Charleston’s Modernist Architecture
- October 3, 2025
375 Meeting St
Charleston, SC 29403
See Charleston’s modernist architecture with new eyes; understand its cultural and historical value before it disappears
Charleston is a city steeped in 18th- and 19th-century history, renowned for its remarkably intact architectural record. While the Modernist movement did not take hold in Charleston as strongly as it did in other parts of the state and country, there are many striking examples if you know where to look. Today, mid-century buildings are increasingly at risk, vulnerable to demolition or redevelopment due to a lack of widespread appreciation and protection.
This tour invites you to see Charleston’s modernist architecture with new eyes, and to understand its cultural and historical value before more of it disappears. Led by professional architectural historian Caroline Wilson, founding member and current president of MidModSC, this tour offers a look at Charleston’s mid-century built environment and the stories behind its clean lines and innovative forms.
Tour Information:
- Location: The tour will meet at and depart from the Charleston Visitor Center, located at 375 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403. We will gather on the North end of the building along Ann Street.
- Parking: The nearest parking garage is located at 63 Mary Street, across the street from the visitor center (enter garage from Ann Street on Wragg Square). Neighborhood street parking is generally also available across Meeting Street in Mazyck-Wraggborough but limited to 1-2 hours for non-residents – please abide by all street signage and parking regulations.
- Restrooms: Public restrooms are available in the Charleston Visitor Center. There are no bathroom breaks during the tour, please plan accordingly.
- Check-In: Check-in takes place at the meeting location at the beginning of the tour. There are no physical tickets, and printed confirmations are not required. All guests will be checked in will-call style using the first and last name on the ticket order.
- Other: Tours last between 2-2.5 hours and typically require 6 or more blocks of walking, often over uneven streets and sidewalks. No interiors are included. We suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a bottle of water.
- Weather: Tours go on rain or shine. Prepare for inclement weather, if forecasted. The Preservation Society reserves the right to cancel the tours if dangerous or threatening conditions arise. If the tour is cancelled by the PSC, all ticket holders will be contacted, and refunds will be available.
- Cancellations & Refunds: All sales are final. Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis until September 1. After September 1, guests who notify the office in advance may either exchange their tickets for a comparable tour if space is available or convert their tickets to a tax-deductible charitable donation. Most tours run a waitlist once sold out – if you are no longer able to attend, please let us know so your space may be released.
