Day Trip to Charleston#5: Bus Tour,Boone Hall, City Market, Lunch

Exploring the Day Trip to Charleston from Myrtle Beach: A Balanced Look

Thinking about a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston? This tour offers a convenient way to see the highlights of this historic Southern city without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’ve reviewed the experience carefully, so whether you’re considering it for yourself or recommending it to friends, you’ll get a clear picture of what to expect.

What really works here are the guided bus tour of Charleston’s historic district and the visit to Boone Hall Plantation, both offering insights and beautiful sights. Plus, the included lunch and free time at Charleston City Market give you a chance to personalize your day. One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule can feel a bit packed, which might be a consideration if you prefer slower, more in-depth exploration.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a rundown of Charleston in a single day, especially if you value guided insights, convenient transportation, and some flexibility for exploring on your own. It’s a great pick for history buffs, shoppers, and anyone wanting to make the most of a short trip without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transportation from Myrtle Beach simplifies your day.
• Guided tour of Charleston’s historic district offers insight without the hassle of self-guided navigation.
• Visits to Boone Hall Plantation and Charleston City Market provide a mix of history and local flavor.
• Two hours of free time allow for independent exploration and lunch.
• Good value for the price at $115 per person, considering all included stops.
• Reviews praise knowledgeable guides and beautiful sights, though some mention time constraints.

A Practical Breakdown of the Tour Experience

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Charleston without the planning fuss, this tour could be a solid choice. It’s structured to maximize your day, with about 11 hours of total time, starting early at 7:00 am. The main selling point? The ease of having transportation, entry fees, and a planned itinerary, so you can focus on enjoying the sights and soaking up the atmosphere.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel aboard a comfortable motorcoach, with a maximum of 50 travelers. Reviewers generally find the ride relaxing, and the driver — notably “Richard” or “Wendy” — seems to go out of their way to be helpful. The bus ride itself is part of the experience, giving you glimpses of South Carolina scenery along the way. The quiet comfort of an air-conditioned bus means you won’t be stuck in traffic or worried about parking in Charleston.

The Guided Bus Tour of Charleston

Once in Charleston, the guided tour of the historic district takes around 2 hours. This part is often appreciated for the knowledgeable guides who share stories about Charleston’s architecture, history, and culture. Some reviews highlight how interesting and informative the guides are, making the experience more than just a sightseeing drive.

However, a few mention that the tour sometimes feels a bit rushed or abrupt, especially toward the end. The reviewer who said the tour “ended rather abruptly” might find this a minor downside, but in general, those who enjoy guided narration tend to find it worthwhile. The guided portion provides context that helps you appreciate the sights, from historic homes to landmarks.

Charleston City Market and Free Time

After the guided tour, you get about 2 hours to explore Charleston on your own. This is a highlight for many travelers because it offers a chance to browse vendors, pick up souvenirs, or grab a meal. The market is lively and full of local arts and crafts, which adds to the authentic feel of the city.

You might love the variety here — from handmade jewelry to local food vendors. If you’re eager for a sit-down meal, there’s no shortage of restaurants nearby. A few reviewers did mention that the free time can sometimes feel a little too long, but overall, it’s a good balance.

Boone Hall Plantation

The last major stop is at Boone Hall Plantation, part of the tour package with admission included. It’s often called the “most photographed plantation in America,” and you’ll tour the historic house, original slave cabins, and grounds. The plantation offers a real sense of history, and the guided house tour provides insights into plantation life and the enslaved people who lived there.

From reviews, people appreciate the rich history and the opportunity to see the slave cabins and learn about Gullah culture. One reviewer called it “extraordinary” and enjoyed the presentation on the slave auction, which brought historical realities to life.

That said, some found the house tour a bit limited — just a few rooms downstairs, with upstairs unavailable. If you’re expecting an in-depth look at the entire house, this might be a bit of a letdown. But overall, the grounds and the story they tell seem to leave a lasting impression.

Lunch and Overall Value

The tour includes a boxed lunch, which many reviewers found surprisingly good, especially given the price point of $115. Keep in mind, there’s no vegetarian option explicitly mentioned, but most found the meal satisfying. Lunch is typically eaten at Boone Hall Plantation, providing a scenic backdrop.

In terms of value, considering transportation, guided tours, plantation admission, and lunch, many agree it’s a good deal. The reviews are generally positive about how much is included for the price, especially compared to planning a DIY trip.

Honest Considerations and Tips

While many enjoy this tour, a few reviewers pointed out some potential drawbacks. The schedule can be quite full, with limited time at each stop. If you prefer to linger longer at each site or explore at a slower pace, this might feel rushed.

Some guests also mentioned that the bus tour of Charleston can seem abrupt and that the guide’s narration might be hard to understand at times. If you’re a true history buff wanting every detail, this might not satisfy your curiosity entirely, but for most, it’s a good overview.

Finally, the walking involved at Boone Hall and the city market means comfortable shoes are a must. Be prepared for some light to moderate walking, especially if you want to see everything at the plantation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip suits first-time visitors to Charleston who want to see the major sights without the fuss of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided commentary and structured itineraries. History buffs will enjoy Boone Hall’s insights, and shoppers will find the City Market quite engaging.

It’s also a good fit for travelers on a budget, given the price point and included features. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to explore more deeply, you might want to consider a longer or more customized tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from central Myrtle Beach is part of the package, making the trip convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the whole tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, with the main activities spanning from early morning departure to late afternoon return.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, guided tour of Charleston’s historic district, admission to Boone Hall Plantation, and a boxed lunch.

Can I explore Charleston on my own?
Absolutely. After the guided tour, you have roughly 2 hours of free time to browse the Charleston City Market and eat at your leisure.

Are there any age restrictions or family considerations?
The tour appears suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It’s a walking-heavy day, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, ensuring a full refund if your plans change.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues should check with the provider, as some walking and touring at Boone Hall may require mobility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized way to see Charleston and its historic landmarks in one day, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided insight, self-exploration, and scenic stops. The value for money is generally good, especially considering the included admissions and lunch. Guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, and the stops at Boone Hall and Charleston Market are highlights that many reviews praise.

While the schedule can be a tad tight, it’s perfect for those who want a rundown without the stress of independent planning. It’s especially suited for first-timers, history lovers, and shoppers eager to explore Charleston’s vibrant market scene.

If you’re prepared for some walking and a full day, this trip can give you a memorable taste of Charleston’s charm and history without breaking the bank.

Note: Always double-check the current details and availability before booking, as times, schedules, and inclusions can change.