Charleston Style VIP Tour

Explore Charleston with a Private Guide for an Authentic Experience

The Charleston Style VIP Tour offers an immersive journey through one of America’s oldest cities, priced at $350 per person for a 7-hour adventure. This private tour, operated by DTours, is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized exploration of Charleston’s historic neighborhoods, waterfront, and nearby plantations. The tour includes private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water, with the option for pickup at the Charleston Visitor Center.

This tour stands out for its flexible itinerary, allowing guests to choose a lunch location between Downtown Charleston and Mt. Pleasant. The tour also visits either Boone Hall Plantation or McLeod Historic Site, showcasing different sides of plantation history. With a 5.0/5 review rating based on 6 reviews, this experience is highly regarded for its knowledgeable guides and comprehensive coverage of Charleston’s highlights. The only notable consideration is that the lunch cost is not included in the price, so planning accordingly is advised. This tour suits visitors eager for a deeper, more tailored understanding of Charleston’s architecture, history, and scenic waterfront.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour with customizable stops and expert guides
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup options
• Visits historic downtown landmarks, Rainbow Row, and Waterfront Park
• Offers a choice between Boone Hall Plantation or McLeod Historic Site
• Tour duration is approximately 7 hours, with lunch as a flexible break (cost not included)
• Rated 5 stars based on 6 reviews emphasizing guide knowledge and experience quality

Starting at Charleston Visitor Center for a Flexible Morning Kickoff

The tour begins at the Charleston Visitor Center at 375 Meeting St promptly at 10:00 am. From here, the guide takes the wheel, allowing guests to relax and focus on the sights. The pickup service is an added convenience, making the start smooth and hassle-free. Most travelers find this timing perfect for a full day of exploration, with the itinerary designed for comfort and engagement.

Visiting Historic Downtown Charleston’s Iconic Landmarks

The first major stops focus on historic downtown Charleston. The Battery and White Point Garden are highlights, where the seawall and artillery storage from the Civil War era tell stories of Charleston’s defenses. The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is a key site, being one of the four remaining structures where the US Constitution was ratified in 1788, and also a location where public slave auctions were held.

Marion Square offers a glimpse into Charleston’s revolutionary past, originally serving as a parade ground for the state arsenal. Walking along King Street, visitors experience the blend of historic architecture and upscale shopping, reflecting Charleston’s evolution from a colonial port to a modern city.

The Charm of Rainbow Row and Historic Homes

A major feature of this tour is a visit to Rainbow Row, a stretch of 13 colorful historic homes along the Cooper River. These homes, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, showcase architectural styles that range from colonial to Victorian. While admission to the homes is not included, the exterior beauty and vibrant facades make for memorable photos.

Additional historic houses open for exploration include the Edmonston-Alston House, Aiken-Rhett House, Joseph Manigault House, Heyward-Washington House, Nathaniel Russell House, and the Williams Mansion. These structures provide insights into Charleston’s wealthy past, with guided explanations about their architecture and significance.

Relaxing at Charleston Waterfront Park

The tour continues at Waterfront Park, home to the Pier—once a hub for shipping and trade, now a peaceful spot for taking in harbor views. The wide pier offers excellent photo opportunities of the harbor and city skyline. Nearby, Gadsdens Wharf stands as a reminder of Charleston’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, being the first destination for many enslaved Africans during the height of the trade.

Guests enjoy a leisurely 30-minute stop here, soaking in the scenery and history before moving on to Mount Pleasant.

Discovering Mount Pleasant’s Old Village and Shem Creek

Moving across the harbor to Mount Pleasant, the tour explores the Old Village. Known for its beautiful homes, moss-draped live oak trees, and small-town charm, this area offers some of the best waterfront views in the Charleston region. The Old Village reflects a relaxed, historic atmosphere with scenic vistas.

Shem Creek is a favorite local spot, featuring a 2200-ft boardwalk where visitors can observe shrimpers, dolphins, and enjoy the lively waterfront vibe. This area captures the essence of Charleston’s coastal lifestyle with casual dining options and scenic views.

Choosing Between Boone Hall Plantation and McLeod Historic Site

The second half of the tour involves a three-hour visit to either Boone Hall Plantation or McLeod Historic Site.

Boone Hall is among America’s oldest plantations, dating back to the 17th century. It covers 738 acres and remains an active farm producing crops today. The plantation features classic Southern architecture, historic outbuildings, and a reputation for its iconic Live Oak-lined entrance.

Alternatively, the McLeod Historic Site offers a look into middle-class plantation life with a 19th-century home, original slave quarters, and related outbuildings. This site provides a more intimate picture of slave history and plantation living.

Practical Details: Transportation, Food, and Flexibility

Included in the tour are private transportation and bottled water, ensuring comfort throughout the day. The air-conditioned vehicle maintains a pleasant environment, especially during warmer months.

Guests can choose where to enjoy lunch during the tour, either in Downtown Charleston or Mount Pleasant. The lunch cost is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly and explore options at their own pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Charleston Style VIP Tour excels in offering a personalized experience through its private guide and flexible itinerary. The tour’s length of 7 hours allows for an in-depth exploration of key historical sites combined with scenic waterfront stops. The high guide ratings reflect a level of expertise and friendliness that enhances the overall experience, with reviewers mentioning guides who share nonstop knowledge and create a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

This tour is especially suitable for visitors who prefer a customizable, relaxed pace and wish to avoid crowded group tours. The availability of bottled water and air conditioning adds comfort, and the 7-hour duration balances sightseeing with downtime.

Final Thoughts on the Charleston Style VIP Tour

The Charleston Style VIP Tour offers a well-rounded look at Charleston’s historic landmarks, architecture, waterfront, and nearby plantation sites. Its private nature and flexible stops make it a compelling choice for travelers eager to learn about Charleston in a personalized setting.

While the lunch is not included, this provides an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine at your own pace. The $350 price tag reflects the intimate, tailored experience, making it a valuable option for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic views.

This tour delivers on its promise of expert-guided, comprehensive exploration of Charleston, perfect for visitors seeking a rich, customized day without the hassle of self-driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price. Guests can choose where to eat during the day, either in Downtown Charleston or Mount Pleasant.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup options available from the Charleston Visitor Center.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Historic Downtown Charleston landmarks, Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, Mount Pleasant’s Old Village and Shem Creek, plus a choice between Boone Hall Plantation or McLeod Historic Site.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Highly praised, guides are described as informative and friendly, often sharing detailed stories and insights beyond basic facts.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, with stops at various outdoor locations; however, some walking and vehicle transfers are involved.

What makes this tour different from others?
The private, customizable nature, combined with expert guides and scenic stops, sets this experience apart, offering a more intimate look at Charleston.

Can I extend or modify this tour?
Since it is a private tour, modifications are possible by arrangement, but the standard itinerary is designed for a 7-hour experience.