Palmetto Carriage Works Day Tour & Optional Combo

Meeting Location

----------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CARRIAGE TOUR----------------------

Do I have to buy my tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is available and highly recommended. When you buy your ticket in advance you get up to 4 hours of free parking at our lot in Downtown Charleston. That's 2 more hours than our walk-up customers receive! To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please buy your tickets well in advance. Advance tickets can only be purchased online or over the phone using a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

What happens if it rains?

Unless we consider conditions to be dangerous, we give tours in the rain. Keep in mind that this is an outdoor activity and the carriages are covered, but when it rains you will get wet. Please dress appropriately!

What is the Palmetto Guarantee?

If, for any reason, after you've taken the carriage tour you are not satisfied with your Palmetto experience, your fare will be cheerfully refunded. That's the Palmetto Guarantee!

When do tours run?

In general, the first tour is at 9am and the last one is around 5pm; however, these times vary based on the time of the year and are determined by the city of Charleston. Please check the specific schedule for the days you are interested in to find out the available tour times.

How is the tour route chosen and what are the possible routes I will take?

The city is divided into five different zones. After the tour leaves the barn, the carriage makes its first stop at the city gate, where carriages are randomly assigned to one of the five zones. All of the zones cover historically significant areas in Charleston, including churches, museums, and residential areas. All tours are fully narrated. The routes are not scripted and each tour guide gives a unique and personalized tour.

What about young children, can they come?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome; however, all children between the ages of 4-11 are required to have a ticket. For children under the age of 4, they may ride in the lap of an adult for free and a "Lap Child Extra" must be reserved. Should you wish for children under the age of 4 to have their own seat, you may purchase a Child ticket for them. Note that there is a city-imposed limit of 4 free lap children per carriage - should those spots be taken, all remaining children must have a Child ticket purchased for them.

Where should I park?

We have a parking lot in Downtown Charleston located a block away from the Red Barn, just steps away. You will receive up to 4 hours of free parking with your advance purchase, 2 hours more than our walk up customers. Please note that parking can be tight and we encourage people to carpool.

Are there public restrooms available?

Yes, we have 2 restrooms in our barn. There will be no opportunity to stop to use the restroom during the one-hour tour.

Is getting into the carriage difficult?

Getting into the carriage can sometimes be difficult, so we've solved that problem for you with our loading dock! You climb 3 steps or walk up a ramp to a platform that's level with the carriage. Rather than climbing up, all you have to do is step in! We are equipped to handle any handicapped needs you might have.

What if I'm in a wheelchair?

We cannot get your wheelchair on the carriage, but we can get you right next to the front seat and offer expert assistance in helping you to your seat. Wheelchairs can be stored in the barn for the duration of the tour.

Is my group alone on the carriage? How many people fit in one carriage?

Each carriage is capable of carrying up to 16 seated passengers and 4 lap children. During a group tour, you will sit with other passengers, however, groups are seated together on the carriage.

What if we have a large group?

If your group is larger than 16 people, your group will be split up onto more than one carriage. Note that we cannot guarantee that the carriages will be assigned to the same zone within the city. If there are empty seats on the carriage, they will be filled with other guests. If you'd prefer a private tour for your group, please see the FAQ below about custom tours.

How long will I have to wait to board a carriage when I arrive?

The time you purchase for is the time at which we ask you to arrive at the Red Barn. Usually, you will board a carriage within 20-25 minutes of arriving at the Red Barn, but occasionally you may wait up to 30 minutes. After checking in, you will have the opportunity to purchase any snacks or drinks to take on the tour. You may also wait in our barn, which is covered from the sun and rain and has large cooling fans during the summer months. There, you can interact with our animals, use the restroom, and relax in our seating area before your tour begins. If you choose not to wait in the barn, you may also explore nearby areas of the city, such as the City Market, until your departure time.

Where does the carriage ride end?

All carriage tours begin and end at the Red Barn.

Can I bring food and drinks aboard the carriage?

You may bring food and drink on the carriage. We have a shop in the barn where drinks and snacks are available for purchase with credit cards or cash. Alcohol is not allowed on the carriage.

Can I bring personal items with me onto the carriage? How much room is there?

