Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
Recommended by 96% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Charleston, USA
+2
- 1 hour (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Learn all about more than 300 years of history on this guided carriage tour of Charleston. See the many mansions, churches, and gardens as your horse-drawn carriage tour covers more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic Charleston. Belgian and Percheron draft horses lead you through the streets while you learn about this “Holy City” and its role in the Civil War—leave your guidebook at home, these stories are better.
- See 30 blocks of Charleson's historic district with ease
- Hear stories about former residents that most tourists miss
- Great photo ops of gardens with beautiful wrought iron gates
- Belgian and Percheron draft horses lead your carriage through the streets
What's Included
- 1-Hour Horse & Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Charleston
- Belgian or Percheron Draft Horse
- Certified Driver/Guide
- See Charleston highlights such as historically significant homes, churches and gardens
- Hear stories of the city’s role in our nation's history from your certified guide
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 14 Anson St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
Departure Point: Old South Carriage Address: 14 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 Dates: Daily - MUST check-in 15-minutes
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
This horse-drawn carriage ride and tour, a journey that travels back in time to the colonial beginnings of Charleston, meets at 14 Anson Street, home of the Old South Carriage Company. Charleston, the oldest and second-largest city in South Carolina, is defined by its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pre-Civil-War-era houses.
As the tour progresses, pass by the old churches, antebellum mansions and lush gardens of Charleston — more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of residential real estate. Stop outside historic homes, like the Gov. William Aiken House, the former home of South Carolina Governor William Aiken, Jr. This house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Part of the charm of the tour are the horses that pull the carriage. These are the same kinds of draft horses that worked on American farms in the early 1800s, making this voyage all the more authentic.
As the tour progresses, pass by the old churches, antebellum mansions and lush gardens of Charleston — more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of residential real estate. Stop outside historic homes, like the Gov. William Aiken House, the former home of South Carolina Governor William Aiken, Jr. This house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Part of the charm of the tour are the horses that pull the carriage. These are the same kinds of draft horses that worked on American farms in the early 1800s, making this voyage all the more authentic.
1
Old South Carriage Company
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Charleston City Market (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- Please note: you MUST check-in 15-minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Failure to do so may result in your reservation being cancelled with out refund.
- Carriage can transport up to 16 passengers per departure.
- Children 3 years and under are free provided that they sit on the lap of a parent or guardian. If you want your child to have a seat, you must purchase a child seat.
- By purchasing tickets for any horse-drawn carriage tour with Old South Carriage Co, participants acknowledge and accept all risks and liabilities associated with the tour, horses, and it’s properties. Old South Carriage Co is not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur; and participants agree to release Old South Carriage Co and it’s employees from all liability.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
Supplied by
Frequently Asked Questions (13)
Q:Where does the Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour depart from?
A:Carriages board and depart from our stable at 14 Anson Street (one block north of the City Market). Our stable provides protection from the elements while you wait.
Apr 2021
The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.8
based on 10,874 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Debra_S, Aug 2026
Our booking was cancelled 1 hour before and the caller said she would rebook but sent no new information on the changes. I had to chat with Viator to find out our old ticket would cover a different time, 2 days later. Not very impressed with the service.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hello, I am so sorry you had a negative experience. I want to just make sure it was our company. If you could reach out to me I would like to discuss this further. Thank you.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
843-723-9712
Dawn_M, Aug 2026
We went early in the day - 9 am. The was a cool breeze even in the early August morning. Carriage driver does not use microphones so if you have a hearing impairment, request to sit up front.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
We are thrilled to hear that you had a great time on your tour. I hope you had all your questions answered about our beautiful city’s history. We thank you for choosing Old South Carriage Co.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Jennifer_S, Aug 2026
Great experience, highly recommend doing while in Charleston. Tour guide very informative regarding history
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hey y’all, we’re so glad to hear you had a wonderful experience. We have been giving tours in historic Charleston for over 40 years and strive to give the best experience possible. Thank you for joining us at Old South Carriage Co.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Martha_C, Aug 2026
Did not take the route I have been on in the three other horse drawn tours I have been on. Driver was a little hard to understand—very drawling Southern accent. Horse was great. Did not see Rainbow Row or harbor.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We completely understand the disappointment of not getting the specific route you were hoping for and wish we could do more. What many visitors don't realize is that all carriage tour routes in Charleston are assigned by the city's tourism division, not by us. With 5 zones and 9 different routes, the city rotates carriages to spread traffic evenly across the historic district — and that applies to every company operating here, including private bookings. It's one of the ways Charleston manages what is genuinely one of the largest carriage tour industries in the world. We hope the experience itself was still a memorable one. We truly appreciate you choosing Old South Carriage Co."
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Margaret_B, Aug 2026
We enjoyed seeing Charleston from the carriage and the guide did a good job pointing out all the interesting things and telling some stories too.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the lovely review! Our licensed tour guides are the best in the city! We hope to see you again in the future.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Jennifer_T, Aug 2026
It's hot during the summer day, so be sure to stay hydrated. The carriage tour takes off right on time and the horse is beautiful.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hello, I’m glad you enjoyed your experience. We take great pride in our horses! They are a part of our family and we love them dearly. Thanks for riding on our historic carriage tour.
Scott B.
Guest relations Manager
Dawn_C, Aug 2026
After paying for 7 passengers and wanting to give my family a great experience, we were shuffled so fast on and off the carriage that we weren't able to take any pictures for our memories sake. The ride was fun and we enjoyed our sightseeing, but our experience was tarnished because of the hurriedness that happened at the stables!! We did get a picture in front of a horse, but with 7 of us, you couldn't even see the horse behind us!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hello, and thank you for the feedback, we always value our guests advice and we will address the situation.. We appreciate you choosing Old South Carriage Co.
