Viator Rating : 5 (558 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.3/10 (Verified Excellent)
Hilton Head Island
Beaufort History & Movie Golf Cart Tour
60
Overview
Experience Beaufort's charm with the History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart! This one-hour tour offers a unique way to see the town's beautiful antebellum homes and famous movie locations. Ride comfortably in an 8-passenger Yamaha golf cart while a friendly guide shares stories of Beaufort's rich 300-year history.
See iconic landmarks such as the Beaufort Center for the Arts, also known as the Gump Medical Center from *Forrest Gump*. The tour also stops at the Pat Conroy Literary Center, Tabernacle Baptist Church Cemetery, the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Headquarters, the Bookstore (Former Movie Set Location), St. Helena's Episcopal Church, John Mark Verdier House, The Chocolate Tree, Beaufort History Museum, Shopping and Restaurants of Beaufort, and Santa Elena History. This tour provides a fun and informative look at Beaufort's history and Hollywood connections.
The tour includes transportation by an 8-passenger Yamaha golf cart and a knowledgeable driver/guide. Gratuities are not included. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Explore Beaufort in Comfort: Relax in a new 8-passenger Yamaha golf cart.
See Famous Movie Sites: Visit locations from *Forrest Gump* and *The Big Chill*.
Learn Local History: Discover 300 years of Beaufort's rich past.
Guided Tour: Benefit from a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about Beaufort's history and movie connections.
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Many enjoyed the comfortable and fun golf cart ride.
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Friendly and informative tour guides were a highlight.
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Several reviewers appreciated seeing famous movie locations.
Some found the tour too short.
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A few reviewers felt some sites were not as visually impressive as expected.
The Journey
Historic Beaufort Van Tour
Delve into Beaufort's rich tapestry on this comprehensive van tour. Hear captivating stories spanning three centuries – from the early explorations to the Civil War and the town's Hollywood connections. Admire the majestic antebellum architecture and plantations, and visit locations where iconic movie stars once graced the town. Highlights include the Gump Medical Center (a cinematic nod to 'Forrest Gump'), the National Cemetery where 'The Great Santini' is interred, and the iconic bridge from Forrest Gump's cross-country run. Prepare to be enchanted by Beaufort's history, charm, and welcoming spirit.
Historic Beaufort Van Tour
Delve into Beaufort's rich tapestry on this comprehensive van tour. Hear captivating stories spanning three centuries – from the early explorations to the Civil War and the town's Hollywood connections. Admire the majestic antebellum architecture and plantations, and visit locations where iconic movie stars once graced the town. Highlights include the Gump Medical Center (a cinematic nod to 'Forrest Gump'), the National Cemetery where 'The Great Santini' is interred, and the iconic bridge from Forrest Gump's cross-country run. Prepare to be enchanted by Beaufort's history, charm, and welcoming spirit.
Tabernacle Baptist Church Cemetery
Visit the final resting place of Robert Smalls, a Beaufort-born slave who achieved remarkable freedom. Buried here with his wives and daughter, Smalls' daring escape aboard the Confederate steamship 'The Planter' is a testament to his courage and ingenuity. A powerful symbol of resilience and a pivotal figure in Reconstruction, Smalls' legacy continues to inspire.
Pat Conroy Literary Center
Pass by the Pat Conroy Literary Center and hear stories of this beloved Southern author. Learn about Conroy's connection to Beaufort and his impact on Southern literature. The Center celebrates Conroy's legacy and offers insights into his life and works.
Beaufort Center for the Arts (Gump Medical Center)
Discover the Beaufort Center for the Arts, a location that has graced the silver screen in 'Forrest Gump' (as the Gump Medical Center) and 'Something to Talk About' (as the veterinary school). This building is a testament to Beaufort's unique charm and its ability to seamlessly blend history and Hollywood.
Bookstore (Former Movie Set Location)
Visit the building now housing a bookstore, which was famously featured in 'Something to Talk About'. It was here that Julia Roberts' character discovered her husband's infidelity, a pivotal scene that captures the drama and emotional depth of the movie. It has now been transformed into a literary haven.
St. Helena's Episcopal Church
Explore the historic St. Helena's Episcopal Church, dating back to 1712. Originally built as a Church of England, this site has evolved through four iterations. After the tour, explore inside and discover its rich architectural details and religious history through docent led tours.
John Mark Verdier House
Admire the John Mark Verdier House, an elegant Federal-style home built in 1804. In 1825, Marquis de Lafayette delivered his farewell address to America from its balcony. Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the era, and explore inside after the tour.
The Chocolate Tree
Indulge your sweet tooth at The Chocolate Tree, the source of the chocolate in Forrest Gump's famous box of chocolates! After the tour, stop by for a free Sand Dollar chocolate sample, a delectable reminder of Beaufort's Hollywood connection.
Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Headquarters
Visit the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, designated to preserve and interpret the history of Reconstruction. Begin at the NPS headquarters and delve into the unique stories of Beaufort and its role in this transformative period of American history.
Beaufort History Museum
The Beaufort History Museum is housed inside the Beaufort/Port Royal Convention Visitors Bureau on Craven Street. Here, discover exhibits showcasing Beaufort's captivating past, from its Native American origins to its pivotal role in the Civil War and its modern-day charm. A great location for discovering the story of Beaufort.
Shopping and Restaurants of Beaufort
Enjoy the unique blend of boutiques and restaurants in downtown Beaufort. This vibrant area is home to a selection of locally owned businesses, showcasing local flavors and artisan crafts.
Santa Elena History
Uncover the history of Santa Elena, the original capital of Spanish La Florida for 21 years, right here in the Beaufort area. Learn about the Spanish colony, the interactions between the Spanish and the Native Americans, and the lasting impact of Santa Elena on the region's identity.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes transport in an 8-passenger Yamaha golf cart with a driver/guide. Gratuities are not included. Please confirm the meeting point details after booking to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Bring a hat and sunglasses, as the golf cart is open-air. Don't be afraid to ask your guide questions; they are a wealth of knowledge about Beaufort!
Review Summary
Customers generally say the tour is an excellent way to experience Beaufort's rich history and Hollywood heritage. Travelers consistently praise knowledgeable and friendly guides (particularly mentioning guides named Janet, KC, Kathy, and Heather) who share compelling stories about the town's 300-year past, Civil War era, and famous film locations. Visitors appreciate the small group experience, convenient golf cart transportation, and the guide's ability to point out little-known landmarks and unmarked filming locations from movies like Forrest Gump and The Great Santini. The tour's manageable 1-hour duration is highlighted as ideal for those with limited time, and reviewers note the beautiful scenery including live oaks and antebellum homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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