Showing 20 experiences
From $50.00
Charleston: Downtown Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Step into a world where history and charm collide on this enchanting tour through Charleston’s historic downtown district. As you settle into the comfort of your horse-drawn carriage, you’ll be greeted by a licensed tour guide whose passion for the city shines through in every story. With their deep knowledge and engaging personality, they’ll be your companion as you explore the captivating streets of the “Holy City.” As the carriage gently glides alongside cobblestone paths and beneath grand oak trees draped in Spanish moss, you’ll discover the stunning houses that have stood the test of time. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the antebellum mansions, each telling its own tale of the past. Your guide will share insights into the unique styles and historical significance of these homes, painting a vivid picture of Charleston's rich heritage. Along the way, you’ll wander past lush gardens bursting with color and fragrant blooms, where the vibrant flora adds to the city’s allure. Each stop reveals picturesque parks and charming churches, with their steeples reaching towards the sky, reminding visitors of Charleston's deep-rooted traditions and spiritual history. As the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston, Palmetto Carriage Works has perfected the art of storytelling. Your guide will weave together fascinating anecdotes, historical facts, and a touch of humor, ensuring that your journey is not only informative but also entertaining. Feel free to ask questions along the way—this interactive experience allows you to delve deeper into the aspects of Charleston that pique your interest. This unforgettable tour is a seamless blend of 19th-century conveyance and the dynamic energy of a 21st-century city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Palmetto Carriage Tour offers a unique perspective of Charleston that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss your chance to explore the beauty and history of Charleston in this delightful and immersive way. Join us for a memorable adventure that captures the essence of this remarkable city!
From $92.00
Charleston: Magnolia Plantation Entry & Tour with Transport
Witness a slice of living history at Magnolia Plantation and its world-famous gardens, owned by the Drayton family for 12 generations. Visit the Historic Gardens and Wildlife Center. Begin your half-day tour by boarding a climate-controlled coach in Charleston. Meet your Gray Line driver and ride to Magnolia Plantation, dating from 1676 and the time of the British colony. Step into one of America's first tourist attractions and first public gardens, which have been open to the public since 1870. Take a guided walk through America's last large-scale romantic garden. Experience history on a 30-minute narrated tram ride through the Audobon Swamp Gardens and visit important locations like Drayton Home (not Drayton Hall), Orientation Theater, and the Old African American Cabin.
From $52.00
Charleston: Morris Island Lighthouse Eco-Boat Tour
Morris Island Lighthouse Boat Tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures Embark on an unforgettable journey with Charleston Outdoor Adventures to the Morris Island Lighthouse, where Charleston’s coastal ecosystem and saltwater estuaries come alive. Departing from our private historic location on Bowens Island, just minutes from Folly Beach, this boat tour takes you through the breathtaking tidal creeks, teeming with diverse wildlife. Guided by an expert captain and naturalist from COA, you’ll navigate the winding creeks while learning about the intricate biodiversity of the saltwater estuaries. Keep your eyes peeled for Residential Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, migratory birds, sea turtles, and other captivating creatures that call these waters home. Upon reaching Morris Island, the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse will greet you, standing proudly on the horizon. Enjoy an hour of uninterrupted beach time, where you can explore the island’s sandy shores, search for coastal sea shells, marine fossils, and elusive shark teeth, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery. With the lighthouse as your backdrop, you’ll have ample opportunities for amazing photos and dolphin sightings, making this excursion one to remember. After your beachcombing adventure, rejoin your group for a scenic boat ride back to Bowens Island, reflecting on the wonder and beauty of your experience with COA. This Morris Island excursion offers the perfect combination of discovery, relaxation, and the natural charm of South Carolina’s Lowcountry with the expertise of Charleston Outdoor Adventures.
From $65.00
Charleston: Iconic Sunset Sail on Luxury Catamaran with Bar
Step aboard the Palmetto Breeze and experience Charleston’s golden hour like never before. This 50-foot luxury catamaran offers a front-row seat to the city’s stunning harbor, where historic landmarks and natural beauty come alive as the sun sets. Glide past iconic sights such as Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Charleston Peninsula, all aglow in the evening light. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins and seabirds as you sip on a drink from the onboard bar, featuring local beers, seltzers, and wine. With comfortable seating, shaded areas, and open deck space for panoramic views, this 2-hour sunset sail is the perfect way to relax and reconnect with the beauty of Charleston. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic evening, a family outing, or a night out with friends, this unforgettable experience is a highlight of any Charleston visit. Don’t forget your camera—this is a sunset you’ll want to remember forever!
