Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon Review We visited the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon while exploring the historic district, and it ended up being one of the most interesting and eye-opening stops of the day. From the outside, the building is beautiful and stately, sitting right at the corner with that classic Charleston charm. But once you step inside, you quickly realize there’s a much deeper—and heavier—history within its walls. Kat led our tour and did an incredible job bringing the history to life. She shared fascinating details, including how the revolutionary Americans cleverly hid all the fun power behind the walls to hide it from the British. One thing I didn’t realize is that Charleston was once a walled city, built up to protect against attacks from the French and Spanish. You can actually see part of one of those original city walls in the basement, which makes the experience feel even more real and connected to the past. The most impactful part is definitely the Provost Dungeon. Walking down into that space shifts everything—it’s dark, raw, and gives you a sense of what it must have been like for those held there. Also the spot where the slaves we’re auctioned off. This isn’t just a quick tourist stop—it’s a meaningful historical experience that adds depth to your visit to Charleston. If you’re walking the historic district, I would absolutely recommend taking the time to go through it. It gives you a fuller picture of the city beyond just its beauty.

Great place for history. Anything with history and my husband us all in. This was an easy place to find, limited parking, we arrived right as they opened. Sure that there is public parking also available close by. Spent about 1.5 hrs total here the Dungeon was a great area and the British arrived and walked around downtown area. Had fun and really enjoyed.

Visited: February 16, 2026 The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon was the perfect blend of history and hustle. From the moment you step onto the grounds, you feel the weight of Charleston’s past. Inside, the immersion begins immediately — postcards, patches, and meaningful souvenirs that make it easy to bring a little history home for friends and family. The highlight, though, was the tour. Our guide was a jolly local with razor-sharp, dry Southern wit — the kind of storyteller who can pivot from Revolutionary War imprisonment to a perfectly timed sarcastic aside without missing a beat. Equal parts charm and “bless your heart,” she made centuries-old history feel present and personal. Down in the Provost Dungeon, those brick walls carry gravity. British occupation. Prisoners of war. Pirates passing through. It’s one of those rare spaces where you instinctively lower your voice. You don’t just learn history — you feel it. History hit different here. If you appreciate immersive storytelling, preserved architecture, and a tour that balances education with personality, this is absolutely worth your time

We were referred here, and had a good time. The dungeon tour is guided, and the gentleman did a lovely job at taking us all the historical things. The top two floors, you guide yourself and get to read and experience the declaration of independence. Its really neat if you have an hour to spare!

We didn't know what to expect. Traveling with a wide range of ages and interests, so we were afraid it might not suit. It did, though. Signing the Declaration was a nice touch Interesting presentation of a historic place. We were especially surprised how much we liked the dungeon!

This place is a complete experience since the staff is dressed in historical clothes. Also, Scott was the guide, and he is a great storyteller. The general admission is 16 bucks, and it includes the museum and the dungeons. When you leave, I recommend buying a delicious orange juice or lemonade at the juice stand next to the place.

We went in Mother's Day, the tour guide was very knowledgeable and made the history interesting, he added humor to keep everyone interested. Worth the cost of admission!

Great museum! Three levels. The basement was the coolest with some amazing masonry work. Very educational. Has a small gift shop.