Charleston Sole Walking Tours

04/15/2025

🇲🇽 Brian is exploring central Mexico this Spring Break with his family—one colorful experience at a time. From the artistic soul of Coyoacán to the awe-inspiring pyramids of Teotihuacán, their days are packed with culture, history, and flavor. They’re diving into local life, exploring bustling markets, world-renowned museums, and savoring everything from iconic street eats to elevated cuisine. It’s a region that pulses with creativity and spirit—and this crew is embracing it all.⁣
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After their urban adventures, they’re heading to the charming heart of the highlands: San Miguel de Allende. Founded in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is beloved for its old-world charm paired with modern comforts. Picture-perfect streets wind past colonial facades in every shade of the sunset, leading to La Parroquía, a towering neo-Gothic church of rose-colored stone that anchors the town’s iconic skyline. San Miguel pulses with culture—think buzzing rooftop bars, award-winning restaurants, and a rich arts scene.⁣
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04/11/2025

🌸 Springtime in Charleston & the Legacy of the Garden Club of Charleston 🌿⁣
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Did you know that Charleston is renowned for its historic gardens, including those shaped by the - Founded in 1922, this club has played a pivotal role in creating the city’s lush landscape. From their first project—planting the grounds of the Charleston Library Society—to the creation of the iconic Gateway Walk in 1930, the club has long been dedicated to preserving Charleston’s beauty.⁣
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Each spring, the city bursts into bloom with wisteria, camellias, and azaleas, and the Festival of Houses and Gardens—a tradition since 1947—offers a rare opportunity to explore Charleston’s private gardens and historic homes.⁣
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But the Garden Club of Charleston’s influence extends beyond flowers. Over the years, they’ve been instrumental in creating educational programs like the Fragrance Garden for the Blind and a therapeutic gardening program at MUSC, as well as funding horticultural scholarships.⁣
With Charleston’s spring blooms and the Garden Club’s dedication to beautifying the city, it’s no wonder this Lowcountry gem is a must-see during the season.⁣
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04/09/2025

⛳️ The Masters are upon us - The legendary Augusta National will once again host the world’s top golfers, with tournament rounds running Thursday through Sunday, April 10–13. Expect green jackets, azaleas in full bloom, and the kind of drama only Augusta can deliver.⁣
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But did you know the roots of American golf actually trace back to Charleston, South Carolina? Long before Augusta National was even a vision, golf was being played right here in the Lowcountry. In 1786, a group of Scottish merchants founded the South Carolina Golf Club—the first golf club in America—right in downtown Charleston on a patch of land now known as Harleston Green, near the College of Charleston. 🇺🇸🏌️‍♂️⁣
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Unlike the manicured courses of today, Harleston Green was a natural landscape where golfers played on uneven terrain, using rudimentary clubs and balls. The “holes” were likely markers set up among natural features like sand dunes, shrubs, and grass. Despite the simplicity, the enthusiasm for the game was palpable, and Harleston Green quickly became a social hub for Charleston’s golf community.⁣
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Charleston’s deep ties to the game, its Scottish heritage, and Southern charm have helped shape golf in the U.S.—from casual weekend rounds to the most prestigious tournaments.⁣
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So whether you’re watching The Masters or planning your next golf getaway, know this: America’s love affair with golf began right here in the Holy City.⁣
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04/07/2025

