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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Best Time
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.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,613 reviews
Type
Museum
Website
oldexchange.orgHighlights
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
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
Am here in Charleston this weekend for the first time. I am really enjoying the city. Today, me and my girlfriend went downtown to walk Bay St. down to White Point Garden. We approached the Old Exchange and Dungeon. It seemed interesting so we decided to pay the entrance…
Pirate Fanatic
I recently moved to Charleston and I am interested in learning about the cities history with Pirates. Are there any old graveyards or places I can check out for fun?
🤝 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
What People Dislike
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.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit