Charleston, with its enchanting historic charm, is a popular destination for couples and families seeking a unique and authentic way to explore the city. A private daytime horse-drawn carriage ride promises an intimate and leisurely journey through the city’s picturesque downtown, where visitors can enjoy the rich history and stunning architecture that have captivated travelers for generations. As the gentle clip-clop of hooves echoes through the streets, the guided tour uncovers the captivating stories that have shaped this one-of-a-kind Southern gem.
Key Points

- Explore Charleston’s historic downtown district on a private 1-hour horse-drawn carriage tour departing from Palmetto Carriage Works.
- Tour includes architecture, gardens, mansions, churches, and parks with a certified guide sharing captivating stories about Charleston’s history.
- Accommodates private groups of up to 4 seated passengers, with a maximum of 6 if there are 2 children under 2 on an adult’s lap.
- Offers a personalized experience for couples, families, or small groups to experience Charleston’s architectural and cultural treasures firsthand.
- Tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on customer reviews, with high praise for the informative guides and views.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride offers a private daytime horse-drawn carriage tour in Charleston, South Carolina.
Set out on a private daytime horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic streets of Charleston, South Carolina.
Priced from $345.00 per group (up to 4 passengers), the 1-hour tour provides a reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Clients can check availability for various starting times. The tour departs from Palmetto Carriage Works and explores Charleston’s historic downtown district, including architecture, gardens, mansions, churches, and parks.
This personalized experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups, with a licensed guide sharing stories about the city’s history.
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Itinerary and Experience

Starting from Palmetto Carriage Works, the guided tour takes visitors on an exploration of Charleston’s historic downtown district.
The experience includes seeing the city’s architecture, gardens, mansions, churches, and parks. Certified guides share stories about Charleston’s history from colonial times to the present.
The tour concludes back at the starting point, Palmetto Carriage Works.
This personalized experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking to enjoy Charleston’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque streets.
Highlights and Cultural Insight

This personalized experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking to enjoy Charleston’s rich cultural heritage.
A certified guide will share captivating stories about the city’s history, from its colonial past to the present day.
Riders will journey through picturesque streets, marveling at the antebellum mansions, historic landmarks, and lush gardens that define Charleston’s iconic charm.
Riders will journey through picturesque streets, marveling at the antebellum mansions, historic landmarks, and lush gardens that define Charleston’s iconic charm.
Key highlights include the vibrant Rainbow Row, the stately Battery, and the serene Waterfront Park, offering a unique opportunity to experience the city’s architectural and cultural treasures firsthand.
Tour Inclusions and Capacity

A 60-minute private carriage ride with a licensed tour guide is included in the tour. Guests can use the available bathrooms before or after their ride.
The carriages accommodate private groups of up to 4 seated passengers. However, children under 2 can sit on an adult’s lap, allowing a maximum of 6 passengers if there are 2 children under 2.
This personalized experience offers an intimate and immersive way to explore Charleston’s historic downtown district, from colonial architecture to picturesque gardens and landmarks.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Ratings

The Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 13 customer reviews.
Reviewers gave the tour’s guides a perfect 5/5 rating and awarded the transportation 5/5 as well. However, the value for money received a slightly lower score of 3.3/5.
Some customers expressed dissatisfaction with specific areas covered during the tour, but overall, the experience has been recommended for various traveler types, including couples and families, who enjoyed the informative guides and picturesque views of Charleston’s historic architecture and landmarks.
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Getting to the Starting Location

Palmetto Carriage Works, the starting point for the Charleston horse-drawn carriage ride, is conveniently located in the heart of the city’s historic district.
Visitors can easily access the starting location by:
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Walking – the carriage station is just a short stroll from many downtown hotels and attractions.
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Taking public transportation – Charleston’s CARTA bus system has several stops near Palmetto Carriage Works.
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Driving and parking – there are several convenient parking options within a block of the carriage station, including metered street parking and garages.
With its central location, getting to the carriage ride’s starting point is a breeze for Charleston visitors.
What to Expect During the Tour
Passengers embarking on the Charleston horse-drawn carriage ride can expect a delightful and immersive experience exploring the city’s historic district.
The guided tour takes visitors through the picturesque streets, showcasing the antebellum architecture, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks. The certified guide shares captivating stories about Charleston’s rich history, from its colonial era to the present day.
Key highlights include Rainbow Row, a vibrant row of colorful Georgian-style houses, The Battery, a historic defensive seawall, and Waterfront Park, offering stunning views of the harbor.
The personalized tour is perfect for couples, families, and small groups seeking a unique perspective of Charleston.
Additional Information and Booking

When is the best time to book the Charleston horse-drawn carriage ride? Reserving in advance is recommended, as tour spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Reserving the Charleston horse-drawn carriage ride in advance is recommended, as tour spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring no wasted time or money.
The tour can accommodate:
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Private groups of up to 4 passengers.
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A maximum of 6 passengers if there are 2 children under 2 sitting on an adult’s lap.
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Availability can be checked online for desired starting times.
Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Horses Well-Cared for and Treated Humanely?
The horses are well-cared for and treated humanely. They’re regularly vetted, fed, and rested. The company prioritizes the animals’ welfare and follows strict regulations to ensure the horses are not overworked or mistreated.
Can We Make Any Special Requests During the Tour?
Customers can make special requests during the tour, such as requests to visit specific landmarks or to take photos at certain locations. The tour guides are generally accommodating within the scope of the 1-hour experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Guests With Mobility Issues?
The tour provider accommodates guests with mobility issues. The carriages can accommodate wheelchair users, and the provider offers assistance boarding and exiting the carriage. Guests should inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking.
Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Personal Items on the Tour?
There are no specific restrictions on bringing personal items on the tour. Small bags and personal belongings are allowed, though it’s recommended to keep them secure and manageable during the carriage ride.
Can We Stop Along the Tour Route to Take Photos?
Yes, passengers can stop along the tour route to take photos. The guides are accommodating and will allow brief photo stops so guests can capture memorable moments during the experience.
The Sum Up
Enjoy Charleston’s historic charm on a private, 1-hour horse-drawn carriage ride. Explore the city’s renowned architecture, gardens, and landmarks while learning about its rich history from expert guides. With flexible departure times and convenient location at Palmetto Carriage Works, this tour is an ideal way for couples and families to experience the beauty of Charleston at their own pace.
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