Charleston, has a rich culinary history, and over the years, several well-loved restaurants have closed their doors, leaving behind fond memories for locals and visitors alike. Here are five restaurants in Charleston that were cherished but are no longer in business:⁣
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🦐 Martha Lou’s Kitchen - A legendary soul food spot, Martha Lou’s was a Gullah Geechee institution on Morrison Drive, famous for its fried chicken, lima beans, and collard greens. Run by Martha Lou Gadsden for decades, it was a cozy, no-frills eatery that embodied the heart of Lowcountry home cooking. It closed in 2020 after Gadsden’s passing, though her legacy lives on in Charleston’s food culture.⁣
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🍨 Carolina’s - Located on Exchange Street, Carolina’s was a Southern bistro that helped define Charleston’s upscale dining scene in the late 20th century. Known for its deviled crab and Lowcountry classics, it was a favorite for special occasions until it shuttered in the early 2000s. The space later became home to other ventures, but its original charm remains a memory.⁣
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🍷 McCrady’s - Once a pinnacle of fine dining on East Bay Street, McCrady’s was helmed by acclaimed chef Sean Brock and earned national praise for its innovative Southern cuisine and elaborate tasting menus. It closed in 2018 as Brock shifted focus to other projects, leaving a void for foodies who adored its groundbreaking approach.⁣
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🍝 Trattoria Lucca - This cozy Italian restaurant on Bogard Street was a neighborhood gem, celebrated for its handmade pasta and warm atmosphere. Chef Ken Vedrinski’s spot thrived until it closed during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.⁣
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🍔 Two Boroughs Larder - A quirky, beloved spot on Coming Street, Two Boroughs Larder started as a sandwich shop and evolved into an all-day café with inventive dishes like duck confit and kimchi-stuffed burgers. It closed in 2016 after a five-year run, mourned by those who loved its creative take on comfort food.⁣
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Did you ever dine at Martha Lou’s, Carolina’s, or any of these gems? Drop a comment below and share your memories—we’d love to hear your stories!⁣

04/02/2025

The Aiken-Rhett House: A Portal to Charleston’s Past ⁣
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Nestled in the heart of Charleston, the Aiken-Rhett House is one of the most well-preserved antebellum homes in the South, offering a raw and immersive glimpse into the complexities of 19th-century life. Unlike other historic homes that have been restored, this estate has been preserved in its original condition, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur—and stark realities—of Charleston’s past.⁣
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A House of Wealth, Power & Shadows - Built in 1820 by merchant John Robinson, the home was later sold to William Aiken Sr., a successful Irish immigrant. After his passing, his son, William Aiken Jr., inherited the estate, eventually becoming one of the wealthiest men in the state and serving as Governor of South Carolina.⁣
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The home underwent massive expansions in the 1830s and 1850s, with grand ballrooms, intricate plasterwork, and original furnishings that remain intact today. But behind this opulence, the estate also tells the story of Charleston’s enslaved population. The original slave quarters still stand, giving an unfiltered look into the conditions and lives of those who labored there.⁣
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💡 Why It’s a Must-See for History Buffs - Unlike many historic homes that have been modernized, the Aiken-Rhett House remains frozen in time. You can see the worn floorboards, the fading wallpaper, and even the original cookhouse, laundry, and carriage house—all offering hauntingly authentic echoes of the past.⁣
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📍 Ready to Experience Charleston’s History Like Never Before? This isn’t just another historic home—it’s a living time capsule of Charleston’s most defining era. Let me take you beyond the velvet ropes and bring history to life with fascinating stories, hidden details, and exclusive insights you won’t find anywhere else. Book a private walking tour with us and uncover Charleston’s history through the homes, streets, and stories that shaped it.⁣
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Additional photos courtesy of the

03/31/2025

Spring into Charleston: April 2025 Events You Don’t Want to Miss!⁣ 🗓️
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Save and Share the April 2025 Charleston Event Calendar—festivals, food, and fun await! ⁣
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03/24/2025

Charleston’s Gas Lanterns: A Timeless Glow Through History 🔥

Strolling through Charleston, you can’t help but notice the soft, flickering glow of gas lanterns illuminating historic homes, cobblestone streets, and grand piazzas. More than just a source of light, these lanterns tell a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and Southern charm that has endured for centuries.

✨A Glimpse Into History -Gas lighting was first introduced in the late 1700s when William Murdoch illuminated his London residence. By 1816, Baltimore became the first U.S. city to install gas lights, and Charleston soon followed suit.