From $50.00
Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
Ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage through historic downtown Charleston on a guided tour. Listen to live commentary about the city as you pass by the Charleston Harbor, Rainbow Row, King Street, White Point Gardens, and Charleston Battery. Begin the tour at the activity provider's stables. Board a beautiful custom-built carriage and depart from the barn. Ride toward the city gate, located in the Old City Market. Learn about the city's rich history from a professional guide while traveling aboard a unique vehicle. Gaze at vibrant neighborhoods and elegant buildings from your seat. Experience the highlights of the historic downtown area, such as Charleston Harbor, Rainbow Row, 4 Corners of Law, King Street, White Point Gardens, and the Charleston Battery. Take in informative and entertaining commentary from your guide, before arriving back at the stables.
From $29.00
Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
Experience the best of Charleston with this popular History and Architecture Tour of Charleston’s Historic Downtown. Take an immersive journey through secret alleys and colorful corridors, uncovering the city’s rich history and colorful architecture. Expert guides will provide fascinating insights into Charleston’s past and present, making this tour an unforgettable experience. The tour starts in the Historic Downtown. From there your guide will lead you through the South of Broad the French Quarter Districts with their charming architecture, cobblestone streets and historic homes, and finishes at the famous Pineapple Fountain. Highlights include visits to three hidden alleys, the beautiful wrought iron work on centuries old gates, visiting the interior of St Michaels Church, the Dock St Theatre and the Old Exchange (all subject to availability), famous Rainbow Row, bustling City Market and historic St Philip’s Church.
From $125.00
Charleston: Low Country and Shores E-Bike Tour
Add something special to your trip to Charleston with a leisurely scenic tour by e-bike. Cruise past the city's highlights and hidden gems. Ride with a guide through the old village to Pitt St. Bridge, Shem Creek Park to spot dolphins, and Sullivan's Island. Head back along South Carolina's beachy shores. The route will take you first into the old village and then to Pitt St. Bridge with stunning views of Fort Sumter. Ride through neighborhoods lined with oak trees and Spanish moss. Pass by stunning Southern estate homes, marshlands, boardwalks, and more. Next, ride through Shem Creek Park. With an active shrimp boat fleet and the chance to see dolphins, a visit to Shem Creek is sure to be unforgettable. Then, head to Sullivan’s Island and check out the pristine beach. Ride along the shoreline on your way back to the meeting point.
From $149.00
Charleston: Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip
Set off from Charleston and see some of the highlights of Wadmalaw Island and the Lowcountry. Admire the 500-year-old angel oak tree, enjoy some tea at the Charleston Tea Garden, and savor wine at a local vineyard. First, visit Angel Tree Park and see the famous angel oak tree, thought to be one of the oldest organisms east of the Mississippi. At 65 feet high and with a circumference of 25.5 feet, this beautiful 500-year-old tree is an awe-inspiring sight. Stop by the Charleston Tea Garden, with hundreds of thousands of tea bushes stretching as far as the eye can see. Take the trolley ride, which makes a stop at a state-of-the-art greenhouse. Enjoy complimentary tea samples as you stroll the beautiful grounds and learn all about how tea is made. Finally, visit Deep Water Vineyard. They grow and harvest their grapes, as well as bottle their wines directly on site. Explore the vineyard which also includes walking trails, many different animals, a garden, a large pond, and a gift shop. Return to the pickup point at the end of the tour.
From $53.00
Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
Get on board as we explore the creeks and marshes behind Folly beach while we search for the wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins that live here year-round. Your experienced captain shares their knowledge about this beautiful ecosystem, the local history, and our famous dolphins while always operating the vessel in a way that is safe and respectful of the resident wildlife. During the tour, be on the lookout for strand feeding, a dolphin hunting technique that is unique to this part of the world. Strand feeding is usually seen July – September. You get to explore these backwaters and navigate to historic Morris Island, where you can hunt for fossils, sea shells, and sand dollars. **SINGLE BOOKINGS OR COUPLES** Call our shop to discuss the best tour time for your group's booking! Join us on our signature dolphin tour for an experience you’re not likely to forget. The tour lasts around two hours and can accommodate up to 18 people. BYOB!
