4 Sights You Need to See on a Charleston Carriage Tour

When you do a search for “evening carriage tour Charleston”, you probably wonder what you might see. Charleston earned the number one spot on Travel and Leisure Magazine’s “World’s Best Cities” list in 2016 due to the variety of unique and historical structures. Here are 4 spots you don’t want to miss seeing when you’re taking an evening carriage tour in Charleston.

 

Charleston County Courthouse

 

The Charleston county courthouse was the original capitol building for South Carolina in 1753. This was prior to Columbia becoming the capital in 1786. Once Columbia became the state capital, it was converted into a courthouse. There was a fire in 1788 that destroyed it, but it was eventually rebuilt in 1792. The courthouse is notable for its 18th-century appearance. The building was designed by Irish architect James Hoban. It’s believed that President George Washington may have met Hoban there while in Charleston. Eventually, Hoban would design the White House, which is modeled after the design of the Charleston County Courthouse. This alone would perhaps be worth having searched “evening carriage tour Charleston”.

 

The Exchange

 

This historic building is known by several different names. It’s also known as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, and the Custom House. It’s been the site of many events that were significant to the history of the country. The Exchange was the location where confiscated tea was stored during the American Revolution. At one point the British captured the city of Charleston and the building was used as a barracks. American prisoners of war were also once held in the basement. In addition to these events, the United States Constitution was ratified here in 1788, and the location was used as a post office for the Confederates during the American Civil War.

 

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

 

Among all religious structures in Charleston, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church is the oldest surviving one. The South Carolina Assembly ordered it to be built in the 1750s. The structure has survived everything from wars to even a hurricane that damaged it in 1710. It was initially affiliated with the church of England until the American revolution. The church then became affiliated with the Episcopalian church for centuries until it joined the Anglican Church in 2012.

 

Charleston Single House

 

A unique structure you’ll see on a horse carriage tour is the Charleston single house. It’s a house with a narrow side that faces the street, and a longer side that is perpendicular to the street. The long side of the house is where the front door is located. Inside the house, rooms are located on each side. Later designs of the house also included piazzas, which are porches on the second or third story of the home. The piazzas are generally located on the side of the house with the front of the door.

 

These are just a few out of many structures that can be seen when taking a tour of Charleston. So when you’re searching “evening carriage tour Charleston” explore your options to determine which carriage tour will work for you then get out there and see the sights!.

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Discover the Best Charleston Carriage Tour Hotspots that You Should not Miss

Charleston is one of the cities in the United States that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. If you have never been to Charleston, you should plan to visit this city so that you can be one of the many travelers who have enjoyed the unique benefits that the city has to offer.

Horse carriage tours will be outstanding when visiting Charleston and you can use buggy rides to enjoy some of the key features in Charleston, some of which have been discussed below. Using the best carriage tours, here are some of the most iconic places you need to visit in Charleston.

1. Visit Fort Sumter

One of the best places you can visit with a horse carriage in downtown Charleston is Fort Sumter. This is one of the most iconic places in the United States and was brought on the map due to the events of the Civil War. It has been declared as a tourist site since 1948, which means that you will be enjoying it when you visit this area as a tourist. While you enjoy the horse carriage that is unique in Charleston, you will get an opportunity to see war fortifications, which have remained intact to date.

2. Visit Historic Charleston City Market

With horse carriage tours, you will be able to visit the historic Charleston City Market. This is an indoor facility that can easily get you fooled as you think it is a small facility. This is a monumental facility that has stall after stall, most of which stretch like two blocks of the entire city. It is enjoyable when you consider visiting the historic Charleston City Market using horse carriage; otherwise, you are going to walk for long distances. You cannot pass the opportunity of seeing local artworks such as weaving and pottery, among others.

3. Charleston Waterfront Park

Every person likes the chance to visit a waterfront park. If you need to see one that stretches for twelve acres along Copper River, you need to visit Charleston. It’s quite a significant distance that you can only cover with the aid of a horse carriage. You cannot afford to miss this picturesque place, especially with horse carriage tours, which will help you to move along the entire waterfront park. This is one of the most beautiful sceneries for all the families visiting Charleston. If your list of things to do in Charleston is not full, you need to include this interesting feature.

