14 Fun Activities In Charleston For Kids

Charleston, South Carolina, has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. But what about the youngest members of the family? Fear not, parents, because Charleston has plenty of fun and engaging activities for kids. From learning about exotic sea creatures to exploring the great outdoors, here are 14 fun-filled activities to keep your kids entertained and engaged during your next visit to Charleston.

Explore Fort Sumter National Monument

Charleston is a great city to visit with your kids, and there's no shortage of things to do. If you're looking for an adventure that's both educational and fun, exploring the Fort Sumter National Monument is the perfect activity.

The Fort Sumter National Monument is located on a small island in Charleston Harbor and is home to Fort Sumter, the site where the American Civil War began. Visiting this historical site will be a great way to teach your kids about American history while exploring one of the most important locations in the country.

To get to the monument, you will have to take a ferry from the downtown area of Charleston. The ferry ride itself is a fun activity for kids, as they'll get to see some incredible views of Charleston Harbor. Once you arrive at the island, your family can explore the fort and the surrounding areas.

There are several ways to explore the fort, including self-guided tours and ranger-led tours. The ranger-led tours are highly recommended, as they are informative and interactive. Your kids will learn about the history of the fort, the American Civil War, and the role Fort Sumter played in American history.

In addition to the fort, there are also several other areas to explore on the island. Your family can take a walk along the beach, enjoy a picnic, or watch the wildlife in the area. You may even be lucky enough to see some dolphins swimming in the harbor.

Visiting Fort Sumter National Monument is an excellent way to make history come alive for your kids. They'll be able to see and touch the same walls and cannons that were used over 150 years ago. The experience will be educational, fun, and will create memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a great activity to do with your kids in Charleston, exploring the Fort Sumter National Monument is a must-do. Your family will learn about American history, enjoy a fun ferry ride, and explore one of the most important sites in the United States. Don't miss out on this unique and educational adventure!

Check out the South Carolina Aquarium

Characteristic	Description
Name	South Carolina Aquarium
Type	Aquarium in Charleston, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 5,420
Address	100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone	(843) 577-3474
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a family trip to Charleston, South Carolina, don't miss out on visiting the South Carolina Aquarium. Located in the heart of historic downtown, this aquarium offers a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages.

One of the highlights of the South Carolina Aquarium is its Great Ocean Tank. This massive tank houses over 6,000 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish. Visitors can watch as divers feed the animals and learn about the different species on display. Kids will love seeing the animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors.

Another popular feature of the aquarium is the Touch Tank. Here, kids can get hands-on with sea creatures such as starfish, crabs, and sea urchins. Trained staff are on hand to answer any questions and provide information about the creatures in the tank. This is a great way to introduce kids to the wonders of marine life and help them learn about conservation efforts.

For younger children, the aquarium's Sea Turtle Recovery exhibit is a must-see. This exhibit is designed to teach kids about the challenges facing sea turtles and how the aquarium is working to protect them. Visitors can watch turtles being rehabilitated and learn about the different species found in South Carolina waters.

In addition to its animal exhibits, the South Carolina Aquarium also offers a range of educational programs and activities. These include guided tours, animal encounters, and special events like sleepovers and summer camps. There is something for everyone at this fun and educational destination.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and educational activity for kids during your trip to Charleston, be sure to check out the South Carolina Aquarium. With its fascinating exhibits, hands-on experiences, and educational programs, it's sure to be a highlight of your family's visit.

Walk along The Battery and White Point Garden

Charleston, known for its rich history and charming architecture, may seem like it caters more towards adults but don't worry, there are plenty of activities for kids too. While in Charleston, take a walk along The Battery and White Point Garden for a family-friendly outing.

The Battery is a seawall promenade that stretches along the edge of Charleston's peninsula. Take a long leisurely stroll with your family and enjoy the cool breeze from the ocean. You can also take in the gorgeous view of the harbor, where you can often see sailboats and even dolphins swimming around.

White Point Garden is a public park located at the southernmost tip of the city, adjacent to The Battery. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park features walking paths, historic landmarks, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens.

This park has also been called the most photographed landmark in Charleston. Kids can play on the grass, climb on the cannons, and even take photos with the historic markers. You can also find shaded benches where you can sit and relax while your children run around and enjoy the scenery.

The park has a rich history; it was originally defensive positions for the city's fortifications. During the Civil War, it was heavily fortified and served as a military training ground. Now it is a beautiful park catering to locals and tourists.

If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the cannons being fired during weddings or local events. Every year locals hold events that celebrate the Greenery and Fort Sumter.

In conclusion, Charleston is a beautiful city with plenty of options for kids. Walking along The Battery and White Point Garden is an excellent activity for families looking to experience Charleston's rich history and beautiful scenery. It's free, it's fun, and it's educational. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this is an activity that should be on your list.

Visit the Charleston Children's Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
Type	Children's museum in Charleston, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Address	25 Ann St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone	(843) 853-8962
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Charleston, South Carolina is a wonderful place to visit with children. With so many things to see and do in this vibrant city, it can be hard to decide what to do first. If you are looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, a trip to the Charleston Children's Museum is a great option.

Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the Children's Museum is a place where kids can explore, discover and learn through play. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting the Charleston Children's Museum:

• Interactive Exhibits: The museum boasts interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. From climbing and crawling through a giant tree house to learning about the natural world in the Garden Grove exhibit, children will be engaged and encouraged to learn through play.
• Special Events: The museum hosts many special events throughout the year, such as birthday parties, family fun days, and workshops. These events offer exciting and unique experiences for children, and make the museum a great place to visit multiple times.
• Cultural Diversity: Charleston Children's Museum celebrates the diversity of cultures in the Lowcountry. Through exhibits such as the "Everywhere You Look: Diversity in Our Communities" exhibit, children can learn about different cultures and traditions.
• Learning Opportunities: The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as reading programs, science workshops, and summer camps. These programs offer children opportunities to learn and grow in a fun and engaging environment.

Overall, the Charleston Children's Museum is a great place to visit with kids, offering a fun, educational, and culturally diverse experience. So if you are planning a trip to Charleston, be sure to include a visit to the Children's Museum on your itinerary!

Take a carriage ride through downtown Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina is a city with a rich history and culture. As a parent, you might be wondering how to introduce your kids to the city in an entertaining and educational way. One way to do so is by taking a carriage ride through downtown Charleston.

Charleston's horse-drawn carriage tours are a popular tourist attraction, and for good reason. It's a great way to see the city's historic sites and landmarks, while learning about its fascinating history. Kids love the novelty of riding in a carriage and being able to see the city from a unique perspective.

Most carriage tours in Charleston last around an hour and cover a route that passes by many of the city's iconic sites, such as Rainbow Row, The Battery, and historic churches and buildings. During the tour, a knowledgeable guide provides interesting information about each site and explains the city's history, including its connections to the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

Some carriage tours also offer the option for private or customized tours, which can be a great choice for families with young children who might have different interests or specific needs. For example, you could customize a tour that highlights Charleston's haunted history for older kids, or focus more on the city's architecture for younger ones who are interested in building design.

When planning your carriage tour, keep in mind that the weather in Charleston can vary, so it's best to check the forecast and dress accordingly. Also, be sure to bring sunscreen and water, especially during the summer months when it can get hot.

Overall, taking a carriage ride through downtown Charleston is a fun and unique way to introduce your kids to the city's history and culture. They'll come away with new knowledge and memories of a fun adventure riding through the quaint streets of Charleston.

Play at the Palmetto Islands County Park

Charleston, South Carolina is a fantastic destination for families with children of all ages. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and abundance of family-friendly attractions, Charleston offers an unforgettable vacation experience for the whole family. One of the best places to visit in Charleston with kids is Palmetto Islands County Park.

Located in Mount Pleasant, just a short drive from downtown Charleston, Palmetto Islands County Park offers more than 1,000 acres of natural beauty and family-friendly fun. The park features a playground, picnic areas, a dog park, boat rentals, fishing, and plenty of walking and biking trails. There are also two nature trails, the Palmetto Trail and the Laurel Hill Trail, perfect for exploring the wetlands and woods of the Lowcountry.

One of the main highlights of the park for children is the Splash Island Waterpark. This 15,000 square foot water playground is specially designed for children and features multiple water slides, a huge fun zone with dumping buckets, sprays, and fountains galore. There is also a lazy river, where parents and children can relax and enjoy a leisurely float on inflatable tubes.

In addition to the water park, Palmetto Islands County Park also features several nature-centered activities for kids. Children can participate in interactive programs like Plants and Animals We See and Canoeing 101. These activities allow kids to learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems in a fun and engaging way.

Another great reason to visit Palmetto Islands County Park is its accessibility to other nearby attractions. Just a few miles away, families can visit Boone Hall Plantation, one of the oldest working plantations in the United States. There is also the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, where children can explore a WWII-era aircraft carrier and submarine.