Built in 1825, the Edmondston-Alston House originally relied on whale oil lamps to light the home, a luxurious and efficient source of light during the early 19th century. As technology progressed, Charleston’s wealthy families, like the Alstons, began embracing the new era of gas lighting with gasoliers, which replaced the smoky, smelly whale oil lamps.

In 1846, the Charleston Gas Light Company was chartered, ushering in a new era of street illumination. By 1849, all of Charleston’s street lamps were powered by gas, tended by lamplighters who manually ignited and extinguished each one at dusk and dawn. These glowing beacons not only provided safety but also became a signature element of the city’s architectural landscape.

Gas lanterns in Charleston are works of art, crafted from copper and brass, with many designs dating back to the 1800s. From hanging lanterns on grand porches to elegant post lights lining the streets, their handmade details add an authentic touch to historic homes and businesses. One of the most beloved styles, The Charleston Collection, has been lighting streets from Charleston to New Orleans for over a century. These lanterns continue to be crafted with the same attention to detail, preserving the city’s iconic aesthetic.

Want to bring a touch of Charleston’s timeless glow to your home? Look for handcrafted gas lanterns from local artisans who keep this historic tradition alive!

03/19/2025

Poogan's Porch: A Culinary Landmark with a Storied Past​ 🐕

Nestled in Charleston's historic district, stands as a testament to Southern charm and rich history. Established in 1976, this beloved restaurant has been serving delectable Lowcountry cuisine for decades.

- From Victorian Home to Culinary Haven: The building at 72 Queen Street was constructed in 1891 as a spacious Victorian home. Over the years, the neighborhood evolved, and by 1976, the house transitioned into Poogan's Porch, becoming Charleston's oldest independent culinary establishment. ​

- The Tale of Poogan: The restaurant's namesake, Poogan, was a friendly neighborhood dog who frequented the porch during the establishment's early days. His presence and charm left such an impression that the owners decided to name the restaurant in his honor. ​

- Echoes of the Past: Beyond its culinary delights, Poogan's Porch is also known for its ghostly tales. One of the most famous stories involves Zoe St. Amand, a schoolteacher who lived in the house in the early 1900s. After her sister's death, Zoe reportedly faced emotional turmoil and passed away in 1954. Since then, numerous guests and staff have reported encounters with her spirit, adding a layer of mystique to the dining experience. ​

- A Culinary Destination: Today, Poogan's Porch continues to delight patrons with its authentic Southern cuisine, offering dishes like she-crab soup and buttermilk fried chicken. Its enduring legacy and unique history make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Charleston's rich heritage. ​

❓If you have visited Poogan's Porch, what is your favorite dish? We want to know!

Photos couresty of Poogan's Porch

03/18/2025

💣 The Powder Magazine: Charleston’s Oldest Public Building & a Fortress Against Pirates

Tucked away on Cumberland Street, may not look imposing, but don’t let its size fool you—this 1713 structure played a critical role in Charleston’s defense for centuries. It’s the oldest surviving public building in the city, and its walls hold stories of pirates, colonial battles, and Revolutionary War struggles.

🏴‍☠️ Pirates & The Fight for Charleston - In the early 1700s, Charleston was a wealthy port city constantly under siege—by Spanish forces, French privateers, and even the infamous Blackbeard. The city needed protection, and The Powder Magazine was built to store gunpowder for Charleston’s militia. Its thick brick walls, vaulted ceiling, and sand-filled roof were designed to contain explosions—a critical safeguard in a city always on alert.

🔥 A Revolutionary Stronghold - During the American Revolution, The Powder Magazine supplied Charleston’s defenders—until the British seized the city in 1780. For two years, it was under enemy control, but when Charleston was liberated in 1782, the magazine was once again in the hands of the Patriots.

⏳ From Arsenal to Artifact - After the war, The Powder Magazine’s military days ended, and it spent years as a stable, print shop, and storage space. By 1902, preservationists saw its significance, and today, it stands as a museum showcasing Charleston’s colonial history.

🕰️ Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time—surrounded by artifacts, historical exhibits, and the echoes of Charleston’s early defenders. Have you visited this historic landmark?

