Experience Shem Creek's History & Shrimp Industry in Charleston
See more
Join Captain Bryan on the Scenes of Shem Creek History and Shrimp Walking Tour for an engaging journey through one of Charleston’s most iconic waterfront communities. This isn’t your typical tour—after a quick intro, Captain Bryan will guide you through the rich history of Shem Creek, highlighting its rise to fame with the bustling shrimping fleet and the stories behind it.
In the second half, you'll get an up-close look at the shrimp industry in action. Walk along historic sites, see the original shrimp shacks, and learn about the hardworking men and women who built this industry from the ground up. The tour combines history, culture, and hands-on experiences, giving you a genuine taste of Shem Creek’s vibrant past and present.
Whether you're a history buff, seafood lover, or just curious about local traditions, this experience offers a memorable way to connect with Charleston’s coastal heritage. Plus, everyone gets a small prize at the end—making it a fun outing for all ages.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What languages are spoken?
The tour is conducted in English.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3-9, youth 10-17, and adults up to 99 can participate. It's suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
A small prize at the end of the tour is included.
Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
How do I meet the guide?
Meet at the corner of Coleman Blvd and Mill Street, outside the public parking garage. Look for a guide with a grey hat and badge near the circular flower arrangement.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Small prize at the end of the tour
Itinerary
-
Stop 1
Guests will take Mary Street for an overview of Charleston Harbor and learn how the community changed due to conflicts, natural disasters, and insect infestations.
-
Stop 2
Pass by the home of Shem Creek's first commercial shrimper and see the historic shrimp shacks where early shrimpers lived.
-
Stop 3
View the Captain Peter Lewis House (1855) and discuss the importance of the ferry system that once operated on Shem Creek.
-
Stop 4
See the Hibben House, the oldest standing structure in town from the mid-1700s, and learn how commercial shrimping began here.
-
Stop 5
Observe a local seafood facility and discuss the decline of the fishery, from nearly 100 trawlers down to just 4 by 1998.
-
Stop 6
Walk along the boardwalk to see shrimp trawlers in action and finish with a cast net demonstration to learn how to catch your own shrimp.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
We meet on the corner of Coleman Blvd and Mill Street outside the public parking garage. It’s the only four-story office building nearby, marked by a circular flower arrangement. I’ll be there with a grey hat and tour badge.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient travelers
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $29.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
