Walking Tours (Self-Guided)
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Gateway Walk (Business District)
There are more than a dozen Walking Tour Companies in downtown Charleston. It is easy to find one that matches your interests. But, one unique and Free Walking Tour is the Gateway Walk in the Business District that begins at the St. John's Lutheran Church. Even many locals do not know of it.
Founded in 1930 by the Garden Club of Charleston president at the time, Mrs. C. P. McGowan, after visiting a peaceful garden in Paris. The original walk was designed by landscape architect Loutrel Briggs and was named for the ten wrought iron gates along its 4 block course.
The 4 block walk begins at St. John's Lutheran Church. The church is located at the junction of Clifford St., Archdale St. and Magazine St. with the official address being 5 Clifford St, Charleston, SC 29401
As you walk, look for small plaques and footstone markers along the route. Plan to stop at the gardens of the Gibbes Museum of Art, the Charleston Library, 4 churchyards, and the wrought iron gates.
Garden Club of Charleston Website
St. John's Lutheran Church is in the Business District just West of the French Quarter and 2 blocks West of Meeting Street.
