Private Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston

Discover Charleston in Style with a Private Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

The Private Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston offers an intimate and personalized way to experience this historic city. For $325 per group, up to 4 people, you get a one-hour narrated ride through Charleston’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. Starting and ending at the Big Red Barn on 8 Guignard Street, this tour promises a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of opportunities for photos and detailed stories from expert guides.

This private carriage experience is highly rated, with a 5.0 out of 5 stars from 295 reviews, and is recommended by 94% of past guests. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a customized way to explore Charleston’s architecture, history, and charming streets. Expect a small, intimate group that ensures personalized service, all delivered by certified guides who know the city inside out.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for up to 4 guests at $325
• One-hour narrated carriage ride through Charleston’s historic district
• Starts and ends at the Big Red Barn on Guignard Street, near Market Street
• Includes stops at major sights such as Charleston City Market, Rainbow Row, The Battery, and Waterfront Park
• Guides are certified members of the Palmetto Guild, ensuring knowledgeable storytelling
• Weather-ready carriages, with options to go out in rain unless conditions are dangerous

Starting Point at the Big Red Barn in Downtown Charleston

The tour begins at the Big Red Barn, located just one block off Market Street in the heart of downtown Charleston. This conveniently accessible spot is near public transportation and multiple parking options, making it easy to meet the guide. The meeting and ending point are the same, simplifying logistics for visitors.

From this central location, the carriage ride heads out into Charleston’s historic districts, offering a comfortable and scenic way to see the city without walking. The small group size guarantees a more personal experience, perfect for those who prefer a tailored journey with fewer people.

An Intimate Hour of Charleston’s Architectural Highlights

During the one-hour private carriage ride, travelers pass by some of Charleston’s most celebrated sites. The route typically includes a view of Rainbow Row, renowned for its colorful historic homes, and the Charleston City Market, a bustling hub of local crafts and foods.

The guide leads you past St. Philip’s Church, the oldest congregation south of Virginia, and the impressive U.S. Custom House, which was under construction in 1852 but only finished in 1879. These landmarks showcase Charleston’s architectural evolution and its significance as a port city.

Expect to see single-family homes, historic churches, gardens, and notable public buildings. The leisurely pace of the ride allows ample time for photography and soaking in the city’s unique charm.

The Route: Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Streets

The carriage route covers 25-30 blocks of Charleston’s downtown district, with stops and views of famous landmarks. The Charleston City Market is one of the highlights, offering a sense of local culture and commerce.

The ride also takes you along Church Street, where the St. Philip’s Church stands out, and along the historic Waterfront Park with views of the harbor. The Battery, a scenic promenade lined with antebellum homes, is also part of the journey, providing a glimpse into Charleston’s past wealth and elegance.

While the route is designed for a relaxed exploration, the Landmarks are not guaranteed due to the city’s tour route lottery system, but guides are well-versed in the city’s history and architecture.

Meet Your Expert Guides: Certified and Knowledgeable

All guides are certified members of the Palmetto Guild of Certified Tour Guides, meaning they have passed an extensive test and regularly update their knowledge. This ensures that each narration is informative and engaging.

Guests frequently mention guides like Bob, Holtz, Luke, Jeremy, and Bruce for their friendly demeanor, humor, and extensive knowledge. They readily answer questions about architecture, history, flora, and notable residents, making the experience both fun and educational.

The guides’ storytelling style emphasizes local history and details, and they often share personal anecdotes that bring Charleston’s streets to life.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised. The covered carriages provide shade during sunny days and some protection from rain, but if the weather is severe, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons, with a full refund or rescheduling option.

The meeting point is near public transportation, and ample parking is available nearby. The duration is approximately one hour, which includes time to enjoy the sights at a leisurely pace. The carriage can comfortably hold 1-4 people, making it ideal for small groups or couples.

Guests can bring snacks and drinks (excluding alcohol, per city law), and the carriage is accessible for service animals and strollers with prior notice. The horses are well cared for, and guides emphasize the importance of respectful interaction.

Value and Personalization of This Private Tour

Compared to larger group tours, the private nature of this ride provides a more relaxed, personalized experience. Guests appreciate the attention to detail from guides and the ability to customize the ride to their interests, within the limits of the city’s route lottery.

At $325, the cost is reflective of the private, tailored experience and the high quality of guides and the vehicle. Many reviews highlight that it is worth the investment, especially for special occasions or those wanting a more intimate view of Charleston.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out from Others

The small group size and certified guides are key strengths, ensuring an informative and friendly atmosphere. The route passing through Charleston’s most iconic districts, like Rainbow Row and The Battery, offers a comprehensive glimpse of the city’s architectural and cultural highlights.

Guests consistently praise the guides’ storytelling, noting that guides like Jeremy, Mike, and Bruce go above and beyond to share interesting facts and answer questions. The comfort and cleanliness of the carriages, combined with the flexibility of weather considerations, make this a straightforward and enjoyable tour.

Who Will Love This Charleston Carriage Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, families seeking a relaxed sightseeing option, or small groups wanting a personalized look at Charleston’s architecture and history. It suits those with limited mobility due to the carriage’s accessibility features and families with children who enjoy outdoor activities.

However, travelers looking for an extensive or in-depth tour might find the one-hour duration a bit brief, especially if they want to explore more sites or delve deeper into history.

Final Thoughts on the Private Carriage Ride in Charleston

The Private Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to see Charleston’s most celebrated sights. The combination of expert guides, charming carriages, and iconic landmarks makes it a memorable experience perfect for special occasions or first-time visitors.

While the cost per group is higher than some group tours, the private setting and tailored narration justify the price for many guests. It’s a great option for those who value quality, comfort, and a detailed look at Charleston’s architectural treasures.

For anyone wanting a charming, educational, and intimate exploration of this historic city, this carriage tour provides an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Private Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston depart from?
It departs from the Big Red Barn at 8 Guignard Street, just one block from the City Market in downtown Charleston.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and lots near the City Market, and the Visitors Center offers a free shuttle, making parking straightforward.

Can I bring young children?
Absolutely, this tour is fun for families with children and suitable for all ages.

How long is the tour?
The carriage ride lasts approximately one hour, giving ample time to enjoy the sights.

Are guides knowledgeable about Charleston’s history?
Yes, guides are certified guides belonging to the Palmetto Guild, ensuring they have extensive local knowledge.

What landmarks will I see?
You will pass Rainbow Row, Charleston City Market, St. Philip’s Church, The Battery, Waterfront Park, and other notable sites.

Can I bring snacks or drinks?
Yes, guests can bring their own snacks and drinks; alcohol is not permitted.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
The carriages are accessible for service animals and can accommodate wheelchairs or strollers with prior notice.

What if the weather is bad?
The carriages are covered and the tour operates in all weather conditions unless it’s dangerous. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule is available.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.