Top Charleston Bus Tours

The tour bus driver/guide Captain Matty was awesome. He was knowledgeable and very entertaining as he drove us to and from the plantation. Throughout the drive he included the historical facts/stories about Charleston, Carolina and the Plantation. What’s I found interesting about Captain Matty his voice reminds me of Ted Lasso and he looks like he could be from the Kelce family. The tour we had of the Magnolia Plantation included three tours that are optional at assigned times or you can explore the plantation on your own or take the tours. We had the plantation house, Group Slavery to Freedom Tour and the tram ride around the plantation. The tour of the main house is definitely good and lasts 45 minutes. They talk about some family history, the history of the plantation and some of the furnishings. The second included tour was a 30 minute presentation by a young woman, I believe her name was Danica. She talked about how the enslaved people were captured in Africa, transported across the Atlantic and ultimately wound up at the plantation. She also talked how the original cash crop of the plantation was rice. She described living and working conditions and how life evolved after the Civil War when many former enslaved became employees of the plantation. They also have a number of cabins that represent how they lived through the years. Finally the tram around the plantation, honestly I don’t think it’s worth the time since all you do ride around dense forest vegetation for 45 minutes and never see the gardens except for mansion towards the very end. You could use that time better exploring the gardens on your own.

Cooper is an excellent tour guide! His knowledge of Charleston history is obvious. I’ve done a few of the walking tours and they’re all different on some level. We had family and friends along on this one and altho’ all the tours are great I must say this was probably the best. I learned new information regarding historical Charleston as I have on each tour. Charleston definitely has a layered history - each tour is different. Definitely recommend!! Jim

This was a wonderful experience and the highlight of my trip to Charleston. Fascinating history associated with the plantation, all brought to life by the excellent tour guides on site. A special mention must go to the guide Ed who showed tourists around the main hall. The combination of his natural warmth and tremendous sense of humour will live long in the memory! An absolute must see attraction in Charleston.