Beaufort: Historic District Minibus Tour & Movie Sites

Summary

Historic Beaufort homes, Civil War tales, Hollywood film spots in comfort

You’ll ride through Beaufort’s historic district in a comfy minibus with a local guide sharing stories about antebellum homes, Civil War secrets, and movie scenes filmed right here. See moss-draped streets up close and hear voices from Beaufort’s past—there’s a quiet magic to it that lingers long after the tour ends.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the Spanish moss — it hangs everywhere in Beaufort, like the whole town is draped in soft green curtains. We slid into the minibus (thankfully air-conditioned, because South Carolina humidity doesn’t mess around), and our guide, Ms. Johnson, started pointing out houses with those wide porches you see in old movies. She told us about the families who built them, her voice mixing pride and a little bit of gossip. I tried to imagine living here back then — can’t say I’d have managed those dresses.

We rolled through the Old Point area and The Bluff, passing churches that looked straight out of a history book. Ms. Johnson had this way of slipping in details — like how Union soldiers took over some of these homes during the Civil War. At one stop she paused and said, “Right here is where Forrest Gump sat on that bench.” Someone behind me whispered “life is like a box of chocolates,” and we all laughed. It’s weird seeing places you know from movies but realizing real people live here too.

I kept catching whiffs of pluff mud from the marshes whenever we opened a window — not unpleasant, just honest. The tour only lasted about an hour or so but felt packed with stories; honestly, I could’ve listened longer if my stomach hadn’t started rumbling (the restaurants downtown looked tempting). And yeah, there’s something about those old houses at sunset that sticks with you after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beaufort Historic District Tour

• Drive through historic Beaufort
• Explore Old Point area
• View antebellum houses and churches
• Learn about Civil War Union Occupation
• See Hollywood movie filming sites
• Discover architecture and local history
• Visit downtown shops and restaurants

Top questions

How long does the Beaufort minibus tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Is the Beaufort City Minibus Tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap; prams or strollers are allowed.

Does the tour include pickup?

The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned van but does not specify hotel pickup.

Will we see movie filming locations in Beaufort?

Yes, the route includes sites from over 24 Hollywood films shot in Beaufort.

Are service animals permitted on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the minibus tour.

Is there time for shopping or eating during the tour?

The tour itself focuses on sightseeing; shops and restaurants are nearby for before or after your visit.

Who leads the Beaufort City Minibus Tour?

A professional local guide will lead your group through historic sites and share stories along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes travel by air-conditioned van around Beaufort’s historic district with a professional local guide—sometimes even costumed! All public areas are wheelchair accessible so everyone can enjoy these stories and sights together before heading off to explore more on your own if you want.