Streets and Eats Charleston Walking and Tasting Tour

Charleston , United States

Streets and Eats Charleston Walking and Tasting Tour

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

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About this experience

Experience Charleston’s charm through its flavors and history on this 2.5-hour small-group walking and tasting tour. Explore the city’s most iconic streets and neighborhoods—including the French Quarter, South of Broad, and the colorful Rainbow Row—areas often missed by traditional food tours.

Led by a City of Charleston-certified guide, this tour blends culinary delights with cultural insights. Enjoy three tastings from local favorites: two quick grab-and-go bites and one relaxed, sit-down experience where you can savor Lowcountry cuisine and learn about its rich heritage. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the sit-down stop.

Along the way, immerse yourself in Charleston’s architecture, stories, and vibrant street life. Your journey concludes at the Charleston City Market, leaving you perfectly positioned to continue exploring the Holy City at your own pace.

Available options

Streets and Eats Charleston Walking and Tasting Tour

What's included

Photo-worthy stops along iconic Charleston streets

City of Charleston-certified guide

Water, fountain soft drinks, and iced tea included at the sit-down tasting

Guided small-group walking tour through the French Quarter and South of Broad

Local stories, history, and neighborhood insights along the route

Three food tastings (two grab-and-go tastings and one sit-down tasting)

Detailed itinerary

Your Streets and Eats experience begins in the lobby of the Loutrel Hotel, where you'll meet your City of Charleston-certified guide and get oriented for the tour. You'll Enjoy your first grab-and-go tasting, offering a flavorful introduction Lowcountry cuisine. With your first tasting in hand, you'll head out on foot into the French Quarter, one of Charleston's oldest and most storied neighborhoods. As you walk your guide will share local history neighborhood stories and contacts behind Charleston's food culture setting the stage for the tastings and sights to come.

Stop 2

After enjoying your first tasting on the move, you'll slow the pace at a relaxed sit-down stop. Here you'll enjoy a tasting inspired by classic Lowcountry cuisine, while learning about the history ingredients and culture cultural influences that shaped Charleston's food traditions. Water, fountain sodas, and iced tea are included at this stop. Guests may choose to purchase a libation separately if desired. This part of the tour will take you through the South of Broad neighborhood where you will spend time at the iconic Rainbow Row for photos and insight into one of the city's most beloved landmarks

Stop 3

The tour concludes with a locally made sweet treat from a family-owned dessert bar. As you enjoy this final grab-and-go tasting, your guide will share the story behind the family and the significance of the treat. The experience wraps up at the Charleston City Market, where your guide will offer an overview of the market's history before concluding the tour. This central location provides a convenient and natural ending point for continuing to enjoy the city at your own pace.

What's not included

Alcoholic beverages not included (Libations are available for purchase at the sit-down tasting)

Gratuity for the guide (optional and appreciated)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

ALLERGIES/DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: Allergies and dietary restrictions must be communicated during booking; same-day accommodations cannot be guaranteed

MOBILITY CONCERNS: This experience includes light, leisurely walking between nearby restaurants. Guests with mobility concerns are welcome, but must communicate any needs or limitations during booking so accommodations can be considered

PARKING: Downtown Charleston has paid parking only; guests should plan to arrive via rideshare, taxi or paid parking nearby

WHERE TO PARK: Please plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before tour time to allow extra time for parking, nearby parking garages include Concord Parking Garage (1 Cumberland St) and Charleston County Parking Garage (90 Cumberland St)

EXTREME WEATHER POLICY: Tours will operate rain or shine, (with the exception of extreme weather). Ponchos will be provided in the event of light rain. For the safety of guests and guide, tours will NOT operate during extreme weather conditions, including, but not limited to: Temperatures above 97degrees, heat index above 110 degrees, below freezing and icy conditions, tropical storms or hurricanes. In cases of extreme weather, cancellation decisions are made at the discretion of the guide to ensure the safety of both guest and guide. In the event of unsafe weather, guest will be contacted to reschedule or receive a refund

CHILDREN must have a paid ticket to receive food and a seat at the sit-down location

SERVICE ANIMALS: Only ADA certified service animals are permitted; therapy or emotional support animals are not allowed in restaurants per DHEC regulations

Meeting point

All tours begin in the lobby of The Loutrel Hotel, 61 State St., unless otherwise specified by your guide.

Important notes

Please take note of the things you need to bring:
>Comfortable walking shoes
>Weather-appropriate gear- hat, umbrella, sunscreen, etc. (tours run rain or shine; ponchos will be provided if needed)
>Refillable water bottle if desired (A small bottled water is provided at the start of the tour, and water is available at the sit-down stop)
>Valid ID if you plan to purchase alcohol at the sit-down stop

ALLERGIES/DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: Allergies and dietary restrictions must be communicated during booking; same-day accommodations cannot be guaranteed

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience