St. Philips Church
The basics
Originally built as a small wooden structure in 1681, on the site of what is currently St. Michael’s Church, St. Philip’s Church moved to its present location in 1710 and was rebuilt in 1835 after a devastating fire. Several notable persons are buried in its graveyard and cemetery, including John C. Calhoun, former Vice President and Secretary of War, Edward Rutledge, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Charles Pinckney, signer of the Constitution. St. Philip’s welcomes visitors to attend its worship services and is featured on a number of guided sightseeing tours including walking tours, historical tours, and ghost tours.
Things to know before you go
- It’s free to enter the church but donations are welcome
- Do not take photos during any worship services.
- Backpacks, suitcases, briefcases, and other large personal belongings are not permitted inside the sanctuary.
How to get there
St. Philip’s Church is located on Church Street between Cumberland and Queen Streets. There is a parking lot and a parking garage. Parking is free only for those attending service or other church activities. All other visitors must pay a fee.
Trip ideas
When to get there
St. Philip’s offers three worship services on Sundays and Wednesdays, and special events from time to time. The sanctuary is opened to the public by volunteer docents during the week. The schedule is usually Monday through Thursday 10am to 4pm and Fridays from 12om to 2pm, but it’s best to call ahead to check. The graveyard and cemetery are open during church business hours Monday through Friday.
Attractions in the French Quarter
The French Quarter is home to many of the top attractions in Charleston. In addition to St. Philip’s Church, it’s also home to the French Huguenot Church and the Circular Congregational Church. Other historical sites of note include the Charleston City Market, the U.S. Customs House, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, the Old Slave Mart Museum, the Powder Magazine, and the Dock Street Theatre. For sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor, stop by Waterfront Park.
- Circular Congregational Church
- Gibbes Museum of Art
- Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
- Charleston City Market
- Charleston Waterfront Park
- Rainbow Row
- Heyward-Washington House
- St. Michael's Church
- Edmondston-Alston House
- The Battery and White Point Garden
- Joseph Manigault House
- Charleston Museum
- Children's Museum of the Lowcountry (CML)
- Aiken-Rhett House
- Aiken-Rhett House