Photos courtesy of The Powder Magazine

03/17/2025

🍀 Hibernian Hall: A Pillar of Charleston’s Irish History 🍀⁣
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Did you know that Hibernian Hall is one of Charleston’s most significant Irish landmarks? Built in 1840, this stunning Greek Revival building was designed by Thomas Ustick Walter, the same architect behind the dome of the U.S. Capitol. But beyond its grand façade, Hibernian Hall tells a deeper story of Charleston’s Irish immigrants, their struggles, and their impact on the city.⁣
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A Gathering Place for Irish Charleston⁣
In the early 19th century, Charleston’s Irish population was growing rapidly. Many Irish immigrants arrived seeking work as laborers, craftsmen, and merchants. Facing discrimination and hardship, they established their own fraternal society in 1801: the Hibernian Society, which still exists today.⁣
Hibernian Hall was built to serve as their headquarters, a place where Irish immigrants could support each other socially and financially. It became the center of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, hosting annual banquets and gatherings that solidified Irish identity in Charleston.⁣
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A Hall with National Significance⁣
Hibernian Hall wasn’t just a local meeting place—it played a role in national history. In 1860, it hosted part of the Democratic National Convention, where delegates fiercely debated the issue of slavery. The split at this convention contributed to the election of Abraham Lincoln and the eventual secession of South Carolina.⁣
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Fire, War, and Reconstruction⁣
Charleston’s history is one of resilience, and Hibernian Hall is no exception. The Great Fire of 1861 damaged the building, but it was quickly repaired. During the Civil War, the hall, like much of the city, suffered through occupation and economic hardship. But the Hibernian Society endured, continuing to support the city’s Irish community through Reconstruction and beyond.⁣
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Hibernian Hall Today⁣
Now a National Historic Landmark, Hibernian Hall remains an active meeting place for the Hibernian Society of Charleston. It also serves as an elegant venue for weddings, galas, and special events. Its iconic green doors are a nod to its Irish heritage, and every year on St. Patrick’s Day, the Irish flag is proudly displayed.⁣

03/08/2025

Famous Charleston Women in History

Charleston’s history is rich with remarkable women whose strength, vision, and perseverance helped shape not just our city, but the course of history. From groundbreaking contributions in economics and education to pushing forward movements that continue to inspire, these women paved the way for future generations. Let’s take a moment to celebrate these powerful, trailblazing women.

✨Eliza Lucas Pinckney (1722–1793): She revolutionized South Carolina’s economy by introducing indigo as a cash crop in the 1740s. A teenage plantation manager, she turned indigo into one of the colony’s most valuable exports, earning international recognition. Her legacy lives on through her son, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, a Founding Father of the United States. Want to dive deeper into her remarkable life? Check out True Indigo: An Illustrated Biography of Eliza Lucas Pinckney, Planter & Patriot by Dianne Coleman for an in-depth look at her journey.

✨Clelia Peronneau McGowan (1865-1956): She was a trailblazer for women's rights and education in Charleston. In the 1920s, she became the first female member of the Charleston City Council, advocating for public libraries, equal education, and civic reform, thus paving the way for future generations of women leaders.

✨ Sarah & Angelina Grimké were Charleston-born sisters who became two of the most influential abolitionists and women’s rights activists of the 19th century. Raised in a wealthy slaveholding family, they rejected their upbringing and dedicated their lives to fighting against slavery and advocating for gender equality. Their powerful writings and speeches challenged the norms of their time, inspiring generations of activists. Their story was brought to life in the novel by - The Invention of Wings.

03/06/2025

Planning a trip to Charleston this spring or summer? Here’s a few things you need to know before you visit...

Spring and summer are two of the most popular times to visit Charleston, and for good reason! The city comes alive with beautiful blooms, exciting festivals, and endless coastal charm. Whether you’re strolling down cobblestone streets, dining outdoors with waterfront views, or soaking up the Lowcountry sunshine, Charleston is a dream destination this time of year. Here’s what to expect:

🌸 Spring (March-May): Expect mild temps (60s-80s°F), azaleas in full bloom, and a packed event calendar. Tour stunning private homes & gardens during the Home & Garden Tours, catch world-class performances at the Charleston Jazz Festival, or lace up your running shoes for the , one of the largest 10K races in the U.S.

