Capital City Heritage Walk Private Guided Tour Discount Tickets

5.0
★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 3 reviews |
location pin icon South Carolina, USA
location pin icon South Carolina
5.0 /5
3 reviews
View all Capital City Heritage Walk Private Guided Tour photos
View all Capital City Heritage Walk Private Guided Tour photos

Get your discount tickets for the Capital City Heritage Walk Guided Tour, save up to 9% !

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9% OFF Refundable
Capital City Heritage Walk Guided Tour
FROM

$34.03

REG. $37.50

Overview

This small group guided tour provides from a native's perspective a comprehensive overview of Columbia’s rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural landmarks, all within a moderately paced, two-hour walk. During your adventure, hear about the 1865 Burning of Columbia, see the scars of battle, and learn about where the Civil War actually began. You will walk in the footsteps of famous Generals, politicians, Civil Rights leaders, US Presidents, and even a Pope! This tour is great for history buffs, families with children, visitors and locals alike. Enjoy your journey through this historic Southern city! Need a customized or private tour?

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide near the Ben Tillman statue in front of the SC Statehouse, just to the right (West) of the Confederate Soldiers Monument.

End Point

End point

Tour ends on the 1300 block of Main Street.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. South Carolina State House
Your tour begins at the majestic South Carolina State House, a symbol of the state's history and politics. Completed in 1907, this building features stunning architecture, including the bronze stars marking spots hit by Sherman's cannonballs during the Civil War.
Duration: 30 mins
2. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Established in 1812, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is the oldest surviving church building in Columbia. Its Gothic Revival architecture, cemetery, and serene gardens make it a must-see.
3. Town Theatre
Opened in 1919, Town Theatre is the oldest community theatre building in continuous use in the United States. It has hosted numerous plays and musicals, enriching Columbia's cultural landscape.
4. University of South Carolina
The historic heart of the University of South Carolina, the Horseshoe, is lined with 19th-century buildings and beautiful green spaces. It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate the university’s history.
Duration: 15 mins
5. McKissick Museum
Nestled at the heart of the University of South Carolina’s beautiful Historic Horseshoe in downtown Columbia, the McKissick Museum is a beloved cultural landmark celebrating Southern heritage, community, and the environment.
Duration: 3 mins
6. First Presbyterian Church
Established in 1795, the First Presbyterian Church is one of Columbia's oldest churches. Its sanctuary, built in 1854, features a stunning Gothic Revival design.
7. First Baptist Church
First Baptist Church, founded in 1809, is a significant historic landmark. Its sanctuary, built in 1859, hosted the first secession convention leading up to the Civil War.
8. Tunnel Vision Mural
See Columbia's oldest and most famous mural by artist Blue Sky.
9. Never Bust Chain
The "Never Bust Chain" is a unique piece of street art by renowned artist Blue Sky, located on Main Street in Columbia, South Carolina. Installed in 2000, this sculpture features two enormous "steel chain links" anchored into the adjacent buildings and spanning a narrow alley. The installation playfully challenges perceptions of strength and durability while symbolizing the resilience and unbreakable spirit of the city. "Never Bust Chain" is a popular and whimsical landmark in Columbia, reflecting Blue Sky’s knack for blending humor with artistic expression. It captures the attention of pedestrians and serves as a subtle reminder of the enduring nature of community and creativity in the city. The installation has become an integral part of Main Street's cultural landscape, adding to the charm and character of downtown Columbia.
10. Nickelodeon Theatre
The Nickelodeon Theatre (often called "The Nick") is a nonprofit art-house cinema located at 1607 Main Street. Established in 1979 and moved to its current former Fox Theatre location in 2012, it is the only nonprofit art-house theater in South Carolina. The venue features two full-size screens with a total capacity of 218 seats and is known for screening independent films, new releases, and classics, alongside serving craft beer and wine.
11. Columbia Museum of Art
Located on Boyd Plaza since July 18, 1998, the museum boasts 27 galleries and is the state’s only international art museum, featuring a collection of art that spans centuries and continents.
Duration: 3 mins
12. Boyd Plaza
Dedicated in 1998 by the Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation, the plaza was beautifully renovated in 2019 with lush landscaping, fountains, mature trees, flowerbeds, and plenty of shaded seating—creating the perfect spot to pause and soak in the vibrant energy of downtown.

Inclusion

Tour Guide

Exclusion

Bottled water

Gratuities

Museums and attractions along the route

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

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

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

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

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Supplied by Palmetto State Tours, LLC

Reviews

5.0

★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 3 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

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