Items such as purses, backpacks, or small shopping bags will fit on the floor beneath your seat or in your lap. Larger items, such as umbrellas, wheelchairs, crutches, scooters, bikes, or strollers will not fit on the carriage. We have ample storage space in the barn to leave these larger items during the tour. However, please note this is not a secured storage location, so it's best not to leave valuables here.

Can I bring a pet with me on the carriage?

Service animals and small, well behaved pets are able to sit on the floor of the carriage. Pets must remain leashed and under the control of their owners at all times.

Is the ride safe?

Yes! Carriage tours are a safe way to enjoy the city at a slower pace than by bus or car. Our animals are trained to work in a city environment and are comfortable working here.

What kind of animals do you use?

We use mule teams on our larger carriages used for public tours and single mules or horses on our smaller carriages (which are used for private tours).

Why do you use mules?

Mules are the best animals for pulling carriages in Charleston. After over 25 years of use, we believe that mules work better in the heat than horses. The mule has long been the beast of burden of choice in the American South - from 18th century plantations to the streets of 21st century urban America, this adaptable hybrid has proven its worth for over 5,000 years!

If the animals are sweating, is that bad?

No, that's actually good! Sweating is the animal's way of cooling itself. We add a Vitamin E supplement to the animals' feed to promote sweating and also add electrolytes to their feed to replace necessary elements lost through sweating. Additionally, you'll notice plenty of fans around the barn, including a misting fan that sprays a fine mist over the animals to keep them cool.

Does it ever get too hot for the animals to work?

Yes. When the temperature reaches 98 degrees or the heat index reaches 125 degrees, we stop our carriage tours. Each animal has its temperature checked after every tour, and if an animal's temperature ever exceeds 103 degrees it is pulled from service. Charleston is the only city in the world where the animals' temperatures are individually monitored.

What other animals are in the barn?

The barn is also home to chickens, goats, a miniature horse, and a miniature donkey. Our miniature animals go the the farm for some rest and relaxation on a rotational basis. Feel free to interact with our animals as you wait for your tour to depart.

Can I book a carriage as part of my wedding?

Sure! There's nothing more romantic than including a carriage in your wedding plans. Palmetto Carriage Works has beautiful private carriages available for wedding transportation from area churches, reception halls, and hotels. To inquire about a wedding package, please click on the "Contact Palmetto" link and let us know what you have in mind.

Can I do a private carriage tour?

Sure! Many of our customers prefer to take a tour in a private carriage. These elegant carriages offer a truly exceptional experience. Our private carriages accommodate up to four seated guests and 2 lap children. Please click on the "List of All Activities" to find out more information about these tours.

Can I do a custom tour for a group?

Groups can choose to board the carriage at our Red Barn or arrangements can be made to pick you up at your hotel. We also specialize in group transportation and can take you to your restaurant of choice and give you a tour along the way. Whatever your group needs may be, we can fashion a carriage experience to fit them. Please click on the "Contact Palmetto" link to inquire further.

Are gift certificates available for the carriage tours?

Yes, gift certificates are available for purchase and are the perfect present for a honeymoon, anniversary, or special getaway package. Please click on the "Contact Palmetto" link for more details.

------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE COMBO HARBOR TOUR------------------

Is the combo tour offered all year round?

Although carriage tours are offered all year round, the Harbor Tour only runs from mid-February through November. Therefore, combo tickets can only be purchased when the Harbor Tour is available.

How does the Carriage and Harbor Tour Combo work?

When you book the combo with the Harbor Tour, your space will be guaranteed on the Carriage Tour for the date and time for which you buy tickets and your purchase will also entitle you to admission to a Charleston Harbor Tour. You can pick up your Harbor Tour voucher when you attend your Carriage Tour or before then by bringing your e-ticket to either the Palmetto Carriage Works Big Red Barn or the Charleston Maritime Center in downtown Charleston, where the Harbor Tour leaves from, which is walking distance from the Big Red Barn. The Harbor Tour runs daily at 11:30, 1:30 and sometimes 3:30, from mid-February through Thanksgiving. Exact location details will be provided upon purchase of your tickets.

Where is the best place to get my Harbor Tour voucher if I plan to attend the Harbor Tour BEFORE my Carriage Tour?

If you plan to go on the Harbor Tour first, you can either stop at the Red Barn to pick up your voucher or bring your e-ticket with you to the Maritime Center.

