Jewish History Private Driving Tour of Charleston
Charleston History. Jewish Soul.
Charleston was home to the largest Jewish community in the U.S. until the 1820s — even surpassing New York!
This private tour blends iconic landmarks with hidden gems, weaving Jewish heritage into the broader story of Charleston.
We’ll visit sites both famous and often overlooked — including “Little Jerusalem” and two of America’s oldest synagogues: one, the oldest in continuous use and birthplace of Reform Judaism; the other, the nation’s oldest active Orthodox Ashkenazi congregation. You'll also see the first Jewish-owned pharmacy in America, a brothel once run by a Jewish woman, and homes and civic spaces tied to merchants, leaders, and reformers.
Along the way, we honor the contributions of African Americans and reflect on Jewish involvement in Charleston’s slave economy and the Civil War.
Each tour is private, unhurried, and carefully curated — complete with refreshments and storytelling that make the experience both meaningful and memorable.
Options
Jewish History Private Driving Tour of Charleston
What's included in Jewish History Private Driving Tour of Charleston
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kahal Kadosh Beth ElohimPass-by Only
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.
Hear the story behind Grace Peixotto, daughter of a religious leader, and the brothel she owned and operated here.
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.
Inclusions
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Additional Information
This tour includes roundtrip transportation from your downtown Charleston hotel. The guide will meet you in the lobby and a text will be sent beforehand to confirm the tour guide's exact location within the lobby. If you're staying outside of downtown, you may meet us at Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim (KKBE) at your tour start time. We will meet you at the front gate.
Meeting / End Points
- Go to the front gate on Hasell Street and the guide will meet you there.
