Private Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston

Charleston , United States

Private Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston

Active

(339 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a delightful journey through the heart of Charleston with our exclusive private horse and carriage tour. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, this personalized experience invites you to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture at a leisurely pace. As you settle into the cozy carriage, your certified guide will share captivating stories about Charleston’s storied past, from its colonial beginnings to its vibrant present. This Charleston horse and carriage tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself into Charleston’s vibrant culture.

Begin your private tour of Charleston at the Big Red Barn, just one block off of Market Street in the heart of downtown. Our private horse and carriage tour is the ideal way to create lasting memories in this historic city.

The tour concludes back at Palmetto Carriage Works' Big Red Barn.

Please select (1) during checkout for the group pricing per carriage. Each carriage can accommodate 1-4 people per group.

Available options

Private Carriage (Seats 1-4)

Private Carriage Tour: Please select (1) during checkout to reserve 1 carriage for your group. Each carriage can accommodate 1-4 people.

Private Carriage (Seats 5-8)

Wagonette

What's included

Experience 25-30 blocks of Charleston’s historic downtown district

Learn about buildings, history, architecture, flora and the people that make up the “Holy City”

Pricing at checkout is Per Group (1-4 passengers per group), please select quantity "1" at checkout

See top Charleston sites such as Rainbow Row and Charleston City Market.

Small-Group for a more personalized experience (1-4 People)

Professional Driver/Guide

Private Narrated Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride of Historic Charleston

Detailed itinerary

Carriage tours offered through Palmetto Carriage Works

Stop 2

Pass through the Charleston City Market during your Private Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston

Stop 3 Pass by

Your carriage ride will take you past the famed St. Philips Church, the oldest congregation in the U.S. south of Virginia. Just off of the Market on Church Street, this beautiful landmark is one not to miss.

Pass by the famed U.S. Custom House in Charleston, S.C. Construction began on this iconic building in 1852 but was halted before completion due to the possibility of South Carolina succeeding from the Union. The building was finally finished in 1879.

What's not included

Gratuities

The City's mandated lottery system determines the tour routes. Landmarks are not guaranteed.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

45 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

294 reviews

5★

268

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please select (1) during checkout for the group pricing. Can accommodate 1-4 people per group.

A maximum of 4 people per group

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

The Big Red Barn
8 Guignard Street
Charleston, SC 29401

Important notes

Private tours can accommodate 1-4 people per group.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience