Join Our State as we discover the distinctive personalities of three Southern cities while experiencing their histories, architecture, and colorful characters.

With a private and exclusive tour of historic homes and gardens in Charleston, a visit to the Pat Conroy Literary Center, a Low Country boil with a local storyteller, a narrated carriage tour through Beaufort’s historic district, and a harbor cruise in Savannah, this trip celebrates the iconic and hidden treasures of these unique destinations.

May 4-10, 2025

 

Package Includes:

• Six nights’ hotel accommodations
• 12 meals: six breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners
• All sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
• Luxury, air-conditioned coach
• Hotel porterage of one bag per person
• Our State host and a AAA representative
• Gratuities for meals and local taxes

 

Itinerary Highlights:

Charleston, South Carolina

• A private, exclusive tour of historic Charleston homes and gardens
• Boone Hall Plantation house tour and private tour of the grounds (weather permitting)
• Gullah performance
• Guided city tour by a local expert

Beaufort, South Carolina

• Narrated historic tour on a horse-drawn carriage
• Private city tour featuring Pat Conroy’s grave and other local treasures
• Pat Conroy Literary Center
• Low Country boil with the locals

Savannah, Georgia

• Private, narrated historic city tour by trolley with hop-on, hop-off privileges for the rest of the day
• Harbor sightseeing cruise aboard the Georgia Queen
• Private tour at the Massie Heritage Center and a walking tour of the squares
• Mercer-Williams House tour
• Farewell dinner

 

Accommodations:

• Two nights in Charleston, South Carolina: Hampton Inn Charleston — Historic District
• Two nights in Beaufort, South Carolina: The Beaufort Inn
• Two nights in Savannah, Georgia: DoubleTree by Hilton — Historic District

 

 

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Charleston
Sunday, May 4, 2025

We kick off our adventure from the AAA Raleigh office on a private motor coach to make our way to Charleston. Upon arrival, our first destination will be the renowned Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, where we will enjoy lunch beneath the iconic oak trees. Following this, we will be treated to an exclusive Gullah performance and a guided tour of the plantation, its exquisite gardens, and a private viewing of the plantation house. After the tour, we will proceed to our hotel, situated in the heart of the historic district. The remainder of the evening is yours to explore the “Holy City” and savor the local culinary delights.

Meals: Boxed lunch
Overnight: Hampton Inn Charleston — Historic District

 

Day 2: Charleston
Monday, May 5, 2025

This morning, an exclusive private tour awaits us, offering a glimpse into historic homes and gardens typically closed to the public. The tour is led by conservationists from the Preservation Society of Charleston and, in some cases, the property owners themselves. This tour will culminate at the City Market, where you can shop and enjoy a meal at this popular spot.

Later in the day, a local expert will join us on the coach, guiding us around the city, sharing insights into local history, and revealing hidden treasures.

In the evening, we will gather at a beloved local seafood restaurant for an official welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Hampton Inn Charleston — Historic District

 

Day 3: Charleston • Beaufort
Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Before bidding farewell to Charleston, our itinerary includes a visit to the Charleston Tea Garden for a guided tour of the grounds and the factory, where we can savor some of their renowned teas.

Following the plantation tour, our journey continues to Beaufort, South Carolina. Our first destination is the LyBensons’ Gallery, reserved exclusively for our group to indulge in a traditional Low Country boil prepared by locals. While relishing the meal, a local storyteller will enlighten us with tales of the renowned Gullah-Geechee culture of the region.

Once settled at the delightful Beaufort Inn, you can explore nearby attractions on foot, such as a leisurely walk at Waterfront Park and the harbor or pay your respects at the Beaufort National Cemetery. Dinner arrangements are at your discretion for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: The Beaufort Inn

 

Day 4: Beaufort
Wednesday, May 7, 2025

This morning, we are in for a delightful experience as we embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride for a private tour, immersing ourselves in Beaufort’s rich history and unique charm. Next, we will visit the Pat Conroy Literary Center, which honors Beaufort’s renowned author and fosters a community of writers, readers, teachers, and students through educational programs and events.

In the afternoon, a private guide will accompany us on a tour highlighting Beaufort’s Antebellum, Civil War, and Reconstruction history. This tour showcases the Penn Center, movie locations, Pat Conroy’s grave, and other local treasures.

We will enjoy a delightful dinner at a favorite seafood restaurant in the area. Afterward, you have the evening to enjoy as you wish.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: The Beaufort Inn

 

Day 5: Savannah
Thursday, May 8, 2025

After a relaxed morning, we will venture to Savannah, a city known for its charm and rich history. Our first stop will be at the renowned Lady & Sons restaurant for an authentic taste of traditional Southern cuisine. Following lunch, we will embark on a private tour of the Massie Heritage Center, a museum showcasing local history and architecture within the city’s first public school building. Next, a guided walking tour of the four squares awaits you. Just a few blocks away, we will explore the Mercer-Williams House, a place steeped in history that has inspired both books and movies. In the evening, we will check into our hotel in the historic district and enjoy the rest of the night soaking in the ambiance of this historic Southern city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton — Historic District

 

Day 6: Savannah
Friday, May 9, 2025

All aboard the Old Town Trolley for a private, narrated tour of Savannah’s historic district. Explore the city’s history and layout while cruising along the historic streets. Afterward, enjoy an unlimited hop-on, hop-off trolley pass to explore the sights at your leisure.

End your Savannah experience by boarding the Georgia Queen for a scenic cruise along the riverfront and skyline. Listen to the captain’s fascinating stories and historical facts about the modern port and visiting ships from around the globe.

To conclude our memorable journey, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant offering Southern cuisine.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton — Historic District

 

Day 7: Departure
Saturday, May 10, 2025

Today, we bid farewell to Savannah as we board our coach for the trip back to AAA Raleigh.

Meals: Breakfast

 

Tour Rates:

Regular rate: $2,999 per person, based on double occupancy
Single rate: $3,799

 

For Reservations & More Information:

AAA Travel
Alex Kantor, CTA
(919) 832-0543, ext. 16607
axkantor@acg.aaa.com

For more information on physical requirements and what to expect on an Our State trip, click here.