charleston tours and events

THE 10 BEST Charleston Tours & Excursions

Charleston tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

2. Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

3. Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

4. Charleston Food Tour

5. Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

6. 90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

7. Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)

8. Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

9. Drayton Hall Plantation Tour

10. Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

11. Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

12. Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

13. Charleston historical walking tour with a Professor of History at The Citadel

14. Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

15. Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour

16. Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

17. Storied Charleston Walking Tour by Author Liz Duren

18. Charleston See-It-All Sightseeing Bus Tour

19. Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

20. Charleston Pirates and Ghosts Tour

21. Downtown Charleston Food Tour

22. Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard

23. Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

24. Charleston's Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour

25. Middleton Place Guided Tour with Lunch and Transportation

26. Middleton Place Admission with Self Guided Tour and Lunch

27. Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

28. Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class

29. Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

30. Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class

What travelers are saying.

• Dan D 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great town to visit Page was very good as the tour guide. Food was ok but history and passion of delivery made the trip worthwhile. Charleston is a great getaway spot. Read more Review of: Charleston Food Tour Written April 22, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
• Justin Edmond, OK 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very good trip! This was a great way to see the fort and the city views from the Harbor. The views from the boat were some of my favorite and they shared great information. Read more Review of: Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry Written April 22, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Sarah P 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Ghost Tour We loved our ghost tour! Savannah and Otis both did an amazing job. We learned a lot and got to see Charleston. I highly recommend it. Read more Review of: Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston Written April 22, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
• Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
• Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
• 90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston
• Charleston Sailing Charters
• Coastal Expeditions
• RedFin Charters
• Charleston Historic Tours
• Pirates of Charleston
• All In One Charters
• Om Sailing Charters
• Blue Life Charters
• Absolute Reel Screamer Charters
• Adventure Harbor Tours
• Charleston Kayak Company

Protect Your Trip »

The 15 best charleston tours of 2024.

See everything this historic South Carolina city has to offer on one of these guided excursions.

The Best Charleston Tours

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History and culture lovers will relish a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, for its variety of historic churches, forts and mansions that rank as Charleston's most popular attractions . Or, perhaps you're most interested in its cuisine or the sea creatures that populate its waterways. Either way, these tours – identified by U.S. News using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment – offer just what you need for a fulfilling visit to the Holy City.

Palmetto Carriage Works – Daytime Group Carriage Ride – Charleston Residential District

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $40 Duration: 1 hour

This tour with Palmetto Carriage Works focuses on the residential district of downtown Charleston. During the ride, the horse-drawn carriage winds through 25 to 30 city blocks, passing houses, mansions, parks and gardens, while the driver shares information regarding architecture, the landscape and regional history. Patrons consistently laud the guides for their knowledge, friendliness and good humor. They also appreciate how well the company cares for its horses. Palmetto Carriage offers a variety of "add-ons," such as a plantation tour at Middleton Place or a harbor boat tour.

Daytime tours leave every 30 minutes between 9 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the month. Carriages hold up to 16 people; children younger than 4 may ride as a lap child for free. The company also offers evening carriage tours.

Check prices & availability on:

Two Sisters Tours

Price: From $25 Duration: 2 hours

Take the name of the Two Sisters Tours literally: sisters, who are seventh-generation Charleston natives, lead every tour. Along the 2.5-mile walking tour, you'll traverse 18 city blocks and visit St. Michael's Church, the Battery and various centuries-old houses, among other attractions. The sibling guides earn effusive praise for the historical information and colorful anecdotes they share with travelers.

Groups are limited to 20 participants. Tours are available Monday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. An additional 2 p.m. tour may be offered, depending on the month.

Adventure Harbor Tours – Morris Island Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $36 Duration: 3 hours

To reach the uninhabited Morris Island, hop on this boat tour offered by Adventure Harbor Tours. After setting sail from the Charleston Harbor, you'll head to Morris Island where you'll have 90 minutes to explore. You can roam the island on your own for a self-guided visit, or heed the advice of previous tourgoers and follow your guide to learn more about the island's ecology, animals and tidal mechanics. Your guide will also help you spot interesting shells and shark teeth that you can take home with you – a particular highlight for reviewers.

Due to unpredictable tidal conditions, tour times and daily availability may vary. You can see the various departure times when booking. Adventure Harbor Tours also offers private charters, as well as sunset cruises.

