Are you planning a family trip to Charleston, South Carolina? Look no further! Charleston is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of fun activities for kids. From exploring historic sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Here are 20 exciting activities for kids in Charleston!
Visit the South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for families. Your kids will be amazed by the variety of marine life on display, including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish. They can even touch stingrays and horseshoe crabs at the touch tank. The aquarium also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
At the South Carolina Aquarium, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of marine conservation. They can discover the different habitats that exist in the ocean and understand the impact of pollution on marine life. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the underwater world.
Additionally, the aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, where your kids can learn about the care and feeding of the animals. These hands-on experiences will give them a unique insight into the world of marine biology.
Explore Fort Sumter National Monument
History comes alive at Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Take a ferry ride to the island and explore the fort’s grounds, including the museum and exhibits. Your kids will have the chance to learn about the events leading up to the war and the significance of Fort Sumter in American history.
During your visit to Fort Sumter, your kids can participate in guided tours and ranger-led programs. They will learn about the daily life of soldiers stationed at the fort and the challenges they faced during the Civil War. Through interactive exhibits and historical reenactments, they will gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.
Encourage your kids to ask questions and engage with the park rangers, who are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the stories of Fort Sumter. This hands-on learning experience will make history come alive for your children.
Take a carriage tour of historic downtown Charleston
Step back in time and explore the charming streets of historic downtown Charleston on a carriage tour. Your kids will love riding in a horse-drawn carriage and listening to the fascinating stories told by the tour guide. They will learn about the city’s architecture, culture, and history as they pass by beautiful mansions and historic landmarks.
During the carriage tour, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the different architectural styles that define Charleston’s historic district. They will discover the significance of the colorful row houses, known as “Rainbow Row,” and the iconic antebellum mansions that line the streets.
The tour guide will also share stories about Charleston’s role in American history, including its connection to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Your kids will gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich heritage and the people who shaped its past.
Go on a ghost tour
For older kids who enjoy a thrill, a ghost tour is a must-do activity in Charleston. Explore the city’s haunted history as you walk through dimly lit streets and alleyways. Your kids will be captivated by the spooky tales of ghosts and paranormal activity that have been passed down through generations.
During the ghost tour, your kids will learn about the legends and folklore that surround Charleston’s haunted sites. They will hear stories of restless spirits and mysterious occurrences that have been reported over the years.
Encourage your kids to ask questions and engage with the tour guide, who will provide historical context and background information on the haunted locations. This interactive experience will spark their curiosity and imagination, while also teaching them about the city’s darker side.
Visit the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a paradise for kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, your kids will have a blast while learning through play. From a medieval castle to a pirate ship, there’s no shortage of imaginative play spaces to explore.
At the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about various subjects, including science, art, and history. They can experiment with water play, build structures with blocks, and create artwork using different materials.
The museum also offers educational programs and workshops, where your kids can engage in STEM activities and learn about the natural world. These interactive learning experiences will stimulate their curiosity and creativity, while also fostering a love for lifelong learning.
Walk along the Battery and Waterfront Park
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Battery and Waterfront Park, located at the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula. Your kids will love running around the park’s expansive green spaces and climbing on the iconic pineapple fountain. From the Battery, they can admire the stunning views of Charleston Harbor and watch the boats sail by.
As you walk along the Battery, your kids can learn about the city’s maritime history and the importance of Charleston Harbor. They can spot historic landmarks, such as the Fort Sumter House and the Confederate Defenders of Charleston monument, and learn about their significance.
Encourage your kids to observe the different types of boats and ships in the harbor, from sailboats to cargo vessels. You can discuss the role of the port in Charleston’s economy and its impact on trade and tourism.
Visit the Charleston Tea Garden
Take a trip to the Charleston Tea Garden, the only tea plantation in North America. Your kids will enjoy exploring the tea fields and learning about the tea-making process. They can even sample different varieties of tea and discover their favorite flavors. At the Charleston Tea Garden, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the history and cultivation of tea. They can see firsthand how tea leaves are harvested, processed, and packaged.
