Experience the best of coastal South Carolina and Georgia as we step back in time to enjoy the rich history and culture of the Colonial South. Visit Charleston’s stately plantations and formal gardens while relishing in the scents and flavors of small island farms. We’ll discover Savannah, one of America’s oldest cities, whose gorgeous squares, fountains, and architecture make it also one of “America’s most beautiful places to visit”. With two relaxing nights at a beachfront resort on Jekyll Island, you’ll remember this soul-stirring mixture of high and low country for years to come!
- Historic city tours of Savannah and Charleston
- Guided tram tour of Magnolia
- Plantation & Gardens
- Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
- Join a shrimpboat crew for a scenic marsh cruise
DAY 1—WELCOME TO THE SOUTH!
Meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at our charming hotel in Charleston. D
DAY 2—MAGNOLIA PLANTATION & GARDENS/CHARLESTON TEA PLANTATION
Go back in time to the Antebellum South at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Founder John Drayton created its lush English gardens for his future wife, which included the first azaleas grown in America. Enjoy a tram tour of the plantation’s diverse gardens, islands, and ponds – plus see turtles, egrets, and great blue herons.
Option—Tour the inside of the Magnolia Plantation
House to see the historic charm, family heirlooms, and more. Price: $10 per person
Next, on Wadmalaw Island, enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the Charleston Tea Plantation, where more than 320 varieties are grown. Arrive at Savannah, and unpack for the next two nights. B, L
DAY 3—SAVANNAH, “HOSTESS CITY OF THE SOUTH”
As one of America’s oldest and most beautiful cities, Savannah is filled with gorgeous gardens, fountains, and architecture. We’ll start our morning on an Old Savannah Trolley for a guided tour of the National Historic Landmark District. After, we’ll discover what Southern hospitality is all about during our luncheon cruise along the Savannah River. You’ll be treated to our Captain’s intriguing tales and historic facts while feasting on a true southern-style buffet. Then enjoy free time browsing the many area stores and galleries, or stop into the Savannah Candy Kitchen for a tasty Georgia praline. B, L
DAY 4—GEORGIA’S GOLDEN ISLES
Travel along the Georgia coast to Jekyll Island, one of 12 barrier islands, that served as a winter retreat for America’s prominent families of the early 1920s - including the Rockefellers and Macys. See the gracious historic district, stopping to explore huge “summer cottages” of America’s “Gilded Era.” Afterwards, sit down to a lunch at the picturesque Jekyll Island Club. The Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a hospital and rehabilitation center for the island’s many species of turtles. Enjoy the center’s interactive exhibits and venture into the hospital to chat with experts and visit its “patients”. B, L
DAY 5—ST. SIMONS ISLAND/SHRIMP BOAT
The largest of The Golden Isles, St. Simons Island continues to reveal the remarkable beauty and fascinating history of what 16th century Spanish explorers called San Simeon. See St. Simons Lighthouse & Museum; Fort Frederica National Monument, preserving remnants of the British defense against Spain; and Christ Church, in continuous use since 1736. This afternoon, learn all about shrimpin’ on our sightseeing cruise aboard the Lady Jane. B, L
DAY 6—GULLAH CULTURE
Gullah is a colorful mix of languages, traditions and foods from West African, Creole, Brazilian, and Jamaican heritage. Today on St. Helena Island, hear about the Gullah’s culture and their fascinating stories of survival. After, we head back into Charleston for the next two nights to explore this amazing coastal town. B, L
DAY 7—CHARLESTON CITY TOUR
Known as the city “where history lives”, we get a taste of Charleston’s beauty and charm on a city tour featuring carefully preserved historic homes and public landmarks. This afternoon, choose between one of our options or explore the City Market and downtown Charleston on your own. B
Option—USS Yorktown
At Patriot’s Point, board the WWII aircraft carrier, affectionately known as “The Fighting Lady” and get firsthand account of a seaman’s life. Price: $23 per person
Option—Carriage Tour
On a one-hour, fully narrated tour through the streets of Charleston, you’ll see gardens, mansions, churches, and parks to learn about what makes Charleston so historic. Price: $65 per person
DAY 8—FORT SUMTER/FOND FAREWELL
After breakfast, we catch a boat to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. We will then head to the airport for our flight home feeling re-energized from our coastal experiences in the south. B
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Doubletree Charleston Airport
Nights 2-3: Savannah Historic District
Nights 4-5: BeachView Club Resort at Jekyll Island
Nights 6-7: Doubletree Charleston Airport
Dates:
Mar 26-Apr 2, 2023
Apr 16-23, 2023 Sold Out
Nov 5-12, 2023
Price Per Person:
Double $2,297
Single $2,915
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$188/night
Depart/Return:
Charleston, SC
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling of one suitcase per person at hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Doubletree by Hilton Charleston Convention Center, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Charleston International Airport any time after 2:00 p.m. on Day 8.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Charleston International Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
March – high of 60°, low of 55°
April – high of 75°, low of 50°
November – high of 65°, low of 55°
Time Zone
Eastern
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron/ironing boards, and a coffee maker. All hotels also offer a refrigerator, Wi-Fi, fitness room and a swimming pool. (exception: Beachview Hotel does not offer fitness room.)
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Temperatures can fluctuate in this region, so we recommend bringing a light jacket with you when out in the morning or evening.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan
