Things to do in Charleston With Kids
Staff Writer: Abigail Golder
Sitting on the Charleston Harbor just off the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its beautiful views, outstanding food scene, and southern charm. It also happens to be a great place for people with families, as South Carolinians can find many fun things to do with their children.
Hang out with the fish at South Carolina Aquarium
With more than 5,000 fish and animals to enjoy, your kids won't get bored. The South Carolina Aquarium has fish, birds, a touch tank, and places where your family can see fish from the area and sea turtle rescue efforts. There is even a tank where you can feed crownrose rays and southern stringrays.
Enjoy the nature at the Magnolia Plantations
Whether your kids are petting the animals at the nature center, seeing the natural beauty of the Audubon Swamp Garden, or making their way out of the maze, they will have a blast at the Magnolia Plantations. There is enough to do there that it can fill up much of your day.
Boat around Charleston on the water taxi
No need to book tickets on a big, expensive cruise if you want children to get a taste of being out on the water. The Charleston Water Taxi will ferry you around Charleston, departing from four locations around the city. See the dolphins, the sights, and spend just $12 a person. Plus, you won't have to fight traffic on the streets!
Learn in the most fun way at the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
Between all of the interactive rooms, the kids' garden, Waterwise, and even an infant and toddler playspace, your kids will find a way to have fun at the Children's Museum. They also offer classes for children to visit the museum regularly and learn about movement, STEM and art. The best part? South Carolina residents get a discount on their admission.
Cool off at Splash Zone Waterpark
Located at the James Island County Park, Splash Zone features waterslides, water-filled play structures, a lazy river and concessions. When the South Carolina air gets too warm, it's a great place to take your family.
Make sandcastles at Kiawah Island's public beach
Charleston's oceanside location means that beaches are a great way to spend a sunny day. While Kiawah Island is a gated community, the Beachwalker County Park offers 10 miles of beautiful beaches for public use. Take a picnic and spend the day on the beach, enjoying lovely views of the water and Charleston Harbor.
Watch the Charleston Riverdogs play
You don't need to take a road trip to Atlanta to see professional baseball played. Head to Riley Park to see the Charleston Riverdogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, as they take on the South Atlantic League. You just may see the next Aaron Judge.
Step through the area's history at the Charleston Museum
Everything from Charleston's role in the American Revolution to its prehistoric days to the Civil War is covered at the Charleston Museum. You can also visit historic homes in the area of the museum, giving your family multiple ways to learn about South Carolina's history.
Take classes at the Charleston Stage
Do you have a future Oscar winner in your family? Cultivate their love of acting with classes at the Charleston Stage at the Dock Street Theater. They can learn about movies, movement, or even take part in the plays the group puts on every summer.
Patriots Point is a unique museum that lets your family explore a decommissioned aircraft carrier, a destroyer, a submarine and aircraft, as well as the Medal of Honor Museum. Not many places are like it, where you can learn about what life is like on so many different decommissioned ships that were used in combat all over the world.
Compete with your family at Frankie's Fun Park
Play a round of mini-golf or take a trip around the track on go-karts with your kids before stopping in at the arcade at Frankie's Fun Park. It's the perfect way to work out a family conflict, or just show off your putt putt skills.
Glide around Carolina's Ice palace
Whether you have dreams of Olympic gold or just letting go of the boards, you can find a fun way to cool off and enjoy some family time at the Ice Palace. Public skates happen every day, giving you time to skate with your kids.
History is around the corner everywhere in Charleston, and no spot has more importance than Fort Sumter. The site where the Civil War began is now run by the National Park Service. You can take a guided tour or explore the fort on your own.
In addition to the many places for families to visit, you can also check out the many events happening every month in Charleston. With so much to do, you have opportunities every month to make memories with your children. Load up the car and take on Charleston's many attractions!
