4.8 (3.9 k) · Charleston · By Palmetto Carriage Works Free cancellation
Charleston's oldest carriage company invites you aboard for the tour that started it all.
Since 1972, Palmetto Carriage Works has explored the streets of this historic city with licensed guides who bring real local knowledge, wit, and humor to every ride.
Discover stunning houses, lush gardens, grand mansions, charming churches, and picturesque parks while learning about Charleston's rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant flora.
It's an exciting, dynamic experience — a seamless blend of 19th-century conveyance and 21st-century Charleston charm.
With multiple departures throughout the day and open-air carriages built for great photos, don't miss your chance to explore the "Holy City" this way.
✓ Multiple departures available throughout the day✓ Perfect family-friendly experience✓ Horse-drawn, hour-long carriage tour of historic Charleston✓ Big Red Barn facility for animal interactions and easy boarding✓ Licensed Tour Guide1 Palmetto Carriage Works
Meet your certified tour guide at Palmetto Carriage Works (AKA the Big Red Barn), the starting point for your horse-drawn carriage tour.
Enjoy a brief 15-minute orientation and look at our barn before embarking on your journey through historic Charleston.
· 15 min
2 Charleston City Market
Our Big Red Barn is conveniently located just off the Charleston City Market.
Here, you’ll meet your certified tour guide before departing on your hour-long horse-drawn carriage ride.
Your carriage will pass through the city gate at the market, where your guide will assign a unique tour route.
Experience approximately 30 blocks of the historic district, showcasing stunning architecture, beautiful churches, gardens, and more.
The tour concludes back at the Big Red Barn.
· Non-stop passage
3 St. Philip's Anglican Church
As you enjoy your carriage ride, you’ll pass by the renowned St. Philip’s Church, the oldest congregation in the U.S. south of Virginia.
Located just off the market on Church Street, this beautiful landmark is a must-see on your Charleston carriage tour.
· Non-stop passage
4 U.S. Custom House
Your route also includes a pass by the iconic U.S. Custom House in Charleston, S.C.
Construction began in 1852 but was halted due to South Carolina's potential secession from the Union.
The building was finally completed in 1879, adding to Charleston's rich history.
· Non-stop passage
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
Please meet us at 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401 We are the Big Red Barn!
Please meet us at 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401 We are the Big Red Barn!
Please plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to your tour to check in.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Service animals allowed Public transportation options are available nearby Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap Suitable for all physical fitness levels Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately Arrive 10 minutes early to check in. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Consider bringing a camera for photo opportunities. Infants must sit on an adult's lap. Service animals are permitted. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 40128P2
Activity offered by Palmetto Carriage Works via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families History enthusiasts Couples Solo travelers Explore historic Charleston by horse-drawn carriage Learn about the city's rich history and architecture from a licensed guide Pass by iconic landmarks like St. Philip's Church and the U.S. Custom House Family-friendly activity suitable for all ages Multiple departure times available throughout the day
Population 150,227 (2020)
Elevation 6 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 9° Jan 11° Feb 14° Mar 19° Apr 23° May 27° Jun 28° Jul 27° Aug 25° Sept 20° Oct 14° Nov 11° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the carriage tour? + The carriage tour is approximately 1 hour long.
Where do I meet for the tour? + Please meet at Palmetto Carriage Works, located at 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401. It is known as the Big Red Barn.
Can I bring a stroller on the carriage? + Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility? + Yes, the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What happens if it rains? + The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress appropriately.
★★★★★ Viator review
Charleston by Carriage.
Bill_B, October 2026
Our Guide from Wyoming was excellent and the route we took gave us a perfect view and historical references of Charleston
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fantastic tour and incredibly informative
Roam16905110024, October 2026
We had a fantastic tour with Michael C. From the time we boarded the carriage, he was non stop with information regarding Charleston! It was a great way to see the city of Charleston and learn more about this beautiful town.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Wonderful Carriage Ride in Every Way
E5227LNdianad, October 2026
Our guide Robyn and our horse Bezos were wonderful! Besides seeing the City of Charleston by carriage, we learned how the company cares for their horses. They are well cared for which as horse lovers was important to our choice in carriage ride companies. Robyn was friendly and very knowledgeable about the sites and history of the city. Bezos is a very beautiful and unique horse. We lucked out getting a great guide, beautiful horse and beautiful day for a wonderful trip around the city!
★★★★★ Viator review
Great experience
LJB, October 2026
Very interesting look at the neighborhoods of the historic district. Luke, our guide, and Clint, the horse, were a GREAT pair. Extremely enjoyable!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Learn something new
kimlI1438RD, October 2026
We got to see a different side of beautiful Charleston and discover things neither of us had ever seen before. Bronson made the experience both fun and informative, and Commander was an absolute sweetheart.
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