Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more

If you’re planning a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, this tour offers a convenient way to sample some of South Carolina’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s a full day packed with history, scenic views, and local charm, making it a tempting choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid the logistical headache.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines several of Charleston’s top attractions into a single, well-organized package. From a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district to a boat cruise around Charleston Harbor, you get a well-rounded taste of the city’s culture and scenery. Plus, the highlight visit to Fort Sumter—where the Civil War officially began—is hard to beat for history buffs.

However, a possible consideration is the pace; with so many stops packed into roughly 11 to 12 hours, some travelers might find it a bit rushed, especially at the more crowded or expansive sites like Boone Hall Plantation. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a busy schedule and want a snapshot of Charleston without dedicating multiple days.

This tour is ideal for history lovers, first-time visitors to Charleston, or anyone eager to see the city’s highlights without the stress of navigating their own transportation. If you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that hits all the main points, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Combines Charleston’s top sights into a single day trip
• Includes guided carriage tour, harbor cruise, Fort Sumter, and Boone Hall Plantation
• Hassle-free pickup and comfortable air-conditioned transport
• Provides a good mix of history, scenery, and local culture
• Some reviews note the day can feel a bit rushed at certain sites
• Guided tours are praised for their knowledgeable and engaging guides

What’s Included and How It Works

When booking this tour, you’re signing up for a well-structured day that covers the essentials of Charleston. Starting with a pickup from designated locations around Myrtle Beach, the journey sets a relaxed tone, with spacious, air-conditioned comfort making the long day easier on everyone.

The Itinerary in Detail

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston’s Historic District

We loved the way this leisurely ride offers a gentle introduction to Charleston’s famous architecture and history. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the carriage meanders through the largest historic district in America, showcasing antebellum mansions and historic buildings that mostly predate the Civil War. The quiet pace allows for taking plenty of photos and soaking in the scenery. Several reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise as a real asset, with one noting: “Most building in Charleston predate the Civil War,” and the guides providing engaging stories along the way.

Shopping at the Charleston City Market

After the carriage, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore the city market. It’s a bustling four-block area filled with vendors selling local arts and crafts. This is a good chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy wandering through a vibrant part of the city. Reviews suggest that some visitors wish they had more time here, as one said, “It’s not long enough at each place,” highlighting how much there is to see and do.

Harbor Tour and Fort Sumter

Next, you’ll hop on a boat for a 90-minute narrated harbor tour. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a chance to learn about Charleston’s maritime history. The boat provides up-close views of Fort Sumter, where the Civil War started, and you can enjoy your boxed lunch onboard while the guide shares stories. Multiple reviews mention how informative and engaging the harbor tour is, with one noting, “The guides were very knowledgeable and interactive.” This part of the trip is often highlighted as a favorite, especially because of the unique perspective it offers on Charleston’s role in American history.

Fort Sumter National Monument

While you won’t disembark on the island during this trip, you’ll get a pass-by view of the historic fort. This is a significant moment for Civil War history enthusiasts, as it’s where the conflict ignited. The boat ride offers visual access and commentary, giving you meaningful context without the need for a separate tour.

Boone Hall Plantation

No visit to Charleston is complete without a look at one of its most famous plantations. This 2-hour stop includes a guided tour of the historic house, original slave cabins, and the beautiful grounds. It’s often described as the highlight of the day by visitors, thanks to the informative guides and the photogenic landscapes. One reviewer called it “the most photographed plantation in America,” emphasizing that it’s a must-see for photography lovers.

Transportation and Group Size

The round-trip journey is made comfortable with spacious, air-conditioned motorcoach transportation. The typical group size maxes out at 55 travelers, balancing social experience with manageable crowds. Several reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the driver, which enhances the overall experience.

Practical Considerations

• Duration & Pace: The entire trip lasts roughly 11 to 12 hours. While this covers a lot, some travelers might find it busy or rushed, especially at sites like Boone Hall. Managing expectations for limited time at each location is advisable.
• Price & Value: At $215 per person, the tour includes transportation, several guided experiences, and entry to major sites. When you factor in the hassle of planning multiple separate visits, this price offers decent value—particularly for those who prefer guided ease.
• Weather & Cancellation: The experience depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or a reschedule. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, making it a flexible option.

Authentic Experiences and Common Feedback

Many travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and engagement. One reviewer stated, “Our guides were very knowledgeable and interactive,” which underscores how a good guide can make or break the experience. Conversely, some noted organizational hiccups, such as timing issues or dropped sites, so it’s worth being flexible and patient.

What You’ll Love

• The blend of scenic, historical, and cultural highlights
• The ease of having transportation and tickets arranged in advance
• The chance to see Fort Sumter and Boone Hall with minimal planning
• The opportunity to learn from passionate guides

Things to Keep in Mind

• The schedule is tight; expect a full day with little downtime
• The boat tour includes a boxed lunch, but if you have specific dietary needs, it’s worth checking in advance
• While the group size is capped at 55, it’s still a sizable group, so some sites might feel busy

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip suits those who love history, scenic views, and a structured itinerary that covers the highlights. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to Charleston or travelers with limited time. If you enjoy guided experiences where logistics are handled for you, and you’re comfortable with a busy schedule, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a slow, in-depth exploration of each site or those traveling with very young children who might find the pace too brisk.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to get a snapshot of Charleston’s most memorable sights in one day. The variety—from carriage rides and harbor cruises to historic plantations—ensures you’ll see the city from multiple angles. The guides’ ability to deliver engaging, informative commentary is frequently praised and adds significant value.

While the schedule can feel tight, especially if you love lingering at sites, the overall experience delivers good value and a genuine taste of Charleston’s charm. If you’re eager to learn, see, and enjoy a bustling day in one of America’s most captivating cities, this trip is worth considering.

It’s best for travelers who appreciate guided tours, want a rundown, and are okay with a full, busy day.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup from several locations around Myrtle Beach, making logistics simpler for travelers.

How long is the boat tour?
The Charleston Harbor tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. It’s narrated and provides close-up views of Fort Sumter, plus a chance to enjoy a boxed lunch onboard.

What does the tour include?
It includes a carriage ride through Charleston’s historic district, shopping at the city market, a harbor cruise, visits to Fort Sumter and Boone Hall Plantation, and transportation in air-conditioned comfort.

Are all sites included in the ticket price?
Yes, the admission tickets for the carriage tour, harbor cruise, and Boone Hall Plantation are included. The Fort Sumter view is a pass-by, not a disembarkation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for children under age 4. Expect a busy schedule, so young children may find it tiring.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

In summary, this day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston offers a convenient, engaging way to experience the city’s best sights in one go. With knowledgeable guides and a well-rounded itinerary, it provides good value for those eager to see Charleston without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Just be prepared for a full day and a pace that keeps you moving—perfect for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of the South’s most charming city.