4. The Battery

For the best horse carriage tours in Charleston, you need to make sure that you visit The Battery. Here, you will learn significant information about the city itself and why you should consider paying attention to South Carolina as one of the most historic states in the country. Besides the antebellum homes that have steel gates, you will get an opportunity to enjoy charming picket fences and pastel edifices. Here, you will get a lifetime opportunity to see some southern mansions, old cannons, and other archaic plaques that have deep historical significance in the United States. The Battery is one of the unquestionable places when it comes to the history of the United States.

5. South Carolina Aquarium

You may not use horse carriage when visiting the South Carolina Aquarium, but it is worth mentioning that this is a place that you need to consider visiting before leaving Charleston. It serves as an ideal family destination that features hundreds of animals. However, it is important to highlight that most are sea animals, so you should not expect to find the sort of animals you get on Savannah grasslands of Africa. However, you will get an opportunity to see some birds and snakes as well.

Charleston Carriage Works is the leading provider of horse carriage tours in Charleston, South Carolina. We operate at the center of Charleston’s Historic District and we are ready to offer the best carriage tours. With high levels of customer services, you will be treated as you wish, and you will be taken to any destination you want.

Caught in Time: A Look at South Carolina Carriage Tours

south carolina carriage tours

Charleston attracts thousands of visitors and tourists each year. Whether they arrive by car, plane, or cruise ship, this charming southern city has a unique history, a flourishing culinary scene, and the best ghost tours in the world. The South Carolina city is temperate, full of rich Southern history, and just a skip away from 90 miles of Atlantic coastline. The city is defined by its historical appearance, quaint cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and gorgeous antebellum houses. A city trapped in time makes Charleston a target for tourists, and for good reason.

South Carolina carriage tours are an incredibly popular activity for these visiting tourists, allowing them to view a city soaked in history in a comfortable and interesting manner while absorbing the benefits a knowledgeable local tour guide. If you want to take in all the sights and sounds of this unique southern gem, then a carriage ride through Charleston, SC is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. As you stroll through the sun-filled streets past the looming palm trees, you’ll understand why Charleston has been attracting visitors for so many centuries.

Charleston was founded in 1670 as Charles Town, named after the King of England, Charles the II. The port town was vital to the United States’ history of trade and population, with the city growing to the fifth-largest city in the U.S. in a mere ten years. Charleston remained a bustling hub throughout American history, evolving into the populated tourist destination it is today.

Due to its rich history and remarkably well-preserved landmarks, houses, and streets, the city is steeped in nostalgia and draws in history buffs among the many thousands of visitors it receives each year. One of the most popular tourist activities that remains a staple of Charleston culture is horse carriage rides. The attraction is so lucrative that Charleston features several carriage companies offering tours of the city with rotating routes. These South Carolina carriage tours are governed by the city itself, to ensure that traffic does not endanger the horses or the passengers, and the carriage tours are not impeding local traffic.

Despite the competition among local companies, each carriage tour offers a unique experience. The tour guides lend a unique and fun twist to each ride, offering tidbits of information only locals know and facts about historical landmarks for those eager history buffs. Winding through the city on traditional cobblestone roads lends an air of nostalgia to the experience, recreating carriage rides that occurred thousands of times throughout Charleston’s rich history. Those who favor unusual vacation activities should consider carriage tours as a top priority. The history of the United States isn’t often as well-preserved as the city of Charleston, and travelers won’t find too many opportunities to participate in an activity that our founding fathers used regularly.

Mother’s Day In Charming Charleston: 3 Activities That Celebrate Mom

things to do in charleston

Charleston SC attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and for good reason! The gorgeous city is rich with culture, history, and life: from the classic cobbled streets to the bustling nightlife, you’ll find yourself positively dazzled by Charles Town’s intimate connection to both the Revolutionary era and modern times.

At the same time, the city’s flower-lined streets and majestic willow and oak trees create an atmosphere that cannot help but exude charm; when it comes to honoring the love that your mother has brought into your life, the fairytale location of this South Carolina city is utterly perfect. Here are three things to do in Charleston SC that will have your mom realizing s

he raised you right.

  • Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise: That’s right, we said cruise! There are a surprising number of Mother’s Day cruises available to choose from on this popular weekend. With options that include unlimited full bars (mimosas anyone?), exclusive yachts, and amazing views of the coastline, you will both be having the time of your lives once aboard.
  • Horse Drawn Carriage Tours: Charleston is famed for its horse and carriage rides. The diverse options appeal to people of all ages and interests: take a historic horse tour to see the role Charleston played in the Revolutionary War (and beyond), ride into the quaint and bustling Downtown to see how the city has adapted to modernity, or visit the city’s most haunted sites on one of the famed ghost tours. Mom is sure to find something beautiful along the ride no matter what.
  • Downtown Shopping: What mother doesn’t love to shop? Charleston’s Downtown has shops to suit all styles and aesthetics. From vintage to high fashion and everything in between, your mama will definitely find a keepsake — or an entire outfit — to remind them of the lovely weekend the two of you spent together.

There are so many things to do in Charleston that it can be hard to decide how to spend your time. Whether you choose to visit the Old City Jail, tour a sprawling plantation, or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of one of the many horse carriage tours Charleston has to offer, the trip is sure to be unforgettable. Your mother has done so much for you throughout your life; repay her back with a trip to the country’s most beautiful city.

4 Reasons to Rent a Carriage While Visiting Charleston

things to do in charleston

Back in 2016, Travel and Leisure Magazine made a list of the world’s best cities, and guess which one earned the number one spot? Charleston. This is one location that has an endless supply of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for visitors to enjoy every day, and thousands of people choose it as an ideal destination for their vacation spot.

If you have already got your vacation days on the calendar, but are still looking for a few more things to do in Charleston, then consider adding some horse drawn carriage rides to your agenda. This one-of-a-kind experience is one you will remember forever, and we are certain it will become a highlight of your trip.

Not entirely convinced? Check out these reasons to book your spot today.

Create a Special Moment With Your Love

Over 40% of people traveling report feeling more romantic while on their trip. If you are traveling with your significant other then step things up a bit by renting out a horse drawn carriage for the both of you to enjoy. It will make an already romantic experience that much better.

Get a High-Quality Tour

When you purchase a carriage tour with the team here at Charleston Carriage Works, we offer a higher quality level of service, and you will be shown the city with knowledgeable, certified guides that have undergone extensive training. There is a lot to know about Charleston’s long history, but these guides have studied it all and know the ins and outs better than anyone.

If you are looking to learn a lot from your horse carriage ride, then book a spot with us today. You will be happy you did it.

Add Something Unique to Your Trip

If you really want to get something different out of your vacation, then a horse and carriage ride is really something you must do. As you look back on pictures and tell friends about the experience, we know it will be something you remember fondly. You will learn a lot in a way that is unique and different, and it is definitely something to cross off the bucket list.

When it comes to things to do in Charleston, don’t join the crowd with the same old sights and events. Do something a little different by investing in your horse drawn carriage tour today.

Make it an Evening Event

Evening carriage tours offer a great way to end the day before enjoying some dinner and getting some rest. If this sounds ideal to you, book a time slot with us. Wanting to make it extra special? Consider a private horse tour, so that you and your family members or significant other can enjoy the event alone.

When considering things to do in Charleston, horse drawn carriage rides are a must. Purchase one next time you are in the city. You will regret it if you don’t!

St. Paddy’s Day In Charleston: What’s On The Docket For 2019

horse carriageCharleston is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. The famous city is known for its history, romantic locales, and beautiful weather. With an average daily temperature of 65.6 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s no wonder that people come from all over to visit.

Despite Chucktown’s reputation as a place of romance, St. Paddy’s Day in the iconic city is a surprising and utterly delightful experience. Let’s see what we can expect from the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Charleston this year.

Times And Dates

What is St. Paddy’s Day without a parade? Charleston hosts the biggest (and best) St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the entire state, and this year it begins at 10 am on Saturday, March 16, 2019. Thousands of participants and watchers are gathering to take part in the massive march; it begins at King and Radcliffe Streets before proceeding down Broad and concluding at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. For the religiously-inclined, there will also be a celebratory mass occurring at 8 am in St. Patrick’s Church before the parade kicks off.

What To Expect

Though you may not associate the southern U.S. with Irish heritage, immigration to the south was quite common. By 1790, an estimated 14% of South Carolina’s population was Irish, including some of Charleston’s first colonists; Sullivan’s Island, one of the main attractions in the busy city, was named for Captain Florence O’Sullivan, the man in charge of manning the signal cannon on that very island in 1674.

As a result of this surprising history, St. Paddy’s Day in Charleston boasts Irish step dancers, fiddlers, bag pipers, and even a special singing of the Irish National Anthem at 11:30 am. Hundreds of vendors will be offering traditional Irish American meals, such as corned beef and cabbage, during this historical entertainment.

