If you’re considering exploring Charleston’s haunted charm without the hustle of a walking tour, this Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour might just be what you’re after. With glowing reviews and a sweet price point of $45 per person, it’s easy to see why many travelers opt for this cozy, narrated ride. Whether you’re into ghost stories, historic sights, or just want an easy way to cover more ground in less time, this tour offers a little bit of everything.
What really catches our eye about this experience is its combination of storytelling and scenic views. Sitting comfortably in a carriage while hearing chilling tales as you glide past centuries-old buildings definitely sounds like a memorable way to spend an evening. Plus, the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible and lasts around 40 minutes makes it a practical choice for a wide range of visitors. That said, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a scare-the-pants-off-you kind of tour—it’s more fun, atmospheric, and informative than spine-chilling. So, if you’re expecting a super spooky, blood-curdling experience, you might find it gentler than anticipated.
This tour is best suited for history buffs, fans of ghost stories, or travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to see Charleston’s historic districts. Families with kids who enjoy spooky tales will find it suitable, especially since the stories are told with humor rather than horror. But if you’re after something more intense or want to get inside haunted locations, this might feel a bit tame. Still, for a short, charming evening activity, it hits the sweet spot.
Key Points
- Comfort and Ease: No walking required, making it accessible and relaxing.
- Interesting Narration: Guides share spooky and niche historical stories, with positive feedback about their knowledge and delivery.
- Scenic Route: Passes by notable sites like Mills House, Circular Graveyard, and Provost Dungeon.
- Efficient and Covering Ground: Covers more than 15 blocks in just 40 minutes, compared to a walking tour.
- Value for Money: Many reviews highlight the tour as worth the cost, especially given the guided storytelling and scenic experience.
- Good for Families: The stories are not overly scary, and kids seem to enjoy the mix of history and supernatural tales.
What to Expect from the Tour
Starting at 14 Anson Street, the tour kicks off from a central point in downtown Charleston, making it easy to access via public transportation or parking garages nearby. You’ll check in at the stable, where you can meet the draft horses, watch an educational video, and grab water or use the restroom before hopping onto your carriage. The carriage itself is designed for comfort and accessibility, with an inclined ramp and easy loading platform.
Once mounted, the 40-minute ride begins as your guide—certified and knowledgeable—shares stories of Charleston’s eerie past. The narration is lively and often humorous, making the experience engaging without being overly scary. The route takes you down twisting side streets, past haunted alleys and notable landmarks, creating a perfect blend of history and ghostly lore.
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The Stops
- Old South Carriage Company: Your starting and ending point, which also gives you time to settle in and say hello to the horses.
- The Last Colonial Building & City Dungeon: The oldest colonial building built in America and Charleston’s original dungeon, giving a tangible connection to the city’s past.
- Circular Congregational Graveyard: The city’s oldest graveyard, where many stories of those buried there come alive during the narration.
- St. Michael’s Episcopal Church: Known as the oldest church building in Charleston, its historic architecture adds to the atmospheric journey.
- Return Route: You’ll pass by Charleston’s pirate-infested waters and the Old City Market, rounding out the experience with scenic views and intriguing tales.
The Experience
Many reviewers mention the quality of the guides, highlighting their humor, storytelling skills, and passion for Charleston’s history. For instance, some note that guides like Shannon or Miles kept the stories lively and engaging, blending humor with the city’s darker tales. The horses, especially Mason and Wayne, are described as gentle and well-cared-for, making the ride comfortable and enjoyable.
The tour is particularly praised for its scenic lighting, especially if you go during dusk, when gas lamps glow softly and highlight the city’s architecture beautifully. The 40-minute duration is short enough to keep everyone engaged but long enough to provide a meaningful glimpse into Charleston’s haunted corners.
The Value
While $45 might seem like a modest expense, many reviews emphasize how much they enjoyed the storytelling and scenic journey for the price. The tour’s ability to cover more ground than a walking itinerary makes it a time-efficient way to see some of Charleston’s key historic sites and hear spooky stories. Some travelers, however, wished for a little more time per stop or more detailed stories, but overall, most feel it strikes a good balance.
Accessibility & Practical Details
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with an easy-loading platform, which is a bonus for travelers with mobility needs. You’re asked to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, so plan accordingly. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 16, ensuring a cozy, intimate experience.
Weather considerations are important—this tour runs rain or shine but not during thunderstorms. Lightweight rain ponchos are available at the stable if needed. Food isn’t permitted on the carriage, but bottled water can be purchased beforehand or brought along.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after an atmospheric and fun way to explore Charleston’s haunted spots without much walking, this tour fits the bill beautifully. It’s ideal for history lovers, fans of ghost stories, or those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience in the evening. Families with children who enjoy spooky tales will find it suitable, given the stories’ humorous tone rather than frightening content.
However, if you’re looking for a truly scary or inside look at haunted locations, this tour might fall short. It’s more about storytelling and ambiance than spine-tingling scares. Also, those with limited mobility or very young children should check accessibility details, but overall, it’s quite accommodating.
FAQ
Where does the Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston depart from?
It departs from the Old South Carriage stable at 14 Anson Street, just a block north of the City Market. The stable provides shelter from the elements during check-in.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and lots near the City Market, plus the free DASH shuttle from the Visitors Center can get you close.
How early should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and to board your carriage. Arriving late might mean missing your spot without a refund.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children 3 and under ride free if on a parent’s lap. To secure a seat for a child, a ticket must be purchased.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 40 minutes, covering more than 15 blocks of Charleston’s historic area.
Is the narration included?
Absolutely. A certified guide provides the storytelling, sharing spooky tales and local history.
What will I see during the tour?
Expect to pass haunted alleys, graveyards, churches, hotels, and even a dungeon, with stories that bring these places to life.
How many people can the carriage seat?
Up to 16 passengers in a surrey-style carriage, or up to 8 in a wagonette.
Can I bring snacks or drinks?
Food isn’t allowed, but bottled water is fine—purchasable at the stable if you wish.
Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston
“Wayne the horse was great, the driver was very informative . We planned the ride for after dusk and it payed off”
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic way to absorb Charleston’s mysterious side, this haunted carriage ride offers a charming, informative, and fun experience. It’s especially great for those who enjoy storytelling, beautiful evening light, and a touch of spooky ambiance—without the intensity of a full-on ghost hunt. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and humor, and the horses add a genuine touch of Southern hospitality.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, memorable glimpse of Charleston’s haunted charm in a cozy, accessible setting. While it may not satisfy those craving intense scares or inside access, it delivers on atmosphere, scenery, and storytelling, making it a worthwhile addition to your Charleston itinerary.
Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or looking to wind down with an atmospheric experience, this tour strikes a nice balance. Just remember to arrive early, bring some patience, and enjoy the spooky side of Charleston in style.