☀️ Summer (June-August): Long, sunny days with high humidity - perfect for beach days, boat tours, and al fresco dining. Cool off with frozen cocktails, explore Charleston’s bustling farmers markets, and enjoy live music under the stars.

🏛️ Don’t Miss: A historic walking tour with Charleston Sole Walking Tours—the best way to experience the city’s rich past while wandering its charming streets!

Pro Tip: Spring is peak tourist season, so book hotels & dining reservations early! Summer brings smaller crowds but hotter temps—stay hydrated & embrace the slower pace of Southern living.

Save this guide for your next Charleston getaway & tell us—which season would you visit? 👇✨

03/05/2025

6 Lunch Spots in Downtown Charleston 🍽️⁣
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Charleston’s food scene is a perfect mix of Southern charm, fresh coastal flavors, and innovative twists on classic dishes. If you’re looking for the best lunch spots in the Holy City, here are six favorites to add to your list:⁣
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📍 – A must for seafood lovers! This cozy oyster bar serves up some of the freshest oysters, lobster rolls, and tuna burgers in town. Sit at the bar or grab a spot on the patio for the ultimate Charleston seafood experience.⁣
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📍 – Located on Wentworth Street, Basic Kitchen is all about fresh, vibrant, and healthy eats. From seasonal grain bowls to their famous BK veggie burger, it’s the perfect spot for a light yet flavorful lunch.⁣
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📍 – A Charleston staple with an incredible express lunch menu served daily. Expect Lowcountry classics like shrimp & grits, she-crab soup, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.⁣
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📍 – If you’re craving timeless Southern flavors, 82 Queen is the spot. Known for their award-winning she-crab soup and courtyard dining, this historic gem offers a refined yet cozy lunch experience.⁣
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📍 – A local favorite for a quick yet delicious bite, this charming French café serves up fresh baguette sandwiches, daily soups, and carafes of wine—perfect for a European-inspired lunch in the heart of Charleston.⁣
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📍 – No Charleston lunch list is complete without Callie’s! This beloved biscuit shop serves up warm, buttery biscuits packed with flavors like pimento cheese, bacon, and fried chicken—perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.⁣
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Which of these have you tried? Let us know your go-to Charleston lunch spot! ⬇️✨⁣
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📸 courtesy of each restaurant ⁣

02/28/2025

Meet Your Charleston Sole Guide: Fin Smith⁣
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A South Carolina native and former educator, Fin Smith brings a deep passion for history and storytelling to Charleston Sole Walking Tours. With degrees in history from Erskine College and education administration from Clemson University, Fin transitioned from a career in public education to sharing Charleston’s rich past with visitors from around the world.⁣
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Since becoming a Registered Charleston Tour Guide in 2010, Fin has led tours by foot, carriage, and even by harbor boat. As a nationally certified interpretive guide, his expertise offers guests a unique and immersive experience in the Holy City.⁣
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What makes Charleston so special in Fin’s eyes? The 18th- and early 19th-century homes still in use today, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine daily life centuries ago. His favorite era? The colonial and Revolutionary War period—when a small group of determined settlers built a city that would help shape a nation.⁣
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When he’s not leading tours, you can find Fin enjoying a fish sandwich at Fleet Landing, just a short stroll through Waterfront Park from the end of his tours.⁣
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Join Fin for a walk through history and see why Charleston’s preservation efforts continue to make this city one of the most fascinating in America.⁣
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Photos courtesy of ⁣

02/27/2025

02/27/2025

Get to know the sole behind Charleston Sole Walking Tours—Brian Simms. A 10th-generation Charlestonian, Brian’s family has called the Lowcountry home since 1707. After spending ten years in the hotel industry, his passion for people and history led him to a new path—bringing Charleston’s rich past to life through walking tours.

