Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes guests on a captivating journey through over 300 years of Charleston’s past, showcasing its grand antebellum homes, historic churches, and lush gardens. With a 95% recommendation rate, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in uncovering the stories that have shaped this fascinating southern city. But what exactly sets this tour apart from others, and why should you consider it for your next Charleston adventure?

Key Points

• A guided 1-hour carriage tour covering over 300 years of Charleston’s history, including antebellum homes, churches, and gardens.
• Highlights significant Civil War sites and the city’s storied past through knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling.
• Accommodates up to 16 passengers in a wheelchair and stroller accessible carriage led by Belgian and Percheron draft horses.
• Boasts a 95% recommendation rate based on 8,425 reviews, with praise for the well-cared-for horses and the tour’s focus on Charleston’s history.
• Offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing a hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview and Experience

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour offers a guided experience covering over 300 years of history.

The tour spans more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of Charleston, showcasing grand antebellum homes, churches, and gardens. Participants ride in a horse-drawn carriage led by Belgian and Percheron draft horses, providing an authentic and scenic journey through the historic district.

The tour emphasizes Charleston’s role in U.S. history, particularly during the Civil War, with highlights including the Gov. William Aiken House and other historically significant sites along the route.

Tour Details and Logistics

The tour lasts for 1 hour.

A one-hour guided tour showcasing the charming sights and history of the area.

It departs daily from 14 Anson St, Charleston, SC 29401. Guests must check-in 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Each carriage can accommodate up to 16 passengers. Children under 3 can ride for free on laps, but separate child seats must be purchased.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Gratuities aren’t included in the ticket price.

Historical Significance and Highlights

Though the tour emphasizes Charleston’s role in U.S. history, particularly during the Civil War, it also highlights several significant historical landmarks along the route.

One such landmark is the Gov. William Aiken House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1977.

The tour showcases various historically significant homes, churches, and gardens, providing a rundown of Charleston’s rich past.

With knowledgeable guides and an authentic horse-drawn carriage experience, the tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s historic district, bringing its storied past to life for visitors.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

With a 95% recommendation rate across 8,425 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised the Charleston’s Old South Carriage Tour.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, the well-cared-for horses, and the informative nature of the tour. Many praise the engaging storytelling and the opportunity to see different routes on repeat visits, enhancing the experience.

The tour’s emphasis on Charleston’s rich history, particularly during the Civil War, is also a major draw for visitors.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Tickets for Charleston’s Old South Carriage Tour can be purchased online, offering a lowest price guarantee.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Participants acknowledge risks associated with the tour and release Old South Carriage Co. from liability for any injuries or damages.

Flexible booking and hassle-free cancellation provide peace of mind, while risk acknowledgment and liability release protect all parties involved.

• Flexible booking options allow for easy planning.
• Hassle-free cancellation policy provides peace of mind.
• Lowest price guarantee ensures the best value.
• Risk acknowledgment protects the company and participants.
• Liability release safeguards all parties involved.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The Old South Carriage Tour offers accessibility options to accommodate guests with varying needs.

Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is available, allowing those with mobility challenges to participate. Children under 3 can ride on laps free of charge, and child seats must be purchased for separate seating.

The tour’s maximum capacity of 16 passengers per carriage ensures an intimate experience, and the guides are attentive to the needs of all guests.

With these accommodations, the historic carriage tour is accessible to a wide range of visitors, enhancing the overall experience.

Sustainability and Animal Welfare

While the Old South Carriage Tour offers an immersive historical experience, the company also prioritizes sustainability and animal welfare.

The draft horses are well-cared for and provided with:

• Adequate rest periods between tours
• Climate-controlled stables for comfort
• Nutritious diets to maintain health
• Regular veterinary checkups and farrier services
• Positive reinforcement training for a calm demeanor

The carriage utilizes environmentally-friendly hydraulic brakes and is designed to minimize the horses’ workload.

Old South Carriage Co. is committed to ethical tourism practices that preserve Charleston’s heritage while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its equine partners.

Planning Your Charleston Horse Carriage Tour

Embarking on Charleston’s historic horse carriage tour is a seamless process.

Visitors can easily secure their tickets online, with a lowest price guarantee. Tours depart daily, and guests must check in 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Visitors can easily purchase tickets online with a lowest price guarantee. Tours depart daily, and guests must check in 15 minutes prior.

The carriage can accommodate up to 16 passengers, and children under 3 can ride free on laps. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is available.

Participants acknowledge the inherent risks and release the tour company from liability. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.

With a 95% recommendation rate, the horse carriage tour promises an authentic, informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the Carriages Provide Blankets or Cushions for Comfort?

The carriages do not provide blankets or cushions, but they do offer an authentic and comfortable experience. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and bring any additional comfort items they may need.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Occasions or Private Events?

Yes, the tour can be customized for special occasions or private events. The company offers private carriage rentals and can tailor the experience to meet the client’s needs, whether it’s for a proposal, wedding, or corporate event.

Are the Horses Rotated or Given Rest Breaks During the Tour?

The horses are rotated during the tour to provide them with regular rest breaks. This ensures the horses are well-cared for and can maintain their energy levels throughout the day’s tours.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for the Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride?

The tour company takes safety precautions, with well-trained horses, sturdy carriages, and required safety acknowledgments from guests. Staff monitor conditions and can adjust the tour route or schedule breaks for the horses as needed.

Is Photography or Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photographs and videos during the tour, though they’re advised to avoid distracting the horses. The tour guides may request guests refrain from using flash photography or filming in certain areas for safety reasons.

The Sum Up

The Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s rich history. With knowledgeable guides, majestic draft horses, and a captivating itinerary, the tour provides an unforgettable and accessible experience for visitors. Whether seeking an in-depth exploration of Charleston’s past or a leisurely sightseeing adventure, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the city.