous use in the U.S.

Pass by without stopping

Little Jerusalem

595 King St Ste 1, Charleston, SC 29403, USA

Explore "Little Jerusalem," a bustling Ashkenazi Jewish quarter from the 1800s.

Pass by without stopping

Charleston Holocaust Memorial

Calhoun Street, Marion Square, Charleston, 29401, South Carolina

See Charleston's Holocaust Memorial and the powerful symbolism in its unique structure.

Pass by without stopping