Old South Carriage Company – Historic Charleston Carriage Tour

Old South Carriage Company's Historic Charleston Carriage Tours cover about 30 blocks of the city. During the excursions, guides provide facts about the churches, mansions and gardens passed on the approximately 2.5-mile route (which may vary from tour to tour). Tour-takers enjoy the guides' personality and extensive knowledge of the city. Visitors also say both guides and horses are friendly.

Tours take place multiple times daily between 9 or 10 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m. (depending on the month). Groups are limited to 16 passengers. Old South Carriage Company also offers a haunted carriage tour.

Courtesy of Lowcountry Walking Tours

Lowcountry Walking Tours – Charleston's Alleys and Hidden Passages

Price: From $30 Duration: 2 hours

Go behind the scenes, as it were, with Charleston's Hidden Alleys and Passages tour. You'll explore unique cobblestone and brick pathways that are largely inaccessible by car and often overlooked. Tour guides consistently receive fulsome praise for their insight and enthusiasm. Even Charleston residents report they learned something new about their hometown and its history. Plus, since the tour takes place mostly in the shade, reviewers say the stroll offers a nice reprieve from the city's sweltering heat.

Outings depart from the Old Exchange Building daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Lowcountry Walking Tours also leads a Historic Downtown Tour, among others.

Charleston Outdoor Adventures – Dolphin Eco Tour

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $32 Duration: 1.5 hours

If you hope to see dolphins in their natural habitat, then Charleston Outdoor Adventures has a tour for you. Its Dolphin Eco Tour takes visitors over the creeks, inlets and marshes near Folly Beach , where approximately 300 wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins reside. During the boat rides, the captain imparts information regarding the local environment, wildlife and history. Reviewers frequently report learning quite a bit about dolphins and Charleston's ecosystem.

Tours depart several times daily (including around sunset on select days). Charleston Outdoor Adventures also offers a Morris Island Lighthouse boat tour and several kayak tours.

Charleston Harbor Tours – Historic Charleston Harbor Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27 Duration: 1.5 hours

This boat tour offers views of many of the city's popular landmarks, including forts Sumter , Moultrie and Johnson, St. Michael's Church and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. During the sightseeing ride aboard the Carolina Belle, the captain provides commentary on the various sights and Charleston's history, which reviewers find informative and entertaining. Plus, many report seeing dolphins during the ride.

Charleston Harbor Tours depart several times daily; exact times vary by season. Food and beverages are available for purchase on board. Charleston Harbor Tours also offers sunset cruises.

Charleston Culinary Tours – Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour

Price: From $95 Duration: 2.5 hours

The Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour focuses on the city's historic French Quarter and City Market, and includes visits to a handful of local restaurants. Samples during the walking tour may include classic Southern fare like pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, or shrimp and grits. Guides share their knowledge of regional food and Charleston history along the way. Reviewers enthusiastically describe guides as equally entertaining and informative. Travelers also praise the food, calling it delicious.

Tours are offered daily at a variety of times. Specific restaurants visited and meeting points vary by tour time. Tickets include all food and nonalcoholic beverage tastings. Charleston Culinary Tours also offers a pub tour, as well as a food tour of Upper King Street, among other options.

Courtesy of Coastal Expeditions

Coastal Expeditions – Shem Creek Kayak Tour

Price: Adults from $58; kids from $48 Duration: 3 hours

Coastal Expeditions' Shem Creek Kayak Tour, which travels its namesake waterway into Charleston Harbor, affords views of Castle Pinckney, the Charleston Peninsula, Fort Sumter and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Along the trip, you may also spot creek residents like pelicans, dolphins, manatees and sea turtles. The company's guides and staff regularly receive high marks for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism.

Tickets include use of all necessary gear (including a kayak and paddle). Tours typically depart Tuesday through Sunday at 9 a.m. from Shem Creek, just across the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant. (Offerings may vary by month.) Coastal Expeditions also offers kayak tours to Isle of Palms , along with boat and paddleboard excursions.

Walks of Charleston – Charleston History Tour

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $18 Duration: 2 hours

The Charleston History Tour promises to take visitors to some of Charleston's most significant structures. While the walking routes may vary, sites typically include St. Michael's Church, St. Philip's Church and the Battery. Patrons say guides have wonderful historical insight, humor and storytelling abilities. Reviewers also say this tour is especially suited to first-time visitors to Charleston, as it passes by top sights and features a broad overview of the city's history.

