Charleston

Horse & Carriage Tours

This tour begins at the Big Red Barn in downtown Charleston, where you'll meet a knowledgeable driver-guide and settle into a carriage drawn by either horses or mules. Follow a route that takes in some of the historic downtown district’s most elegant mansions and gardens, learning about the architecture of each place as you drive along. Catch the scent of jasmine flowers from deep, shady porches, and pass by rows of bristling palmetto trees. Get an overview of Charleston’s dramatic history, from long-ago pirate raids to plantations, Revolutionary battles, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. The city was founded in 1670, and Charleston's historic buildings have been meticulously preserved and restored. Guides combine humor with history for a lighthearted experience of Charleston’s atmospheric center, and you'll cover between 25 and 30 blocks of the downtown district. This tour concludes with drop-off at the Big Red Barn.

Palmetto Carriage Works, family owned and operated, has been leading tours since 1972.   They are the oldest and largest carriage company in town and boast the most experienced guides.  Their 35-minute evening tour is great way to get in a quick overview of Charleston's world famous history and charm.  Sights include the Charleston City Market, The Old Walled City, Waterfront Park and The Forner Corners of Law. Tours start and end in The Big Red Barn at 8 Guignard street where all are invited to visit with the animals and learn about their world class animal welfare program.   Carriages are easy loading and handicap accessible.  

Leave from Myrtle Beach in an air-conditioned motorcoach. Once in Charleston, your all-day itinerary includes Palmetto Carriage Works Tour, Hop on a mule driven carriage for a historic old city tour. Learn about Charleston’s rich history from your knowledgable guide. Relish the sight of magnificent homes and gardens. See the historical sites of the old city on a mule-driven carriage ride. Visit the Charleston harbor. Board the Carolina Belle for a 90-minute tour of the harbor, narrated by your captain. See 75 points of interest including the USS Yorktown and the Battery while enjoying in a delicious deli-style boxed lunch. Explore the Boone Hall Plantation, a 738-acre plantation. See the historic brick slave cabins, a smokehouse, and a cotton gin. Receive a guided tour from a costumed hostess and learn about Southern elegance, strife, and charm. Time permitting, you'll be able to browse the open-air Market as you make your way back to the bus. See where the original settlers purchased their daily needs. Take home a souvenir ranging from hand-woven baskets to one-of-a-kind artwork before heading back to Myrtle Beach.

Experience Charleston on a private carriage ride. See the “Holy City” in a more intimate setting with your own personal tour guide, who will tell you all about the historical buildings, parks and plazas of the city. You'll get to see more than 25 blocks of this historic town.  For a truly memorable experience, choose the evening option to see the sun set over the city and the city lights coming on.  You will be travelling in a Palmetto vis a vis carriage, where two benches face each other, offering a wonderful experience for a small group or family.