“What are your passions?” his wife Beth once asked. His answer: people and history. From that moment, Charleston Sole Walking Tours was born. Each day, he gets to walk—literally—through history, uncovering new stories and sharing Charleston’s significance with visitors who might otherwise pass by its hidden details.

⭐ Q & A With Brian…

❓Do you have a favorite era or event in Charleston’s history that you love to talk about?

“I personally like the American Revolutionary War period because it involves the birth of our current country and many people are unaware of Charleston’s place in the Revolutionary War. Particularly, I like the story of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island (Fort Moultrie) in June 28, 1776, is considered to be the first decisive victory for the American Army in the war at that point. The majority of Declaration signers in Philadelphia did not sign the document until they heard of this victory. This battle is also where our state flag comes from.”

❓What’s the most rewarding part of being a Charleston tour guide?

“I get to be an ambassador for our city and get to literally walk back in time. I think even though I have told some of these stories 1000’s of times, I get a new perspective and always learn something everyday, even from my guests.”

❓Favorite Downtown Lunch Spot?

167 Raw Oysters - Lobster tostada, 10 hour pork carnita, ceviche, seafood po-boys, so many good options here!

⭐ Take a walk through time with Brian and experience Charleston like never before. Book a tour with Charleston Sole and uncover the stories that make this city one of the most fascinating in America.

02/25/2025

📍 Two Meeting Street Inn – A Charleston Love Story

Nestled at the picturesque corner of Meeting Street and South Battery, Two Meeting Street Inn isn’t just one of Charleston’s most stunning homes—it’s a symbol of love, legacy, and Lowcountry charm.

Built in 1892, this breathtaking Queen Anne-style mansion was a wedding gift from George W. Williams, a wealthy banker, to his daughter Martha Williams Carrington and her husband, jeweler Waring P. Carrington. Legend has it that Williams presented the newlyweds with a $75,000 check on a satin pillow—a sum that secured their dream home in one of Charleston’s most enviable locations.

✨ Fun fact: In 1895, to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary, Waring Carrington gifted Martha two Tiffany stained glass windows, which still adorn the first-floor parlor today.

Beyond their grand residence, the Carringtons left a mark on the city—Martha even donated the bandstand in White Point Garden in honor of her parents. Today, their former home continues to welcome guests as a luxurious bed-and-breakfast, offering a front-row seat to Charleston’s historic beauty.

From its sweeping verandas to its ornate detailing, Two Meeting Street Inn is a true Southern masterpiece.

📍 2 Meeting Street | Charleston, SC
📸 Tag a history or architecture lover!

Photos Courtesy of

02/24/2025

A Storied Past on Charleston’s East Battery – The Porcher-Simonds House 🏛️✨

Standing proudly along East Battery, 29 East Battery Street, also known as the Porcher-Simonds House, is a stunning reflection of Charleston’s architectural evolution and rich history. Built in 1856 by cotton broker Francis J. Porcher, this home originally showcased the Greek Revival style, mirroring the elegance of its waterfront neighbors.

After the Civil War, Porcher—who played a role in South Carolina’s Secession Convention—became president of the Atlantic Phosphate Company, leaving his mark on the city’s industry. But it was John C. Simonds, a prominent banker and president of the First National Bank, who transformed the home in the 1890s, adding grand Beaux Arts and Renaissance Revival details. With paired columns, a stately portico, and a dramatic double-tiered semicircular front piazza, the house took on the opulence of a bygone era.

✨ Did you know? During World War II, the home was repurposed as an office for the U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence, and John F. Kennedy himself worked within these very walls! 👀 In 1983 it was converted into three luxurious condominiums and now is a private home pnce again.

With its waterfront views, intricate architectural details, and deep historical roots, the Porcher-Simonds House is a true Charleston gem. Have you walked by this historic beauty while exploring East Battery?

📍 29 East Battery Street | Charleston, SC