The tea garden also offers guided tours, where your kids can learn about the different types of tea and the health benefits associated with drinking tea. They will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of tea and its role in different societies around the world.
Go on a dolphin watching cruise
Embark on a dolphin watching cruise and get up close and personal with these playful creatures. Your kids will be thrilled to see dolphins swimming and leaping in the water. The experienced guides will provide interesting facts about dolphins and their natural habitat.
During the dolphin watching cruise, your kids will learn about the behavior and characteristics of dolphins. They will discover how dolphins communicate, hunt for food, and navigate through the ocean.
The guides will also educate your kids about the importance of marine conservation and the efforts being made to protect dolphins and their environment. This educational experience will inspire your kids to become advocates for marine life and the preservation of our oceans.
Explore Boone Hall Plantation
Step back in time and explore the beautiful grounds of Boone Hall Plantation. Your kids will be fascinated by the antebellum mansion and the surrounding gardens. They can take a guided tour of the plantation and learn about its history and the people who lived and worked there.
During your visit to Boone Hall Plantation, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the daily life of the people who lived on the plantation. They can explore the slave cabins and learn about the harsh realities of slavery in the South.
The plantation also offers educational programs and exhibits that provide insights into the history of the site. Your kids will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of plantation life and the impact it had on the region.
Visit the Charleston City Market
Take a trip to the Charleston City Market, a historic market that has been operating for over 200 years. Your kids will love browsing through the stalls and discovering unique handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. They can also sample delicious local treats, such as sweetgrass baskets and pralines.
History of the market
At the Charleston City Market, your kids can learn about the history of the market and its significance in Charleston’s economy. They can observe local artisans at work, such as sweetgrass basket weavers and blacksmiths, and learn about their traditional crafts.
You can also teach your kids about the importance of supporting local businesses and artisans. Encourage them to ask questions and engage with the vendors, who are passionate about sharing their craft and the stories behind their products.
Go on a pirate adventure cruise
Ahoy, mateys! Set sail on a pirate adventure cruise and embark on a swashbuckling journey with your kids. They will love dressing up as pirates, searching for hidden treasure, and participating in interactive pirate-themed activities.
During the pirate adventure cruise, your kids will learn about the golden age of piracy and the legends of famous pirates who sailed the seas. They will discover the different parts of a pirate ship and the roles of the crew members.
The crew will also teach your kids about navigation and map reading, as they follow clues to find the hidden treasure. This hands-on learning experience will ignite their imagination and spark an interest in history and exploration.
Explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of the oldest plantations in the South. Your kids will love exploring the lush gardens, spotting wildlife, and taking a boat tour through the cypress swamp. They can also visit the petting zoo and interact with farm animals.
At Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the diverse plant and animal life that exists in the Lowcountry. They can observe different species of birds, butterflies, and reptiles in their natural habitats.
The plantation also offers educational programs and nature walks, where your kids can learn about the importance of conservation and the efforts being made to protect the natural environment. They will gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the ecosystem.
Take a bike tour of the city
Explore Charleston on two wheels and take a bike tour of the city. Your kids will enjoy riding through the historic streets and learning about the city’s landmarks and hidden gems. They can also stop for ice cream or a picnic in one of the city’s parks.
During the bike tour, your kids will learn about the city’s history, architecture, and culture. They can discover the different neighborhoods that make up Charleston and learn about the people who shaped its identity.
The tour guide will provide interesting facts and stories about the city’s landmarks, such as the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the historic churches. Your kids will gain a deeper understanding of Charleston’s unique charm and character.
Visit the Charleston Museum
Step into the Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the United States. Your kids will be amazed by the extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Charleston and the Lowcountry. From fossils to Civil War memorabilia, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At the Charleston Museum, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the different periods of history that shaped Charleston and the surrounding region. They can explore exhibits on Native American culture, colonial life, and the Civil War.