Where is the best place to get my Harbor Tour voucher if I plan to attend the Harbor Tour AFTER my Carriage Tour?

If you plan to go on the Harbor Tour after your Carriage Tour (on the same day or any day thereafter), then you can just pick up your voucher at the same time that you check in for your Carriage Tour at the Big Red Barn.

What is the difference between the Combo Tour and the regular Carriage Tour?

The Combo Tour includes a ticket for the Palmetto Carriage Works carriage tour AND also entitles you to admission for a Charleston Harbor Tour. All for one reduced package price, which represents a 10% savings over purchasing the tickets individually. After you purchase these combo tickets, you will be guaranteed on the Carriage Tour for the date and time for which you bought tickets. You will also be able to take the Harbor Tour at any time (11:30, 1:30 and sometimes 3:30 daily, from mid-February to Thanksgiving). Upon arriving at the Charleston Maritime Center, guests are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do I have to do both tours the same day?

No, there are no restrictions as to when you take the Harbor tour. You can do the Harbor Tour before or after your Carriage Tour. You can even save your Harbor Tour voucher and do it when you next return to Charleston if you'd like.

How far apart are the two meeting locations?

The two meeting locations are only 15 minutes walking distance apart, making it easy to attend both on the same day if you’d like to.

What happens if it rains on the day I want to take the Harbor Tour?

The Harbor Tours take place rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. The Carolina Belle has a glassed-in, enclosed observatory and the upper deck is also partially covered, so you'll be able to get great views of the Harbor's famous sights in any weather.

Who operates each of the two components of this Combo Tour package?

The two components are operated by different companies. The Carriage Tour is operated by Palmetto Carriage Works, the oldest carriage company in Charleston. The Harbor Tour is run by Charleston Harbor Tours, which is the oldest harbor tour company in Charleston, tracing its roots to 1908. (After purchase, you’ll receive the contact information for both companies.)

Are gift certificates available for the Combo Package?

Yes, gift certificates are available for purchase and are the perfect present for a honeymoon, anniversary, or special getaway package. Please click on the "Contact Palmetto" link for more details.

----------------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE COMBO GHOST TOUR---------------

How do I book the Palmetto Carriage Works Ghost Carriage Tour & Day Tour Combo?

Guests who wish to take the Palmetto Carriage Works Ghost Carriage Tour and the Day Tour can receive both tours at one reduced price! To purchase the Ghost Carriage Tour & Day Tour combo, select the "Palmetto Carriage Works Ghost Carriage Tour" link to the left of the page. Once you select the date and time you would like to attend your ghost carriage tour and click the red buy tickets button, select the combo ticket!

------------------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HARBOR TOUR----------------------

Does the Harbor Tour run year-round?

No, the public Harbor Tour runs from mid-February through Thanksgiving. Therefore, combo tickets are only available for purchase during that portion of the year.

What exactly do we see on the Harbor Tour?

Some of the sites you'll see and hear about on the Harbor Tour include: the white steeple of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church which was saved from destruction during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars because it was painted black so as not to be an easy target; the stately homes along the Battery - a symbol of Southern elegance and perseverance; the three forts – Moultrie, Sumter, and Johnson that have played a significant role in our history from the Revolution through World War II; Patriot’s Point, the home of the Yorktown, the famous “Fighting Lady” of World War II; and Charleston’s landmark Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a new state of the art span that accommodates the largest ships in the world. You can also catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is the viewing equally good on both levels of the vessel?

Yes, you will have a panoramic view from either level.

Is the Carolina Belle covered?

Yes, the Carolina Belle has two decks - A glassed-in “Main Salon,” which is climate-controlled and an “Observation Deck,” each providing spectacular views of Charleston harbor. The Observation Deck is open, however, it does have some roof-covered space.

Is the Harbor Tour handicapped accessible?

We will do our best to accommodate disabled people to the extent that our vessel, staff, and docking space will allow. The boat has an upper deck and a lower deck, and the only way to get between the two is by stairs. Though we normally board and disembark from the upper level, there are some days when we have to disembark from the level opposite the one we boarded. On days when we must board the boat on the lower deck, passengers will have to use the stairs in order to get to the restrooms (which are only located on the upper deck), and could potentially have to use the stairs for disembarking. The restrooms on board are not wheelchair accessible but there are handrails in all restrooms. Additionally, there are fully handicapped accessible restrooms located in the Charleston Maritime Center, right near where the Carolina Belle boards.