Fortunately, the city’s other services will still be up and running. Whether you want to walk through plantation grounds, hire horse carriage tours (of either the ghost or historic variety), or simply enjoy the shops downtown, the freedom is yours. Catch the morning mass, treat yourself to some corned beef, and finish the afternoon off with a horse carriage ride through the beautiful historic district.

Wedding Vows And Neighs: 3 Ways To Include A Horse Carriage Ride On Your Big Day

Private carriage tours

Charleston, South Carolina, is famous for precisely three things: 300 years of fascinating history, warm and sunny days, and fairytale locales. In short, it’s the perfect place to throw a wedding! Whether you favor the privacy of sprawling manors and plantations or the quaint vibes of downtown, your wedding day imaginings from childhood are sure to come alive in the River City.

Okay, so Charleston is famous for one more thing: horse carriage rides and buggy tours; the cobbled streets and historic architecture set the scene for a romantic date night or an educational afternoon stroll. By seeking out horse drawn carriages to use in your wedding, you’ll transform an already perfect day into a dream come true. Here are three of the best ways to incorporate the equine animals into your big day.

  • Surprise! By keeping the horse carriage a secret, you can watch your soon-to-be spouse’s face light up with joy at the prospect of being led to their happily ever after in a delicate and graceful horse drawn carriage. From Prince Charming to Cinderella, it will be a moment neither of you will ever forget.
  • Give Away Gift: Rather than walking down the aisle, have your bride and whoever is giving her away arrive in a horse drawn carriage — it will symbolize their bond and allow the two a moment alone for any last minute happy tears. When the ceremony ends, the bride and groom can get in together; they’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing and private ride together before the reception.
  • Make It A Memory: The carriage will most likely be one of the most charming and romantic aspects of your wedding, so why not make it a tradition? Charleston offers many different tours — return every year on your anniversary and relive the magic of that first ride together.

With the right research and dedication, you’ll find the perfect horse carriage for your wedding day. Personal preferences will decide when to reveal the magical beast, and then it’s off to your honeymoon!

Love In Charleston: 3 Romantic Spots To Spend Valentine’s Day

horse carriage

Charleston is one of the most popular vacation spots in the nation; boasting over 90 miles of coastline and 300 years of history, it’s no surprise that the southern city earned the number one spot on Travel + Leisure Magazine’s “World’s Best Cities” list.

 

Charleston is more than just an old city with beach views, however. With colorful streets and horse carriage tours everywhere you look (not to mention the sprawling plantations that are bursting with floral beauty), it is also one of the most romantic destinations in the country. With Christmas behind us, Charleston offers an idyllic Valentine’s Day retreat. These are the three best romantic spots in a city made entirely of romantic spots!

 

  • Breach Inlet: Nestled between two islands (Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island), Breach Inlet is the perfect place to watch the sunset or rise. The bridge crossing offers beautiful views of the shoreline, and you may even see dolphins feeding! Combine the soft sounds of the ocean with the soothing colors of a sunset and the love of your life, and you’ve got the perfect ending to a wonderful Valentine’s Day.

 

  • Daniel Island Waterfront Park: This lush and quaint park sits along the Wando River on the coast of Daniel Island. Featuring two large green fields at the entrance, you can wander along and across a dock, the walkways of which are canopied by live oaks and Spanish moss. You’ll feel close to nature, yet won’t get lost in it, making the Waterfront Park the ideal spot for a V-Day picnic.

 

  • Boone Hall Plantation: Get a taste for Charleston’s vast history by taking a trip to the “still working” antebellum Boone Hall Plantation. Towering oaks line both sides of the road, and stretch on for nearly a mile from the entrance to the main home. The fairy-tale setting features a butterfly pavilion, offering an enchanting walk through the gardens while the bright butterflies flutter by you. In fact, this plantation is so romantic that it was used as a filming location during production of the country’s most powerful love story: The Notebook.

 

Whether you choose to meander through Charleston’s parks or take horse carriage rides through the historic district, your trip will be unforgettable. The cobbled streets, warm weather, and elegant architecture all work together to inspire a mood of romance that lasts long after your departure.