Scott B.
Guest relations manager
Elizabeth_S, Aug 2026
Fourth time we’ve done the horse and carriage ride - it never fails! A great intro to Charleston - highly recommend
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi! Thanks for sharing your experience! We appreciate you taking the time to join us on a lovely carriage ride through Historic Downtown Charleston. We are proud of this city and believe the best way to experience it is by horse and carriage. Thanks again for joining us and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
David_L, Aug 2026
Great ride through the neighborhoods of Charleston. Guide was extremely knowledgeable of history and easy to listen to. Highly recommend this ride as it gave us a look back into this cities many political and natural events that were overcome.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi, Thank you for this 5 star review. Our goal at Old South Carriage Co. is to give our guests a memorable experience of this beautiful city. I am thrilled we accomplished that for you. Come and see us in the future for another tour!
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
DVSwia, Aug 2026
Enjoyable east sail through the bay. Had some wine and Will was a great captain.
We had nice weather and really enjoyed seeing the homes in the water:
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad y’all had a great time on our Historic Carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of Charleston.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Jennifer_G, Aug 2026
We had a great time. Tom was an amazing horse and we had a great host. Tom deserves all the snacks!! Would totally recommend.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful review. We appreciate you using Old South Carriage company to view our beautiful historic city. Come see us again in the future!
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Cindy_L, Aug 2026
I highly recommend the carriage ride to learn more about Charleston. It was very informative and a good time.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad y’all had a great time on our Historic Carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of Charleston.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Sireen_H, Aug 2026
The carriage ride was a great way to see Charleston and learn about its history. Our guide Makenzie was excellent and knowledgeable. Also, Moose, our horse was adorable!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi! Thanks for sharing your experience! We appreciate you taking the time to join us on a lovely carriage ride through Historic Downtown Charleston. We are proud of this city and believe the best way to experience it is by horse and carriage. Thanks again for joining us and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
christopher_r, Aug 2026
Was great experience ! Tour guide was knowledgable and interesting - just about the right length tour in this heat !
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it was a pleasure having y’all join us on our historic carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of your stay.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Patrick_R, Aug 2026
Had a great time! Our driver was very well knowledgeable about the history. Moose was also fantastic!!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad y’all had a great time on our Historic Carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of Charleston.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Julie_H, Aug 2026
The experience was informative and amazing. Our attention was held by the vast knowledge of the driver. We would like to do it again.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hey y’all, we’re so glad to hear you had a wonderful experience. We have been giving tours in historic Charleston for over 40 years and strive to give the best experience possible. Thank you for joining us at Old South Carriage Co.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Billy_A, Jul 2026
Tour guide was real knowledgeable and give a good history on Charleston. Horses was beautiful and well taken care of.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it was a pleasure having y’all join us on our historic carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of your stay.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Javaris_T, Jul 2026
Tour guide was knowledgeable and he was a people's person. He kept everyone engaged through out the tour.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi, thank you for the review, we are so glad you had a great tour. We hope you join us again in the future.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Tammy_H, Jul 2026
We enjoyed our tour. We really liked that we had various presentations we could attend. Our favorite was the Gullah history with Mrs. Gillard. The Boone Plantation is so rich with history. The enslaved cabins that had the African American History was a positive.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful review. We appreciate you using Old South Carriage company to view our beautiful historic city. Come see us again in the future!
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
Alan_U, Jul 2026
It was fun and interesting. Our guide was very knowledgeable and funny. It was relaxing and the hour went fast.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad y’all had a great time on our Historic Carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of Charleston.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
joanne_s, Jul 2026
Lovely way to see old Charleston. Very informative. Loved watching the horse navigate around cars! Ride was pleasant and guide was very knowledgeable!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it was a pleasure having y’all join us on our historic carriage tour! Enjoy the rest of your stay.
Scott B.
Guest Relations Manager
MaryLou_M, Jul 2026
Emerson was a great guide tour with his quirky little jokes 😉 and what a beautiful horse Tom is. He was so well behaved. It was great to sit back and enjoy the scenery of Charleston.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi and thank you so much for this review, we love to hear that our patrons enjoyed their tour of our beautiful historic city by horse and carriage.
Scott B.
Guest relations manager
Karen_H, Jul 2026
It’s a great way to get information about Charleston and get the lay of the historical downtown area.
Jill_L, Jul 2026
Fun tour, the driver was very knowledgeable and informative, learned a lot about Charleston. Was very impressed with the whole tour company and staff. Great way to get an overview of the city!
Scott_M, Jul 2026
This was a lovely activity - fun, engaging & informative. Young adult kids loved it too. Karen (I might have forgotten her correct name but it starts with K) & Bingo (our horse) were AWESOME!
Denise_P, Jul 2026
It’s very warm, bring water to stay hydrated………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Crystal_L, Jul 2026
Awesome! This is a must do while visiting Charleston SC. We really enjoyed this and our tour guide Madison was wonderful!
Ashley_F, Jul 2026
Great experience with a lot of history. Guide was very knowledgeable. Easy pickup and drop off location.
lisa_k, Jul 2026
Tom, our horse did an amazing job navigating the streets, the noise, traffic and steel plates in the road. He was top notch and deserves an extra beer on his feed!! Emerson, our guide was great too’
Lynda_W, Jul 2026
Very well done tour and a great tour guide too! We were especially pleased to see how healthy and well cared for the beautiful horses were.
From $50.00
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Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
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