Top 7 Best Tours To Check Out in Charleston, S.C.

Founded on the eastern coast of South Carolina in the late 17th century, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the country. This destination is notable for its rich culture and heritage. If you’re visiting, embark on one or more of the many Charleston tours to become better acquainted with this charming city. Should you find yourself falling in love with the location, consider extending your stay by looking into one of the historic downtown Charleston rentals.

Tour #1. Familiarize Yourself With Charleston Via a Carriage Ride

A variety of local companies offer horse-drawn carriage rides through different regions of Charleston. Relax on an open-air wagon and take in the sights while learning a little bit about local history.

Venture through the downtown district and meander around the French Quarter or into historic neighborhoods. Get some insight into some of the picturesque gardens, magnificent parks, and sprawling mansions along the way. The guided tours last approximately one hour and travel 3 to 4 miles. They are ideal for becoming familiar with the city before choosing locations you would like to explore further.

Tour #2. Enjoy a French Quarter Walking Tour

Charleston’s subtropical climate lends itself to a wealth of outdoor activities. Venture on foot through the historic French Quarter, which is one of the most romantic locations in Charleston. Mature oak, palm, and magnolia trees line many of the streets to provide shelter from the summer sun’s rays. Exchange Street is the oldest and offers the chance to grab refreshments at a local tavern that has been open since 1686.

See the unique pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park. East Bay Street remains a favorite among art enthusiasts because of the many galleries that welcome visitors. Stroll along the cobblestones on Meeting Street and take in the architecture of St. Michael’s Church. Meeting Street is also where you’ll find the South Carolina Historical Society. Housed in a National Historic Landmark building, it’s definitely worth checking out. You’ll also want to visit Broad Street to see the courthouse and many of the other oldest buildings in the area.

Tour #3. Experience Spine-tingling Thrills During Nightly Ghost Tours

Having centuries of history makes Charleston a prime location for routine visitations by familiar spirits. As such, the city’s reputation includes several haunted hotspots. Thrill seekers and avid paranormal investigators alike have memorable nighttime experiences on the streets of Charleston.

Nightly haunted walking tours last a couple of hours and are readily available. Popular locations include the Old Charleston Jail, which harbored pirates, Civil War soldiers, and more. The array of eerie occurrences experienced within the walls includes disembodied moans and screams along with slamming doors. The Unitarian Church Cemetery is another haunted location where the spirit of a young lady is known to routinely roam. A prostitute is said to be one of the spirits regularly seen at the Dock Street Theater.

Tour #4. Indulge in Local Culinary Culture During a Food Tour

The food scene in Charleston is red-hot, and local chefs are delighted to share their culinary creations with guests. Depending on the individual tour chosen, guides take visitors to many locations that often include bakeries, markets, and restaurants. Being situated along the coast also means that diners have the chance to feast on freshly caught seafood along with a variety of other traditional meals.

Travel from one hotspot to another while having the chance to sample any number of traditional dishes. Local favorites may include Frogmore stew, Southern barbecue, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes. Perhaps select a tour that also includes a personalized cooking class offered by a local culinary expert.

Tour #5. Feel the Sea Breeze on the Waterfront

Guided ferry cruises, kayak tours, and speed boat trips are only some of the options available for exploring the Charleston area by water. Tours span anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours and provide the chance to see many of the city’s historic locations from a seagoing perspective. While taking in the view of each landmark, experienced captains offer a glimpse into their often-fascinating history.

A few of the many points of interest viewed along the way include the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, Castle Pinckney, and Fort Sumter. Have a camera ready, as it is not unusual for guests to encounter local dolphins, manatees, pelicans, or sea turtles along the way. Before leaving the harbor, consider taking a taxi to tour the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, or learn about native marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium.

Tour #6. Learn About Freedom Fighters at Two Historic Forts

Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter were constructed to protect the Charleston harbor. National Park Rangers provide a glimpse into the efforts of military forces to defend the state at both locations. During tours, guests have the opportunity to see where soldiers lived and fought. Hear the courageous tales of individuals stationed at the forts. See the authentic weaponry used during the battles. Situated on Sullivan’s Island, Fort Moultrie defended the coast against the British Royal Navy in 1776 and continued protecting the coast for another 170 years. Hear about the role that Fort Sumter played during the Civil War.

Tour #7. Explore the Historic South

The South remains renowned for the region’s selection of historic plantations, and Charleston is no exception. Guests are invited to tour the properties of many different locations. Each destination has unique features. For example, Boone Hall Plantation was established in 1681 and remains one of the oldest facilities to continue functioning today. Middleton Place provides visitors with the chance to tour the property’s majestic gardens. The Magnolia Plantation is especially popular among youngsters since the location features a nature train, a nature boat tour, a petting zoo, and a horticultural maze.

Considering Relocating?

If you’re enchanted by the romance and drama of the South, consider making Charleston your new home. Immerse yourself in the city’s colorful past by touring historic homes for sale in Charleston, S.C.