City Bus Tour with Charleston Museum Admission
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this historical Charleston tour, journey back in time as your guide reveals the beauty and charm of one of America's most historic cities. Learn about the history of Charleston and discover its pivotal role in American history with visits to more than 100 points of interest including Rainbow Row, Colonial Lake, the Old Exchange Building and Whitepoint Gardens.
Bonus: Included with your City Tour is admission to America's first museum, The Charleston Museum located in downtown Charleston. Make your way there for a self-guided tour of this popular attraction.
Available options
City Tour & Charleston Museum
What's included
Narrated 90 minuted Charleston Historical City Tour
See over 100 Points of Interest
Professional Driver/Guide
Transportation via air-conditioned minibus
Detailed itinerary
1
Enjoy a guided tour of Charleston by mini-coach and learn about the city’s significant history. With your professional guide, explore the former city walls; visit the famous Battery Waterfront district; and stop at Charleston’s picturesque Battery Sea Wall for closer views of Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter and Patriots Point.
This tour will entertain you with more than 300 years of Charleston’s rich history, from the American Revolution to the Civil War and beyond. Learn from your guide about the city’s pivotal role in America's history with visits to famous sites such as Rainbow Row, Colonial Lake, the Old Exchange Building and Whitepoint Gardens.
Bonus: Included with your City Tour is admission to America's first museum, The Charleston Museum located in downtown Charleston. Make your way there for a self-guided tour of this popular attraction.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Visit the famous Battery Waterfront district; and stop at Charleston’s picturesque Battery Sea Wall for closer views of Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter and Patriots Point.
3
Stop 3
Included with your City Tour is admission to America's first museum, The Charleston Museum located in downtown Charleston. Make your way there for a self-guided tour of this popular attraction.
4
Stop 4
Visit the famous Battery Waterfront district; and stop at Charleston’s picturesque Battery Sea Wall for closer views of Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter and Patriots Point.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Visit the famous Battery Waterfront district; and stop at Charleston’s picturesque Battery Sea Wall for closer views of Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter and Patriots Point.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
This tour will entertain you with more than 300 years of Charleston’s rich history, from the American Revolution to the Civil War and beyond. Learn from your guide about the city’s pivotal role in America's history with visits to famous sites such as Rainbow Row, Colonial Lake, the Old Exchange Building and Whitepoint Gardens.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Learn from your guide about the city’s pivotal role in America's history with visits to famous sites such as Rainbow Row, Colonial Lake, the Old Exchange Building and Whitepoint Gardens.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
You'll also see St Phillips Episcopal Church, the Public Market and more than 100 other points of interest. It's a great comprehensive overview of this charming historical city!
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Historic home located in downtown Charleston
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
99 reviews
5★
78
4★
12
3★
8
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.5
74 reviews
5★
50
4★
15
3★
6
2★
3
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes prior to departure to allow for check-in and boarding
Meeting point
Departure Point: Charleston Visitors Center
375 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29403
Important notes
Tours operated by: Gray Line Charleston
• Tours departs from the Visitors Center located at 375 Meeting Street. Please check in directly with the dispatcher at the Gray Line Bus in the Bus Shed, located behind the Visitor Center.
• Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to reserved tour departure time.
• Food and Drink are not permitted on board the buses.
• Paid Parking is available for an additional fee
• Tours runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the tour, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).
About Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.
Top Attractions
Historic Charleston City Market
One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for goods
Fort Sumter National Monument
The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.
Historical
Half-day
$24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.
Nature
Half-day to full day
$24 for adults, $12 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Popular Activities
Surfing at Folly Beach
Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor
Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches
Spa treatments and wellness retreats
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending local festivals and events
Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor
Fishing and crabbing
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center
By bus
Charleston Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic District
Mount Pleasant
Day trips
Folly Beach
8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day
A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.
Middleton Place
12 miles (19 km) • Half-day
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.
Festivals
Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June
Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
- Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
- Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
- Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
- Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
