How to Spend 2 Days in Charleston
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How to Spend 2 Days in Charleston

How to Spend 2 Days in Charleston

Historic mansions, fragrant gardens, Low Country cuisine, and Southern charm—you’ll find it all in the Holy City. With two days to spend in Charleston, you’ll have time to explore the historic streets, tour antebellum mansions, and treat your tastebuds to local flavors. Read on for tips on how to spend your two days in Charleston.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Morning: Start your day with an orientation in Charleston’s historic district the old-fashioned way, by horse-drawn carriage. As you clop along the cobbled streets, you’ll pass historic mansions, churches, and gardens while learning more about the city’s rich history (including its role in the Civil War).

Afternoon: Now that you’ve explored Charleston on land, it’s time to see the city from the water aboard a harbor cruise. As you sail through Charleston Harbor, beneath bridges, and along the Cooper River, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins. Most tours offer narration on what you’re seeing.

Night: After a day of sightseeing, treat your tastebuds to some hearty Low Country cuisine. Book a table at one of the many trendy restaurants in the Historic District, or join a local foodie for a food walking tour of Downtown Charleston or Upper King Street.

Day 2: Step Back in Time

Morning: Start your journey back in time with a morning visit to one of Charleston’s many historic antebellum plantations. Relive Gone with the Wind at Boone Hall, walk among the majestic oaks of Drayton Hall, stroll through the gardens of Magnolia Plantation, or learn about one of Charleston’s most influential families at Middleton Place.

Afternoon: The Civil War began in Charleston on the grounds of Fort Sumter, today a national monument accessible only by boat. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic site to learn more about Charleston’s key role in the Civil War.

Night: Charleston has lived through its fare share of tragedy, and tonight is your chance to uncover its darker side during an evening ghost tour. Learn about the restless spirits of the old city, and walk the overgrown grounds of the notoriously haunted Unitarian Church Graveyard.

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24 Tours and Activities

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Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

star-5
6058
Experience 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 will you lead you through the streets while you learn about this “Holy City” and its role in the Civil War.
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD50.00
From
USD50.00

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

star-4.5
2028
See the Charleston Harbor by boat with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument. This fully-narrated tour focuses on Charleston, South Carolina history from Civil War sites to antebellum houses and landmarks, passes under Cooper River bridges, and explores a waterfront that’s home to bottlenose dolphins and pelicans.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
From
USD41.42
From
USD41.42

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

star-5
1387
Cruise through Lowcountry tidal creeks and marshes en route to the uninhabited Morris Island on this boat cruise from the Charleston area. A private boat company launches from Bowens Island for the scenic ride through an estuary rich in biodiversity before a soft landing on Morris Island. Spend free time to taking photos of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, combing for seashells, and looking out for birds, sea turtles, and dolphins before your return.
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  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD56.00
From
USD56.00

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

star-4.5
1644
Get all the thrills of a Charleston ghost tour without any walking on this haunted horse and carriage ride. A horse and carriage takes you down twisting side streets and cobbled alleyways with ease as your guide shares spooky stories from Charleston’s past. Make your way past the Mills House, the Circular Congregational Graveyard, and and Provost Dungeon in the heart of the Holy City.
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  • 40 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD50.00
From
USD50.00

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

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

star-4.5
1724
Uncover Charleston’s darkest secrets on an evening ghost and cemetery tour. Stroll through the atmospheric heart of the old city while an entertaining local guide regales you with tales of the dark deeds, restless spirits and supernatural phenomena that make Charleston one of the most haunted cities in America. Get exclusive after-hour access to the famous Unitarian Church Graveyard, where an overgrown southern garden surrounds historic plots said to be haunted by wandering ghosts.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD35.00
From
USD35.00

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

star-4.5
776
Visit historic Fort Sumter in Charleston, the site of the battle which signified the start of the American Civil War. This tour is provided by the only operator within the city that includes both round trip ferry service in addition to entry into Fort Sumter. Enjoy a scenic 30-minute cruise each way along Charleston Harbor from two convenient departure locations, Liberty Square and Patriots Point. On the way, view top Charleston sites such as Rainbow Row and the Battery from your ferry. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by National Park Rangers who will relay stories of America's deadliest war before your 1-hour self-guided tour of Fort Sumter National Monument. Make sure to leave time for a stop at the museum and souvenir shop before making your way back to Charleston or Mt. Pleasant.
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  • 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD35.00
From
USD35.00

Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Historic Charleston

Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Historic Charleston

star-4.5
1855
Ride a horse-drawn carriage through the heart of historic Charleston on a guided tour through the heart of the city. Soak up the old fashioned charm of cobblestone streets lined with antebellum houses, lush gardens, and landmark churches as you listen to stories about Charleston history, architecture, and culture.
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD49.95
From
USD49.95

90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

star-4.5
436
Travel back in time to discover one of America’s most historic cities—Charleston, South Carolina—on this guided sightseeing tour. Visit a plethora landmarks including Rainbow Row, the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States; the Old Exchange Building, South Carolina's most historic building; White Point Garden, in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, with a spectacular view of Fort Sumter and many more. Upgrade option available to include a tour of the famous Joseph Manigault House, one of Charleston's most exquisite antebellum structures or the Charleston Museum.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD31.00
From
USD31.00

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

star-4.5
873
Bring your appetite for this tasty walking tour of downtown Charleston. You’ll spend a few hours of mouthwatering fun touring the culinary side of the Holy City, learning about the history of the city as you dine at four local restaurants. Explore the French Quarter and the Market while tasting traditional and contemporary Lowcountry cuisine.
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  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD95.00
From
USD95.00

Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston
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Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

star-4.5
462
Pickup and drop-off from downtown Charleston, South Carolina make it easy to tour Magnolia Plantation, one of the oldest plantations in the South. This 4-in-1 tour includes a narrated drive out to the plantation, a walking tour of the garden, tram tour through the property, and tour of the house itself, providing incredible value.
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  • 4 hours 30 minutes
From
USD80.79
From
USD80.79

Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour

Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour

star-4.5
846
Peek into Charleston’s shadowy history with a chilling nighttime walking tour of the city’s most eerie sites! Wind through the dark corridors of the Historic District and hear spooky tales of graveyard hauntings, voodoo and botched burials from your local guide. Pass by infamous locations with grisly histories and wander through the Charleston’s oldest cemetery after hours.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD39.50
From
USD39.50

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

star-4.5
182
Get out on the waters of Charleston Harbor during this cruise aboard an 84-foot-tall (25-meter) classic tall ship. As the crew hoists the sails of the schooner, you'll glide past some of the city's historical sights and watch for dolphins in the water. Drinks are available for purchase on board. Select a departure time when booking.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
From
USD54.50
From
USD54.50

Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

star-4.5
261
Visit Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens on this 4.5-hour tour from Charleston, South Carolina. One of the oldest working plantations in the United States, Boone Hall was founded in 1681 and still grows crops. During your tour led by a guide in period costume, you'll see the plantation's slave quarters and learn about its history and modern-day use. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking. Enjoy a personalized experience on this small-group tour of just 15 people.
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  • 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD78.18
From
USD78.18

Charleston See-It-All Sightseeing Bus Tour

Charleston See-It-All Sightseeing Bus Tour

star-4.5
739
Charleston's colonial history, laid-back vibe, and beautiful sites continue to steal the hearts of visitors to the Holy City. See the highlights of the peninsula in comfort on this 90-minute guided tour on a climate-controlled minibus with a maximum of 15 passengers. This narrated tour keeps you cool as you ride past must-see Charleston sights such as the Battery, the Citadel, Old City Market, and Hampton Park as well as enjoy spectacular views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse at a distance. Bonus: Admission to Charleston Powder Museum is also included with the price of your tour.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD41.39
From
USD41.39

Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

star-5
735
An air-conditioned sightseeing bus offers a refreshing Charleston Sightseeing Tour for summertime visitors trying to escape the heat or those with limited mobility. Roll by popular "Holy City" sights like Rainbow Row, the Battery, White Point Gardens, Nathaniel Russell House, and St. Michael's Church from wide viewing windows while your guide informs and entertains with stories from Charleston's rich past.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD47.50
From
USD47.50