Tours run from city hall multiple times daily, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Children 6 and younger can tour for free. Walks of Charleston also conducts tours of the city's alleyways and also offers private excursions.

Carolina Polo & Carriage Co. – Group Carriage Tours

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $35 Duration: 1 hour

Carolina Polo & Carriage Co.'s group tours show visitors the historic streets and structures of downtown Charleston. Guides offer information regarding the various gardens, homes, parks and churches on display. Routes vary, but specific attractions may include the Battery, the Edmondston-Alston House , the Old Exchange building and the Nathaniel Russell House Museum . Patrons say guides are informative and entertaining.

Horse-drawn carriages, which carry a maximum of 16 riders, depart from the Charleston City Market every 30 minutes or so between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Planning a special outing? The company also offers private tours.

Courtesy of Tour Charleston at Buxton Books

Buxton Books – The Ghosts of Charleston Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Ghosts of Charleston Tour walks through the Unitarian Church graveyard. On the outing, guides recount tales from "The Ghosts of Charleston" book, written by the company's founder, Julian T. Buxton III. No two tours are alike, as guides change up the stories shared during each experience. The storytellers receive accolades for being both entertaining and informative.

Tours depart nightly at 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Participants interested in Charleston's Black history will also want to check out the company's The Lost Stories of Black Charleston Tour.

Bulldog Tours – Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour

The Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour takes up to 12 foodies to various bakeries, markets and eateries to sample local Lowcountry fare like collard greens, fried green tomatoes, grits and sweet tea. In total, you'll visit three restaurants and two specialty shops. Tourgoers appreciate the quality and quantity of food. They advise future participants to eat light (if at all) before the excursion to take full advantage of the food on the tour.

Tours are offered at multiple times between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Tickets cover all tastings and must be reserved in advance. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately at some stops. Bulldog Tours also offers food tours through Upper King Street, as well as ghost tours.

SpiritLine Cruises – Charleston Harbor Tour

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $25 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Charleston Harbor Tour directs tour-takers' attention to some of the city's significant historical landmarks, including the Battery, Castle Pinckney, the USS Yorktown and more. As you glide through the harbor, your onboard guide will share details of Charleston's history and former residents. Patrons generally praise the guides for their knowledge and humor. Many also reported spotting dolphins during the cruise. What's more, snacks and beer are available for purchase on board.

Cruises depart from two sites multiple times daily (except in the winter). Children 3 and younger ride for free. SpiritLine also offers dinner cruises.

Charleston Footprints Walking Tours

Price: From $28.50 Duration: 2 hours

Charleston Footprints Walking Tours spotlight many of the city's unique characteristics, including its old churches, graveyards, parks and gardens, wrought iron gates, distinctive architecture, cobblestone streets and alleys. Among the specific destinations on these 18-block walks are the French Quarter, the Charleston harbor and the Battery. Tours are led by licensed guides, who receive praise from recent travelers for their extensive knowledge of Charleston's art, history, architecture, nature and more.

Tours are available daily in the morning and afternoon. Exact times vary by month, but in general, morning tours take place at 9:30 or 10 a.m. and afternoon tours take place at 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Charleston Ghost Tours
• The Best Charleston Walking Tours
• The Best Hotels in Charleston
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Best Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Charleston, South Carolina , South Carolina Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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Explore Charleston by Land and Sea

Tour updates & safety information.

Charleston Tours & Events is excited to be able to continue our long tradition of creating memorable Charleston experiences form tours to private events. The health and well-being of our guests and crew members is our number one priority. Our policies are designed to keep everyone safe, while also allowing for an enjoyable experience.

• All unvaccinated guests over the age of 2 are requested to wear a facial mask while indoors on the vessel.

We are running at up to full capacities which does not allow for much distancing on a passenger vessel. Please bring your mask if you are uncomfortable in what could be a crowded environment or if you are unvaccinated.

Small Group PRIVATE CHARTER & HARBOR TOUR options are available!

More Questions? Call or text our sales department at 843-722-1112 . Live support office hours are 7 days a week 8am-5:30pm

WE'RE OPEN AND SAFELY CRUISING. See our COVID-19 Safety Information.

Charleston Tours & Events

Charleston tours & events is your home for the top things to do in charleston.

We offer the best sightseeing tours, both on land and on the water, in all of Charleston. Take a relaxing and scenic harbor tour, where you will see over 75 landmarks and points of interest that cover over 300 years of history or check out our combination tours where you can mix and match sightseeing tours depending on what you’d like to see. There is no better way to experience historical Charleston than with Charleston Tours & Events—we offer all kinds of sightseeing tours, dining tours, and music cruises to suit whatever mood you’re in.

