Savannah, GA & Charleston, SC: Southern Charm

Savannah, GA & Charleston, SC: Southern Charm

Trip Duration: 6 Days

 

 

Trip Highlights:

• Meals: 5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach accommodations

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

 

Beaufort, SC Sightseeting Tour

Experience a guided sightseeing tour through Beaufort, SC, often referred to as the "Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands." This historic city boasts a stunning array of pre-Revolutionary and pre-Civil War mansions, each with its own unique story. Beaufort is also renowned as a filming location for major motion pictures such as "The Big Chill," "The Great Santini," "Prince of Tides," and "Forrest Gump."

 

Parris Island Marine Base

Parris Island Marine Base holds a storied past dating back to the mid-1500s, marked by clashes between Spanish and French explorers vying for strategic control in the New World. Today, it serves as a prominent recruit training station for the United States Marine Corps. Annually, under the guidance of Drill Instructors, approximately 20,000 men and 2,000 women undergo rigorous training at Parris Island.

 

During our visit, we'll explore notable landmarks including the Iwo Jima Monument, Parade Field, and the insightful Parris Island Museum.

 

Savannah, GA Trolley Tour

Explore Savannah in style with Old Town Trolley Tours, the ultimate way to discover the charm and history of this coastal gem.

 

Marvel at the extraordinary architecture, lush botanicals, and captivating stories that define Savannah's rich heritage.

 

Your knowledgeable conductor will entertain you with a blend of fascinating trivia and delightful anecdotes throughout the tour.

 

Enjoy the convenience of On & Off Boarding Privileges at all designated stops, ensuring you can explore Savannah at your own pace.

 

Massie Heritage Center

The Massie Heritage Center in Savannah offers a rich exploration of the city's history and architectural legacy. Originally founded in 1856 as Savannah's first free public school, Massie School has evolved into a dynamic teaching museum. After serving as a Union hospital during the Civil War and later as a Freedmen's school during Reconstruction, Massie reopened in 1977 to educate visitors about Savannah's vibrant past through exhibitions and educational programs. The center, managed by the local school system, includes accessible facilities such as elevators for all visitors to enjoy.

 

Savannah Theatre

Experience the Historic Savannah Theatre, established in December 1818 and recognized as America's oldest continually operating theater. Immerse yourself in a captivating performance that varies throughout the season, promising entertainment steeped in history and charm.

 

Charleston, SC Sightseeing tour

Embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Charleston, SC, delving into its storied past and architectural marvels. Marvel at The Battery's stately homes, stroll past the vibrant hues of Rainbow Row, and witness the symbolic Four Corners of Law. Explore the prestigious College of Charleston campus and enjoy a scenic drive through The Citadel (when available), offering a deeper appreciation of Charleston's historical significance and Southern charm.

 

Charleston City Market

Discover Charleston City Market, a vibrant cultural hub at the heart of the city. As one of the nation's oldest public markets, the historic Charleston City Market plays a leading role in the preservation of time-treasured customs and vibrant American history. Throughout the year, the local community and visitors alike gather for authentic experiences and interaction with more than 300 vibrant entrepreneurs.

 

Spirit of Carolina Dinner Cruise

Cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina, Charleston Harbor's premier dining yacht. Experience luxurious dining in climate-controlled salons or on open observation decks while taking in the scenic beauty and rich history of the area. Glide past iconic landmarks such as Fort Sumter, the Battery, and beneath the Ravenel Bridge as you savor a delicious multi-course plated dinner. A cash bar adds to the enjoyment of this unforgettable evening on the water.

 

Please note: September/October departures usually happen at dusk or later. Views may be limited.

 

Charleston Tea Garden

Nestled on scenic Wadmalaw Island in the heart of the Lowcountry, the Charleston Tea Garden is home to Charleston Tea Garden Tea. Immerse yourself in the beauty and allure as you stroll through acres of lush tea plants stretching as far as the eye can see. Embark on an enlightening Factory Tour to discover the art of tea-making, enjoy a delightful Trolley tour through the verdant tea fields, visit the greenhouse to witness the cultivation of tea plants, and help yourself to all the iced or hot tea you can drink!

 

Meal Information:

 

A Boxed Lunch is included at Charleston Tea Garden. Menu choices are as follows:

• Turkey & Swiss on Honey Wheat Bread (oven-roasted turkey breast with Swiss cheese & lettuce)

• Ham & Havarti on Sourdough bread (cured ham & Havarti cheese with green leaf lettuce)

• Vegetarian on 13 Grain Bread (mushrooms, cucumbers, tomatoes, sprouts, roasted red peppers, and avocados on lettuce with cheddar cheese & pesto mayo)

• Chicken Caesar Wrap (chicken breast, Caesar dressing, romaine lettuce, and parmesan cheese)

• Super Food Salad (a super antioxidant mix of kale, baby spinach, and red cabbage, topped with cried cranberries, raspberries, almonds, and feta cheese with raspberry vinaigrette. Comes with fresh baked bread)

Meals are served with chips, pickle, cookie, and iced tea or water.

 

Menu subject to change.

 

 

Need to Know:

This tour requires a lot of walking.

 

Charleston Boat Cruise - 5 steps are required for boarding.

 

Parris Island; Valid ID, Driver's License State and Number, Date of Birth and Gender are needed for all guests.

 

 

Accessibility:

Savannah Trolley Tour - While the trolley does have an electric lift for guests in the motorized scooters, the lift cannot operate at the Massie Museum or the trolley stops for safety reasons. The lifts operates from the back of the trolley, and only at the hotel are they able to pull completely out of traffic to allow the guest on and off.

 

Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Accommodations Day 1 and 5: Country Inn, Fayetteville, NC

Hotel features an outdoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include hairdryer, coffee maker, iron/board, and mini refrigerator.

 

Accommodations Day 2 & 3: Holiday Inn, Savannah Historic District

Hotel features a restaurant and cocktail lounge, seasonal outdoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms feature a coffee maker, mini fridge, iron/board, and hairdryer.

 

Accommodations Day 4: Springhill Suites Charleston Riverview, SC

The hotel is conveniently located just a short trip over the Ashley River to the downtown historic district. The hotel includes a seasonal outdoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness room. Each spacious suite features separate sleeping, eating and working areas. Spacious living areas are perfect for relaxing or entertaining with mini refrigerator & mini microwave in kitchenette area. Rooms include coffee maker, iron/board, hairdryer, and pull-out sofa.