Viator Rating : 5 (10003 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Charleston
Charleston Carriage Tour: Old South Historic Ride
60
Overview
Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour lets visitors travel the charming streets of Charleston in a relaxing way. This horse-drawn carriage tour shows off the beauty and history of this South Carolina gem. Guests can expect to see highlights like historic homes, pretty churches, and lovely gardens as the carriage rolls along Charleston City Streets (Carriage Tour Route) after starting at Charleston Stables.
During the one-hour tour, a certified guide shares interesting stories about the city’s important role in the nation's history. This tour is perfect for those who want to soak up Charleston’s southern charm at a gentle pace. The experience includes a ride on a carriage pulled by a beautiful Belgian or Percheron Draft Horse, led by a knowledgeable guide.
What’s included is a 1-hour sightseeing tour. What's excluded is gratuities. This unique tour provides a memorable way to discover the heart of Charleston's historic district. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Highlights
See Historic Charleston: Discover Charleston's beautiful historic homes, churches, and gardens from a unique perspective.
Relaxing Carriage Ride: Enjoy a leisurely 1-hour horse-drawn carriage tour through Charleston's charming streets.
Expertly Guided Tour: Hear fascinating stories about Charleston’s history from a certified local guide.
Charming Southern Experience: Soak up the unique Southern charm and ambiance of Charleston.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about Charleston's history from the guides.
-
Many enjoyed the gentle pace and comfortable ride of the carriage tour.
-
Visitors appreciated seeing the beautiful historic buildings and gardens.
-
Several reviewers highlighted the horses as a charming part of the experience.
Some visitors found the tour route a bit repetitive.
-
A few people felt the tour was too short.
The Journey
Charleston Stables
Your Charleston adventure begins at our historic stables, a charming haven where you can meet our gentle giant draft horses. Enjoy a refreshing drink or a quick restroom break before embarking on your carriage tour. Take a moment to appreciate the equestrian heritage, imagining the countless horses that once shaped the city's economy and culture. Our inclined ramp ensures easy boarding, allowing you to start your exploration comfortably. Feel the anticipation build as you prepare to delve into Charleston's rich history.
Charleston City Streets (Carriage Tour Route)
Embark on an unforgettable carriage ride through the heart of Charleston, navigating a carefully planned route assigned near the historic market. Traverse approximately 30 blocks, spanning over 300 years of captivating history. Marvel at the exquisite custom wrought iron gates, manicured gardens bursting with color, and the stately historic mansions adorned with picturesque piazzas. Known as the 'Holy City', Charleston boasts a skyline punctuated by numerous church steeples, each a testament to the city's spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur. This unique tour offers an intimate glimpse into what defines Charleston’s timeless allure. Your knowledgeable guide will breathe life into the sights, revealing hidden stories and historical significance at every turn.
Know Before You Go
This 1-hour Charleston sightseeing tour includes a ride in a horse-drawn carriage led by a certified driver/guide, where you'll see historical homes, churches, and gardens. Gratuities are not included. The tour starts at Charleston Stables and takes you through Charleston City Streets (Carriage Tour Route).
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest booking your tour in advance, especially during peak season. Some people suggest that the earlier tours are less crowded and the horses are more comfortable in the morning cool temperatures.
Review Summary
People find this tour to be an excellent and relaxing way to experience Charleston's history and Southern charm. The most frequently praised aspects include knowledgeable and entertaining certified guides who share rich historical details and engaging stories, well-treated and calm horses, clean and comfortable carriages, and friendly, professional staff. Travelers consistently recommend the tour as the best way to see the historic district without walking. Minor criticisms occasionally mention that some guides drift off on tangents or that the randomly assigned routes can be unpredictable, but the vast majority of visitors express high satisfaction and would recommend or revisit the experience.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Charleston
$40
Charleston History Tour: Walk with a Citadel Professor!
5.0
(1264 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Charleston historical walking tour with a Professor of History at The Citadel takes guests on an engaging journey through Charleston's rich past. This walking tour offers a unique experience, exploring the city's historical and cultural landmarks with a Ph.D.-holding history expert.
Guests can expect to visit iconic sites like the Mills House Hotel, Dock Street Theatre, and the Oldest Building in Charleston, dating back to circa 1712. The tour also includes Charleston's Historic Square, Charleston City Hall, the Old South Carolina Statehouse Site, and Charleston's Oldest Church Edifice. Visitors will also see the Site of George Washington's Stay (1791), the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, French Huguenot Church, and the charming French Quarter. Other notable stops include the Building Where Seeds of Disunion Were Sown and a view of Fort Sumter from The Battery.
This tour stands out by ensuring a small group size of no more than 12 people, offering a more intimate and in-depth exploration. Unlike larger tour companies, this experience provides a higher degree of exclusivity and historical insight. Please note that while the tour enhances the experience with expert knowledge, it does not include bottled water or private transportation.
Savannah
$48
Savannah's Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: Ride Included!
5.0
(1462 reviews)
Duration: 165
minutes
Discover the secrets of Bonaventure Cemetery on the Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour with Transportation! Skip the myths and legends, and hear true stories from a 6th-generation Savannahian historian. This tour offers a deep dive into the lives and legacies of those resting in this historic cemetery.
Visitors can expect a comprehensive exploration of Bonaventure, one of Savannah's most beautiful and historically significant landmarks. The tour guide, an expert with over 30 years of hospitality experience, shares accurate and captivating stories, offering insights that other tours simply miss. Guests will explore the iconic gravesites and monuments that make Bonaventure famous.
The Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour with Transportation includes convenient door-to-door service from downtown Savannah, or guests can meet the tour directly at the cemetery. Included are cold bottled water, bug spray, and umbrellas to make the stroll through the oaks more comfortable. Participants will also receive recommendations for the best restaurants and other activities in Savannah. Please note that food and drinks other than the complimentary water are not included.
Charleston
$30
Charleston History Walk: See Rainbow Row & French Quarter
4.9
(6187 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour invites everyone to step into a city where history whispers from every building. This easy 2-hour walk takes people through the heart of Charleston's historic district, including the charming French Quarter and the beautiful homes "South of Broad."
A friendly, local guide shares stories about the people and big events that made Charleston what it is today. Expect to see famous spots like Rainbow Row with its colorful houses and the historic Four Corners of Law. The tour also explores the French Quarter, known for its art galleries and historic buildings. Plus, a relaxing walk along The Battery gives amazing views of the harbor.
This tour includes a professional guide, and a chance to learn a lot about Charleston's past. What is not included is gratuities.
Charleston
$250
Savor Charleston: Chef-Led Food, Wine & History Culinary Adventure
5.0
(945 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Embark on the Undiscovered Charleston tour led by Chef Forrest Parker. Enjoy a 90-minute historic food tour, a cooking demo, lunch, and wine at Bistro a Vin. Discover local flavors and heritage with a South Carolina Chef Ambassador. Taste the path less traveled in Charleston!
Charleston
$56
Charleston Boat Cruise: Morris Island Lighthouse Adventure
4.9
(2109 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with a stop at Morris Island Lighthouse takes you on a fun 2.5-hour boat ride through Charleston's pretty tidal creeks.
The boat stops for an hour at Morris Island. This island is a special place with a historic lighthouse. People like to go there to find seashells and shark teeth. The boat goes near Bowens Island Restaurant, Morris Island, and the Morris Island Estuary.
During the boat trip, the captain tells everyone about the animals and plants that live there. People might see dolphins, birds, and sea turtles. The boat trip does not include snacks, bottled water or tips for the captain. This boat tour is a nice way to learn about nature and see cool things.
Hilton Head Island
$269
Hilton Head: Private Dolphin Tour - Guaranteed Sightings!
5.0
(516 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island offers a personal and unforgettable experience on the water. This isn't just a boat ride; it's a chance for your group to see dolphins up close in their natural home. The tour takes small groups to spots larger boats can't reach, giving guests a more intimate view of these amazing animals.
Guests can expect to see dolphins eating, playing, and hanging out in the Calibogue Sound. The captain, a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, shares interesting facts about the local environment. Visitors might also spot mobula rays jumping, sea turtles coming up for air, and many kinds of birds. The tour also cruises by the Harbourtown Lighthouse and Daufuskie Island.
The tour includes a private boat just for your group, a licensed captain who is also a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, and all fees and taxes. Gratuity for the captain is not included.
Nearby Events
North Charleston Coliseum
May 09
8:00 PMKatt Williams: The Golden Age Tour North Charleston
Katt Williams brings The Golden Age Tour to North Charleston Coliseum, featuring the comedy legend's brand-new material and signature rapid-fire delivery. Following a string of sold-out shows in 2025, the critically acclaimed stand-up comic is hitting arenas across North America with an all-new set that showcases his mastery of timing, smart social commentary, and fearless storytelling that has made him a fan favorite on stage and screen.
