The College of Charleston is a historic university campus at 66 George St in downtown Charleston. Founded in 1770, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Walk among historic buildings, leafy grounds and live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and look for the central Cistern Yard. Free self-guided and student-led tours give the campus more context. The college is also known as a filming location, including for scenes from The Notebook.
A campus founded in 1770
The College of Charleston was established in 1770, before the American Revolution. It began as a colonial college focused on a classical education, including languages, philosophy and science. Three signers of the Declaration of Independence and three signers of the US Constitution were among its founders.
The institution has grown into a public liberal arts and sciences university with programs across a range of fields. Its downtown campus remains closely tied to the history and daily life of Charleston. The grounds occupy several city blocks, so a walk here offers a change of pace from the surrounding streets without leaving the city center.
Cistern Yard and the historic buildings
Cistern Yard is the oldest part of the campus and one of its defining spaces. Live oaks shade the green, with Spanish moss hanging from their branches. The yard is used for graduation ceremonies and concerts, including events during Spoleto Festival USA.
Randolph Hall stands beside the yard, marked by a Greek Revival portico. Philadelphia architect William Strickland designed the building in 1828. Its construction involved the labor of enslaved people, an important part of the building’s history. The campus’s historic architecture and landscaped paths make it easy to pause and look closely at details as you walk.
Tours, campus life and film locations
Free self-guided and student-led tours are available for visitors who want to explore the campus. A guided walk can add context to the buildings and the college’s history; a self-guided visit lets you set your own pace. Check the college website for current tour information and events.
Students give the downtown campus an active feel, while the grounds provide a quieter place to walk among the older buildings and trees. The college has also appeared in several films. Scenes from The Notebook were filmed on campus, as were scenes from Cold Mountain and The Patriot. If you recognize a location from the screen, the historic buildings and Cistern Yard are useful places to start looking.
FAQ
Is the College of Charleston campus free to visit?
The campus is free to explore, and both self-guided and student-led tours are free.
What should I see at the College of Charleston?
Walk through Cistern Yard, the oldest part of the campus, and look at Randolph Hall’s Greek Revival portico.
When is a good time to visit the campus?
Spring and fall bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds on campus.
How can I take a campus tour?
You can explore on a free self-guided tour or join a free student-led tour. Check the college website for tour information.
