#1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour

Imagine gliding through the shaded streets of Beaufort in a horse-drawn carriage, hearing stories that bring the city’s past to life. This tour promises a cozy, narrated journey through one of South Carolina’s most picturesque towns. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxing way to see Beaufort’s historic district.

What we really love about this experience is its small-group setup, which makes the narrative more personal and engaging. Plus, the scenic ride among ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss is simply stunning. On the flip side, it’s a 55-minute ride, so if you’re hoping for a longer exploration, you might want to supplement this with other activities. Still, for a quick, charming glimpse into Beaufort’s past, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for visitors who appreciate authentic settings and don’t mind a bit of history told with humor and care.

This tour is best suited for those who want a gentle, informative introduction to Beaufort’s streets—great for families, couples, and history lovers alike.

Key Points

• Intimate, small-group experience enhances storytelling and interaction
• Covers more ground than a walking tour, offering a broad look at historic Beaufort
• Passes by antebellum and Victorian architecture, gardens, and live oak-lined streets
• Guides are knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate about the area
• The 55-minute ride is a comfortable, relaxing way to see the city
• Value for the price, with all fees and taxes included, plus flexible cancellation

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The start point at 1002 Bay Street places you right in the heart of Beaufort’s historic district. From here, the horse-drawn carriage begins its leisurely journey through the charming streets that whisper stories from over three centuries. You’ll be riding in a beautifully restored blue carriage, pulled by a gentle horse—likely Zorro or Link, based on reviews—whose calm demeanor makes the ride more enjoyable.

What makes this tour stand out is its narration. You’re not just passing sights; your guide shares stories about Beaufort’s founding in 1712, its role in the American Revolution, and the Civil War. The guides are praised for their knowledge and entertaining style, making the history feel alive rather than dry. One reviewer noted, “Annie was very entertaining during our tour, and gave us a lot of info about the area.” This hints at guides who genuinely love sharing their passion and making the past accessible.

The First Stop: The Cemetery and the Church

The tour begins with a visit to a historic church, where you’ll learn about its role in Beaufort’s early days. From the carriage, you can glimpse the graveyard, which contains the tombs of founding fathers and soldiers who sacrificed so much for the town. It’s a poignant moment, adding emotional depth to the historical narrative.

Riding Through Old Beaufort

Next, the carriage meanders through Old Beaufort’s backstreets, a scenic quilt of century-old live oak trees, their branches heavy with Spanish moss creating a fairy-tale mood. This part of the tour is what many guests rave about, with one reviewer describing it as “most interesting,” and another saying, “The guide knew so much about the city and had a great sense of humor.”

You’ll pass Antebellum and Victorian houses, some dating back over 150 years, with well-maintained gardens that exemplify southern charm. These homes give you a glimpse of plantation-era wealth and the architectural elegance that has made Beaufort a sought-after spot for history and architecture enthusiasts.

The Old Point Neighborhood

The tour then drifts into the Old Point neighborhood, where the majority of historic homes and cottages are located. The streets here are lined with old live oaks, and the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. Reviewers often mention the “beautiful old live oak trees draped in Spanish moss,” emphasizing the idyllic setting. The gentle pace and shaded streets make for a very relaxing ride.

The Horses and the Guides

Most reviews highlight the horses’ gentle behavior and the guides’ friendly, informative nature. Kristin, Annie, Tyler, and others are praised for their knowledge, humor, and obvious love for their horses—Link, Zorro, Lincoln—that are part of the experience. One reviewer happily exclaimed, “Tyler and her horse Linc gave us an excellent tour with colorful and very informative information.”

What to Expect and Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 55 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Beaufort without overcommitting. The small group size—usually no more than 12 travelers—ensures everyone gets individual attention. Since it’s a mobile ticket, booking in advance is recommended, often about 8 days ahead, to secure your spot at this popular attraction.

The cost is $35 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized narration, the scenic ride, and all fees and taxes included. Remember, parking fees and gratuities are not covered, so plan accordingly.

Meet at the designated spot on Bay Street, a short walk from many downtown hotels and attractions. The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a genuine, comfortable way to experience Beaufort’s historic district. The combination of scenic views, expert guides, and the traditional horse-drawn carriage makes it a memorable outing. Many guests comment on the “interesting information about the historic homes,” and the “beautiful scenery under moss-draped oaks,” showing how well the experience captures the town’s ambiance.

While it’s not a comprehensive history lesson or a long sightseeing expedition, the tour excels at giving visitors a taste of Beaufort’s distinctive character and its place in American history. The knowledgeable guides, along with the slow, relaxed pace, make it a worthwhile, family-friendly activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This carriage ride is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate way to see Beaufort’s historic core. It’s especially ideal for those with limited mobility or families with kids, as it’s a gentle ride that covers more ground than walking. History enthusiasts will appreciate the storytelling, while architecture lovers will enjoy the stately homes and scenic streets.

If you’re looking for a tour with authentic charm and personalized narration, this experience delivers. It’s also quite good value for the price, considering it includes all fees and taxes, and it’s highly rated by previous guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The carriage ride lasts about 55 minutes, providing a nice overview without becoming exhausting.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the small-group format suggests it’s suitable for most travelers, but it’s best to ask directly if you have special needs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 8 days ahead, especially during peak times, to secure your spot.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $35 per person, which includes all fees and taxes. Gratuities are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking fees aren’t included, so you might want to plan for that if you’re driving.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for weather conditions; since the ride is outdoors, bring sun protection or rain gear if needed.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This horse-drawn carriage tour in Beaufort offers a delightful way to see a town brimming with history and Southern charm. The guided narration, combined with the scenic ride under moss-draped oaks and past historic homes, creates a memorable experience without feeling rushed or overly commercial. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate exploration of Beaufort’s streets and stories, with a knowledgeable guide making sure you don’t miss a beat.

For travelers who appreciate authentic settings, charming scenery, and expert storytelling, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially good for families, couples, or history buffs looking to enrich their visit with a touch of local flavor. While it’s a short experience, it leaves a lasting impression of Beaufort’s timeless beauty and history.

In essence, if you’re after a fun, informative, and scenic introduction to Beaufort, this horse-drawn carriage tour offers excellent value and plenty of authentic Southern character.