Charleston
Educational Tours and Field Trips in Charleston, South Carolina
Established in 1670, Charles Town began as a busy seaport, housing ships exporting goods to England. After years of changing hands between the French, the Spanish, and indigenous peoples, the city came under British control in 1783 and was renamed “Charleston.” Charleston is a city steeped in Revolutionary War and Civil War history and is known for unique architectural styles, including Colonial, Art Deco, and Victorian. The city is also renowned for its authentic Southern cuisine, many beaches, and outdoor activities. At Freedom Tours, we’re passionate about providing students with hands-on educational experiences through travel. See what a student trip to Charleston can look like today!
Why Choose Freedom Tours for Educational Tours in Charleston
Experience The Freedom Tours Difference — where exceptional service, seamless organization, and stress-free planning come standard. Here’s what sets us apart and keeps groups returning year after year:
- Meticulously Planned Travel: Every tour is thoughtfully designed to ensure a smooth, educational, and memorable experience.
- Complete Reservation Management: We handle all bookings — transportation, hotels, attractions, and dining — so you don’t have to.
- Exclusive Vendor Partnerships: Our strong relationships with local vendors help us secure the best rates for your group.
- Simplified Group Leader Experience: We collect all necessary information and paperwork — including permission slips, waivers, and allergy forms — through our secure online portal.
- Online Payment System: Families can make payments directly through our convenient online platform, eliminating the need for teachers to handle money.
- Teacher-Friendly Process: We manage the logistics, so educators can focus on teaching — not paperwork and planning.
Tour Destinations
Patriot's Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Your students will gain a hands-on look at the nation’s military history while they explore the Charleston’s Harbor. Patriot’s Point is home to the WII aircraft carrier the USS Yorktown and the destroyer USS Laffey. Participate in Vietnam and Cold War experiences, tour military vessels, join a scavenger hunt, and even experience a flight motion simulator. There’s much to see and learn about Charleston history at this museum.
South Carolina Aquarium
One of Charleston’s most popular attractions, the South Carolina Aquarium houses over 5,000 animals across a wide range of species, and the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center™. The aquarium has exhibits replicating various habitats, including the ocean, an aviary, and a mountain forest. Students can enjoy grade-appropriate scavenger hunts and STEM challenges.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
The Magnolia Plantation was originally a rice farm cultivating Carolina Gold Rice. In 1871, it became one of South Carolina’s first tourist attractions showcasing the magnificent gardens. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens offers various tours, including the Magnolia House, the Nature Train Tour around the property, and the Discovery Tour through the vibrant gardens.
Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art has a collection of southern art spanning 350 years, including an extensive collection of miniature portraits. Before photography, portraits were the best way to capture the likeness of loved ones and were gifted for important events. You can also view six permanent exhibitions, including the Mary Jackson Modern and Contemporary Gallery, which features works from the last 40 years.
Walking Historic Tour
Take a walking tour to get to know Charleston like a local. Led by licensed tour guides, these walks last approximately two hours. They can include several points of interest, including Rainbow Row, French Quarter, Old Exchange Building, and Battery & White Point Gardens. To enjoy the best walking tour experience, bring comfortable shoes, water, and a hat.
Charleston City Market
Enjoy food and live music with the locals! Shop from vendors selling locally-grown produce, handcrafted items, and more, and listen to artists play music and sing. This historic market hosts unique events throughout the year, including toy drives, jazz festivals, and night markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m unsure how to create the best itinerary. Can you help me?
We specialize in planning exceptional educational tours. Our travel specialists can help you customize an itinerary that meets the needs of any group. We even take care of reservations and pay entry and activity fees.
What is the easiest way to collect trip fees from students?
Freedom Tours has a convenient online portal where families can make payments. You can choose from various payment plans to allow more students to attend educational Charleston trips.
What type of buses do you use?
We charter deluxe motor coaches with a restroom and video-playback equipment. We prioritize safety, which is why we only work with motor coach companies who have excellent safety standards, procedures, and records.
When is the best time to start planning a trip?
We encourage trip leaders to reach out as soon as they have an idea for a trip; many groups book a year in advance because booking early ensures availability and lower rates for the events and activities you want. Booking early also allows your students to make small, incremental payments toward their trip.
Choose Freedom Tours for Educational tours in Charleston
Inquire about planning a student trip today and let Freedom Tours help you craft a custom itinerary for your students in Charleston, South Carolina! For years, Freedom Tours has offered education tours across the US, and we’re also constantly expanding our tour offerings to include more destinations for students in all grades.
We love working with teachers and other educators to plan the ideal student trip. Complete the Contact Form or call us at (859) 967-8747 to start planning with us today!
