This post may contain compensated links. Refer to my disclaimer for more info.
I know you feel sorry for me having to make these Charleston Carriage Tours on your behalf, but it’s alright. We’re going on a carriage ride, y’all!
The very first time we visited Downtown Charleston, we rolled right up into Charleston City Market and ended up parking very close to Palmetto Carriage. I was suddenly drawn to this big red barn with these large, gorgeous horses resting outside. After petting the horses parked, I was drawn inside that big red barn to look around where the staff was very friendly and willing for us to pet the assortment of other animals. Of course, when I saw the beautiful horses and the romantic-style carriages, I wouldn’t rest until we had a carriage ride of our own.
Palmetto Carriage Company offered our family of four a free carriage ride and these opinions are 100% honestly my own.
The tour was arranged and the lady told us that Palmetto Carriage offered free parking behind their barn so of course, we were all over that. After parking, we went inside the barn where you can visit animals, find the restrooms, grab a snack, or just sit on a spell on their benches.
Our carriage pulled out of the barn with a kind and witty driver who spoke with great historical accuracy about the past and all types of interesting facts about the city. The hour-long tour seemed to be flying by as our knowledgeable guy shared his fascinating knowledge of The Revolutionary and Civil War era, history of the architecture, and the holy city.
What do you see on the Carriage Tour?
Gothic churches, Battery Park {close to where the Civil War began}, charming southern homes, Rainbow Row, amazing architecture, and beautiful ironwork.
Charleston Carriage Tours Pricing
Because there are several carriage companies in this unique city, the prices are very competitive. Always check each website before calling to book your ride because there are always online coupons on each of their individual websites depending on which type of tour you take. You will normally pay anywhere between $10 to $22 a person depending on age and some even let “lap children” ride free. Woot! If you play your cards right, this truly could be a terrific start of an affordable family vacation!
How to Get to the Charleston Carriage Tours
If you are flying into South Carolina Low Country, you will most likely use the Charleston SC airport which is known as the Charleston International Airport. Downtown Charleston is approximately fifteen minutes away from this airport by rental car that can be rented conveniently inside the airport.
There are several carriage companies to choose from in Charleston South Carolina and they are listed here in alphabetical order:
Carolina Polo and Carriage Company
Where to Stay in Downtown Charleston
There are many, many hotels in Downtown Charleston but the only one we have stayed in is the Historic District Hampton Inn. We chose this one because it is close to all the action, family-friendly and nice yet budget-friendly!
At the Historic Hampton Inn, you are literally within blocks of the shopping district of Kings Street, The Market, The Waterfront, The Battery Park, Rainbow Row, Downtown Charleston Restaurants, and of course the Charleston Carriage Tours.
This is my favorite map to navigate around the town.
Our family gives Palmetto Carriage a thumbs up, for sure.