Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Explore Charleston's pivotal history at the Old Exchange, from its role in the Revolution to its chilling Provost Dungeon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Beat the crowds and heat
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Charleston's pivotal history at the Old Exchange, from its role in the Revolution to its chilling Provost Dungeon.
"A must-visit for understanding Charleston's complex past, blending revolutionary spirit with somber history."
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon are only available for purchase in person. Plan accordingly!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1.5 hours to explore the upper floors before your dungeon tour. Rushing is not recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Provost Dungeon
Basement level
Step into the chilling history of this former British prison, where conditions were dire and many perished.
Declaration of Independence Replica
Upper floors museum
Experience a piece of American history by signing a replica of the Declaration of Independence.
Revolutionary War Exhibits
Upper floors museum
Explore interactive displays detailing Charleston's pivotal role in the American Revolution.
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Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Timing
Historical Context
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon are only available for purchase in person. Plan accordingly!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1.5 hours to explore the upper floors before your dungeon tour. Rushing is not recommended.
First Time Visitor - Weird Experience
Pirate Fanatic
🤝 Combo Ticket Value
Consider the combo ticket for access to the Old Slave Mart Museum; it's a highly recommended pairing.
📚 History Buffs Rejoice
The exhibits are detailed and informative, perfect for those interested in American Revolution history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon are only available for purchase in person. Plan accordingly!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1.5 hours to explore the upper floors before your dungeon tour. Rushing is not recommended.
🤝 Combo Ticket Value
Consider the combo ticket for access to the Old Slave Mart Museum; it's a highly recommended pairing.
📚 History Buffs Rejoice
The exhibits are detailed and informative, perfect for those interested in American Revolution history.
👻 Dungeon Tour Focus
The dungeon tour is a highlight, offering a vivid, albeit somber, glimpse into the past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon for its rich historical significance and engaging tours, particularly the Provost Dungeon experience. The knowledgeable guides and interactive elements like signing the Declaration of Independence are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some note that the upper floor exhibits can involve a lot of reading, and the dungeon's subject matter is somber.
"Visited on a Tuesday afternoon. They have tours of the dungeon every 30 minutes. You can not buy tickets ahead of time online, it's in person only.
The regular part of the museum is very informative, id reccomend it for school age kids and up as there is a lot of reading small writing. They had a man with different kinds of muskets at a table who was very informative. We all got to sign the replica of the declaration of independence which was fun.
The dungeon tour was 20 min long (not too long, not too short). It was neat to see and they set it up very nicely. Our guide was informative and funny."
Kristin
"We started our morning at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon and caught the first dungeon tour of the day at 10:00 a.m. Touring the first floor beforehand gave us a great intro, but the dungeon tour really brought the history to life. Our guide was excellent, engaging, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the stories being told.
Afterward, we bought the combo ticket, which was definitely the right call. It gave us access to the Old Slave Mart Museum just a few blocks away, and I’d highly recommend doing both if you're visiting. Before heading there, we explored the upper floor of the Exchange building, where we saw a lot of exhibits centered on the American Revolution. The displays were interactive and well presented, and yes, we even got to sign the Declaration of Independence.
The museum gave us a clearer picture of Charleston’s role in the Revolutionary War, the development of the city, and the darker parts of its past. It was sobering but important. The walk over to the nearby public pier and Pineapple Fountain gave us a chance to process and reflect before continuing to the Slave Mart Museum.
This was one of those experiences that blends beauty, history, and some very hard truths. It’s difficult to face certain chapters of our country’s past, but it’s necessary. If you're anywhere near downtown Charleston, make the time. Get the combo ticket. Learn, reflect, and walk away with a deeper understanding of where we've come from, and what we hope never to repeat."
Justin Talley
"You will not be disappointed by touring the Old Exchange and Dungeon. The guides are extremely informative and while there is a fee for the dungeon tour, it is worth it. While some of the props seemed a bit odd, the building itself is rich with history. The guides also do a wonderful job of trying to truly highlight the realities of what occurred within the walls of the Old Exchange and Charleston itself. My best advice is to give yourself time to explore the first two levels of the building prior to going on the dungeon tour. We called prior to arriving and were told that the last entry for the building was 5pm and that we would have enough time to explore all levels. We arrived at about 4:40pm and learned that after the tour, we would not be able to explore the other two levels. Needless to say, our viewing of the first two levels felt rushed. Overall, the Old Exchange is a fascinating building to view and explore and we loved the tour! All of the staff are knowledgeable and love their job."
Macy Hooper
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is located in downtown Charleston, easily accessible by walking if you're staying nearby. Parking garages are available in the vicinity, but can be pricey. Many visitors arrive via rideshare services or as part of a walking tour of historic Charleston.
Yes, there are several parking garages within walking distance of the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. The closest options include the Cumberland Street Garage and the Majestic Square Garage. Street parking is also available but often limited and metered.
While there isn't direct public bus service to the Old Exchange itself, Charleston's DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle) trolley service has stops nearby that can get you close to the historic district. Check the CARTA website for current routes and schedules.
The upper floors of the Old Exchange building are generally accessible. However, the Provost Dungeon is located in the basement and involves stairs, which may present challenges for individuals with significant mobility impairments. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility details.
