Gina Fennell (19.11.2017 23:29)
I've lived in the Charleston area for 26 years and can't believe I just visited this gem this year for the first time. I have visited twice in the last three months. I plan on taking all my out of guests here. You need to visit more than once to take it all in. There are so many priceless antiques and works of art to see. They don't call it the OMG house for nothing! Denise was my tour guide both times. She is a wealth of knowledge and makes the tour fun and interesting. I highly recommend her tour. The Calhoun Mansion is a must see!!
Meghan Scanlon (18.11.2017 14:19)
This is one of the most incredible (and almost visually overwhelming) collections of treasures from around the world. There are countless, over the top impressive, treasures from China, Japan, Russia, the Middle East, and other far reaches of the world. Our tour guide had SO much knowledge of just about every piece in the house and the history of the mansion. Be prepared to see each room is totally packed with treasures which is overwhelming at first, and you can’t take photos. Which ultimately was nice as I ended up looking at all the details and opulence in total awe. We saw tons of Tiffany chandeliers, lamps, vases, a faberge egg, a Japanese emperors chair, the most gorgeous music room... and it goes on. The gardens are worth a stroll even if you don’t go into the museum. Admission is a little pricey, but to have access to such history and treasure was worth it IMO.
Madison U (11.11.2017 00:06)
Just left very informed and happy! Wonderful structure full of the current families costly antique collections from across the world! The man giving the tour was patient, funny, and encouraged questions. The bad reviews must be people who cannot appreciate the arts of that home. Tour is $16 a person and worth every penny!
Francis Cardella (28.10.2017 03:57)
I just read the review by Tim Breen and my wife and I feel that his review hit the nail on the head. We visited this house thinking that it was the home of John C. Calhoun but it never was. It actually belonged to his grandson, Patrick Calhoun. Very misleading.
As Tim Breen stated, the house is filled with the collectibles of the current owner and to be honest it looks like a warehouse.
At $16 per visitor we felt that it was the most overpriced disappointment of our time in Charleston. We would definitely advise that you save your money and go elsewhere.
The only plus was that the young girl who conducted the tour was very personable and knowledgeable and witty.
Maya Autret (10.07.2017 18:43)
This mansion, by far, was the highlight of our extensive Charleston visit. Although we visited more than 10 houses and 5 plantations, Calhoun stood out! We did the Grand Tour, which was worth every penny of its hefty $75/person price tag. We got a generous 90 minute private tour, which included many floors, many rooms, and the largest, most impressive collection of art and antiques collection I have ever seen from around the world (and I say this as someone who visited the Newport mansions and historic homes throughout NY, NJ, CT).
We took our three kids with us (ages 8-9 yo), and they loved it as much as my husband and me. The tour guide was especially great with them, pointing out items that would especially appeal to them, and allowing them to go on the antique elevator. We truly felt like special guests in a private home. The fact that the house is actively lived in by its owners also wowed me. We felt very fortunate that they shared their beautiful collection with us. At the end, we were hugging folks goodbye, as we purchased the book, which includes great photography of the many rooms and items - a wonderful souvenir.
Please, take the time, and the extra expense, to check out the Grand Tour, which is far more extensive than the standard cheaper tour. Treat yourself.