From $109.00
Charleston: Historic Downtown Food Tour
Sample southern cuisine from several world-class restaurants located in the heart of Charleston’s Historic District, and learn a little history while you do it. Enjoy VIP access as you skip the line into some of Charleston’s top restaurants while skipping the line. Sample some Charleston's signature plates like: hushpuppies, carrot cake, she-crab soup, oysters, and shrimp and grits. Between restaurant stops, your guide will walk you through Charleston’s beautiful cobblestone streets, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Old Exchange building and the Pineapple fountain at Waterfront Park. Each stop is not a full meal, but by the end of our tour the samples should equal a full portion of food. Each stop at food establishments should be around 20 minutes total with the entirety of the tour coming in at about 2 hours long. Please note, child tickets (ages 0 - 6) do not include food
From $500.00
Charleston: Private BYOB Luxury Sailing Cruise
Enjoy a 2 1/2 hour private chartered cruise for up to 6 guests on a monohull cruising yacht. Choose between daytime or sunset sailing to see the best view of the Holy City. Whether you are 6 people or 2 people, you will have the entire boat to yourselves. Meet the charter at the marina, sail past the Charleston Battery, and take in the sites of downtown Charleston. Once past the peninsula, you will have clear views of Charleston and its surrounding areas from the heart of the harbor. You can view iconic scenes of Castle Pinckney, the Ravenel Bridge, the USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter and more as we continue our sail through the Harbor. Bring your camera for all the scenes but also keep your eyes on the water as dolphins are often seen swimming around the boat. Feel free to bring your own alcohol, snacks and other beverages on to the boat. Bottled water and soda are offered onboard. An extra refrigerator and glassware are kept onboard for guests to utilize.
From $40.00
Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket with Roundtrip Ferry
Enjoy a ferry ride to the grounds of Fort Sumter and explore the grounds at your own pace. Pass by the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and take in the sights of Charleston’s stately Rainbow Row and Battery homes. As you approach Fort Sumter, graceful sailboats and playful dolphins add to the photogenic scene. If you depart from Mt. Pleasant you will enjoy views of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close, while tours embarking from downtown will see Aquarium Wharf as they depart and return. Arrive at The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, which sits prominently at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, a strategic location that was crucial to its defense. While here, explore the grounds of Fort Sumter. Stand on the grounds where America’s deadliest war began at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. The first shots were fired here, igniting a conflict that saw more than 700,000 casualties. Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War and explore its origins with a National Park Ranger. Your approximate 1-hour visit to Fort Sumter allows ample time to explore well-preserved fort ruins and browse Museum Store souvenirs. A visit to Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park provides a window into the life and trials of America’s heroes, from the Civil War to today’s modern conflicts. Learn about the events leading to the war from knowledgeable National Park Rangers who will relay stories of courageous heroes in action from the Civil War’s first battle. Walk in the steps of those who shaped this nation alongside a National Park Ranger. Then enjoy the beautiful views of the city as you ride the ferry back to Charleston.
From $42.00
Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
Cruise through the Charleston Harbor on an old-fashioned 1920s-Bay-Steamer-replica yacht. Enjoy live narration from the captain and purchase treats from a fully-stocked drink and snack bar. See the Civil and Revolutionary war sights and keep an eye out for dolphins. Relax in the enclosed observatory or on the partially-covered upper deck. Listen carefully as your captain guides you on a journey through more than 300 years of American history. You’ll pass by 75 landmarks and points-of-interest on this 20-mile trip. Get close-up views of the “Holy City,” including Fort Sumter - where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Glide past Confederate and Union army forts and see the famous “Fighting Lady” of World War II. Pass by remnants of the Civil and Revolutionary wars and look for local wildlife like dolphins and pelicans splashing nearby. Choose between indoor or outdoor seating.
From $79.00
Charleston: Boone Hall Plantation Entry & Tour w/ Transport
Hop aboard a comfortable and air-conditioned bus at the Charleston Visitor Center downtown and relax on the drive to Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant. Begin your tour on the front porch of the plantation with a guide in historical clothing. Be introduced to the the history of Boone Hall Plantation and its evolution through several owners since 1681. Watch the "Slave Cabin and History Presentation" for a look at the living quarters, historic relics, and lifestyle of the enslaved people who lived here at Boone Hall. Gain insights into the culture and life of enslaved people with moving stories and songs performed at the Gullah Theater. Stroll around manicured grounds and soak up the beauty of the gardens where one of the main features are antique roses that are over 100 years old. Be mesmerized by fluttering wings in the Butterfly Pavilion (in season). Board a tram to see the plantation from a different perspective. Head back to Charleston with a deeper understanding of South Carolina's complicated past.
From $50.00
Charleston: Haunted Carriage Evening Tour
Listen to spine-tingling tales of prisoners, rogues, and pirates that make up the history of Charleston. Cover over 300 years of history from the comfort of your carriage. Mysterious alleys and cobblestones await as your expert guide leads you through Historic Charleston on a 40-minute Haunted Carriage Tour. Start the tour at Old South Carriage Company's stables where the tour explores the 15 block core that comprises Historic Charleston. Along the way you will see Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Circular Congregational Church and Graveyard, Charleston City Market, and St. Michael's Episcopal Church. All tour guides of this activity are members of the Palmetto Guild, which indicates that they have successfully passed a comprehensive examination of the history of Charleston.
