Duration:
1.5 hours
This is a HISTORY tour. THIS IS NOT A GHOST TOUR.
On this tour, we'll take you right in the middle of:
• The brutal murder of Rumpty Rattles in front of what is today the Gucci store on Market street. Only a Charleston lawyer could get a gunman charged with shooting a man in the back acquitted on self-defense.
• The old Speak Easy's where bootlegger Vincent J. Chicco made a fortune selling tickets to "Blind Tiger Fights," then used his money and influence to win election to the City Council for four consecutive terms. He also managed to be the chief investigator of all alcohol related crimes.
• The brothels banned by the Navy in WWII when a study revealed Charleston sailors had the highest VD rate in the country.
• Where freelance hookers known as "mattress girls" turned the Holy City's streets into Hell (or Heaven) on Earth.
• Other topics might include slavery, burial practices, and scandals.
From hundreds of years ago to present day, Charleston has been a place where high society life is shadowed by sordid affairs, temptations and unruly behavior.
FAQ
Why is The Dark Side of Charleston Rated R?
The Dark Side of Charleston is an adult history tour. Topics include brothels, scandals, murder, crime, bootlegging, and prostitution. It is only suitable for people who are at least 18 years old, even if your child has watched an obscene amount of cable TV! THIS IS A HISTORY TOUR, NOT A GHOST TOUR.
Does The Dark Side of Charleston have any age restrictions?
Yes. This tour contains adult content and is not suitable for people under 18 years old. We reserve the right to refuse anyone who does not provide proof of age. Refunds will not be given to those under the age of 18 who have purchased tickets. If you look young, we will card you.
Can I bring my child on this tour? Are there reduced prices for young children?
There is only one standard, adult ticket price for this tour. This tour contains adult content and is not suitable for those under 18 years old. We reserve the right to refuse anyone who does not provide proof of age. Refunds will not be given to those under the age of 18 who have purchased tickets.
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advanced purchase is strongly recommended, as tours often sell out well in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance.
What if it rains?
Tours will go on rain or shine. If there is a hurricane in Charleston at the time of the tour, there is no need to show up. We will be busy boarding up windows or throwing a Hurricane Party. (Seriously though, we run in every kind of weather.)
Are restrooms available?
Unfortunately, there are no designated restroom stops along the tour route.
What is the difference between your tours? Are they appropriate for children?
Each tour goes to a unique location. The Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Tour and The Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Tour are family oriented but if your child screams the entire trip, we do ask you keep that child at least 100 feet from the other guests. And if your child freaks out from hearing ghost stories, it is probably your fault, not ours. The Haunted Jail Tour may be too scary for young children or easily frightened adults. The Dark Side of Charleston tour is rated R and not recommended for children because it contains adult content.
Are cameras & video recorders allowed on the tours?
YES!! In fact, we highly recommend taking pictures during the tour. We often get pictures of some eerie stuff from our guests – especially from The Dungeon (Charleston Ghost & Dungeon Tour) and the Jail (Haunted Jail Tour)!! We would appreciate you sending anything out of the ordinary to us. You can e-mail us any photos.
Are we gonna see a ghost on the any of the tours?
Maybe. However, there is a minimal charge of $3 per person if we see a ghost. That is, if you stick around to actually PAY the $3!!
What about ghosts in the Old City Jail?
Let's just say that if you get scared easily, do not take The Haunted Jail Tour!! The Jail is not quite as scary if it is light outside. Perhaps the 7pm depending on the time of the year.
Where does the tour end?
All tours end in the vicinity of the meeting location in Charleston’s Historic Market District.
How much walking is involved?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and covers about 3/4 mile. There are frequent stops along the way and the tour is far from strenuous unless you are grotesquely out of shape, in which case, the walk did you some good. Your doctor and our boss thank you for taking the tour.
Can I buy food or drinks along the way? What about souvenirs?
Unfortunately, because of time constraints, we make only scheduled stops. You may want to bring a bottle of water as it can get fairly warm in Charleston.
Bulldog Tours
843.722.8687