Experience the best of Charleston Historic Horse Drawn Carriage Tours

Charleston horse carriage tours operate from the City Market through the French Quarter and antebellum residential streets, with narration covering Colonial and Civil War history. Find shared carriage tour tickets, private booking options, and combo walking tour formats here.

Loved by over 55 million guests worldwide

Slide 1 of 5, Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour with passengers on a tree-lined street.

Charleston street with horse-drawn carriage passing historic homes and palm trees.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour with guide pointing out historic sites.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour with passengers and guide on a sunny street.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour passing historic buildings and palm trees.

Charleston Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage

1 hr

Set off on a charming 1-hour horse-drawn carriage ride through historic downtown Charleston, guided by a knowledgeable Palmetto Guild–certified expert.
Relax into comfortable shared seating (with space for up to 16 passengers) as you clip-clop through the city’s most picturesque streets and past notable landmarks.
Along the way, enjoy engaging stories, fascinating facts, and plenty of local insight that bring Charleston’s past to life in an easy, family-friendly format.
It’s a laid-back, story-rich way to explore the heart of the city, combining expert narration with the timeless charm of a classic carriage ride.

More details

Set off on a charming 1-hour horse-drawn carriage ride through historic downtown Charleston, guided by a knowledgeable Palmetto Guild–certified expert.
Relax into comfortable shared seating (with space for up to 16 passengers) as you clip-clop through the city’s most picturesque streets and past notable landmarks.
Along the way, enjoy engaging stories, fascinating facts, and plenty of local insight that bring Charleston’s past to life in an easy, family-friendly format.
It’s a laid-back, story-rich way to explore the heart of the city, combining expert narration with the timeless charm of a classic carriage ride.

from

$42

Slide 1 of 6, Horse-drawn carriage tour at night in historic Charleston, passing a lit church.

Carriage tour guide leading a group through Charleston's historic streets at night.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour passing historic brick building at night.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour at night with passengers and guide.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage at Old South Carriage Co. at night.

Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour guide with passengers at night.

Charleston Haunted Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage

1 hr

Climb aboard a charming horse-drawn carriage for a 40-minute evening ghost tour through some of the city’s most storied and spine-tingling streets.
Listen to live storytelling from Palmetto Guild–certified guides who bring local legends to life as you roll past graveyards, historic churches, grand old hotels, the Provost Dungeon, and the Old Exchange.
Settle into a covered carriage with padded seats and plenty of legroom, and enjoy the convenience of an indoor check-in area before you head out.
It’s the perfect way to soak up classic ghost tales and eerie history while exploring the city after dark.

More details

Climb aboard a charming horse-drawn carriage for a 40-minute evening ghost tour through some of the city’s most storied and spine-tingling streets.
Listen to live storytelling from Palmetto Guild–certified guides who bring local legends to life as you roll past graveyards, historic churches, grand old hotels, the Provost Dungeon, and the Old Exchange.
Settle into a covered carriage with padded seats and plenty of legroom, and enjoy the convenience of an indoor check-in area before you head out.
It’s the perfect way to soak up classic ghost tales and eerie history while exploring the city after dark.

from

$42

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Book your carriage tour in advance, especially for weekends, holidays, or evening slots, as tours often sell out during peak times.

Arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.

If you have mobility concerns, contact your chosen operator ahead of time to discuss boarding assistance.

Morning and late afternoon tours are best in summer to avoid midday heat and reduce the risk of weather-related cancellations.

Don’t expect to choose your exact route since city regulations assign routes at departure, so each tour is a surprise.

Bring sun protection and water for daytime rides, as carriages are open-air and exposed to the elements.

Tipping your guide is customary and appreciated; bring small bills if you wish to tip in cash.

Check your operator’s policies on food, drinks, strollers, and pets before arrival to avoid surprises.

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About Horse Carriage Tours

Step back in time with Charleston Historic Horse Drawn Carriage Tours, a signature way to explore the city’s storied past. Enjoy a narrated, open-air ride through the cobblestone streets and pastel-hued homes of the historic district, led by licensed guides who bring Charleston’s history to life. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and experience the charm, architecture, and vibrant stories that make Charleston unforgettable.

Did you know?

Charleston’s carriage tours are strictly regulated by the city, with routes assigned by a lottery system to protect historic streets and ensure variety.

Guides must pass rigorous exams on local history and regulations before leading tours, ensuring high-quality narration.

Carriage animals are subject to regular vet checks, rest periods, and heat-index rules for their welfare.

No two tours are exactly alike. The city’s route lottery means you might see different streets and landmarks each time you ride.

Boarding areas are clustered near the Charleston City Market, making it easy to combine your tour with shopping or dining downtown.

Why visit Horse Carriage Tours?

Experience charleston’s historic district in style

Travel through the heart of Charleston’s historic district in a classic horse-drawn carriage, soaking in centuries-old architecture and vibrant city life from a unique vantage point.

Live narration by licensed local guides

Enjoy engaging stories and fascinating facts about Charleston’s colonial roots, Civil War history, and architectural gems, all delivered by knowledgeable, city-certified guides.

See iconic landmarks and hidden alleys

Pass by antebellum mansions, church steeples, and atmospheric alleyways—each tour offers a slightly different route, ensuring a fresh perspective every time.

Perfect for families and groups

Carriage tours are ideal for families, multi-generational groups, and anyone seeking a comfortable, accessible way to cover more ground with minimal walking.

Flexible tour options for every interest

Choose from standard, private, evening, or themed tours like ghost rides or holiday lights, tailoring your experience to your interests and schedule.

Plan your visit

Palmetto Carriage Works Boarding Entrance

Located at 8 Guignard Street, just off Meeting Street behind the Charleston City Market. This is the main entrance for guests booked with Palmetto Carriage Works. Look for clear signage and a check-in desk. Please note: Boarding requires stepping up into the carriage; step-free access is generally not available. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator ahead of time for assistance.

Old South Carriage Company Boarding Entrance

Situated at 14 Anson Street, near the City Market. This entrance serves guests booked with Old South Carriage Company. After checking in at the desk, you’ll wait in a designated area until your carriage is called. Boarding involves a step up; detailed accessibility information is not published, so please reach out to the operator if you require assistance.

Charleston Carriage Works Boarding Entrance

Other operators, such as Charleston Carriage Works, have boarding areas near the City Market as well. The process is similar: check in at the desk, wait for your carriage, and board when called. All entrances are within a short walk of central downtown hotels and parking garages. Accessibility varies by operator.