Welcome To Savannah to Charleston Round Trip: Self-Guided Driving Tour
Savannah and Charleston are two of the most historic destinations in the American south, and the road connecting the two cities holds just as much history. This self-guided driving tour dives into the history and scenery of that route. Visit the haunting Old Sheldon Church Ruins, snap photos of the Angel Oak Tree, go birdwatching in the ACE Basin Wildlife Preserve, uncover stories of the Underground Railroad, see historic Drayton Hall, and so much more.
About the tour
This self-guided driving tour takes you between Savannah and Charleston, weaving through South Carolina’s Lowcountry and its mix of wildlife, history, and culture. The tour can be driven in either direction for your convenience.
Along the way, you’ll pass the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, where alligators bask on riverbanks and herons glide over the marshes. This scenic stretch offers a great introduction to the wetlands that define the region.
Next, stop at Hardeeville and Ridgeland, towns rich with Southern traditions, where you’ll hear stories of barbecue, railroads, and small-town life. As the drive continues, cross to Saint Helena Island and learn about the Penn Center and the Gullah Geechee culture that has shaped this part of the South.
The haunting Old Sheldon Church Ruins are up next, their weathered stone columns and arches telling stories of colonial days and Civil War destruction. Crossing the Combahee River, you’ll hear about Harriet Tubman’s daring raid that freed hundreds of enslaved people.
Nature lovers won’t want to miss the ACE Basin, one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the Atlantic Coast, where migratory birds fill the skies. Continue through Jacksonboro to the quiet remains of the Pon Pon Chapel of Ease, another reminder of South Carolina’s deep past.
No journey is complete without pausing under the sprawling branches of the Angel Oak Tree, thought to be over 400 years old. Then explore Drayton Hall, one of America’s most carefully preserved plantation houses, where architecture and history remain strikingly intact.
Finally, you’ll arrive at Charles Towne Landing, where English settlers first established South Carolina. Then it’s on to Charleston, a city where cobblestone streets, pastel homes, and waterfront views complete your Lowcountry drive.
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Where To Start?
Savannah-Charleston Eastbound: Talmadge Memorial Bridge, Savannah, GA 31401, United States
(The tour begins on Highway 17, just before the Talmadge Memorial Bridge. From here, start heading north on Highway 17 towards Charleston.)
Charleston-Savannah Westbound: 220 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29403
(The tour begins on Spring Street. As you approach, you’ll see a car parking lot on your right. From here, follow the road and merge onto Highway 17 to begin your journey. Please note that this is a suggested starting point. We are not affiliated with any nearby businesses, so their staff will not have information about this tour.)
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Plan for 2–3 hours of driving time, covering 100+ miles. Actual time varies with stops and traffic.
100+ bite-sized audio stories trigger along the route.
Not yet—CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported (the team is working toward a solution with Apple). Use Bluetooth/USB/Aux instead.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Old Sheldon Church Ruins, ACE Basin, Pon Pon Chapel of Ease, Angel Oak Tree, Drayton Hall, Ashley River Road and Charles Towne Landing on the Charleston end.
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or Wi-Fi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, get travel tips, hear narrated guides, and see hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