From $25.00
Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch
Experience the wonder of sailing on a classic, 84-foot tall ship in the idyllic setting of Charleston Harbor. As you cruise, marvel at the power of the wind filling the sails and the tranquility of the sea. Catch glimpses of historic landmarks, like Fort Sumter, and dolphins gamboling on the waves. Begin your sailing excursion at the Aquarium Wharf. There, meet your captain and crew of the striking, 3-masted ship known as the Schooner Pride. Admire the character and class of this authentic model of the classic coastal trading schooners. Next, prepare to set sail and help the crew as you begin to pull away from the dock. Once the sails are raised, sit back and relax on the benches lining the main deck. Enjoy views of Charleston Harbor stretching out before you. Continue your tour as you cruise past Charleston highlights, such as Fort Sumter, Fort Johnson, and Yorktown Point. Onwards, discover the historic waterfront area of Castle Pinckney. Sail further on waters that Blackbeard once traveled before returning to Aquarium Wharf.
From $37.00
Charleston: Historic City Highlights Guided Bus Tour
Accompanied by a knowledgeable, local guide, pass by 100 of Charleston’s most iconic sights of the past and present whilst listening to amazing tales and anecdotes about the city. On your tour, travel through some of the city’s most historic parts. Visit Charleston’s Historic Homes, The Battery Sea Wall, the Four Corners of Law, and Rainbow Row to name but a few. Other highlights of the tour include several historic churches, old markets, and picturesque neighborhoods.
From $113.00
Charleston: Historic City Tour & Magnolia Plantation Combo
Begin your half-day tour by boarding a climate-controlled coach in Charleston. Meet your professional guide and ride to Magnolia Plantation, dating from 1676 and the time of the British colony. Witness a slice of living history at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and get an amazing perspective on Charleston's past and present. The Magnolia Plantation and its world-famous gardens have been owned by the Drayton family for 12 generations. Enjoy your visit to one of America's first tourist attractions and first public gardens, which have been open to the public since 1870. Take a guided walk through America's last large-scale Romantic garden, and experience history on a 30-minute narrated nature tram ride through the Audobon swamp gardens. Step out among the Romantic gardens and Spanish moss to see wildlife such as alligators, egrets, herons, and turtles on the nearly 600-acre plantation. Cap it all off with a 30-minute tour of the Magnolia Plantation Home before boarding your bus back to Charleston. Back in the Charleston, your deluxe, climate-controlled shuttle will take you for a 1.5-hour tour of the city’s historical highlights. Accompanied by a knowledgeable, local guide, visit over 100 of Charleston’s most iconic sights of the past and present whilst listening to amazing tales and anecdotes about the city. On your tour, travel through some of the most historic parts of the city and visit Charleston’s historic homes, The Battery Sea Wall, the Four Corners of Law, and Rainbow Row to name but a few. Other highlights of the tour include a number of historic churches, old markets, and picturesque neighborhoods.
From $112.00
Charleston: 3-Hour Secret Food Tour
Our tour starts in front of the Port of Call Food + Brew Hall, where we'll kick off a delicious exploration of Charleston's vibrant food scene. Next, you'll dig into some South Carolina-style BBQ, believed to be the oldest barbeque in the world! As you continue the tour, you'll take a leisurely stroll through the Historic Charleston City Market and delve into the history of the African slave trade's impact on the local cuisine. Discover how classic ingredients such as benne seeds and collard greens were introduced to the local diet and have since become a staple of Lowcountry cuisine. Of course, no visit to the Lowcountry would be complete without sampling some of the freshest seafood our city offers! Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of handmade ice cream crafted from scratch using locally sourced ingredients from Lowcountry farmers, purveyors, and chefs. It's creamy, flavorful, and simply irresistible! As with all our tours, there's our delicious Secret Dish.
From $60.00
Charleston: Sunset Harbor Cruise
Discover Charleston harbor in the evening on a sunset cruise by power catamaran. Watch as the city skyline comes alive with glimmering lights as you admire landmarks like the historic Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, and Fort Sumter. Set off from the Maritime Center and cruise through the surrounding waterways of Charleston Harbor. Keep an eye out for dolphins and shore birds and take in the sights and sounds as the sun sets. Admire the sights of the historic forts, the Battery, the islands, and the lighthouses. See the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge from a different perspective as you cruise beneath it. Enjoy the views of the Charleston skyline as it becomes illuminated for the evening. Relax and choose to purchase some drinks or snacks from the onboard bar as you take in the sights.