Ways We Offer

The best charleston experience.

Tours & Cruises

The best way to see the historic city of Charleston is by taking one or more of the sightseeing tours and cruises offered by Charleston Tours & Events. Experience the beauty, grandeur, and majesty of Charleston first-hand and learn about the place Travel + Leisure once named the “World’s Best City.”

Plan the perfect day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston—the gem of a city that readers of both Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast voted the #1 destination in the U.S.! Charleston Tours & Events will pick you up at your hotel, bring you to Charleston and bring you back after you experience the best of Charleston on tours including Palmetto Carriage Works, Boone Hall Plantation, and Charleston Harbor.

Private Events

Charleston Tours & Events offers the very best venue to host any special event in Charleston. Our dazzling ships have hosted spectacular wedding and anniversary parties, corporate events, prom and graduation parties, class reunions, holiday parties, prom and graduation events, family reunions, and more.

See the Best of the City

Book a tour with us today, what people are saying.

Great tour! The Captain was great and had lots of interesting information! The tour lasted about 90 minutes. Very clean boat. Friendly and helpful crew. Full bar and some food available. – Matt B

What a lovely crew! Also a nice touch that they offered some local brews for me to try. I like that it wasn’t narrated, but the crew was available to explain some things and open for questions. My boyfriend enjoyed helping raise the sails. – Taylor N

Our guide Mark was very knowledgeable and helpful. We took the combo bus and boat tour. Very informative and we learned a lot about the city and the surrounding area. I would recommend these tours to anyone visiting Charleston. – Stanley T

We had a really great day with Shawn, our tour guide/driver. He was exceptionally informative and entertaining. We highly recommend this tour company. – Jim G

Charleston Tours & Events is the one-stop solution for the top-rated Charleston experiences through harbor cruises, historic tours, day trips & more!

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Visitor Guide

Book your vacation, the official charleston visitor guide – spring 2023.

Welcome to the Official Charleston Visitor Guide for Spring 2023! This comprehensive guide showcases the best of Charleston and is designed to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find plenty of things to see and do in this charming city, which is steeped in history and Southern hospitality. From historic landmarks and breathtaking beaches to world-class restaurants and charming boutiques, Charleston has something for everyone. So get ready to explore and let this guide be your companion on your journey. We hope you have an unforgettable Charleston experience!

Charleston's nonstop flight list is growing.  Check if your airport is on the list.

Request a mail-in Visitor Guide  via CharlestonCVB.com

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City

Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina! Known for its charm, history, and Southern hospitality, it's one of the top destinations for visitors. Discover this vibrant place with tours of Charleston! Enjoy a quintessential carriage tour, hop on a bus to tour the city, taste some of Charleston’s iconic flavors, take a boat cruise, discover the supernatural side with a ghost tour, or step back in time on a plantation. There's a tour bound to satisfy every kind of traveler's preference. 

Find a selection of the best Charleston Tours in this exciting and historic city.

Choose a tour type:

Historic Charleston SC Tours

Ghost tours charleston sc.

• Cruise/Boat Tours 
• Food Tours  
• Plantation Tours

Unveil the magic of Charleston's bygone era with a captivating historical tour. Pay homage to the renowned Civil War monument, delve into the untold narratives of Black History, or admire the architecture. You can tour the holy city on foot or enjoy it on a popular horse-drawn carriage tour! Choose the historic tour that is best for you!

Historic Charleston Carriage Tour

Discover the fascinating history of Charleston in style with our top-rated tour! Join our friendly and knowledgeable guide and lovable horse for an exquisite horse-drawn carriage tour. We'll take you on an unforgettable 1-hour journey through the city's captivating past.

Sit back and relax as you soak up the sights and sounds of historic downtown Charleston - it's the ultimate way to experience the city's charm and character!  Check Carriage Tour Availability

• $50 / Adult (ages 12+)
• $40 / Child (ages 4-11)
• $0 / Infants (ages 0-3)

Duration & Times

• Available daily 9 am - 5 pm
• Upgrade your tour to a private row, private carriage, or Vis à Vis Carriage if you wish. 