In conclusion, Palmetto Islands County Park is an excellent destination for families visiting Charleston with kids. With its extensive range of outdoor activities, diverse nature programs, and family-friendly amenities, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're visiting Charleston for the first time or looking for new adventures, a visit to Palmetto Islands County Park should be on the top of your list.

Watch a Riverdogs baseball game at Joe Riley Stadium

Charleston is undoubtedly a family-friendly destination that offers a plethora of activities for kids. One of the top things to do in the city with your little ones is to watch a Riverdogs baseball game at Joe Riley Stadium. With a lively atmosphere and a stunning setting by the Ashley River, it's an experience that both adults and children will cherish.

The Charleston Riverdogs are a minor-league baseball team that plays in the Class-A South Atlantic League. They have been a popular team in Charleston since their inception in 1994, and their home games at Joe Riley Stadium often draw a packed crowd. The stadium is located in the heart of Charleston's West Ashley district and is well-connected to the city's major attractions.

The Riverdogs' season runs from April to September, and they play a total of eighty games during this period. The team plays at Joe Riley Stadium, which has a seating capacity of more than 6,000. On game days, the stadium is abuzz with excitement, energy, and the sounds of cheering fans. You can expect to find lots of families with young children in the stands, all eager to watch their favorite players in action.

Attending a Riverdogs game at Joe Riley Stadium is not just about watching baseball. It's also about being a part of the lively atmosphere that makes the experience so much fun. The stadium offers a host of activities and amenities that are tailored to kids, including a playground area, a Kidz Zone inflatable games area, and a splash zone. There are also plenty of places to grab food, drinks, and snacks, including hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and pretzels.

In addition to these amenities, Joe Riley Stadium offers an exceptional view of the Ashley River. The stadium's location provides a panoramic view of the river during sunset games, making for a picture-perfect backdrop for your family photos. For the little ones, there's nothing more exciting than watching the Riverdogs hit a home run, especially when the crowd goes wild.

In conclusion, watching a Riverdogs baseball game at Joe Riley Stadium is an excellent activity to enjoy with your kids when visiting Charleston. The lively atmosphere, stunning views, and multiple kid-friendly amenities make it a perfect location for a family outing. So, grab your tickets, some snacks, and get ready to cheer on the Riverdogs. It's an experience your kids won't forget anytime soon.

Discover the Charleston Pirate Tours

Characteristic	Description
Name	Charleston Pirate Tours
Type	Tourist attraction in Charleston, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 206
Address	79 Cumberland St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone	(843) 442-7299
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–9 PM Saturday - 9 AM–9 PM Sunday - 9 AM–9 PM Monday - 9 AM–9 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–9 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–9 PM Thursday - 9 AM–9 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun activity to do with your kids in Charleston, then look no further than the Charleston Pirate Tours. This unique tour gives visitors the opportunity to explore the city's rich pirate history, while also providing plenty of entertainment for children.

The Charleston Pirate Tours offer a variety of options, including interactive walking tours and boat tours. On the walking tour, your guide will lead you through the historic district, stopping at various locations to share stories about infamous pirates like Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet. You and your family will also have the chance to participate in some pirate-themed activities, like decoding a treasure map or learning how to sword fight.

If you prefer to take to the water, then the boat tour is an excellent choice. On this tour, you'll set sail on a replica pirate ship and get a unique view of Charleston's harbor. Your guide will regale you with tales of pirates who once sailed the same waters, while your kids can dress up in pirate costumes and search for hidden treasure.

One of the best things about the Charleston Pirate Tours is that they're suitable for all ages. Younger children will love pretending to be pirates, while older kids will appreciate learning about the city's history in a fun and interactive way. The guides are also well-versed in keeping kids engaged and entertained, so you won't have to worry about keeping them interested.

Overall, the Charleston Pirate Tours are an excellent choice for families looking for a unique and exciting activity in Charleston. Whether you opt for the walking tour or the boat tour, you're sure to have a swashbuckling good time. So grab your eye patch and your best pirate accent, and get ready to discover all the hidden treasures that Charleston has to offer.

Learn about history at the Charleston Museum

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its rich history during the colonial era and the Civil War. It’s a great place to travel with kids to learn about how America came to be what it is today. And there’s no better place to start than the Charleston Museum.

