As one of the top travel destinations in the US, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Charleston. From building sandcastles at the beach to visiting local museums, Charleston offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, educational activities and family-friendly entertainment. Famous for its historical charm and delectable Southern cuisine, Charleston makes it easy to fill up a vacation itinerary with activities that are perfect for kids and parents alike.
Read along as we uncover the top things to do with kids in Charleston, SC:
Discover Outdoor Activities
Do your kids love spending time outside? Lucky for you, Charleston has no shortage of outdoor activities, from the beach to local parks.
1. Play in the Sand at the Beach
Location: Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, Folly Beach
Price: Free
There’s nothing better than a family day at the beach! Spend time building sandcastles, looking for seashells and playing in the ocean.
The three main beaches in Charleston are Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island and Folly Beach. While all three are great options, Isle of Palms is the best-suited for kids since it has public bathrooms, showers, lifeguards and a playground.
2. Explore Waterfront Park
Location: Corner of Vendue Range and Concord St., Charleston, SC 29401
Price: Free
With over eight acres to explore, Waterfront Park is one of the best spots in Charleston. Here, you’ll find the iconic pineapple fountain that your kids can play in. After they’ve exhausted their energy, head to the family-sized swings overlooking the water and take in the stunning views of the Charleston Harbour.
3. Ride Water Slides at Splash Zone Waterpark
Location: 871 Riverland Dr., Charleston, SC 29412
Price: General admission is $15.99 per person; Under 48” is $13.99 per person; Free admission for children 2 and under
Visiting during the summer time? Cool off at Splash Zone Waterpark. Your kids will love sliding down the waterslides, exploring the rainforest play structure and floating along the lazy river.
4. Take the Water Taxi and See Dolphins
Location: 1 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401
Price: Tickets start at $17
Looking to get out on the water without breaking the bank? The Charleston Water Taxi is an affordable way to explore the Charleston Harbour with the whole family. Plus, you may even spot dolphins on your journey!
5. Play at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
Location: 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
Price: Free
Another popular park in Charleston is Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Located at the Arthur Ravenel Bridge base, the park has a nautical-themed playground, picnic tables, a cafe with snacks and a pier to admire the views. After you’re done exploring the park, consider taking a walk across the 2.5-mile bridge.
6. Ride the Nature Train at Magnolia Plantation
Location: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
Price: $35 for adults, $21 for children
Introduce youngsters to the wonders of flora and fauna as you explore the famed Magnolia Plantation via Nature Train. This hop-on, hop-off setup provides greater flexibility, making it easy to spend more time at preferred areas while also providing a chance to rest when little feet get tired.
The Nature Train is one of the most compelling plantation attractions for little ones, but there are plenty of other ways to spend an amazing (and stunning) day at this gorgeous destination. Children are often intrigued by the Audubon Swamp, where trees grow from the water and boardwalks beckon kids to explore. The Wildlife Center is home to many native species and allows kids to see their favorite animals up close.
7. Take an Imaginary Pirate Adventure at Smythe Park
Location: 2364 Daniel Island Drive, Charleston
Price: Free
Charleston's best-known parks and public spaces are not always particularly appealing for youngsters, as many are small or primarily focused on maritime memorials and floral displays. A few, however, have excellent playgrounds —and Smythe Park is one of the most memorable. The pirate-themed playground is sure to spark any child's imagination and could form the basis for hours of creative play.
While the playground should be enough to convince little ones to visit Smythe Park, this is only the beginning. This sizable park spans 22 acres and also includes lovely walking trails, picnic areas and statues. This relaxing destination is perfect after spending several jam-packed days at Charleston's busier attractions.
Take Advantage of Educational Experiences
Charleston is the perfect place to teach your children about important historical events. Whether your child is a future marine biologist or historian, below are a few kid-friendly educational activities to do in Charleston.
8. Visit the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
Location: 25 Ann St, Charleston, SC 29403
Price: General admission is $15 per person; Children under 1 are free
Inviting children of all backgrounds to enjoy playful spaces that spark imagination and curiosity, the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is definitely one of the best things to do with kids in Charleston. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that revolve around art, speaking, science, engineering and more.
9. Step Back in Time at Charles Towne Landing
Location: 1500 Old Towne Rd., Charleston, SC 29407
Price: General admission is $12 per person; $7 per person for youth aged 6-15; Free admission for children 5 and under
Charles Towne Landing, known as the birthplace of South Carolina'' is a historic site and living history museum. During your visit, your family will interact with knowledgeable staff dressed as colonists, learning firsthand about the state’s fascinating story.
Other activities here include touring the Adventure—a replica of a 17th-century sailing ship—watching booming cannons, and visiting the Animal Forest zoo to see otters, bears and bison. There’s also a variety of walking and biking trails to explore the area further.