Fort Sumter Tour

Hear the echoes of history  at the world-renowned Fort Sumter , perched atop an island in Charleston Harbor. On April 12, 1861, the first shots of the Civil War rang out when Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter.  You'll board a tour boat and take a narrated 30-minute cruise to the historic fort; then, you will be greeted by a National Park Service ranger, who will provide an introduction  and answer questions. You’ll have an hour to explore the fort and museum store on your own.

• $35.00/Adult  
• $31.00/Senior/Active Military 
• $21.00/Children (4-11)
• Free - Children 3 and under 
• 1-hour tour, 30 min cruise 
• Daily departures from Downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant at 10:30 am and 1 pm
• Fort Sumter is only accessible by boat 

Sunday Morning Church Walking Tour

It's named the Holy City for a reason! Spend a Sunday morning with us and visit the oldest churches of the South on a 15-stop guided Church Walking Tour . Discover these historical landmarks and the wartime heroes buried in the adjacent cemeteries. If the timing is right, visit the inside of these magnificent structures.

• $20 per person
• Sundays, 9:30 am

Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour

Join Professor Damon Fordham on an incredible journey through the Lost Stories of Black Charleston ! This walking tour is a history lesson and a captivating adventure by Professor Fordham's talents as a storyteller, educator, published author, and historian. Uncover the secrets of Charleston's fascinating and complex past through the expert knowledge of one of its greatest scholars. 

• $34/Adults, Ages 13+
• $25/Students All ages. Must bring student ID.
• $22/Children, 12 years & under 
• $30/Seniors 65 years + 
• $30/Military /AAA members must provide ID.
• 2 hours 
• Daily 3:30 pm weekdays, 10 am weekends

Lurking in the shadows of its centuries-old buildings and historic streets are whispers of restless spirits and ghostly apparitions. It's one of the most haunted cities in America, and if you are looking for thrilling and chilling stories, experience a Charleston ghost tour. Choose a haunted carriage tour, a pirates and ghosts boat cruise, or a walking ghost tour.

Haunted Carriage Ride

Charleston's Only Haunted Carriage Tour

Discover the dark side of Charleston on a Haunted Carriage Ride! Step into a world of spine-tingling stories as you embark on Charleston's most thrilling twilight tour. Ride through the most haunted streets of America's most haunted city and be amazed by the fascinating tales of ghosts, pirates, and patriots that are hidden in every corner of Charleston. Check Haunted Carriage Tour Availability

• $40 / Child(ages 4-11)
• $0 / Infant(ages 0-3)
• Available most nights, starting early evening
• Private and public tours available
• Private row and carriage upgrades available

Charleston Ghost And Dungeon Tour

Embark on an eerie Ghost and Dungeon walking tour through Charleston's haunted Historic District. Wander through the dimly-lit streets, hidden alleyways, and sacred churches of the Holy City as you hear the unsettling tales of ghostly apparitions, haunted dwellings, and Lowcountry legends. Explore the infamous Provost Dungeon—a cavernous chamber that once held prisoners accused of acts of treason or sedition. Enjoy this exclusive access only on a Bulldog Tour.

• Starting at $37/Adults
• Starting at $27/Child (4-12)
• Free - Ages 3 and under
• 1.5 hours 
• 7pm & 9pm

Ghost and Pirate Tour Cruise

Ride in a comfortable 45ft catamaran as you navigate through Charleston's eerie waterways and hear its chilling stories of naval battles and pirate attacks. This Ghost and Pirate Cruise of Charleston will keep you on the edge of your seat!

• $40 Adults Ages 13+
• $30 Children 4-12 years
• 7:45 pm on select dates, check availability

Cruise & Boat Tours 

Another amazing type of Charleston tour is by boat! These tours cater to different preferences and budgets, offering dinner cruises, speed boat tours in the harbor, or boat trips to historic locations. So get on a boat, enjoy the refreshing breeze in your hair, and marvel at Charleston's picturesque views and historical sights from the water.

Charleston Harbor Tour By Speedboat

Get ready to take the helm of your very own speed boat and experience the thrill of a fully narrated, 13-mile Charleston Harbor Tour . On this adventure, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of iconic landmarks and you'll also get to soak up the city's stunning skyline from a truly unique vantage point.

•  $150.00  Single Passenger Boat
•  $178.90  Double Passenger Boat 
•  $224.70 Triple Passenger Boat 
• Every day at 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm
• Tour route subject to change depending on weather and water conditions.

