Charleston, South Carolina stands out as an amazing family-friendly destination. Renowned for its Southern charm and rich history, Charleston provides children of all ages with various activities they will adore – from interactive museums to outdoor adventures – perfect for every vacation experience!
We explore some of the best Charleston kids activities; get packed and ready to have fun!
Top Charleston Kids Activities
South Carolina Aquarium
South Carolina Aquarium, situated at 100 Aquarium Wharf in Charleston is an unforgettable family attraction. Offering an immersive marine animal encounter experience and featuring over 5000 creatures such as birds, alligators, otters, fish turtles, and sharks, kids will have plenty to see and discover at this popular spot!
At the aquarium, programs and exhibits designed for various age groups can be found, with children participating in interactive sessions such as “All about Otters,” “Turtle Talk,” and “All about Alligators.” Touch Tank visitors may touch various sea creatures while hand-feeding Stingrays from The Shallows; strollers are welcome too while changing stations and feeding rooms are specifically tailored for younger visitors.
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
Head to the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry for a day filled with imaginative play and discovery! Situated at 25 Ann Street, this interactive museum aims to ignite young imaginations while keeping them active – offering many exhibits and play areas, kids can let their creativity run wild while having an incredible adventure!
At this museum, visitors will find an interactive Medieval Creativity Castle, Fire Truck exhibit, Pirate-themed area with hideaways, Hideaways and an Art Room; Infant/Toddler Playspace featuring tactile fine motor toys is also provided for young visitors; plus annual membership offers access throughout the year! Families may purchase annual passes allowing unlimited visits throughout the year!
Charleston Museum
Charleston Museum is one of the nation’s oldest museums: offering visitors an insight into Lowcountry heritage through exhibits for kids and adults – especially their popular Kidstory exhibit!
Kidstory is an immersive history exhibit for children that makes history come to life through interactive displays and activities. Visitors of all ages are welcome to explore Charleston’s past, discover its culture, and uncover the stories of its founding citizens – an excellent way to make history accessible and educational! It makes history fun while simultaneously enriching young minds!
Angel Oak
Nature-loving families should not miss Angel Oak Park on John’s Island. With its majestic oak tree reportedly over 400 years old and considered the largest living organism east of Mississippi, Angel Oak is truly breathtaking and worth witnessing! With its towering height and sprawling branches it makes quite the scene!
Children will be amazed to hear stories of how this tree has survived centuries of natural disasters and hurricanes. The park provides a tranquil space where families can come together for picnics or strolls and appreciate nature while marveling at Charleston’s breathtaking natural surroundings.
Battery and White Point Gardens.
At the southern tip of Charleston Peninsula lies Battery and White Point Gardens – historic landmarks and popular family gathering spots. Boasting breathtaking views over Charleston Harbor, these waterfront parks feature gorgeous oak trees and historic monuments.
Kids of all ages will delight in exploring the park’s pathways, playing on its open lawns, and discovering city history through plaques and markers. Picnicking at this park makes for a lovely family afternoon activity; bring a camera to capture its stunning scenery!
Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter holds great historical significance as the site where American Civil War started in 1861. Accessible via ferry in Charleston Harbor, this fort provides guided tours for visitors of all ages.
Kids and families can explore events leading up to the Civil War while exploring Fort Sumter grounds and exhibits, taking guided tours that provide a fascinating insight into its past history and the shaping of our nation today. It provides an ideal opportunity for exploration while enjoying Charleston Harbor’s scenic beauty!
Waterfront Park
Looking for an exciting and refreshing outdoor adventure? Consider Waterfront Park along the Cooper River; its spectacular scenery, green spaces, and interactive features make for an engaging visit your children will love!
Families can stroll along Charleston Harbor Promenade, take in its sights, and let children cool off at the famous Pineapple Fountain. There is also a splash pad where children can run freely among fountains while splashing about in the water! A perfect place for families to unwind while appreciating Charleston’s natural beauty!
Folly Beach: the Perfect Family Destination
No trip to Charleston would be complete without visiting Folly Beach – its sandy shores, gentle waves, and lively atmosphere make this an idyllic family destination just minutes from Downtown Charleston.
Families can enjoy building sandcastles, swimming in the ocean, soaking up sun rays, or just lazing around on Folly Beach. Famous for its surf culture and surf lessons for older kids and teenagers. Beachfront parks, picnic areas, and restaurants nearby add further opportunities for entertainment and relaxation on Folly Beach.
Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens
Step back in time with a visit to Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens near Charleston in Mount Pleasant. Featuring beautifully preserved grounds, guided tours of its home, and information about those who lived and worked at this historic plantation during its antebellum era, Boone Hall Plantation allows families a peek into this era’s past.
Kids of all ages will delight in exploring interactive exhibits and demonstrations that bring history alive, exploring the gardens, walking through the Avenue of Oaks, and uncovering the plantation’s agricultural legacy – providing an engaging learning experience that the entire family will treasure! It promises an educational adventure everyone is sure to cherish together!
Palmetto Carriage Works (PCW).
Palmetto Carriage Works provides an exciting carriage tour through downtown Charleston’s historic streets, giving visitors a rare glimpse of its historical landmarks while telling fascinating tales from its rich past. Hop aboard their guided ride for an adventure you won’t soon forget!
Kids of all ages will appreciate the novelty and thrill of exploring Charleston through horse-drawn carriage. Knowledgeable guides offer entertaining commentary that captures its spirit while creating an educational tour experience that captures its charm.
Let’s wrap up our coverage of Charleston Kids Activities
Charleston, South Carolina offers the ideal combination of history, culture, and outdoor beauty for an ideal family vacation destination. Offering plenty of family-oriented activities like visiting interactive museums, strolling through historic gardens, or enjoying an enjoyable beach day, Charleston provides something fun for every family member to experience on their vacation here! Plan a visit soon – and make the most of it during your next family getaway to this captivating destination!