South Carolina’s rich cultural history and reputation for delicious Southern comfort food are some of the top reasons group tours treasure trips to the Palmetto State. Add to the group tour experience with tours led by in-the-know local guides who can help your group navigate the latest and greatest offerings across the state. Check out these South Carolina tour companies that provide immersive travel experiences sure to wow your group.
If eating across Columbia, Newberry, and Lexington sounds exciting, then check out Two Gals and a Fork Food Tours. Owners Gloria Freeman and Janet Jordan have over 50 years of experience in the nonprofit management and meeting planning world, making them experts at creating memorable moments for travelers. The walking and tasting food tours span two and a half to three hours and allow groups of 10-20 in the Vista (a shopping/dining/hotel district in Columbia) and 10-14 in Newberry and Lexington. Along the way, groups visit five different local restaurants to sample incredible cuisine that is unique to South Carolina. Custom tours are available.
Credit: Two Gals and a Fork Food Tours
In Murrells Inlet, the Boat Tour at Brookgreen Gardens gives a gorgeous look at the history of the Lowcountry via its 48-foot pontoon boat, The Springfield. During the Creek Excursion, from March through November, groups pass historic rice fields—now home to alligators, waterfowl, and osprey—as an interpreter points out the distinctive landscape of the rice plantations and explains the role of enslaved Africans in the cultivation of the rice crop and the shaping of the history of the Lowcountry. The Creek Excursion lasts approximately 45 minutes. The group rates apply to 15 or more paid adults and include one-day admission to the sculpture gardens, the Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve, and the Lowcountry Zoo. This exclusive experience includes an interpreter who talks about the tidal creeks, surrounding land, and the significant history of the colonial rice plantations that once made up Brookgreen Gardens. Delicious group lunches are available at an additional cost.
Say “boo!” to Charleston’s only Haunted Carriage Tour! Old South Haunted Carriage Tour, brought to you by Old South Carriage Co., is one your group won’t forget. During this unique twilight tour, hear the surprising tales of ghosts, pirates, and patriots from Charleston’s fascinating past. Your guide shares informative and spine-tingling local stories while your group passes by haunted alleys, graveyards, churches, hotels, and the famous Provost Dungeon and Old Exchange.
Tour, eat, and explore Greenville on a Foothill Foodie walking tour. Learn some of the town’s history while experiencing all of its charm and character—and delicious food! The tour received Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award in 2020 and prides itself on its variety of tour offerings, including the “Saturday Breakfast Tour,” “Saturday Afternoon Just Desserts Tour,” “Thirty Thursdays Tour,” “Date Night Cocktail Tour,” and “Craft Cocktail Tour.”
By Andrea Stehle
Main Image: Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens, Credit: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism
