Join Our State as we experience the distinctive personalities of three Southern cities while experiencing their histories, architecture, and colorful characters.
From our 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 – May 10, 2025
Package includes:
- Six nights hotel stays
- Six breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners
- Luxury, air-conditioned coach
- Hotel porterage of one bag per person
- Our State Host and an AAA representative
- Gratuities for meals and local taxes
- Centrally located accommodations
- Exclusive activities as listed
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 of the city 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
Detailed Itinerary:
DAY 1: 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.
Hotel: Hampton Inn Charleston – Historic District (two nights)
Meals: Boxed lunch
DAY 2: 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, even 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 bus, guiding us around the city, sharing insights into local history, and revealing hidden treasures.
To conclude the day, we will gather in the evening at a beloved local seafood restaurant for an official welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
DAY 3: 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 harbor or pay your respects at the Beaufort National Cemetery.
Dinner arrangements are at your discretion for the evening.
Hotel: The Beaufort Inn
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
DAY 4: WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025
This morning, we are in for a delightful experience as we embark on a horse-drawn carriage for a private tour, immersing ourselves in Beaufort’s rich history and unique charm. Next, we will visit the Pat Conroy Literary Center, that honors Beaufort’s renowned resident 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, the 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 and dinner
DAY 5: 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.
Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton – Historic District
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
DAY 6: 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 and dinner
DAY 7: SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025
Today, we bid farewell to Savannah as we board our coach bus for the trip back to AAA Raleigh.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations:
Charleston, SC
- Two night’s stay at the Hampton Inn Historic District
Beaufort, SC
- Two night’s stay at The Beaufort Inn.
Savannah, GA
- Two night’s stay at the Double Tree in the historic district (or similar)
Tour Rates:
$2,999 per person, based on double occupancy.
Single rate available.
For reservations and more information:
AAA Travel
Alex Kantor, CTA
(919) 832-0543 ext. 16010
axkantor@acg.aaa.com
Additional Information:
What to expect on an Our State trip:
Traveling with a group of Our State readers is an enriching, enjoyable, and safe way to experience new cultures, people, and places. In addition to the informative narration from the tour director and local guides, an Our State host will be available to assist in making your trip successful.
We usually fly to our destination, then travel by a comfortable motor coach with anywhere from 35 to 50 people who appreciate learning about new regions. Your entire trip will be guided, planned, and arranged for your upmost enjoyment. Many activities are things you can only do because you are traveling with Our State. There is some free time built in for you to explore on your own.
You can also choose not to attend an activity if you prefer something different. Please let your tour director know if you are not coming on a scheduled day.
Many meals are included. Where you have meals on your own, suggestions will be provided.
Most of the motor coaches have restrooms but every effort will be made to make regular rest stops.
One of the best parts of traveling with Our State is that you will meet new people, many of whom you will already have much in common with since most travelers read the magazine. Many guests often develop friendships that go on long after the tour is finished. Our State trips are generally filled with dynamic and friendly people.
Physical requirements:
Our tours are physically active but not meant to be strenuous.
Please be aware you will be on your feet, walking and standing for much of the day, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions and terrains. There will also be extended time on the motor coach when we travel from place to place. If there are any mobility issues you will need to have an able-bodied traveling companion to accompany and assist you.
Most days are moderately paced with approximately two to three total miles of walking, possibly including some hills and stairs.
We regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Trip Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.
If you have additional questions, please call Our State’s Travel Director Amy Wood Pasquini at 336-286-0600, or email apasquini@ourstate.com.
