Frequently asked questions

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations must be made online. No tickets are sold at the mansion.

How often are tours scheduled?

Tours are scheduled by appointment only; there is no set schedule.

How long do tours last?

The Gilded Age Tour is 45 minutes, and the Grand Tour is 90 minutes.

What is the difference between the Gilded age Tour and the Grand tour?

The Gilded Age tour encompasses the first and second floors of the mansion and the garden, while the Grand Tour also includes the third floor and the tower with a 360-degree view of Charleston.

Is parking available?

There is no parking on site, however, street parking is available. Please give yourself ample time to find parking before your tour. Click here for a live map of the available parking nearby.

Can I take photos or videos during the tour?

Taking photos or videos is not permitted in the mansion, however, you may do so in the gardens.

What is your cancellation policy?

There are no refunds given within 24 hours of your scheduled tour. Tours may be canceled up to 24 hours before the tour begins, and you will receive a full refund.

are your tours accessible to people with Physical limitations?

Limited elevator service is available once inside. Our tours do include climbing stairs to enter the mansion, so they are not accessible for those in wheelchairs or with other physical limitations that would prevent them from climbing stairs.

ARe restrooms available?

Yes, we have a restroom available for our guests.

Do you offer tours for private or larger groups?

Yes, we do offer group tours and private tours for larger groups. Please call us for more information and reservations.

can I leave strollers, bikes or wheelchairs on site during the tour?

Yes, we can safely keep your walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, bikes or strollers at the mansion while you enjoy the tour.

Why did the mansion change names from Calhoun to williams?

The original name of the residence was the Williams Mansion, as it was built by George Walton Williams and in his family from the 1870s to the 1920s. The Williams name was removed and replaced by Calhoun for business purposes in the early 1900s when the mansion was leased to a nearby hotel as an annex. At that time, the name Calhoun was popular, so it was likely a public relations decision to draw more people to stay there.