Day Trip to Charleston#5: Bus Tour,Boone Hall, City Market, Lunch

A Complete Guide to the Day Trip to Charleston from Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking to experience Charleston’s historic streets, stunning plantations, and vibrant markets without the hassle of planning, this guided day trip from Myrtle Beach offers a compelling way to do so. For $115 per person, you’ll spend about 11 hours immersed in southern charm, with round-trip transportation, a guided tour of the historic district, a visit to Boone Hall Plantation, and some free time to explore on your own.

What we love most about this tour is its balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time. The bus ride itself is comfortable, and the tour guides are generally praised for their knowledge. The visit to Boone Hall, with its iconic fields and historic buildings, is a definite highlight, as is the opportunity to browse the Charleston City Market, filled with local arts and crafts. And the included boxed lunch helps keep things simple and affordable.

A potential consideration is that some travelers found the day a little long, with certain stops feeling a bit rushed. Also, the market time may be a bit excessive for those who prefer more structured tours or shorter days. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of guided education and independent exploration, especially if you’re curious about the architecture, history, and local crafts of Charleston.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes the trip convenient and stress-free.
• Guided tour of Charleston’s historic district offers rich insights into the city’s past.
• Visit to Boone Hall Plantation provides a glimpse of southern agricultural life and history.
• Free time at Charleston City Market allows for shopping, lunch, or wandering at your pace.
• Value-packed with included transportation, admission, and lunch for less than the cost of solo travel.
• Traveling with a group of around 50 participants fosters a friendly, social atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Trip to Charleston

Comfort and Convenience from Myrtle Beach

From the moment you book, the ease of round-trip transfers from central Myrtle Beach to Charleston is a major perk. Most travelers appreciate that the pickup is offered, and the bus ride itself is typically comfortable, especially with air-conditioning, which is a relief during hot summer days. An average trip length of about 11 hours means you’ll be out for a full day, but the experience is designed to maximize your time in Charleston without the stress of driving or parking.

Guided Tour of Charleston’s Historic District

The heart of the trip is the guided bus tour of Charleston’s historic district. Expect to see the city’s famous architecture, historic homes, and scenic streets as your guide shares stories of the city’s past. Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and engaging commentary. For example, one traveler praised the “knowledgeable guide,” emphasizing that the tour provided a solid overview of Charleston’s 18th-century homes and architecture.

We loved the way the tour blends storytelling with visuals, making history come alive. The bus is air-conditioned, which is perfect if you’re sensitive to heat or simply want a comfortable ride. While some reviews mention that the tour “ended rather abruptly” or that the guide was “difficult to understand,” most found the experience informative and enjoyable.

Free Time at Charleston City Market

After the guided tour, you’ll have about two hours of free time at Charleston’s iconic City Market. This is a prime spot for souvenir shopping, as vendors sell everything from local arts and crafts to sweet treats. Reviewers consistently mention that the market exceeds expectations, with “many vendors” and a “variety of offerings.” It’s also a great chance to grab lunch from one of the many nearby restaurants or vendors—many attendees appreciate that lunch is included in the form of a boxed meal.

However, some guests found that their time at the market felt a little rushed or too long. If you’re someone who prefers a more structured schedule, this free time could seem a bit open-ended.

Boone Hall Plantation: A Southern Icon

The visit to Boone Hall stands out as the trip’s highlight for many. Often called the most photographed plantation in America, Boone Hall’s picturesque fields and historic structures are breathtaking. The guided tour includes the main house, original slave cabins, and other historic buildings.

The reviews reveal a mixed experience here: some appreciated the rich history and storytelling, especially about the slave quarters and the stories of the people who lived and worked there. One traveler shared that “the Slave Quarters and the presentation by the lady auctioning off a slave were very impactful,” highlighting how the tour aims to educate visitors on difficult aspects of Southern history.

However, some visitors expressed minor disappointment about house tour limitations—notably, that only a few rooms are accessible, and the upstairs was blocked off. A review noted, “The house tour only included a few rooms downstairs, not even the kitchen,” which could be a letdown for those expecting a full mansion experience.

Flexibility and Personal Exploration

The beauty of this tour is the free time, allowing you to explore Charleston at your own pace—whether that’s wandering the streets, shopping, or simply relaxing after a busy morning. This flexibility is highly valued, according to many reviews.

The Realities of the Experience: Pros and Cons

The positives are clear: knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and great value for the price. The included transportation and admissions mean you avoid the hassle and extra costs of planning each stop yourself, which many find makes this a smart, budget-conscious choice.

On the flip side, some considerations include the length of the day, which can be tiring, especially for those with mobility issues. A few reviewers mentioned that the bus tour felt somewhat rushed or ended abruptly, leaving some feeling they missed parts of the city’s story. Plus, the market time may be too lengthy for some, especially if you prefer guided experiences over self-led explorations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip suits travelers who want an efficient overview of Charleston with historical context, beautiful sights, and local shopping. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided narration, as well as folks eager to learn about the plantation’s history, including the often-overlooked stories of enslaved people. It also works well for families or groups who want a full day of sightseeing without the stress of driving.

If you enjoy flexible free time to explore at your own pace, this tour provides plenty of opportunity for that. However, if you prefer a more structured, shorter visit with fewer stops, you might consider other options.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, this guided day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston offers excellent value for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of the city’s highlights. With its mix of a guided tour, historic plantation, and free time at the market, it balances education with leisure. The included lunch and transportation make it both convenient and budget-friendly, appealing especially to first-time visitors or those short on time.

For history buffs, architecture lovers, or shopping enthusiasts, this tour provides a solid introduction with enough flexibility to make it your own. While it might not cover every corner of Charleston or satisfy those craving a deeply detailed experience, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to see a lot without a lot of hassle.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging, and affordable day trip that showcases the best of Charleston’s charm and history, this tour fits the bill—especially if you’re okay with a full, sometimes busy day.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

Does this tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transportation aboard a comfortable motorcoach from central Myrtle Beach is included, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time, so be prepared for a full day.

Is there a guide during the city tour?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide will narrate the bus tour of Charleston’s historic district, sharing stories and insights about the city’s architecture and history.

What can I do during my free time at Charleston Market?
You can browse local arts and crafts vendors, shop for souvenirs, or grab a bite from the many restaurants and vendors nearby.

Is the Boone Hall Plantation tour comprehensive?
The visit includes a guided tour of the house, original slave cabins, and other historic sites. Some rooms, especially upstairs, may be inaccessible.

Are meals included?
Yes, a boxed lunch is included, offering a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy a meal during your free time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking through the market and plantation grounds.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility levels, as the tour involves walking and some standing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to 50 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Embark on this day trip and give yourself the opportunity to experience Charleston’s timeless beauty, historic depth, and lively markets—all in a single, well-organized day.