10. Learn About Marine Life at the South Carolina Aquarium
Location: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
Price: Dynamic pricing that typically ranges from $30 to $40 per person
Head to the South Carolina Aquarium to see 5,000 species of animals, including bald eagles, octopuses, sea turtles, nurse sharks and more. Plus, the Kids Coast program and a touch tank allow you and your children to feel horseshoe crabs, Atlantic stingrays and other invertebrates.
11. Take a Ferry to Fort Sumter
Location: 340 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Price: $39 per person
Fort Sumter National Monument, a South Carolina island fort, is known as the battleground that started the American Civil War. Kids and adults alike will enjoy taking a self-guided tour that includes a ferry ride to the island. Make sure to also stop by the Visitor Education Center to learn about the events that took place here.
Experience Entertainment and Fun
Looking to have some family-friendly fun? Here’s a few of the best things to do with kids in Charleston that will keep your and your kids entertained for hours.
12. Ride Go-Karts at Charleston Fun Park
Location: 3255 N. Hwy. 17, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466
Price: One race is $10 per kart
Why not challenge your kids to a go-kart race? At Charleston Fun Park, you and your family can spend time racing go-karts, playing mini golf, riding bumper karts and playing in the arcade.
13. Go On a Spooky Pirates and Ghosts Tour
Location: Varies
Price: Typically ranges from $35 to $45 per person
Did you know that Charleston is one of the most haunted cities in America? Little thrill-seekers will love going on a ghost tour of the city. Note that some tours are suitable for children, while the scarier ones are only recommended for children 12 and up. Here are a few options to choose from:
14. Cheer On the Charleston RiverDogs
Location: 360 Fishburne St., Charleston, SC 29403
Price: Typically ranges between $8-$20
Spend a day at the ballpark cheering on Charleston’s minor league baseball team—the Charleston RiverDogs. With a riverfront stadium and an upbeat atmosphere, it’s the perfect family activity everyone will enjoy.
15. Watch a Show at Dock Street Theater
Location: 135 Church St., Charleston, SC 29401
Price: Family series shows are $40 per person
Known as “America’s First Theater,” Dock Street Theater has a rich history and still hosts performances to this day. When visiting with kids, consider attending a show in their Family Series for heartwarming performances your children will love. Note that children under three years old aren't allowed in the theater.
16. Pick Out a Souvenir at Charleston City Market
Location: 188 Meeting St., Charleston, SC 29401
Price: Free to enter
Take your kids to Charleston City Market to pick up a trinket to remember their amazing family trip to Charleston. Here, you’ll find a variety of locally-made goods, including the famous sweetgrass baskets. Not to mention, it has candy and gift shops the kids will love.
17. Cool Off at Whirlin' Waters Adventure Waterpark
Location: 8888 University Boulevard, North Charleston
Price: $24.99 for adults, $19.99 for children
Offering gallons of fun, North Charleston's Whirlin' Waters Adventure Waterpark provides the most entertaining way to cool off. Thrill-seekers will want to experience the 65-foot slides known as The Washout, which promise all kinds of twists and turns. Major wave action can be expected at The Big Kahuna, while Rip Tide Run lets visitors show off their competitive side. Relaxation awaits within the lazy river.
18. Jump for Joy at Summit Adventure Park
Location: 1964 Ashley River Road, Charleston
Price: $24 for a 90-minute jump pass
Fly high at this dynamic trampoline park, which will bring out any adult's inner child while also helping young ones burn off some extra energy. This is a great option for a rainy day, especially as it includes unique features you won't find at just any trampoline destination.
The ninja course tests agility while the tube slide provides instant thrills. Younger visitors may prefer the Kids Court, while climbing enthusiasts will be drawn to Spider Tower. Add basketball and soccer options for sporty visitors and it's clear that this trampoline park offers something for everyone.
19. Keep Busy at the Bizzy Bee Indoor Play Center
Location: 7671-A Northwoods Blvd, North Charleston
Price: $15 for children during general admission times or $10 for happy hour
Spanning 12,000 square feet and offering activities for kids of all ages, the Bizzy Bee Indoor Play Center promises plenty of excitement. This is a true haven for youngsters, who can climb to their heart's delight or enjoy imaginative play in whimsical areas that resemble mini supermarkets or bed & breakfasts.
Keep an eye on the calendar, as Bizzy Bee occasionally offers parent's night out opportunities in which bathroom-independent kids can be dropped off for pizza and hours of fun. Otherwise, parents appreciate that their children get so immersed in the unique Bizzy Bee environment.
20. Tour "Outer Banks" Filming Locations
Location: 181 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
Price: $189+ per person
Geared towards teenagers who are fans of the Netflix series "Outer Banks", an Outer Banks filming location tour could be a great idea for families with teens that are fans of the hit TV show. Hosted by a background actor in the series, this tour will showcase memorable filming locations in the show's series. Parents who haven't watched the show may also enjoy the tour, as the tour guide will share Charleston history while traveling from location to location.
Plan Your Trip to Charleston With AAA
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