Charleston Horse & Carriage Historic Sightseeing Tour

Charleston , United States

Charleston Horse & Carriage Historic Sightseeing Tour

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(455 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

Experience the beauty and history of downtown Charleston from underneath the awning of a horse drawn carriage. Listen to the rich stories told by your engaging guide as you are lead through a time of revolution and splendor. This relaxing 1-hour, fully narrated group tour leads you through the quaint and charming streets of downtown Charleston. You will see beautiful gardens and parks, stately mansions, historic churches and buildings all the while learning about the people and events that shaped the history of this "Holy City". Tours depart approximately every 30 minutes beginning at 9:30am and your specific start time will be assigned to you upon check-in.

Available options

Historic Carriage Tour

Tours depart every 30-Minutes starting at 9:30am on a first come first served basis.

What's included

Opportunity to engage with the horses up close ahead of or after tour

See beautiful gardens and parks, stately mansions, and historic churches

Professional guide

1-Hour Historic Horse & Carriage Ride of Charleston

Learn about the people and events that shaped the history of this "Holy City"

Photo opportunities with the horses

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

All tours start and finish in the Historic City Market where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure.

Stop 2

Stops along the way vary depending on which route through the historic district we are given by the City of Charleston. There are several tour routes possible, and highlights of your tour could include notable sites such as historic White Point Gardens, better known as “The Battery.” These highlights are just a fraction of all the incredible historic sights you might see on one of our tours around Charleston, depending on which route your tour takes.
All tours finish in the Historic City Market where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure.

Stop 3

Stops along the way vary depending on which route through the historic district we are given by the City of Charleston. There are several tour routes possible, and highlights of your tour could include notable sites such as Rainbow Row. These highlights are just a fraction of all the incredible historic sights you might see on one of our tours around Charleston, depending on which route your tour takes.
All tours finish in the Historic City Market where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure.

Stop 4

Stops along the way vary depending on which route through the historic district we are given by the City of Charleston. There are several tour routes possible, and highlights of your tour could include notable sites such as historic Nathaniel Russell House. These highlights are just a fraction of all the incredible historic sights you might see on one of our tours around Charleston, depending on which route your tour takes.
All tours finish in the Historic City Market where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure.

Stop 5

Stops along the way vary depending on which route through the historic district we are given by the City of Charleston. There are several tour routes possible, and highlights of your tour could include notable sites such as St Philips Church. These highlights are just a fraction of all the incredible historic sights you might see on one of our tours around Charleston, depending on which route your tour takes.
All tours finish in the Historic City Market where you are free to enjoy your next Charleston adventure.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

185 reviews

5★

146

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

270 reviews

5★

221

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: Routes are chosen prior to departure on the date of travel. This is determined by a City of Charleston Tourism official and is out of the control of the local operator.

Please note: Tours depart approximately every 30 minutes starting at 9:30am on a first come first served basis, you will be assigned a specific departure time when you check in for your tour on the day of travel.

Meeting point

Directions: Please check in with an attendant at the desk inside our barn at 45 Pinckney Street.
Dates: Tours depart approximately every 20 to 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 5pm during daylight savings (the last carriage will depart at 4pm during non-daylight savings time)

Important notes

• Company: Carolina Polo and Carriage Company
• Kindly note tours depart approximately every 30 minutes starting at 9:30am and are available on a first come first served basis, this voucher does not guarantee you a specific start time. Please check in at our barn at 45 Pinckney St on your selected day prior to your preferred time of departure and you will be assigned to the next available tour.

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