14 Fun Things To Do In South Carolina With Kids

If you're looking for a fun and exciting vacation for the whole family, South Carolina is the perfect place to visit! With its stunning beaches, historic towns, and incredible outdoor activities, South Carolina has something for everyone. From visiting the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk to exploring the Congaree National Park, there are plenty of fun things to do in South Carolina with kids. In this article, we’ll take a look at 14 of the best family activities in the state of South Carolina. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

Charleston Waterfront Park

The park offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages. For the younger set, there are playgrounds, a splash pad, and a carousel. Older kids can enjoy the swings, slides, and hammocks for a relaxing day outdoors. There are also walking paths, bike trails, and fishing areas for those looking to explore the waterfront.

Visitors can also take in the breathtaking views of the harbor from the park. The main pavilion has a great vantage point of the harbor, where you can watch boats and ships sail by. If you're feeling adventurous, take a stroll along the pier and check out the boats up close.

When visiting Charleston Waterfront Park, be sure to bring along a picnic. The park has several picnic areas, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the harbor views. For the best experience, visit the park during low tide. This is when the river is at its lowest, giving you the opportunity to explore the shoreline and find all kinds of treasures.

If you're looking for a unique experience, consider taking a guided tour of the park. The tour guides offer informative stories, anecdotes, and facts about the park and its history. They even offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who live and work in the area.

Columbia Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Type	Zoo in Columbia, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 17,938
Address	500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210
Phone	(803) 779-8717
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM 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
Profiles

The Columbia Zoo of South Carolina is an exciting and educational experience for kids. Located in Cayce, just outside of Columbia, the zoo offers a variety of animals and attractions, making it a great place to take the family on an outing. With more than 350 animals from around the world, there is something for everyone.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the zoo and take in all the sights and sounds. The zoo also features a variety of educational experiences for kids, including interactive exhibits and educational talks. There are plenty of activities for kids to participate in, from petting goats in the petting zoo to taking a ride on the carousel.

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, the zoo offers a number of guided tours and experiences. From a behind-the-scenes tour with the animal keepers to a nocturnal creature walk, there are plenty of ways to explore the zoo in depth.

The zoo also has a number of special events throughout the year, including live animal shows and special events like the Summer Safari Nights. The Summer Safari Nights include a number of special treats, such as music, games, and food, making it a great way to spend an evening at the zoo.

The Columbia Zoo of South Carolina also offers a variety of dining options, from quick snacks to full meals. The zoo has a variety of restaurants, from fast food to traditional sit-down restaurants. There are also a number of concession stands scattered throughout the zoo, making it easy to grab a quick bite to eat while you explore.

The Columbia Zoo of South Carolina is a great place to take your family on an outing. With a variety of attractions, educational experiences, and events, it's sure to be a memorable experience for kids of all ages. So, the next time you're in the area, be sure to stop by and explore the Columbia Zoo of South Carolina.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Type	Maritime museum in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	5.04 / 6,933
Address	40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Phone	(843) 884-2727
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Friday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Saturday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Sunday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Monday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–6:30 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–6:30 PM
Profiles

Visitors of all ages can explore the museum to learn about American naval history, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Kids will be fascinated by the four ships that are permanently docked at the museum, including the USS Yorktown, a World War II aircraft carrier, and the USS Clamagore, a Cold War-era submarine. They can also explore the Vietnam Experience Base, which offers an immersive look at life on a Vietnam-era base.

In addition to its collection of vessels and aircraft, the museum also offers educational programs and interactive activities to keep kids engaged and learning. Kids can participate in hands-on activities such as climbing aboard a Navy vessel, flying a simulated aircraft, or exploring a submarine. They can also attend workshops and lectures to learn more about naval history or take a guided tour of the museum's exhibits.

The museum also has plenty of kid-friendly activities for families to enjoy. The Flight Deck Café serves up burgers, hot dogs, and other American favorites, while the adjacent USS Yorktown Flight Deck offers a variety of interactive activities such as a scavenger hunt, an aviation-themed maze, and kid-friendly movies.

Butterfly World at Cypress Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Cypress Gardens
Type	Nature preserve in Berkeley County, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 2,037
Address	3030 Cypress Gardens Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Phone	(843) 553-0515
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM 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
Profiles

Cypress Gardens of South Carolina is a great place for families to explore. The Butterfly World is a magical and educational place to take the kids.