Many visitors find that exploring the area around the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon on foot is the best way to soak in the historic atmosphere. Consider a guided walking tour that includes this site to get the most out of your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Old Exchange building is typically around $12 for adults. A guided tour of the Provost Dungeon incurs an additional fee, but many visitors find it well worth the cost for the historical insights provided.
No, tickets for the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon must be purchased in person at the site. There is no option to buy tickets online in advance.
The Old Exchange building is typically open daily, with the last entry usually around 5:00 PM. Dungeon tours are offered at scheduled intervals throughout the day. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours of operation.
While you can't book tickets online, it's a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a spot on your desired dungeon tour. Tours depart at regular intervals, typically every 30 minutes.
Yes, combo tickets are often available that include admission to the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon and the nearby Old Slave Mart Museum. This is a popular option for visitors wanting to explore more of Charleston's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon features exhibits on the first two floors detailing its history as a customs house, city hall, and more. The highlight for many is the guided tour of the Provost Dungeon in the basement, a former British prison.
To fully appreciate the exhibits and take the dungeon tour, plan for at least 1 to 1.5 hours. If you're using a combo ticket, factor in additional time for the Old Slave Mart Museum.
The Provost Dungeon tour focuses on the historical realities of its use as a prison, including the harsh conditions and deaths that occurred. While it can be somber and intense, it's generally not considered a 'scary' ghost tour, but rather an educational and impactful historical experience.
Yes, visitors can sign a replica of the Declaration of Independence, which is a popular and engaging activity for all ages. The exhibits on the upper floors also incorporate informative displays.
Built in 1771, the Old Exchange served as a British customs house and commercial exchange. During the Revolution, it was used as a prison (the Provost Dungeon). It also hosted George Washington and was the site of South Carolina's ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the museum sections of the Old Exchange building. However, flash photography may be restricted, and it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask staff regarding photo policies, especially within the dungeon area.
The exterior of the historic building offers classic architectural shots. Inside, the exhibits and the replica Declaration of Independence are popular subjects. The dimly lit atmosphere of the dungeon can also create dramatic, albeit challenging, photographic opportunities.
While general photography is usually allowed, it's wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing tours. For social media sharing, ensure you're not capturing anything that might be considered sensitive or private, and always respect the venue's guidelines.
The dungeon is often dimly lit, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be beneficial. Consider using a wider aperture to let in more light. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively, especially with night mode features.
You can find many photos by searching for 'Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon Charleston' on Google Images, Instagram, or TikTok. Look for user-generated content to see authentic perspectives of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the historical context of the dungeon, explaining that it was a place where people were kept during difficult times. The exhibits on the upper floors offer plenty of reading, so consider focusing on key displays or letting older children explore them more independently. The combo ticket with the Old Slave Mart Museum might be more suitable for older teens due to its sensitive subject matter.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The Provost Dungeon tour is particularly impactful, offering a direct encounter with the harsh realities of wartime imprisonment. The guides are often lauded for their knowledge and passion, providing nuanced historical context. Combining this visit with the Old Slave Mart Museum offers a comprehensive look at Charleston's past, from its revolutionary ideals to its darker chapters.
🚶 Solo Travelers
This site offers a deep dive into significant historical events, making it an excellent opportunity for personal reflection and learning. The knowledgeable guides on the dungeon tour can also offer insights and answer questions, enriching the solo experience. It's a great way to connect with the history of Charleston on your own terms.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Provost Dungeon: A Glimpse into Charleston's Dark Past
Visiting the dungeon offers a visceral connection to this difficult history. Guides often share poignant stories and historical accounts, bringing to life the struggles of those held captive. While not a 'ghost tour' in the traditional sense, the atmosphere is undeniably heavy, prompting reflection on the realities of war and captivity. The historical accuracy and the guides' passion for storytelling are frequently praised by visitors.
It's important for visitors to approach the dungeon experience with an understanding of its historical context. The exhibits on the upper floors provide valuable background information about the building's other uses, helping to contextualize the dungeon's grim purpose. This dual experience—learning about the building's multifaceted history and then confronting the stark reality of its prison function—creates a profound and memorable visit.
Beyond the Dungeon: The Exchange Building's Multifaceted History
During the formative years of the United States, the Exchange played a crucial role in political history. In 1788, it was the site where South Carolina officially ratified the U.S. Constitution, a pivotal moment in the nation's founding. Later, it even hosted President George Washington during his 1791 visit to Charleston, highlighting its significance in the early republic.
Today, the first and second floors of the Old Exchange house a museum that delves into these diverse aspects of its past. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing its role in trade, politics, and society. A particularly engaging activity is signing a replica of the Declaration of Independence, offering a tangible connection to the revolutionary spirit that once filled these halls.
The Combo Ticket: Expanding Your Historical Journey
The Old Slave Mart Museum, located just a few blocks away, provides critical insights into the lives of enslaved people and the brutal realities of the domestic slave trade that was once a significant part of Charleston's economy. Visiting both sites allows for a deeper, more nuanced appreciation of the historical forces that shaped the city and the nation, confronting both the triumphs and the profound injustices of the past.
By combining these experiences, visitors can move from understanding the political and military aspects of the Revolution at the Old Exchange to confronting the human cost and systemic oppression documented at the Slave Mart. This approach encourages a more complete and reflective historical journey, fulfilling the desire for education and understanding that many travelers seek when visiting historic Charleston.
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