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

star-4.5
654
Boone Hall Plantation has had a long and fascinating history since its founding near Charleston in 1681. Learn about the estate and its place in South Carolina history by visiting the plantation with an all-access admission ticket. Nine original cabins where enslaved people lived, coupled with the Black History in America exhibit, demonstrate what life was like for many people at the plantation.
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  • Free Cancellation
From
USD28.00
From
USD28.00

Private Daytime or Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston

Private Daytime or Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston

star-4.5
138
Explore Charleston in an intimate horse-drawn carriage during this private tour. Get personalized attention from your guide while riding through the historic streets of the old walled town.
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD265.00
per group
From
USD265.00
per group

Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Downtown Charleston

Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Downtown Charleston

star-4.5
148
Discover downtown Charleston on a Southern-style carriage ride that passes through the Commercial District and Waterfront Park. Learn about the history, architecture, and people of this old South Carolina city throughout the tour.
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  • 35 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD44.95
From
USD44.95

Middleton Place Admission with Self Guided Tour and Lunch

Middleton Place Admission with Self Guided Tour and Lunch

star-4.5
247
Middleton Place is one of the most popular plantations in the Charleston area, but getting there can be tricky without a private car. This tour makes it easy by including transportation from downtown Charleston aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned van, plus a guided tour of the house upon arrival. A 3-course lunch is also included for a taste of Lowcountry cuisine.
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  • 5 hours
From
USD120.90
From
USD120.90

Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More

Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More

star-5
469
Experience the charm and beauty of Charleston on a morning or afternoon walking tour. With an entertaining guide, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s Historic District, passing antebellum mansions, hidden gardens, historic churches and graveyards, as well as famous sites like Fort Sumter, Rainbow Row, and the Waterfront Battery. Along the way, learn about Charleston’s rich history and contemporary culture.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD39.50
From
USD39.50

Charleston Upper King Street Food Tour
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Charleston Upper King Street Food Tour

star-4.5
177
With cobblestone streets, steepled skylines, and pastel antebellum houses, it’s a wonder Charleston, South Carolina, is known for something else: its food. On this tour, you’ll experience Upper King Street, the heart of this culinary hotspot. Across four trailblazing restaurants, taste—and see—how this historic city has become one of the hottest dining spots in America.
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  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD95.00
From
USD95.00

Charleston Ghost & Dungeon Night-Time Walking Tour with Entry to Provost Dungeon

Charleston Ghost & Dungeon Night-Time Walking Tour with Entry to Provost Dungeon

star-4
330
Explore the darker side of Charleston and experience some of the city’s most eerie sites with a 90-Minute Ghost & Dungeon Nighttime Walking Tour with Entry to Provost Dungeon! Wind through the Historic District’s dark corridors and graveyards, and hear spooky tales of ghosts, voodoo, local superstition and famous haunted spaces from your local guide. Cap off the tour with a chilling visit to the Provost Dungeon, a pre-Revolutionary dungeon steeped in grisly history.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD39.50
From
USD39.50

Charleston City Walking Tour with Edmondston-Alston House Admission

Charleston City Walking Tour with Edmondston-Alston House Admission

star-5
9
This Charleston walking tour not only takes you to top sights around downtown Charleston such as the Battery and South of Broad Street, but also includes access to the Edmondston-Alston House, a gorgeous 19th century home with unobstructed views of the Charleston Harbor. After learning about Charleston history on a guided walking tour, visit the house for a peek inside the lives of Charleston’s elite class—and an unforgettable view.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD50.00
From
USD50.00

Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise
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Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

star-5
630
Watch the sun set above Charleston, South Carolina with a 2-hour sunset harbor cruise aboard a 45-foot motorized catamaran. Find a comfortable seat on deck, spot the landmarks of downtown Charleston and the waterfront, and watch for the dolphins and sea birds that thrive along the South Carolina shoreline. Enjoy a relaxing break from the city while spending a romantic evening on the water.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
From
USD56.00
From
USD56.00