On entering the Butterfly World, the children will be immediately awestruck by the beauty of the gardens and the hundreds of butterflies flitting around them. There is a wide variety of species of butterflies from all over the world, and the kids can learn about them from the knowledgeable staff. The gardens are filled with lush vegetation and the colors of the butterflies are vibrant and captivating.

The kids can spend time learning about the different types of butterflies, and the staff can help them identify them. The kids can also feed the butterflies, which is a fun and educational experience.

In addition to the butterflies, there are plenty of other activities to keep the kids occupied. They can explore the gardens, which are filled with interesting plants, shrubs and trees. They can also check out the butterfly house, which houses a wide variety of species.

The Butterfly World at Cypress Gardens also offers a variety of educational programs for the kids. These programs are designed to teach kids about the importance of conservation and how they can help protect the environment. The kids can also learn about the life cycle of a butterfly, as well as the different stages of development.

Cypress Gardens of South Carolina is a wonderful place for families to explore and learn about the natural world. The Butterfly World is a great place to bring the kids for a fun and educational experience. They will be amazed by the beauty of the butterflies and the lush vegetation, and they will learn about the importance of conservation.

Brookgreen Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Brookgreen Gardens
Type	Botanical garden in Georgetown County, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 4,726
Address	1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Phone	(843) 235-6000
Hours	Thursday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Friday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Monday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9:30 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9:30 AM–5 PM
Profiles

The gardens span over 9000 acres of land and include over 10,000 pieces of sculpture and art. Families can explore the gardens on foot or by taking a ride on the tram or boat tour. There are also several trails and nature walks to explore, as well as a nature center and petting zoo.

In addition to exploring the gardens, families can visit the on-site café or gift shop. Or, they can take a break from sightseeing and relax at the Butterfly House or the Lowcountry Zoo. Brookgreen Gardens is a great place for families to spend time together and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Families can visit Brookgreen Gardens any time of the year, from 9am-5pm in the summer and 10am-5pm in the winter. Admission prices vary depending on age and group size, but kids under 3 always get in free. Visitors can also purchase an annual pass for unlimited visits throughout the year.

For families looking for a unique and educational adventure, Brookgreen Gardens is a great destination. With its stunning gardens, educational programs, and plenty of activities for kids, it is a perfect place for families to explore, learn, and make memories together.

EdVenture Children’s Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	EdVenture Children's Museum
Type	Children's museum in Columbia, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 2,852
Address	211 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone	(803) 779-3100
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

EdVenture Children's Museum of South Carolina is a great place to take the kids for a fun and educational day out. Located in Columbia, the museum provides hands-on experiences and interactive exhibits that are sure to keep the kids entertained for hours. From exploring the working robot factory to discovering the wonders of science and nature, EdVenture has something for every child.

At EdVenture, you and your kids can explore the museum's six floors of interactive exhibits. From climbing the mountain in the outdoor Adventure Garden to discovering the science of bubbles in the Bubble Lab, there's something for every age and interest. Kids can make their own robots in the Robot Factory, take a ride on the Little Tykes train, and even get up close and personal with the museum's resident tortoise.

The museum also offers a variety of programs, activities, and events to keep the kids engaged and learning. There are story times and craft activities, special events like the annual Fall Festival, and even educational programming like the Science Saturday series. And if you're looking for a unique way to celebrate a birthday, EdVenture offers birthday party packages complete with a private party room.

In addition to the museum's exhibits and programs, EdVenture also has a number of special features that make it a great place for kids. The museum's interactive theater offers a variety of performances, including puppet shows and musicals. There's also a cafe area with healthy snacks and a gift shop with a variety of toys and souvenirs.

When you visit EdVenture, be sure to take some time to explore the museum's outdoor Adventure Garden. Here, kids can explore nature, climb the rock wall, and search for fossils and gems in the museum's creek. The garden also has a picnic area where you can enjoy a meal or snack al fresco.

EdVenture Children's Museum of South Carolina is a great place to take the kids for a fun and educational day out. With interactive exhibits, educational programming, special events, and an outdoor Adventure Garden, there's something for every child. So take the kids to EdVenture and let them explore, learn, and play!

