Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Charleston , United States

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

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(9863 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel by horse-drawn carriage along the picturesque streets of Charleston and take in the history of this South Carolina city. See highlights such as historically significant homes, churches and gardens while listening to informative commentary about the city’s role in our nation's history from your certified guide. Enjoy the relaxed pace of a carriage tour as you soak up the southern charm of Charleston.

Available options

Horse & Carriage Ride

What's included

See Charleston highlights such as historically significant homes, churches and gardens

Belgian or Percheron Draft Horse

Certified Driver/Guide

1-Hour Horse & Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Charleston

Hear stories of the city’s role in our nation's history from your certified guide

Detailed itinerary

Our stable is where your tour experience will begin and end. After checking in you can say hi to our draft horses, watch an educational video, purchases a bottle of water, or use our restroom. As you board your carriage via our inclined ramp / easy loading platform, your certified tour guide will greet you.

Stop 2 Pass by

After leaving our stable, your carriage will stop at the City gate near the Market, where a route is assigned by the City of Charleston. Our industry is governed by this system in order to disperse the carriage traffic more evenly throughout the city. Your tour will cover about 30 blocks and 300+ years of history. Though specific landmarks vary by route, all tours pass by sights that give Charleston its unique charm – custom wrought iron gates, well-manicured gardens, historic mansions with picturesque piazzas, and the many church steeples of the “Holy City.”

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

3,569 reviews

5★

3130

4★

257

3★

105

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

6,294 reviews

5★

5619

4★

400

3★

143

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: you MUST check-in 15-minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Failure to do so may result in your reservation being cancelled with out refund.

Carriage can transport up to 16 passengers per departure.

Children 3 years and under are free provided that they sit on the lap of a parent or guardian. If you want your child to have a seat, you must purchase a child seat.

By purchasing tickets for any horse-drawn carriage tour with Old South Carriage Co, participants acknowledge and accept all risks and liabilities associated with the tour, horses, and it’s properties. Old South Carriage Co is not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur; and participants agree to release Old South Carriage Co and it’s employees from all liability.

Meeting point

Departure Point: Old South Carriage
Address: 14 Anson St.
Charleston, SC 29401
Dates: Daily - MUST check-in 15-minutes

Important notes

Old South Carriage Co
14 Anson St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

• Parking is NOT included with your ticket. City parking lot is located across the street from the barn and additionally on surrounding streets at metered parking spots.

• All tours leave at the scheduled booking time. Customers MUST arrive 15 minutes prior to their reservation time. If you have not checked in 15-minutes prior to your departure time, we may not have availability to push you back.

• Children 3 years and under are free, provided that they sit on the lap of a parent or guardian. If you want your child to have a seat, you must purchase a child ticket.
- Carriages seat a maximum of 16 passengers, groups larger than 16 will need to be split up.

TERMS and RELEASE of LIABILITY:
By purchasing tickets for any horse-drawn carriage tour with Old South Carriage Co, participants acknowledge and accept all risks and liabilities associated with the tour, horses, and it’s properties. Old South Carriage Co is not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur; and participants agree to release Old South Carriage Co and it’s employees from all liability. For more information, please visit oldsouthcarriage.com/terms

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