Charleston isn’t just about historic streets and stunning architecture; it’s a city that offers a fantastic variety of workshops and classes that let you get a real taste of its culture. Unlike generic sightseeing, these experiences give you hands-on opportunities to learn, sample, and create. Whether you’re a foodie eager to master Lowcountry dishes, a cocktail enthusiast ready for some secret speakeasy mixology, or simply curious about local culinary traditions, Charleston’s workshops offer authentic insights and memorable moments.
What makes these options especially appealing is their focus on interactive learning and the chance to bring home new skills—think recipes, cocktail techniques, or culinary stories. Plus, they often include delicious samples or meals, making your time in Charleston both educational and flavorful. Planning ahead is wise, as these workshops tend to book quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
1. Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class
At number one, this half-day tour blends history, food, and hands-on cooking into a single immersive experience. Led by a celebrated local chef, Forrest Parker, you’ll start with a 1.5-hour walk through Charleston’s historic French Quarter, exploring the influence of Lowcountry cuisine on the city’s architecture and culture. This walking tour is packed with stories about Charleston’s past, making it more than just a culinary stroll.
After soaking in the sights and sounds, you’ll move to a demonstration kitchen where Chef Parker shows you how to prepare a regional dish, sharing his recipes so you can recreate the meal at home. The highlight is enjoying a lunch paired with wine, crafted from ingredients and techniques you’ve just learned. With a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 900 reviews, guests love the blend of history and food, praising Forrest’s humor and knowledge. One reviewer called it a “great history lesson with a fabulous meal,” emphasizing how well the tour captures Charleston’s essence.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for history buffs and food lovers who want a comprehensive, flavorful look at Charleston. Its combination of walking, storytelling, and cooking makes for a memorable four-hour experience that offers fantastic value for $250.
2. Hands-on Cooking Class in Charleston
For those looking to get hands dirty in the kitchen, the Hands-on Cooking Class in Charleston is a top pick. Priced at $89 per person, this two-hour class takes place in a charming 19th-century setting in Charleston’s historic French Quarter, giving you a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Led by a seasoned Lowcountry culinary expert, the class focuses on regional dishes that define Charleston’s food scene.
What makes this class special is its interactive nature. You’re involved in every step—making biscuits, pimento cheese, and Huguenot torte—then enjoying your creations afterward. The instructor, Beth, is praised for her expertise and engaging teaching style, sharing not just recipes but the history behind each dish. Reviewers mention that everyone, including teenagers, had a great time learning and cooking together, with one saying, “Everyone had fun at the class.”
This experience is perfect for travelers who want to learn regional recipes firsthand without spending an entire day. It’s a fantastic value at just under $90, especially considering the personalized attention and the chance to recreate authentic Southern flavors at home.
Bottom line: If you prefer a small-group, hands-on culinary experience with a friendly guide, this class offers a delightful way to dive into Lowcountry cuisine in a relaxed setting.
3. Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class
Number three on our list is the Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class, a fun, engaging way to explore Charleston’s cocktail culture. Held at the legendary Frontier Lounge in downtown Charleston, this two-hour class costs $117 per person and is hosted by Tommy Alchemy and Alchemix Certified Hosts. Known for their over 2,500 five-star reviews, the team offers an experience that’s both educational and entertaining.
Participants learn to craft a variety of classic and creative cocktails, while sharing plenty of laughs and interesting tidbits about Charleston’s prohibition-era history. The class is described as lighter than traditional bartending courses, making it accessible for all skill levels. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere, with one saying, “Skylar was a hoot and shared fun facts about crafting the best cocktails.” Many mention the delicious drinks and the chance to stand behind the bar—an exciting highlight for most.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a social, interactive night out, especially if you’re interested in history or want a memorable way to experience Charleston’s nightlife. The mix of humor, history, and expertly made drinks makes this a popular choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for social drinkers and curious cocktail fans, this class offers a lively, relaxed introduction to mixology in one of Charleston’s most iconic speakeasies.
How to Choose Your Perfect Workshop or Class in Charleston
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re eager for a comprehensive experience that combines history, food, and a meal, the Undiscovered Charleston tour is a smart choice. For a more focused, hands-on cooking adventure, the Cooking Class offers a great balance of learning and tasting. If you prefer an evening of fun with cocktails and a bit of Charleston’s prohibition past, then the Speakeasy Cocktail Class is perfect.
Budget, time, and personal interests should guide your choice. The cooking class is the most budget-friendly, while the half-day tour offers a culinary and historical deep dive. The cocktail class is best suited for those who enjoy socializing over drinks and exploring local stories.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall, when these popular experiences tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Charleston’s workshops and classes provide a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of the city’s culinary traditions, history, and culture. Top of the list is the Undiscovered Charleston tour for its comprehensive approach and excellent reviews. For a hands-on experience, the Cooking Class delivers authentic Southern recipes in a cozy environment. If you’re after a lively, social evening, the Speakeasy Cocktail Class offers fun, drinks, and stories all in one.
No matter your preference, these options give you a more personal, flavorful way to experience Charleston beyond sightseeing. Be sure to book early, especially if visiting in peak months, so you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.