
Tips for Traveling with Kids in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
1. Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
A fun and educational destination offering interactive exhibits that inspire creativity and learning for kids.
- Hands-on Learning: Provides children with opportunities to learn through play and experimentation.
- Temporary Exhibits: Frequently updates exhibits to keep content fresh and engaging.
- Birthday Parties: Offers party packages for kids' birthdays, making it a convenient destination for celebration.
2. South Carolina Aquarium
A family-friendly aquarium with various marine life exhibits and interactive experiences.
- Animal Encounters: Offers close encounters with animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and otters.
- Aquarium Journey: Provides a self-guided tour featuring different zones showcasing various marine environments.
- Outdoor Habitats: Features outdoor habitats, like the Great Ocean Tank and the Loggerhead Sea Turtle Recovery Center.
3. Kids' Tour at Fort Moultrie
A guided tour focused on history and fun activities for kids at this historic fort.
- Interactive Activities: Includes hands-on activities, such as flag making and musket firing demonstrations.
- Historic Reenactments: Features costumed interpreters who bring history to life through reenactments.
- Free Admission for Kids: Offers free admission for children under age 16, making it an affordable option.
4. Patriots Point Navy & Maritime Museum
A maritime museum with historic warships and exhibits that educate kids on naval history.
- Self-Guided Tour: Allows families to explore the museum at their own pace.
- Youth Programs: Offers camps, scout programs, and other educational experiences for kids.
- USS Yorktown: Allows exploration of a World War II aircraft carrier, providing an immersive experience.
5. Beaches at Folly and Isle of Palms
Family-friendly beaches offering sandy shores, waves, and beach activities for kids.
- Beach Activities: Offers amenities like umbrellas, chairs, and beach games.
- Ocean Education: Provides educational programs about marine life and ocean conservation.
- Restaurants and Shops: Features nearby restaurants, shops, and services for families.
6. Brookgreen Gardens
A beautiful outdoor sculpture garden with Lowcountry flora and fauna, as well as an animal sanctuary.
- Scenic Walks: Offers several walking trails that showcase various gardens and sculptures.
- Animal Sanctuary: Features a Lowcountry Zoo with native wildlife, including alligators, otters, and birds.
- Family Programs: Offers family-friendly events, such as storytime, scavenger hunts, and guided tours.
7. Carolina's Amaze'n Maize Maze
A corn maze with various challenges and activities for families to enjoy during the fall season.
- Corn Maze Adventure: Features a large corn maze that provides an exciting challenge for all ages.
- Pumpkin Patch: Offers a pumpkin patch where families can pick their own pumpkins.
- Fall Activities: Includes other seasonal activities, such as hayrides, petting zoos, and pony rides.
8. Angel Oak Tree
A historic live oak tree with sprawling branches offering a shaded area for kids to explore.
- Nature Exploration: Provides an opportunity for families to learn about and appreciate nature.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers picturesque spots for family photos amidst the towering tree.
- Picnic Area: Features a picnic area where families can enjoy a meal together.
9. Waterfront Park
A waterfront park with playgrounds, fountains, and scenic views of the Charleston harbor.
- Playgrounds: Offers several age-appropriate playgrounds for kids.
- Piers and Docks: Features piers and docks where families can fish or watch boats.
- Scenic Viewpoints: Provides various viewpoints for families to enjoy the beauty of Charleston's harbor.
10. Cocomont Campground
A family-friendly campground offering tent and RV sites, as well as cabins.
- Camping Options: Provides a variety of camping options to suit different needs.
- On-site Amenities: Offers amenities like showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities.
- Nearby Attractions: Located near popular Charleston attractions, such as Folly Beach and Morris Island Lighthouse.
11. The Aquarium at Oakland Plantation
A petting zoo with various animals, including alligators, stingrays, and otters.
- Animal Encounters: Provides close encounters with animals through interactive experiences.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to learn about the animals and their habitats.
- Feeding Opportunities: Allows guests to feed certain animals, such as stingrays and goats.
12. The Battery and White Point Garden
A historic district with beautiful gardens, stately homes, and scenic views of Charleston harbor.
- Historic Homes: Allows families to tour several historical homes.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the harbor, Fort Sumter, and downtown Charleston.
- Picnic Spots: Features picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal with a view.
13. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature tours, and animal exhibits.
- Botanical Garden Tour: Offers a self-guided tour of the stunning botanical garden.
- Nature Tours: Provides guided nature tours to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
- Animal Exhibits: Features exhibits with alligators, turtles, and birds.
14. Shem Creek Park and Boardwalk
A waterfront park with a boardwalk offering views of the creek, fishing opportunities, and nearby restaurants.
- Fishing Pier: Offers a pier for families to fish from.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of Shem Creek and surrounding marshlands.
- Restaurants and Shops: Features nearby restaurants and shops, perfect for a post-adventure meal or souvenir shopping.
15. Splash Zone Water Park
A water park with slides, pools, and play areas for kids to cool off during warm weather.
- Water Slides: Features various water slides for all ages.
- Pools and Play Areas: Offers pools, wading areas, and play structures for kids.
- Food and Beverages: Provides concessions with food and drinks for families to enjoy.