A new way to experience Charleston, even for those who call it home

Charleston is a vibrant city steeped in history and brimming with excitement. However, for many full-time residents, the true magic of the area only unfolds when friends come to visit.  

Among the fortunate who call the Lowcountry home is Dana Moore, a recent resident of Daniel Island and the creative force behind Experience Moore Tours. Since 2015, Dana has been crafting bespoke tours in downtown Charleston, offering a personalized way to explore this enchanting city.  

Moore has conducted thousands of tours and currently serves as vice president of the Charleston Tour Association. With a background in education and theater, she believes the best way to experience a city is through stories that are engaging, personal, and unforgettable. 

At the heart of her work is a mission to introduce visitors and residents alike to the rich, layered history of Charleston – “especially for those who have recently made this area home and are eager to better understand the place they now live,” Moore said.  

“As a new Daniel Island neighbor, I would love for the local community to know these experiences are available to them, whether they are hosting out-of-town guests, planning a family outing, or simply looking to rediscover the Holy City in a fresh way,” Moore said. 

Her tour offerings include Streets & Eats, designed for small groups. This private walking and tasting tour through Charleston’s French Quarter and South of Broad features the iconic Rainbow Row, offering grab-and-go bites and one sit-down tasting. 

Moore's personal favorite tour is called Whale of a Tale, a family-friendly history adventure featuring Wally, Charleston’s most lovable whale. Daniel Island resident Debbie Keeley absolutely loves the Whale of a Tale tour.  

“It’s perfect for families with kids ages 10 and under and a guaranteed hit for the adults too! It is more than just the facts – she shares her knowledge in an approachable manner for all ages through stories and experiences, ones that you find yourself sharing on walks in the city with friends, spreading her knowledge. (Moore) knows the city so well that she can take you down alleyways you never noticed and provides a view and perspective that is so unique and fascinating. By the end of the tour, I knew I would go on another tour with her with or without visitors!” 

Keeley discovered Moore Tours while looking for someone to take her and some out of town visitors around Charleston. 

“How lucky I was to have been given her name by a friend. I now recommend her to all of my local friends for a fun day or evening out while learning about where we live. I can’t wait to go on more of them.”   

Moore is aiming to be more than just your typical tour company. 

“My hope for Experience Moore Tours is to go beyond entertaining tourists, bringing the history to life for those that are recently calling Charleston home and to provide couples and families lasting memories.”  

According to Moore's website, experiencemooretours.com, tours begin at $85 and up.