Morris Island Lighthouse Tour by Boat

Board this Carolina Skiff Bay Boat and embark on a cruise through breathtaking tidal creeks, marshes, and the untouched Morris Island. Spot dolphins and immerse yourself in the beauty of coastal wildlife while admiring views of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. This eco-tour is the perfect way to learn about the ecology of the area while experiencing it firsthand. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey!

• $52/Adult (13 and older)
• $32/Children (3-12 years)
• $10 Infant (under 3)
• 2.5 hours 
• Tour times are based on the tides. There is at least one tour every day and sometimes that falls during sunset.

Enjoy a Charleston tour by bus! You'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the city while comfortably seated in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. There's a bus tour to suit every taste and budget.

Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Step back in time and discover the captivating living history of Charleston on a Sightseeing Bus Tour with a licensed tour guide. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this vibrant city as you step out of the air-conditioned minibus. From the charming Old Market area to the awe-inspiring historic homes and churches, this journey is sure to leave you enchanted. 

• $31/Adult (ages 12-61)  
• $29/Senior (ages 62+)  
• $21/Child (ages 4-11)    
• Free/Infant Ages 3 & Under - Free  Must Book 1 Adult or Senior First
• Daily tours begin at 10:00 a.m.
• Please note the City of Charleston does not allow hop-on-hop-off services.

Charleston Sightseeing Bus Tour plus Local Museum

Experience the fascinating history of Charleston come alive on a captivating Sightseeing Bus Tour plus Charleston Museum Tour ! Immerse yourself in the culture and charm of this historic city as you journey through time visiting the historic homes, Charleston Harbor, and more. 

• $39/Adult  (Ages 12+) 
• $26/Child  (Ages 4-11) 
• Free/Infant (Ages 3 & Under Must Book 1 Adult First)
• Daily tours begin at 9:30 a.m 

Charleston Sightseeing Bus Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Charleston on a bus tour that will whisk you away to all the must-see sights. This tour includes visits to the picturesque Battery, the colorful Rainbow Row, and the iconic White Point Gardens. You'll travel in style and comfort in a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned van. Your guide will share fascinating facts and hidden gems that you'd likely miss on your own.

• $37.50/Adults (Ages 13+)                     
• $35.50/Children (Ages 12 & under)          
• $35.50/Seniors (65 and up) / Veterans with valid ID at check-in
• 90 Minutes 
• Daily  10:15 am - 3:15 pm

Exploring the city on a food tour is an ideal way to experience history through the fusion of southern and global cuisine. Sample delicacies from the French Quarter, go for a downtown tour of modern and chic dishes, spend an afternoon devouring breakfast food on a brunch tour, or take a Charleston tour that includes a cooking class with a popular chef. Charleston is undoubtedly a foodie's haven. Find a tour that is right for you.

Food Tour of Charleston's French Quarter

Join one of the most highly coveted Secret Food Tours in North America and discover the mouth-watering delights of Charleston's French Quarter.

The tour takes you on a journey to the best food that the city's picturesque and historic streets can offer. Along the way, experienced guides will passionately share the fascinating stories behind every delicious dish. Try authentic local dishes at five-star rated eateries and enjoy a surprise Secret Dish selected by your expert guides.

• $99/person 
• 3-3.5 hours

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

Get ready to experience the mouth-watering delights of Charleston's Downtown Food Tour ! This walking food tour includes the Historic French Quarter and City Market and will leave you craving more! Step back in time as you stroll down some of the oldest and most historic streets in America while indulging in the city's tastiest bites and sips. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks that blend history and gastronomy in the best possible way.

• $85/Per person
• $840/Small Private Tour up to 6 guests
• $1140/Large Private Tour up to 12 guests 

Charleston Brunch and Broad Food Tour

Journey down one of the "Great Streets" of America, Broad Street, on this Brunch and Broad Food Tour. This historic street boasts some of the best architecture in the city, all thanks to the gallant preservation efforts of its inhabitants.

But it's not just the beautiful buildings that make this street so special -it's the delicious brunch spots that will help tell Charleston's interesting stories.

• $79/person 

Half Day Charleston Food, Wine & History Tour and Cooking Class

Tour Charleston through history with celebrated chef Forrest Parker. This half-day Food, Wine & History Tou r comes with a live cooking demonstration at a local bistro and a wine-pairing lunch. Explore Charleston's rich culinary influences and learn how to cook Lowcountry classics from the chef himself.