Greenville Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Greenville Zoo
Type	Zoo in Greenville, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 5,301
Address	150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone	(864) 467-4300
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–4 PM Friday - 10 AM–4 PM Saturday - 10 AM–4 PM Sunday - 10 AM–4 PM Monday - 10 AM–4 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–4 PM
Profiles

One of the best things about the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina is its story time. Every day, a zookeeper introduces one of the animals, and then tells a story about the animal. This is a great way to get children engaged and interested in the animals, as well as teaching them about the animal's habits and habitat. The stories also provide a great opportunity for parents to interact with their children and share some quality time together.

Younger children will also enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina. The petting zoo is a great way for kids to learn about animals up close and personal. The reptile house, the aquarium, and the aviary are also great places to explore and discover more about animals from around the world.

For older kids, the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina offers some great activities. The wildlife shows are a great way for older children to learn about the animals in a more engaging way. Kids can also participate in some of the educational programs, such as the Junior Zookeeper program. This program allows children to learn about the animals and their habitats, as well as learn about the responsibilities of a zookeeper.

When visiting the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina, make sure to check the hours of operation and plan your visit accordingly. The zoo is open daily from 9am to 5pm, but some areas may be closed due to weather or other events. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

Visiting the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina with kids is a great way to spend the day. With its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and story time, this zoo offers a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages. It is a great way to get the family out into nature and learn something new. With its diverse array of animals, there is something for everyone at the Greenville Zoo of South Carolina.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

For a truly unique experience, take a ride on the SkyWheel. This 200-foot Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the beach and ocean. Kids will love the lights, music, and fun of the ride. The SkyWheel is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Kids can also explore the nearby Ripley's Aquarium. This aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures and is a great place to learn about marine life. Kids can get up close and personal with the sea creatures in the touch tanks and take a ride on the Glass Bottom Boat. Ripley's Aquarium is open daily from 9am to 9pm.

The boardwalk also features several shops and eateries. Kids can shop for souvenirs and toys at the boardwalk shops or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. Some of the most popular restaurants include Johnny D's Waffles and Bakery, O.D. Pavilion Amusement Park, and Ocean Annie's Beach Bar and Grille.

When the sun goes down, there is still plenty of entertainment. The boardwalk comes alive with live music and shows. Kids can enjoy a variety of performances, from magicians and comedians to firework displays.

For a truly memorable experience, take the kids on a tour of the boardwalk. There are several guided tours available that will take you through the boardwalk's history and architecture. Kids can learn about the boardwalk's past, from its beginnings as a place for fishermen to its current status as a popular tourist destination.

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry

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	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM 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
Profiles

The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry in South Carolina is a great place for kids of all ages to explore and discover. With interactive exhibits and activities, the museum provides a fun learning experience for children. Located in downtown Charleston, the museum offers a variety of activities that can keep kids entertained for hours.

One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the “Storytelling Corner”. This area is filled with colorful books and objects that help kids explore different stories from around the world. There are a wide variety of stories for kids to choose from, ranging from classic fairy tales to modern day adventures. The storytelling corner also features interesting facts and anecdotes about different cultures, which helps kids learn about the world around them.

In addition to the storytelling corner, the museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities. For example, the “Water Works” exhibit allows kids to explore the properties of water by using pumps and levers to create their own waterworks. And in the “Tunnel of Fun”, kids can crawl through a dark tunnel and explore its many surprises.

Another popular activity at the museum is the “Hands-On Science” exhibit. This exhibit features a variety of experiments and activities that allow kids to learn about the scientific process. Kids can explore physics and chemistry through hands-on experiments, such as building a volcano or creating simple machines.

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. From puppet shows to concerts and art classes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The museum is open year-round, so no matter when you visit, you’re sure to find something fun to do.

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is an excellent place for kids of all ages to explore and learn. With its interactive exhibits, storytelling corner, and special events, the museum offers a unique experience for kids to explore the world around them. Whether you’re looking for a special outing or just a fun day out, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Congaree National Park

Families can also explore the park by foot and see the old-growth forest. This area of the park is home to some of the tallest trees in the east, and the views of the trees and the river are breathtaking. The park offers several ranger-led hikes and tours, as well as guided canoe tours.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Congaree National Park also offers a variety of educational programs. These programs are designed to help children learn about the park's natural resources and the importance of conserving them. The park also has a Junior Ranger program, which provides a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about the park.