History And Hauntings: 3 Great Ways To Spend Your Evening In Charleston

horse carriage

There’s a reason Charleston, SC is considered one of the best vacation spots in the nation: from its 90 miles of coastline to its 300 years of history, the seaport city is bursting with a wide variety of entertaining and fun activities for the whole family. Whether you’re interested in horse-drawn carriage tours through the historic downtown or want to check out one of the many restaurants offering mouthwatering southern foods, you will not be disappointed with your visit. If you’re a night owl and prefer to spend your waking hours in the evening, here are a few excellent ways to pass the time.

 

  1. Carriage rides: Evening horse carriage rides provide magical views of this enchanted city. If you’re with the family, your kids will be delighted at the opportunity to spend before- or after-dinnertime traipsing around the lighted Downtown region with a beautiful horse or two at the reigns. Charleston is also one of the most romantic cities by night, so celebrating the end (or beginning) of a romantic outing with that special someone can be made even better by a private horse carriage ride.
  2. Ghost tours: Charleston has seen a lot of American history; it was one of the most important economic seaports during the 19th century and saw the first bullets of the Civil War fired on Fort Sumter. As a result of this vast and bloody past, there are a number of spooky ghost tours available for those individuals who love history or love the supernatural — or both!
  3. Clubbing: At a certain point, the adults have to put the kiddos to sleep and go have a little fun themselves. There are a variety of options to choose from depending on your personal taste; do you prefer bass-bumping rhythms or more classy establishments? Both are open and ready to help you end the day on a high note.

 

From the haunted sites to the bustling nightlife, Charleston is sure to provide a wonderful and relaxing break from the routine of working life. Whether you’re traveling with your family, your spouse, or just yourself, you’re guaranteed to stay busy and have fun!

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Transportation in Charleston: 5 Unique Ways to Get Around

evening carriage tours

If you’re planning a visit to Charleston, South Carolina, you’ve no doubt been drawn in by this city’s fascinating history, incredible architecture, and phenomenal culture. With so many sights to see, it’s easy to become so focused on the attractions themselves that you forget you’ll need to find a way to physically get there. Fortunately, Charleston has numerous ways to get from point A to point B. In fact, many of these modes of transportation are ones you won’t find just anywhere. You can certainly rent a car, reserve a car service, or take a shuttle while you’re here. But you can also enjoy several unique ways to get around our fair city.

Unique Ways to Get Around Charleston, SC

  1. Bike Sharing: Charleston’s official bike share program, Holy Spokes, has 27 locations throughout the city. You can reserve a bike using their mobile app or on the physical bicycle itself, unlock it, and explore on two wheels. When you’re finished, just return the bike to one of their many locations. It’s a seriously simple (and healthy!) way to take in Charleston’s breathtaking views and experience the city like a local. May we suggest one of the city’s many bike trails?
  2. Trolley: If you’re in town for a business conference or are planning to get hitched in Charleston, you can get a taste of traditional charm by booking a private trolley rental! Explore Charleston in perfectly restored vintage splendor by arranging a tour and catching some of the city’s most beautiful views. While you can’t take a trolley downtown and it isn’t a spur-of-the-moment option, it can certainly make your visit or occasion even more special.
  3. Boat: Since Charleston boasts approximately 90 miles of Atlantic coastline, your transportation choices don’t have to be limited to what’s on land. You can embark on a fishing charter or hop on a boat at any time by using the HOBA app, which directly connects you with local captains. It’s sort of like Uber for the water. If you need an innovative way to entertain and impress clients or you simply want to enjoy a relaxing ride with your family, a boat ride may be the way to go.
  4. Water Taxi: Speaking of water-based transportation, you definitely need to check out Charleston’s water taxis while you’re here. Charleston Water Taxi offers ferry service, dolphin-watching, and sightseeing cruises at extremely affordable prices. And because these water taxis depart from several locations, you’ll be able to get out on the open water no matter where you are. You don’t even have to make a reservation.
  5. Horse Drawn Carriage Tours: Of course, you can’t discuss Charleston’s unique transportation options without mentioning horse carriage rides! By reserving daytime or evening carriage tours, you’ll be able to appreciate what makes this city so extraordinary. You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time when you experience our fully-narrated, hour-long tours led by our expert guides. And because our daytime and evening carriage tours have several different routes available, each time you ride will offer different sights and bits of history. This is a truly special way to get to know what makes Charleston so different.

When you visit a new city, making an effort to see this destination from different viewpoints will definitely pay off. There’s no better way to do that than by exploring different transportation methods. To find out more about booking our daytime or evening carriage tours during your visit to Charleston, please get in touch with us today.