Charleston: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour & Historic Landmarks

Summary

Carriage wheels echo past Charleston churches gardens & city market

You’ll ride through Charleston’s historic district by horse-drawn carriage with a local guide who brings stories to life. Pass landmarks like St. Philip’s Church and Charleston City Market, catch glimpses of secret gardens, and hear laughter mixed with hoofbeats. The city feels closer somehow when you see it this way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was weirdly nervous waiting outside the Big Red Barn, listening to the horses shifting around and that low, grassy smell that always comes with them. There’s something about seeing Charleston from a carriage — you feel both exposed and tucked in at the same time. Our guide, Mike (who grew up nearby), waved us over and immediately started chatting about how unpredictable the city routes can be, depending on which way the carriage lottery sends you. I liked that — felt less like a script and more like we were just out for a ride with someone who knew every brick and shortcut.

We rolled out through the gates by Charleston City Market, wheels clacking over uneven stones. The city looked different from up there — slower, almost softer. Mike pointed out St. Philip’s Church as we passed, sharing how it’s been here longer than most things in this country (I didn’t expect to feel so small hearing that). Sunlight hit the old church windows and for a second everything went quiet except for our horse snorting at a pigeon — which made everyone laugh, even the couple behind me who’d barely spoken until then.

I kept noticing little things: a woman sweeping her porch in slow circles, Spanish moss moving in the breeze like it had all day to get anywhere. We passed grand houses with ironwork balconies and gardens so green they almost looked fake (they’re not). Mike answered every question — even when someone asked about ghosts, he just grinned and said “depends on who you ask.” Honestly, I still think about that view down Church Street with its crooked trees and sunlight flickering through.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Historic Charleston carriage tour

• Meet guide at Palmetto Carriage Works
• Orientation and barn visit
• Begin horse-drawn carriage ride
• Pass Charleston City Market and city gate
• View St. Philip’s Church
• Pass U.S. Custom House
• Return to Palmetto Carriage Works

Top questions

How long does the Charleston carriage tour last?

The horse-drawn carriage tour lasts approximately one hour.

Where does the carriage tour start in Charleston?

The tour begins at Palmetto Carriage Works’ Big Red Barn near Charleston City Market.

Is there a guide on the carriage tour?

Yes, each carriage has a certified local guide who shares stories and answers questions during the ride.

What will I see on this Charleston horse-drawn carriage tour?

You’ll pass landmarks like St. Philip’s Church, Charleston City Market, historic homes, churches, gardens, and parks.

Are there multiple departure times for this tour?

Yes, there are several departures available throughout the day to fit your schedule.

Can infants or small children join the carriage tour?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Does this carriage tour operate in bad weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; guests should dress appropriately for rain or sun.

Are service animals allowed on this carriage ride?

Yes, service animals are permitted on board during your tour of historic Charleston.

What’s included

Your hour-long day trip through historic Charleston includes flexible departure times from Palmetto Carriage Works’ Big Red Barn near City Market, a licensed local guide leading your horse-drawn carriage past iconic landmarks like St. Philip’s Church and lush gardens—plus plenty of chances to ask questions or just take it all in along the way.