The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in the United States and is the perfect place to explore the city's colorful history. The museum showcases more than three centuries of Charleston history and is home to a large, diverse collection of objects, exhibits, and artifacts, making it the ideal place to start your family’s educational journey.

There’s plenty to do and see at the Charleston Museum, from dinosaur exhibits to colonial-era artifacts. It’s a great way to immerse children in history and allows them to experience what life was like in the past.

One of the most fascinating parts of the museum is the historic Charleston Savanna exhibit, which is a full-scale replica of a 1773 merchant vessel. Kids can explore the recreated ship, climb aboard, and step into the shoes of a sailor. The exhibit showcases the way ships were designed and what it took to operate them in sea conditions. It’s a hands-on learning experience that teaches children about the hardships of early sea travel.

The Charleston Museum also has an impressive collection of Civil War artifacts, from weapons and uniforms to the pottery and glassware used by civilians during the occupation of the city. They also have a Confederate submarine and an incredible diorama that showcases the city's skyline during the Civil War.

Not only is the museum a hub for learning about history, but it also hosts numerous activities for children. They have a dress-up station that allows kids to experience what life was like in colonial times, as well as interactive exhibits that encourage children to explore and engage.

The Charleston Museum gift shop is also fantastic; it offers a wide selection of books, toys, and souvenirs related to Charleston's history. Children can take home a piece of their experience, which can inspire their interest in history further.

In conclusion, Charleston Museum is the perfect place to take your kids to learn about history and have fun! With interactive exhibits, hands-on learning, and plenty of opportunities for exploration, it’s an experience the whole family will enjoy. So, next time you're in Charleston, be sure to visit the museum and make some great memories with your family!

Play at the James Island County Park Splash Zone

When traveling to Charleston with kids, finding activities that both entertain and cool off your little ones can be a top priority. Luckily, the James Island County Park Splash Zone is the perfect place to do it all.

The Splash Zone, located within the larger James Island County Park, is a thrilling water park attraction that offers a variety of splash-worthy activities to keep your kids entertained and refreshed. This park is an ideal destination for families looking to cool off and have fun on a hot South Carolina day.

The Splash Zone features a shallow wading pool with a variety of small water slide options, sprinklers, and splash pads. Little ones can also play in the water playground, which features a giant water bucket that periodically dumps water on all the children playing below.

Older kids can get their thrills on one of the larger slides, including a thrilling spiral slide and a high-speed tube slide. Parents can relax in one of the shaded areas or lounge chairs while watching their kids enjoying the water.

In addition to the water play areas, the James Island County Park features a variety of additional activities, such as playgrounds, fishing, and hiking trails. Families can pack a picnic lunch or grab snacks from the concession stand and spend the whole day enjoying all of the park's amenities.

Overall, the James Island County Park Splash Zone is a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages. With its various splash areas and other activities, you'll provide your little ones with an unforgettable summer adventure.

Ride the Coosaw Creek Crab Shack go-karts

If you're planning a family trip to Charleston, South Carolina, you may be wondering what activities are available for the kids to enjoy. If you're in search of a fun and exciting outdoor activity, the Coosaw Creek Crab Shack go-karts are sure to provide a memorable experience.

Located in North Charleston, the Coosaw Creek Crab Shack is a waterfront seafood restaurant with an attached go-kart track. The track consists of twists and turns, making it a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike. The go-karts are equipped with safety features like seat belts and roll bars, ensuring that your child will stay safe while having fun.

The minimum age requirement to ride the go-karts is six years old and at least 48 inches tall. Younger children can ride as passengers with an adult driver. Children must be able to understand and follow basic instructions for safe driving, including staying on the track, avoiding collisions with other drivers, and obeying traffic signals.

Before getting on the track, all drivers are required to watch a safety video and sign a waiver. The cost of the ride is reasonable, with different package options available, including single rides, multiple rides, and family packages.

In addition to the go-karts, the Coosaw Creek Crab Shack offers other fun activities for kids, such as a playground and a miniature golf course. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood options, as well as burgers, salads, and sandwiches, ensuring that everyone in the family will find something they enjoy.

Overall, a visit to the Coosaw Creek Crab Shack go-karts is a perfect activity for families with children of all ages. With its exciting track, safety features, and additional activities, your kids will have a blast while creating lasting memories. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the fun!

Go on a family-friendly Ghost Tour

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and charming atmosphere. For families looking for a spooky adventure, a ghost tour is a great way to explore the haunted side of Charleston. Here are some family-friendly ghost tours in Charleston that are sure to give everyone a thrill.