If I am handicapped, should I notify the Charleston Harbor Tour crew before I board the boat?

Yes. Please ask about the tide and how you will be boarding and disembarking on the day of your tour if you are concerned about this. Our crew will be able to tell you what the tides are like that day, as well as whether or not you will be able to board on and disembark from the same level. They will assist you as much as they can, but if the tides are uncooperative and you feel unable to attend or uncomfortable doing so, then we may suggest you do the tour at a different time.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?

There is a snack bar aboard the Carolina Belle that has soda, bottled water, wine, beer, chips, hot dogs, candy bars, cookies, etc. If you'd like to purchase items from the snack bar, please bring extra cash with you, as the snack bar does not accept credit cards.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board the Harbor Tour?

No, we ask you not to bring any food or drinks on board. You will be able to purchase food and drinks at our snack bar.

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. For the Harbor Tour, please keep in mind that the temperature on the water is significantly lower than on the land, so you may want to bring a sweater in the cooler months.

Are there any stops along the way on the Harbor Tour?

No, there are no stops. We will be cruising for the entire tour.

Is the Harbor Boat Tour safe?

The Carolina Belle is a safe vessel with a normal operating crew of three or four depending on the number of passengers. She is certified for 300 hundred passengers to cruise the inland waterways, harbors and tributaries by the USCG and meets all the US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Will I get seasick?

The Carolina Belle is a steady 85-foot vessel with classic lines. The Charleston Harbor has a mild atmosphere and it is unlikely that you will feel much movement aboard the boat. If you often feel seasick, you may want to consider some light medication before beginning the trip. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.

Is there any narration on the tour?

Yes, the Harbor Tour is fully narrated.

Do we see dolphins and other sealife or birdlife?

During the Harbor Tour we often catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is parking available near the departure point of the Harbor Tour?

Yes, a limited amount of free parking is available at the Charleston Maritime Center for Harbor Tour guests. If the lot is full, you may also park at meters or in a City Parking lot nearby, however you must pay for those parking spaces.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with clean restrooms.

Can I stow anything during the cruise?

We do have limited closet space for wheelchairs and strollers on board. If you have a backpack or other item, we ask that you keep it under your seat. We are not responsible for lost or missing items.

Where does the Harbor Tour finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the Charleston Maritime Center, near Calhoun and Concord Streets

Is smoking allowed on board the Carolina Belle?

Smoking is not allowed on the Carolina Belle per the City of Charleston ordinance against smoking in restaurants, bars, and other public areas.

Are dogs allowed on board the Carolina Belle?

No, Department of Health regulations prohibit animals on board with the exception of service animals.

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Other Policies

Tours takes place rain or shine and may be delayed in extreme heat.

These tours run regardless of weather conditions. In the rare case where we are forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability). Also note for the safety of the animals, tours may be delayed during extremely hot temperatures to allow animals additional rest time or suspended if the temperature or heat index reaches an unsafe level.

Tickets are for your arrival time.

The time for which you have selected to purchase tickets is the time we ask that you please arrive to the Red Barn. Once you have arrived and checked in you will generally wait 20-25 minutes before boarding the carriage, with a maximum wait time of 30 minutes.

All children are required to have tickets or extras.

Children between 4 and 11 must have a Child ticket and will receive a seat. Children under the age of 4 may sit in the lap of a paying adult for free, but need a Lap Child extra. Only four free lap children are allowed on each carriage - if these spots are taken, all remaining children must have a Child ticket purchased. To reserve a seat for a child under 4, you must purchase a Child ticket.

Restrictions for optional Palmetto Carriage Works Tour & Harbor Boat Tour Combo

If you buy a combo with the Harbor Tour, there are no restrictions as to when you can attend the Harbor Tour. You can do it before your Palmetto Carriage Tour, the same day as your carriage tour, several days later or even when you next return to town. Note that the Harbor Tour does not run from Thanksgiving to mid-February, therefore combo tour tickets are not available during that time.

Palmetto Carriage Works