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The Powder Magazine Historical Museum

Located on Cumberland Street and dwarfed by the surrounding modern buildings, The Powder Magazine is Charlestown's oldest surviving public building. Although small, this unique structure, which was erected in 1713, was used by the colonial settlers to store gunpower supplies. A National Historic Landmark, the helpful docents will guide you through its history with the help of artifacts.

Website: powdermagazinemuseum.org

Phone: (843) 722-9350

Cross Streets: Near the intersection of Cumberland St and Church St

Closed now

  • Thu 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

79 Cumberland St Charleston, SC 29401 ·362.31 mi

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Amenities

  • Family friendly
4.0
142 reviews
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Tripadvisor traveler Stacey L 06/07/26

We passed by the Powder Magazine while on a carriage tour. When walking downtown we found this and the gate was open. The Docent said it was free to explore, but donations were welcome. He was very knowledgeable, engaging and was very enthusiastic while telling us the history of the building and describing the architecture. He made sure to point out interesting little details. This experience was definitely worth leaving a donation and purchasing something fun from the gift shop. A very low key, historical location that does not take a long time tour. Great for younger ones or anyone who does not have a long attention span.

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Tripadvisor traveler Mike K 01/21/26

Stopped on Tuesday to check the place out. All locked up, internet says it is marked as temporarily or permanently closed?

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Tripadvisor traveler Hedgeclipperz 10/20/25

Very informative! Had no idea of it's age or history. Powder storage, wine storage, stable, blacksmith. Excellent visuals, including interactive model. Docent was VERY knowledgeable and added to the story. Difficult to find...so don't give up looking for it.

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Tripadvisor traveler azamora3 09/12/24

Not much to this museum. We only went there because it was included in our Historic Charleston Walking Tour otherwise would not spend the $8 for this self guided tour.

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Tripadvisor traveler 86calgary 02/10/24

We stopped in to the Powder Magazine after going on an historical walking tour. It’s a little off the beaten track but easy to find near the corner of Church and Cumberland streets. Just look for the orange roof. What a great little museum. Dennis was on hand to tell us about the purpose, construction and uses of the building throughout the years. How about storing 2100 bottles of Madeira wine that won’t turn to vinegar in the South Carolina humidity. And an ingenious build that would collapse in on itself if the gun powder were to ignite. There’s lots to see here and we found this quite fascinating. The Cumberland St parking garage is right outside it’s doors. Pop in for a visit.

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