Bulldog Tours' Ghost and Graveyard Tour

Bulldog Tours offers a family-friendly Ghost and Graveyard Tour that takes you through Charleston's historic graveyard and downtown area. You will hear spooky stories of ghost sightings and eerie occurrences while visiting some of Charleston's most haunted sites. This tour is appropriate for children ages 7 and up.

Haunted Jail Tour

The old Charleston jail is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in Charleston, and the Haunted Jail Tour is a great way to explore its spooky history. The tour takes you through the eerie cells and dark corridors of the old jail, where you will hear stories of ghosts and paranormal activity. This tour is appropriate for children ages 10 and up.

The Ghost of Charleston Walking Tour

The Ghost of Charleston Walking Tour takes you through the historic streets of Charleston, where you will hear tales of ghosts and haunted houses. The tour guides are experts on Charleston's haunted history and are skilled at keeping kids engaged and entertained. This tour is appropriate for children of all ages.

Charleston Pirate Tours

For families with children who are more interested in pirates than ghosts, Charleston Pirate Tours offers a family-friendly pirate adventure. You will meet a real pirate and learn about Charleston's rich pirate history while exploring the city's historic sites. This tour is appropriate for children of all ages.

No matter which ghost tour you choose, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring a flashlight, and prepare to be spooked. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, a ghost tour is a fun way to explore Charleston's history and culture.

Visit the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Characteristic	Description
Name	Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
Type	State park in Charleston, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 494
Address	1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
Phone	(843) 852-4200
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–6 PM Saturday - 9 AM–6 PM Sunday - 9 AM–6 PM Monday - 9 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–6 PM Thursday - 9 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Charleston is a great place to visit with kids, with plenty of opportunities for exploration, learning, and adventure. One of the must-visit destinations for families in Charleston is the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, a sprawling park and nature preserve that offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

At the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, visitors can step back in time to the 17th century, when the original settlement of Charles Towne was established by English colonists. The park features a replica of a 17th-century trading vessel, complete with interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about the life of sailors and merchants in that era. There are also 80 acres of gardens and natural areas to explore, with walking trails that wind through wetlands, forests, and meadows.

One of the highlights of the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is the Animal Forest, a 22-acre zoo and wildlife habitat that houses dozens of native South Carolina animals, including bison, otters, alligators, and more. Kids can get up close with the animals and learn about their habits and habitats, with frequent animal feedings and educational talks given by park rangers.

In addition to the Animal Forest, there are plenty of other activities and programs for kids to enjoy at the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Families can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the tidal creeks and marshes, or take a guided tour of the park's historic buildings and archaeological sites. There are also special events and festivals held throughout the year, including concerts, storytelling, and living history demonstrations that transport visitors back in time to the days of early American colonization.

Overall, the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is a fantastic destination for families visiting Charleston. With its historical and natural attractions, animal habitats, and educational programs, the park offers something for everyone and provides a unique and unforgettable experience that will inspire kids to learn about the fascinating history and ecology of the South Carolina low country.

Take a fishing charter and catch some fish

Charleston is not just for adults, it's a great place for kids to explore and experience too. One activity that is a must-do for kids is taking a fishing charter. Charleston has plenty of fishing charter companies that cater to families with kids, making it a fun-filled and enjoyable activity for everyone.

When you take a fishing charter in Charleston, you and your kids get the chance to catch a variety of fish species that are abundant in the area's surrounding waters. From redfish, flounder, trout, and sea bass, you're sure to have a great catch on your hands. The best time to go fishing in Charleston is in the summer months, where the fish are abundant and the weather is perfect for being out on the water.

There are many types of fishing charters to choose from in Charleston, such as offshore, inshore, and creek fishing charters. You can also choose from half-day or full-day trips, depending on your preference. Most fishing charters have well-equipped boats and professional guides who know the best fishing spots in the area, so you're sure to have an unforgettable fishing experience.

When you're out on a fishing trip in Charleston, there are also many things you can do to make the experience even more enjoyable for your kids. For instance, you can have them help with baiting hooks, reeling in the fish, and even cleaning the catch. This not only teaches your kids the basics of fishing but also helps them appreciate the natural world around them.

Overall, taking a fishing charter in Charleston is a great activity that kids of all ages will love. It's a chance for them to learn about the art of fishing, spend some quality time with their family, and connect with the natural world. Don't miss out on this fantastic experience when you're in Charleston.

Frequently asked questions