Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Embark on a captivating 1-Hour Daytime Palmetto Carriage Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour through Charleston's historic downtown district. Explore the streets of this historic city with a licensed tour guide who will gladly answer questions and offer insight into what makes Charleston so unique. Discover the city's stunning houses, lush gardens, grand mansions, charming churches, and picturesque parks while learning about its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant flora. As the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston, Palmetto Carriage Works has crafted an exceptional experience that combines knowledge, wit, and humor. This tour offers an exciting and dynamic exploration, seamlessly blending 19th-century conveyance with the charm of a 21st-century city. Don’t miss your chance to explore the “Holy City” in this unforgettable way!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Palmetto Carriage Works
Meet your certified tour guide at Palmetto Carriage Works (AKA the Big Red Barn), the starting point for your horse-drawn carriage tour. Enjoy a brief 15-minute orientation and look at our barn before embarking on your journey through historic Charleston.
Charleston City Market
Our Big Red Barn is conveniently located just off the Charleston City Market. Here, you’ll meet your certified tour guide before departing on your hour-long horse-drawn carriage ride. Your carriage will pass through the city gate at the market, where your guide will assign a unique tour route. Experience approximately 30 blocks of the historic district, showcasing stunning architecture, beautiful churches, gardens, and more. The tour concludes back at the Big Red Barn.
What‘s Included
Multiple departures available throughout the day
Charleston’s most highly-rated carriage tour
Learn about Charleston’s rich history and iconic landmarks with expert guides
Horse-drawn carriage tour of historic Charleston
Perfect family-friendly experience
Gratuities
The City's mandated lottery system determines the tour routes. Landmarks are not guaranteed.
Options
Daytime Carriage Tour
Reviews
3,671 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Not to be missed
eam227,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was probably the high point of our visit to Charleston. Our driver navigated the Charleston streets, informing and entertaining us with his excellent commentary on Charleston’s history, architecture, and interesting characters.
Fun and informative
MaryEileen M,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Kevin was an excellent tour guide. Very knowledgeable and you can tell he loves his job and the horses
Great information about...
Carol M,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great information about the area and the guide was great and informative. Easy to find. And close to the market.
Amazing way to see Charleston and hear about its history
SJW-Ely,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing way to see Charleston and hear about its history - the gentle pace and proximity to the sights is fantastic. We were able to purchase vouchers at our accommodation (Liberty Place) that made this super affordable
Best carriage history tour
Karen F,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Arrive early if you like horses, can give one a pat. They are gorgeous. It is obvious they are loved and well cared for.
Knowledgeable,...
DeAnn L,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Knowledgeable, entertaining driver. Easy boarding and boarding. Interesting the way routes are assigned. Even the drive
Fun & Enlightening
Teresa D,May 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This horse-carriage ride was fun and enlightening. Our tour guide Michael C. was excellent!! So very knowledgeable of the great history of downtown Charleston. My husband and I really enjoyed this experience. I highly recommend that you include this ride in your visit to Charleston.
The Book of Charleston Knowledge by Elliot
Rhonda D,May 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It is incredibly informative with small details. They are compassionate and very caring of their horses. Would recommend this tour to anyone. Elliot, you are the best!
A must do in Charlestown.
Sjbnyc75,May 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The ride was so informative with Kevin as our lively and knowledgeable guide.
Fun Tour of Charleston
Debbie C,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience! It was the perfect mix of history, sightseeing, and a little comedy. The horses are gorgeous and our guide/driver was very pleasant. Highly recommend as a quick overview of the historic district.
From US$49.95
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Operated by Palmetto Carriage Works