Southern Charm Holiday

Revel in the holiday hospitality in America’s southeast. Come to know its rich history and deep traditions on this tour highlighted by stays in Charleston, Savannah, and Jekyll Island. Arrive in Charleston, a city that has defied all odds. Charleston has survived the Civil War, major fires, an earthquake, and hurricanes – and still exudes elegance, charm, and grace. If arriving early in the day, perhaps you’ll venture out on your own to Patriot’s Point Naval Museum or the Aiken-Rhett House before settling into your accommodations in the Historic District.

This morning, make your way to bustling City Market, one of the country’s oldest public markets and a central hub for Gullah sweetgrass basketry – an intricate handicraft of African origin. Explore Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, where you’ll experience Southern living as you come to know one of America's oldest plantations beautifully decorated for the holidays. Then decide how to see the city because it’s your choice! Stroll through Charleston’s historic center with a local guide, exploring hidden alleys and quaint areas that are only accessible by foot -OR- take a harbor cruise to Fort Sumter, where the first fired shots of the Civil War were fired, and chat with a ranger before exploring on your own. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. End your day with a visit to James Island County Park, where over 500,000 lights provide you with an enchanting 3-mile driving tour.

Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore Charleston on your own. Perhaps you will join an optional horse-and-carriage tour with lunch. Later, travel down the coast through South Carolina’s Low Country to historic Savannah. This evening, spend some time exploring Factors Walk and River Street, where old cotton warehouses have been converted into trendy shops, taverns, and restaurants. Tonight, gather at a popular local restaurant on Savannah’s famous River Street for a cooking demonstration and dinner showcasing regional culinary specialties.

This morning, it's your choice! Take in the southern charm of Savannah's Historic District on a nostalgic, narrated trolley ride -OR- on a walking tour highlighting Savannah’s haunted side. Either way, lively, informative commentary brings the city to life as you travel along the cobblestone-paved streets and beneath moss-draped oaks. Allow the stately mansions, beautiful squares, and romantic riverfront promenades to capture your heart. Both tours will end at the Mercer Williams House, where you will receive a guided tour of the famed home from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to do as you wish.

Before saying so long to Savannah, stop at the Pin Point Heritage Museum to learn about the Gullah Geechee people. Then journey to Georgia’s legendary Gold Coast and visit quaint St. Simons Island. Enjoy time to explore the area on your own, meandering along the unique shops and restaurants in the village. Continue on to the exclusive Jekyll Island Club hotel, your home for the next two nights.

Situated grandly in the middle of the Golden Isles, Jekyll Island was once the beloved vacation spot for prominent families, including the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts and J.P. Morgan. With a morning at leisure, take a complimentary tour of the Jekyll Island Club hotel or just enjoy the old-world ambiance of this iconic island resort, beautifully decorated for the holidays. Gather for a tram ride that brings you on a tour of the island and the Jekyll Island Historic Landmark District – one of the nation’s largest restoration projects. This evening, find your holiday spirit with Christmas caroling and refreshments before joining your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at the Jekyll Island Club hotel.

As your tour draws to a close, leave for home with memories of a trip well-traveled. Your days spent experiencing Southern holiday charm and gracious hospitality will stay dear to your heart for years to come.