• From $200/person + Fees and Gratuity
• 4 hours 
• 9 am – 1 pm every day except Tuesday & Wednesday

Wine, Tea, and A Tree Tour

It's the tour of Charleston that combines the finest sips and scenic views. This Wadmalaw and Johns Island Tour is a wine-tasting, tea-sipping, and tree-hugging tour! Visit Angel Oak Park where you'll see the majestic 500-year-old oak tree on Johns Island. Then, make your way by trolley ride to the tea-growing fields at Charleston Tea Garden on Wadmalaw Island. Top off the day with a wine tasting on the island's Deep Water Vineyard. 

• $135/Adult (Ages 21+) 
• $40/ Youth (Under 21)
• 10:30 am or 12:30 pm

Plantation Tours 

Amongst the city's historical treasures are its plantations, which offer a chance to step back in time and learn about the lives of those who worked and lived on these estates. A Charleston tour to a plantation allows you to not only witness the grandeur of the land's beautiful scenery but also to learn about its complicated past. Choose from these popular plantation tours!

Magnolia Plantation Tour

Take a journey through time and beauty as you embark on a guided tour of the breathtaking Magnolia Plantation and Gardens , one of America's first tourist attractions and first public gardens. This beautiful plantation dates back to 1676 and has been open to the public since 1870. This tour includes transportation to and from the plantation. 

• $74/Adult (Ages 12+)  
• $43/Child (Ages 4-11) 
• 10:30 am - 3 pm 

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

Are you ready to step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Boone Hall Plantation ? With its founding dating back to 1681, this estate has witnessed centuries of captivating stories. Experience it with an all-access admission ticket and an unforgettable walk through the world-famous Avenue of Oaks.

• $28/Adult 
• $25/Seniors-Military-AAA          
• $12/Children (6-12)                        
• Free/Children 5 and under admitted free with adult
• Duration: 2–4 hours
• Check availability for tour times

Middleton Place Tour with Lunch

Step back in time and experience the rich history of America's oldest landscaped gardens at the Middleton Place Plantation including the stableyards, Eliza's House - a freedman's dwelling, and the house museum. Your tour includes a mouth-watering Low Country meal that will have you savoring every bite.

• $99 per person 
• 4.45 hours 
• 9:30 am to 2 pm or 12:45 pm to 4:45 pm 

Transportation

Daily 9am - 9pm (Varies seasonally)

Where History Meets Hospitality ™

Coupons & combos, book today & save $2 per person, we are no longer offering the ft. sumter tour combo.

Greetings from charming Charleston

I’m Susan C. Lee and want to help make your visit to beautiful Charleston be a lovely, stress-free, experience!

I am a licensed and certified Tour Guide for the City of Charleston and am properly insured to carry passengers for hire in my private spacious SUV.

Only 1% of the tour guides in Charleston are currently authorized to provide this unique service. 

I am also one of the few certified tour guides who is approved by the South Carolina State Port Authority to access port property to pick up passengers from cruise ships for the purpose of touring.

I am a member of many of the historic organizations in Charleston.

I have been appointed to the position of HOSPITALITY chairman for the State of South Carolina D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution).

I have been elected to a 6 year term as a member of the South Carolina State Commission that oversees the Old Exchange Building, the most historic building in all of South Carolina (1771).

March 14 - April 14, 2024

Tours & events, for 77 years, historic charleston foundation has celebrated houses, history and culture through its annual spring festival. formerly known as the festival of houses and gardens, the charleston festival is still home to all of your favorite tours and events, with even more ways to celebrate historic charleston. .

House & Garden Tours

A hallmark of our annual spring programming, the stunning house and garden tours allow guests to explore Charleston's architecturally significant structures from the 17th century through today. 

Living Local Events

Inspired by the very best of the Lowcountry, The Charleston Festival’s Living Local event series is the perfect compliment to your event schedule. Living Local events include performances at new venues during the Festival Music Series and a variety of Charleston Socials to mix and mingle like we do in the Lowcountry.

Learning from the Lowcountry

With a variety of formats and venues our learning series will take you from celebrated iconic theaters to the historic streets of Charleston. From history to culture to design, join our experts in a wide selection of topics to learn about the fascinating Lowcountry, historic Charleston, and some of its most colorful characters.  

Upcoming Tours & Events

• Things to Do
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Iliza: The Get Ready Tour

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Harbour Town Golf Links

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina • USA

Apr 18 - 21, 2024