Charleston Haunted Jail Tour

The Charleston Haunted Jail Tour is by far my favorite tour I’ve taken so far.  The Old City Jail operated from 1802-1939 and housed some of South Carolina’s most infamous criminals and countless prisoners of war during the Civil War.  On the tour you will explore various rooms, hallways and (still-intact) cells, and learn the story of two of the jail’s most well-known criminals, John and Lavinia Fisher.  The tour guides have each had their own individual spooky experiences in the jail but each of them say they have seen Lavinia’s ghost at least one. Big shout out to our tour guide Randy for giving us a great experience! 

Tours run every day and start on the hour every hour between 7pm and 10pm.  Our tour lasted about 45 minutes. Booking your tour in advance online is recommended.  Adult tickets range from $29-$34 and children’s tickets (ages 7-12) range from $19-$24 depending on day/time.  Children six and under get in for free, although I’m not sure I’d recommend bringing a child that young. If your child gets scared easily or isn’t fond of the dark, I might would steer clear of this tour. (I got the goosebumps a time or two.) Other than that, I’d say ages 10+ would be appropriate.

Tips:

• You are asked to arrive 15 minutes before your tour.

• Private tours can be booked by calling Bulldog Tours at the number above.

• There are no bathrooms available for use in the old jail so make sure you go before you arrive.

• Some street parking available or there are parking garages a couple of blocks away. (Queen St or Logan St)

• Definitely dress appropriately for the weather outside. The walls of the jail protect from the elements somewhat, but the windows are just iron bars.