The Haunted Jail Tour

Highlights / General details

Located on Magazine Street downtown, the Old City Jail was in operation from 1802 until 1939, and most of the building’s original structures — like the cells and warden’s quarters — remain intact.

The Haunted Jail Tour takes you through the cells, hallways, and into the places where Charleston’s worst criminals lived and died. Brace yourself as you hear stories like the legend of Lavinia and John Fisher, hotel owners from the 1800s who supposedly poisoned their guests. Featured on such shows as Ghost Adventures, the story goes that Lavinia’s ghost still, very audibly, haunts the premises.

By far one of our most popular Charleston ghost tours, this is quite possibly the scariest place you will ever go — no joke. Open often to the public for arts events, the jail even gives locals an eerie chill down the spine as soon as one steps foot into the space. Visitors go as far to say they’ve seen objects move or even disappear, while others hear voices, the slamming of doors, or chains as they’re allegedly dragged against the floor of the jail.

Inclusion

Guided walking tour.

Exclusion

Gratuity and hotel pick-up/drop-off

Hours of operation

Available: Nightly; Departs at 7:00pm, 8:00pm, 9:00pm & 10:00pm. Please arrive 45 minutes prior to tour departure. Closed 1/1, Thanksgiving Day, 12/24-12/25, 12/31.

Duration

Tour is approximately 45 minutes.

Location

Departure location: check-in at 18 Anson Street. You can either walk or drive the 6 blocks to meet your tour guide at The Jail, 21 Magazine Street, Charleston, SC 29401.

Participant restrictions

The experience is NOT recommended for small children — or men who cry easily.

Policies

Cancellation: 1 day prior 100% penalty. No show 100% penalty.

Tour times are subject to change.

Please call to confirm reservation 24 hours in advance.

Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**