The museum also offers educational programs and workshops, where your kids can engage in hands-on activities and learn about various subjects, such as archaeology and natural history. These interactive learning experiences will spark their curiosity and encourage them to explore the world around them.
Go on a kayak tour of the marshes
Get up close and personal with nature on a kayak tour of the marshes surrounding Charleston. Your kids will love paddling through the calm waters and spotting wildlife, such as birds, dolphins, and turtles. They can also learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems and the need for their protection.
During the kayak tour, your kids will learn about the unique ecosystem of the marshes and the plants and animals that call it home. They can observe different species of birds and learn about their migratory patterns.
The tour guide will provide information about the importance of wetlands in filtering water, preventing erosion, and providing habitat for a variety of species. Your kids will gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of nature and the need to preserve these valuable ecosystems.
Explore the Angel Oak Tree
Marvel at the beauty and grandeur of the Angel Oak Tree, one of the oldest living oak trees in the country. Your kids will be in awe of its massive branches and sprawling canopy. They can also learn about the cultural and historical significance of the tree.
During your visit to the Angel Oak Tree, your kids can learn about the biology and life cycle of oak trees. They can observe the different parts of the tree, such as the trunk, branches, and leaves, and learn about their functions.
You can also teach your kids about the importance of trees in the environment and the role they play in providing oxygen, shade, and habitat for wildlife. This educational experience will foster a love for nature and a desire to protect our natural resources.
Visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Step aboard historic naval vessels at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Your kids will love exploring the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, the USS Laffey destroyer, and the USS Clamagore submarine. They can learn about the life of sailors and the technology behind these impressive warships.
At Patriots Point, your kids will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the United States Navy and its role in protecting our country. They can explore the different areas of the ships, such as the flight deck, the engine room, and the mess hall.
The museum also offers educational programs and exhibits that provide insights into naval warfare and the challenges faced by sailors. Your kids will gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military.
Go on a beach day at Folly Beach
Spend a day at Folly Beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Your kids will love building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and playing in the waves. They can also try their hand at fishing or enjoy a picnic by the shore.
During your beach day at Folly Beach, your kids can learn about the different types of marine life that inhabit the ocean. They can search for seashells and learn about the creatures that once lived inside them.
You can also teach your kids about beach safety and the importance of protecting the environment. Encourage them to pick up any trash they find on the beach and explain the impact of pollution on marine life. This hands-on learning experience will instill a sense of responsibility and stewardship for our natural resources.
Explore the Charleston Waterfront Park
Relax and unwind at the Charleston Waterfront Park, a beautiful green space overlooking the Cooper River. Your kids will love running through the splash fountain and playing on the swings and climbing structures. From the park, they can also enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and the iconic Ravenel Bridge.
As you explore the Charleston Waterfront Park, your kids can learn about the importance of public spaces and the role they play in creating a sense of community. They can observe people from different backgrounds coming together to enjoy the park and its amenities.
You can also teach your kids about the history of the park and its connection to the revitalization of the Charleston waterfront. Discuss the efforts made to preserve green spaces in urban areas and the benefits they provide to both residents and visitors.
Take a day trip to Middleton Place
Escape the city and take a day trip to Middleton Place, a historic plantation located on the Ashley River. Your kids will love exploring the gardens, visiting the stable yards, and learning about the lives of the people who lived and worked on the plantation.
During your visit to Middleton Place, your kids can learn about the different aspects of plantation life, including farming, cooking, and craftsmanship. They can observe demonstrations of traditional skills, such as blacksmithing and pottery making.
The plantation also offers educational programs and exhibits that provide insights into the history and culture of the site. Your kids will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of plantation life and the contributions made by enslaved people.
With so many fun activities to choose from, your kids will be buzzing with excitement for your Charleston adventure. From exploring historic sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Start planning your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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