Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston

4.8 (3,868 reviews) Charleston, USA
Duration1h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 16 travelers

Overview

Charleston's oldest carriage company invites you aboard for the tour that started it all. Since 1972, Palmetto Carriage Works has explored the streets of this historic city with licensed guides who bring real local knowledge, wit, and humor to every ride. Discover stunning houses, lush gardens, grand mansions, charming churches, and picturesque parks while learning about Charleston's rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant flora. It's an exciting, dynamic experience — a seamless blend of 19th-century conveyance and 21st-century Charleston charm. With multiple departures throughout the day and open-air carriages built for great photos, don't miss your chance to explore the "Holy City" this way.

What's included

  • Multiple departures available throughout the day
  • Perfect family-friendly experience
  • Horse-drawn, hour-long carriage tour of historic Charleston
  • Big Red Barn facility for animal interactions and easy boarding
  • Licensed Tour Guide
  • Gratuities

What to expect

  1. Palmetto Carriage Works
    15m
    Meet your certified tour guide at Palmetto Carriage Works (AKA the Big Red Barn), the starting point for your horse-drawn carriage tour. Enjoy a brief 15-minute orientation and look at our barn before embarking on your journey through historic Charleston.
  2. Charleston City Market
    Pass by
    Our Big Red Barn is conveniently located just off the Charleston City Market. Here, you’ll meet your certified tour guide before departing on your hour-long horse-drawn carriage ride. Your carriage will pass through the city gate at the market, where your guide will assign a unique tour route. Experience approximately 30 blocks of the historic district, showcasing stunning architecture, beautiful churches, gardens, and more. The tour concludes back at the Big Red Barn.
  3. St. Philip's Anglican Church
    Pass by
    As you enjoy your carriage ride, you’ll pass by the renowned St. Philip’s Church, the oldest congregation in the U.S. south of Virginia. Located just off the market on Church Street, this beautiful landmark is a must-see on your Charleston carriage tour.
  4. U.S. Custom House
    Pass by
    Your route also includes a pass by the iconic U.S. Custom House in Charleston, S.C. Construction began in 1852 but was halted due to South Carolina's potential secession from the Union. The building was finally completed in 1879, adding to Charleston's rich history.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet us at 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401 We are the Big Red Barn!

End point

Please meet us at 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401 We are the Big Red Barn!

Additional 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
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

4.8 (3,868)
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$49.95 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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