See Charleston’s historic buildings in an historic era-appropriate manner on one of these popular carriage rides around the city.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
One of the great joys of a visit to the largest city in South Carolina is simply exploring the streets, which contain some of the oldest surviving buildings in the United States. Some of Charleston’s finest, such as the Pink House, date to the 1600s. Back in those days, getting around was much slower, but a mule- or horse-drawn carriage tour is a fun way to evoke those days of yore during your trip, while seeing the sights in comfort.
Charleston Downtown Evening Carriage Tour
Proving that carriage tours are not a recent tourism fad in Charleston, the Palmetto Carriage Works has been leading visitors around the city’s downtown area for around 50 years. Among the most popular options is this 35-minute ride past Charleston City Market, the Old Walled City, and many other top sights in the area. This is a shared carriage, so you may be joined by other people. Please note that this tour runs twice a day from Fri to Sun only. From $40 per person.
Charleston Haunted Carriage Evening Tour
If regular carriage rides sound a little too prosaic to you, there’s an alternative evening option available. Making the most of the twilight hours, this 40-minute tour combines a little light sightseeing with a dollop of paranormal activity, taking the ordinary history tour and giving it a spooky twist with tales of hauntings at graveyards and hotels, and of the ghosts of pirates, criminals and prisoners who roam around the city. This tour runs daily. From $45 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Carriage Tour of Charleston’s Historic District
Perhaps the best-loved carriage ride in Charleston is the Palmetto Carriage Works’ hour-long tour. Starting in the downtown area, you’ll get the chance to thoroughly explore the historic heart of this grand old city, with insightful commentary provided along the way. You’ll pass along the waterfront, learning of the city’s role in stories of early pirate raids, the American Civil War, and the Reconstruction era that followed. Regular daily departures are available. From $50 per person.