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

Experience the Charm of Charleston in a Day: A Detailed Review of the Myrtle Beach to Charleston Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Myrtle Beach that promises to cover a lot of ground and history, this tour might be on your radar. It’s designed for those who want to see the highlights of Charleston without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, and it offers a combination of sightseeing, learning, and some relaxing moments along the way. From a horse-drawn carriage through the historic district to a boat tour around the harbor, plus visits to Fort Sumter and Boone Hall Plantation, this experience packs a punch.

What we really like about this tour is its well-rounded approach. First, it’s conveniently all-in-one, so you don’t have to figure out transportation or worry about logistics — everything’s arranged, with pick-up options from Myrtle Beach. Second, the guides and narration get high praise, making the experience not just visual but also educational. The downside? It’s a long day, clocking in at around 11 to 12 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and some walking.

If you’re someone who appreciates history, scenic views, and well-organized group tours, this trip could be a great fit. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore each site more deeply, it’s worth considering that the time at each stop is somewhat limited. Still, for a busy traveler wanting a taste of Charleston’s top sights, this tour offers a solid, engaging introduction.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines carriage rides, boat tours, and historic site visits, offering a well-rounded day.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and ability to keep the group engaged.
• Convenience: Hassle-free pickup and transportation included, making logistics easier.
• Balanced Itinerary: Sufficient time at major highlights, though some reviews mention it can feel rushed.
• Value for Money: At $215 per person, it’s a full-day experience packed with diverse activities.
• Good for history lovers: Especially those who want an overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Myrtle Beach to Charleston

This tour begins early, with pickup from several designated locations in Myrtle Beach, so you’re not left to figure out how to get there yourself. The ride in spacious, air-conditioned coaches promises comfort for the lengthy journey, roughly an hour or more depending on your pickup point and traffic. This is a plus because it means you start relaxed, not cramped or stressed.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Charleston’s Historic District

Once you arrive, the first highlight is a horse-drawn carriage ride. Our sources tell us that most of Charleston’s mansions and historic buildings predate the Civil War, making the carriage tour a leisurely way to see the architecture and get a sense of the city’s grandeur. It lasts about an hour and is narrated, so you’ll learn about the city’s past and its notable residents. Reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable, which makes a big difference in how much you’ll get out of this experience.

Shopping at the Charleston City Market

After the carriage ride, there’s a roughly 45-minute window to explore the City Market, a long stretch of vendors selling local arts and crafts. It’s a good opportunity to pick up souvenirs or just browse the colorful stalls. Some reviews mention that they wish they had more time here, but it’s nice to have a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Boat Tour of Charleston Harbor with Lunch

Next, it’s onto a 90-minute boat tour around Charleston Harbor. This is a highlight for many visitors, especially because it’s live narrated, providing insights into the harbor’s role in the city’s history. You’ll get up close to Fort Sumter, famous as the site where the Civil War began, which adds a tangible sense of history. During the boat ride, you can enjoy a boxed lunch—some reviews praise the quality, while others mention it’s a simple but adequate meal. Full bar service is available, giving you a chance to relax and take in the views.

Fort Sumter View and Tour

While you don’t disembark at Fort Sumter, the boat’s proximity lets you see it up close, and the narration enriches your understanding of its importance. If you’re a history buff, this is a key moment in the day.

Boone Hall Plantation

The last major stop is the Boone Hall Plantation, often called “the most photographed plantation in America.” Here, you’ll visit the historic house, original slave cabins, and other grounds. The guided tour is about two hours, giving you a good look at the plantation’s history and architecture. Many reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and how educational the experience is.

Return to Myrtle Beach

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus takes you back, ending around early evening. Travelers often find the day long but packed with diverse and engaging activities, making it worthwhile if you want a rundown of Charleston.

What We Loved About This Tour

The guides and narrators are a standout, consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep things interesting. We also appreciate how the itinerary manages to balance a variety of experiences — history, scenery, shopping, and relaxation — all in one day. The transportation is comfortable, and the inclusion of meals and entry fees makes it a straightforward, stress-free option.

However, some reviews note that the time at each stop can feel limited, especially if you’re someone who likes to linger or explore a site more thoroughly. The schedule is tight, which is typical for full-day tours, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re aiming for a more laid-back experience.

The Price Point: Is It Worth It?

At $215 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest, but it’s quite comprehensive. You get multiple major attractions, guided commentary, transportation, and a hearty day of activities. When you consider how much is packed into this experience — including the boat tour, carriage ride, and plantation visit — many travelers find it offers good value, especially compared to booking each part separately.

Some reviews point out that the activities are well planned and that everything went smoothly, which adds to the perceived value.

Practical Tips for Potential Bookers

• Be prepared for a long day: Bring comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a light snack for between stops.
• Timing is tight: If you’re someone who likes to explore each site more deeply, this might feel rushed.
• Weather matters: The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to rain, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.
• Age considerations: Not recommended for children under 4, likely due to the length and nature of the activities.
• Group size: Limited to a maximum of 55 travelers, so expect a fairly social atmosphere but not overly crowded.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day trip is a fantastic choice for history enthusiasts and travelers who want a curated experience of Charleston’s most famous sites. If you’re interested in learning about the Civil War, architecture, plantation life, and enjoy guided narration, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s especially good for those who prefer organized, all-inclusive outings that take the stress out of planning. While it’s packed and not overly leisurely, it offers a broad perspective of Charleston’s key spots in a single day. Be aware that some might find the schedule a bit rushed if they want to linger longer at each stop.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, guided tour that covers history, scenic views, and local culture, this trip does a solid job. Just remember to bring your curiosity and a good pair of walking shoes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in a spacious, air-conditioned coach, starting from several pickup points in Myrtle Beach.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Yes. Most travelers book around 27 days ahead, and securing your spot early is wise, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cost per person?
The price is $215.00 per person, which covers most activities, entry fees, and meals.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly advertised as family-focused, it is generally suitable for travelers of most ages over 4. Keep in mind the length and activity level.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a neat package for anyone wanting to get the most out of Charleston in a day without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It’s a mix of history, scenic beauty, and local culture, all delivered with helpful guides and comfort. Perfect for a busy day, but not for those seeking a slow, deep dive into each site.