Charleston, South Carolina, often referred to as the Holy City, is a captivating destination that offers a blend of history, culinary delights, vibrant culture, excellent shopping opportunities, and so much more. As one of my favorite cities in America (I may be a bit biased having been born there and spending a summer during an internship), I highly recommend visiting this charming city if you haven’t already.
One of the highlights of Charleston is its rich historical background, evident in its well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and informative museums. The city’s culinary scene is also not to be missed, with a diverse range of restaurants offering delicious Lowcountry cuisine and modern dining experiences.
What are the things to do in Charleston with kids, though? Travel + Leisure‘s number-one city in the US has a lot to offer families. From pickleball to water parks to learning about Gullah culture, families can find plenty to please everyone on their Charleston vacation.
This post contains affiliate links. I may make a commission through purchases you make using my links.
Things to Do in Charleston SC with Kids
Charleston, South Carolina prides itself on being one of the oldest cities in America. There is so much history to explore; doing it all on a weekend is impossible. Children of all ages can appreciate Charleston. It’s not just for adults or foodies (even though there is plenty of good food to be had).
From the beaches to the museums to the downtown tours, my family always has plenty to keep us occupied (yes, even the kids). These are some of our favorite things to do in Charleston when we visit.
What are fun things to do in Charleston South Carolina?
Charleston, SC, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium, explore the historic streets with a carriage tour, savor local cuisine at the Charleston City Market, or have a relaxing day at Folly Beach on your family vacation.
Don’t Skip Mount Pleasant and North Charleston
Outside of Charleston proper, there are plenty of amazing things for families to enjoy. In the North Charleston area, Charleston County Parks and Recreation has an affordable water park called Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark. Admission is $24.99 for everyone over 48 inches, but after 3 pm Mondays through Fridays, admission is only $15.99 per person. The water park has several large slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash zones. This is one of those things to do in Charleston that kids will definitely love!
In Mount Pleasant, a cutting-edge indoor pickleball facility called Crush Yard has just made its debut. Established in 2023, Crush Yard stands out as a unique fusion of a restaurant and an indoor pickleball center. This innovative concept provides enthusiasts of the sport with a novel venue to enjoy their passion while relishing delectable culinary offerings. The combination of recreational activities and dining experiences makes Crush Yard a must-visit destination pickleball aficionados and food enthusiasts alike.
Visit the Museums in Charleston
Kids love museums, and they especially appreciate ones that are geared toward children. Some of the museums in Charleston are hands-on while others are more “look with your eyes, not with your hands” kind of museums.
There are fantastic options to fit every budget and attention span. You’ll want to check out the museum’s page on the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau website for more details on each attraction as operating hours and admission prices vary.
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry—By far one of the best museums in the city for families with young kids. Interactive exhibits are everywhere. Pro tip: The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum—Located near the USS Yorktown, this museum features views of three vessels: the Medal of Honor Museum, the Vietnam Experience, and more.
The Charleston Museum—Even though most of this museum is “look and learn,” children can stay engaged by playing a game requiring them to look for objects in the cases. The children’s area allowed for imaginative play with options for dressing in period costumes and learning about how children lived during Charleston’s early days.
Explore the Low Country’s Aquariums and Parks
Young children are synonymous with the outdoors. The weather never seems to bother them, so if parents know what’s good for them, they’ll find a park, a playground, or a long stretch of open space to let kids get their energy out. Charleston and its surrounding areas boast some of my favorite beaches, so don’t forget to pack your swimming gear (or crabbing gear if it’s cold when you visit)!
South Carolina Aquarium—By far one of our family’s favorite aquariums. Educational opportunities, a touch tank, and interactive displays are a great way for the entire family to spend the day together.
Folly Beach Pier—My family usually stays on Folly Beach, so this pier is always on our to-do list. We love this beach because the crowds are relatively low, and it is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Fort Sumter National Monument—Children often need to run free, and Fort Sumter is the perfect place to do that. Walking and climbing all over the fort definitely gets their energy out.
Waterfront Park—This beautiful park is a free area to run and play, and it includes two popular fountains, so bring your swimsuits and towels! It may seem odd to see kids climbing in and out of the iconic pineapple fountain, but it’s very inviting it on a hot summer day!
Take a Tour of Charleston
Finding a tour that will please kids and adults can be challenging. Some tours require walking, some are by carriage or boat, and some are by bus (which is a great option if the weather is not cooperating).
Palmetto Carriage Works—These tours of historic Charleston happen the old-fashioned way. Riding in a horse-drawn carriage is a neat experience, especially for young kids. These tours in the historic district take visitors past the famous Rainbow Row, Marion Square, and other popular sights in Charleston.
Bulldog Tours—These walking tours are several hours long with few breaks. The whole family can enjoy seeing historic homes and historic landmarks, but if walking is an issue, bring a stroller.
Tours of Charleston Harbor—(can be combined with a walking tour like Haunted Jail or Graveyard Tour): The walking portion of these tours requires some stamina. The boat ride portion of the tour is a nice way to see all of Charleston Harbor very quickly and easily.
Haunted Charleston Tours—History comes alive during these otherworldly experiences. Since these are usually nighttime tours, they’re best reserved for older kids and adults. Some companies even offer haunted carriage tours if walking in the dark sounds like too much!
Fort Sumter Tours—A great tour of history surrounding the first battle site of the Civil War. Young children will enjoy roaming the fort and learning about the battle (and they won’t have to sit still for a “boring” lecture because the guides walk and talk).
Charleston is Fun for Families
Charleston, a vibrant town steeped in rich history, offers a plethora of activities for families seeking budget-friendly vacation options. By planning ahead, visitors can make the most of their time in Charleston and explore numerous free or inexpensive attractions the city has to offer. From strolling along the historic streets of downtown Charleston to hiking various nature trails and enjoying county parks, there are plenty of opportunities for family fun without breaking the bank.
Additionally, exploring local markets, attending cultural events, and enjoying outdoor activities like picnics or beach days can add value to your vacation experience. Making a budget-conscious itinerary and taking advantage of discounts or deals available in the area can further enhance your trip to Charleston while keeping costs in check.
I’m Sarah, and you’ve landed on my website, On the Road with Sarah. This is where I share travel stories, tips, and so much more!