Katt Williams has established himself as one of the most electrifying forces in stand-up comedy today, blending incisive humor with commanding stage presence. His Netflix special, Katt Williams: Great America, highlighted his ability to tackle current political climates and racial tensions with hard-hitting truth. North Charleston Coliseum serves as the perfect arena venue to experience Williams' dynamic performance and engage with the conversation that continues long after the lights come down.
Enmarket Arena
Apr 02
6:00 PMDisney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party Tickets Savannah
Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, GA, delivers a captivating ice show that brings beloved Disney adventures to life on ice. This family-friendly production features world-class skating, acrobatics, and dazzling effects, inviting audiences into the magical quests of iconic Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Moana, and Miguel from Coco.
As one of the newest Disney On Ice productions, Mickey’s Search Party celebrates beloved Disney stories with immersive storytelling that engages audiences of all ages. Enmarket Arena, known for hosting diverse entertainment events, provides a modern venue with excellent sightlines and amenities, making it an ideal setting for this enchanting ice show experience.
Spring Brooks Stadium
Mar 20
6:00 PMChanticleers vs. Dukes: Baseball Tickets in Conway
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers Baseball faces off against the James Madison Dukes Baseball team in what promises to be a thrilling match-up. The Chanticleers, known for their competitive spirit and strong team dynamics, are aiming to dominate on their home turf. This game is a key fixture in their season as they battle for conference standings.
Spring Brooks Stadium, the home of the Chanticleers, provides an energetic atmosphere for college baseball. It’s celebrated for offering great views and a vibrant game-day experience. Fans can expect a high-spirited environment as these two teams compete.
The Charleston Music Hall
Nov 09
8:00 PMLabyrinth In Concert 40th: Charleston Tickets
Jim Henson's Labyrinth: In Concert brings the 1986 cult classic to The Charleston Music Hall, where a live band performs David Bowie's original vocals and Trevor Jones' score in perfect sync with the film projected on a large HD screen.[1][3] This 40th anniversary tour follows a triumphant global run across nearly 100 cities, offering fans a fresh way to experience iconic songs like 'Magic Dance' and 'As the World Falls Down' amid Jim Henson's fantastical puppetry.[1][2]
Jim Henson's Labyrinth remains a beloved fantasy adventure starring David Bowie as the Goblin King Jareth, blending groundbreaking puppetry from Henson's Creature Shop with Bowie's mesmerizing music to create an enduring cultural phenomenon.[3][6] The Charleston Music Hall, a historic venue in downtown Charleston, provides an intimate setting for this immersive concert film experience.[1]
Enmarket Arena
May 16
8:00 PMSting 3.0 Tour: Savannah Concert Tickets
Sting 3.0 Tour brings the legendary musician to Enmarket Arena in Savannah, Georgia, showcasing the iconic artist performing with his power trio configuration. This intimate setup strips away the production excess and focuses on raw musicianship, delivering a stripped-down experience that highlights Sting's extensive catalog spanning decades of solo work and his revolutionary time with The Police.[1] The Sting 3.0 concept has captivated audiences worldwide, offering fans a chance to experience timeless hits like "Every Breath You Take," "Fields of Gold," and deep cuts reimagined for this dynamic trio format. Enmarket Arena, Savannah's premier entertainment venue, provides an ideal setting for this high-energy performance, combining excellent acoustics with an intimate concert atmosphere.[1]
North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Mar 27
7:00 PMAli Siddiq: In The Shadows Tickets - North Charleston
Ali Siddiq: In The Shadows brings the Houston-born comedian's masterful storytelling to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. Known as stand-up comedy's most prolific storyteller, Ali delivers viral narratives drawn from his unique life experiences, including his time behind bars, in this highly anticipated show.
Ali Siddiq rose to fame with iconic appearances on Def Comedy Jam, Live From Gotham, and Comedy Central's #1 Comic to Watch, captivating millions with stories like 'Mexicans Got On Boots' (over 16 million views) and his groundbreaking four-part Domino Effect series (45 million views total). His prison-born anecdotes and recent specials like My Two Sons, nominated for an NAACP Image Award, showcase his unmatched narrative craft. The North Charleston Performing Arts Center offers an intimate setting perfect for live comedy.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Charleston
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Charleston From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate & Rock in Charleston. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Charleston Activities