This trip epitomizes the saying "it's not just the destination but the journey". Of course, our destination is Charleston and it beckons us with abundant charm, culture and culinary experiences, but we also enjoy a day of touring en route to Charleston. Two hours into the trip, we stop in Georgetown where a step-on tour guide hops on our bus and treats us to a one hour tour of what was once a bustling colonial port city and is now filled with legacies and lore as told by our Swamp Fox guide. Swamp Fox has been sharing stories in Georgetown since 1978 and has been featured in Southern Living Magazine. We will also have time to visit a sandwich shop or bring your own lunch and enjoy a stroll down the town's scenic boardwalk.
Our second stop before arriving at our hotel in Charleston's Historic District, is Wadmalaw Island where we visit the 1500 year old Angel Oak Tree and enjoy a trolley tour of the Tea Fields and factory tour of this illustrious American tea story at the Charleston Tea Garden.
Day Two offers two uniquely Charleston experiences and allows for some time to explore before departure. We start the day with a guided tour of the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. Built in 1771 as a commercial exchange and custom house, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon has been a Charleston landmark for nearly 250 years. Today, costumed interpreters bring the stories of this Charleston "must see" alive despite the rumors of numerous hauntings!
We cap off our day with a guided walking culinary tour from Bulldog Tours. During this progressive experience, we walk, talk and taste our way through Charleston with delicious local specialties from favorite markets, bakeries, restaurants and iconic eateries. This interactive tour includes multiple stops that reflect the international and regional flavors of our historic port city.
Following our progressive lunch/tour, you will have a little time to explore the Charleston City Market prior to our departure.
This trip includes a walking tour which is best enjoyed if guests are able to walk and stand comfortably on uneven surfaces and up to one mile.
You won't want to miss the chance to try one of Charleston's many unique restaurants. There are over 300 to choose from and many are within walking distance or a short Uber or Charleston Pedi-cab ride. Patty will provide dining resources and suggestions in advance of the trip.
After the final payment has been made for the trip, refunds are only possible if the trip reservation can be rebooked. A deposit is required to book a reservation for this trip and final payments will be due 45 days in advance of the trip date.
November 11 - Day One
8am - Departure from Lower Members Club Parking lot in St. James
10am - Arrival in Georgetown for tour and lunch
1pm -Depart Georgetown for 2 hour drive to the Charleston Tea Garden in Wadmalaw Island
5pm - Depart Wadmalaw Island for hotel check-in. Dinner on own that evening
November 12 - Day Two
Breakfast in the hotel followed by check-out and 9am departure for Old Exchange & Provost Tour
11am - 1:30pm - Guided culinary walking tour and progressive lunch
2:30pm - Departure for St. James with estimate return time of 6pm