Overall, Congaree National Park is a great place for families to explore and enjoy nature. With its abundance of activities and educational programs, it's the perfect place to take the kids for a day of fun and exploration. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll through the park or an overnight camping trip, Congaree National Park is the perfect spot to spend some quality time with the family.

The Center for Birds of Prey

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Avian Conservation Center & Center for Birds of Prey
Type	Non-profit organization in Charleston County, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 187
Address	4719 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429
Phone	(843) 971-7474
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–1 PM Friday - 10 AM–1 PM Saturday - 10 AM–1 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed
Profiles

At the Center for Birds of Prey, kids can participate in a variety of activities, such as bird watching, guided tours, and bird feedings. They can also learn about the conservation efforts of the center, which include the rescue and rehabilitation of injured birds. Kids can even meet some of the birds up close, as the center often hosts educational programs and seminars with live birds.

For those who want a more in-depth experience, the center offers a variety of classes and programs. Kids can learn about bird anatomy, behavior, and habitat, as well as the basics of falconry. They can also take part in bird-banding activities, where they can observe birds being banded and released back into the wild.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Whether you're looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is the perfect place to bring the kids. For those wanting to explore the grounds, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages. From the petting zoo and interactive nature center to the plantation house, there's something for everyone.

When visiting Magnolia Plantation and Gardens with kids, it's important to plan ahead. You'll want to make sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks for the kids, as well as sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Additionally, there are a variety of educational programs offered throughout the year, including guided tours of the plantation house, nature walks, and even storytelling programs.

When it comes to educational opportunities, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has it all. Kids can learn about the history of the Lowcountry, explore the gardens, and discover the variety of wildlife. In addition, the plantation house offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the life of a plantation family.

For those wanting to explore the grounds, there are a variety of trails and boardwalks that are perfect for strolling. Additionally, there are boat tours available that allow visitors to explore the area's waterways. The boat tours provide a unique opportunity to view wildlife while learning about the area's history.

When it comes to activities, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has something for everyone. From bird watching and fishing to kayaking and canoeing, there's something for every age and ability level. Additionally, the plantation house often hosts special events throughout the year, such as craft days and holiday celebrations.

Hunting Island State Park

When visiting the park with kids, there is no shortage of things to do. Nature walks and beachcombing are always popular activities. The five-mile nature trail is perfect for exploring the park’s diverse wildlife. With a variety of birds, turtles, and even alligators, there is always something new to discover.

For a more adventurous outing, the park offers kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. With the ocean on one side and salt marshes on the other, the views are breathtaking. Fishing is allowed on the beach or from the pier, and many of the local restaurants will even cook your catch for you!

Of course, no visit to Hunting Island State Park would be complete without a visit to the beach. The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles or collecting shells. With plenty of space to explore, kids can spend hours splashing in the waves or searching for crabs in the sand.

The park also offers a variety of educational programs, ranging from guided tours to lectures. These programs are great for teaching kids about the environment and its unique inhabitants. During the summer months, the park also offers a Junior Ranger program for kids aged 6-12.

South of the Border

From the wide sandy beaches to the picturesque fishing villages, there is something for everyone. For the kids, there is the Adventure Island amusement park, with its rollercoasters and other rides. The nearby water park is also a great way to cool off in the summer heat.

The area is also known for its great seafood. Whether you choose to take a boat out for a day of fishing or visit one of the many seafood restaurants, you are sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds.

If you are looking for a more educational experience, the area is home to many historical sites. Tour the historic sites of the area and learn about the history of South Carolina. Visit Fort Moultrie, a former Revolutionary War fort, or explore the historic town of Charleston.

The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Whether you want to take in a show at one of the theaters or go dancing in the clubs, there is something for everyone. If you are looking for something a bit more low-key, there are plenty of pubs and bars to explore.

When planning your trip, be sure to bring along plenty of sunscreen and adequate clothing. The sun can be intense during the summer months, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing. If you plan to spend some time at the beach, be sure to bring along beach toys and umbrellas.

When visiting the south of the border, don't forget to take advantage of all the area has to offer. Whether you are looking for a fun family vacation or a relaxing getaway, South Carolina is a great destination for any traveler. With its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and abundance of activities, there is something for everyone.

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