Whether you’re a local or just passing through with the family, these 8 things to see and do with the kids in Charleston, South Carolina has got you covered.
Kiawah Beachwalker Park
With ocean frontage and beautiful river views, Kiawah Beachwalker Park, is a relaxing escape for both children and parents. Perfect for younger kids as lifeguards are on duty seasonally and dogs are permitted on-leash only. Come early and take a picnic.
For more information visit: www.charlestoncountyparks.com
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Take the kids on a journey from past to present at Caw Caw. Rich in cultural, natural and historical resources, explore the many trails on elevated wetland boardwalks and discover the 18th-19th century rice fields. Be on the lookout for rare wildlife.
For more information visit: www.ccprc.com
McLeod Plantation
Teach your kids the significance of American history with a visit to the newly opened McLeod Plantation. The 36-acre plantation was established in 1851 on James Island and is an important Gullah/Geechee heritage site, sensitively preserved in recognition of the generation of enslaved people.
For more information visit: www.ccprc.com
Palmetto Islands County Park
Take a relaxing walk or bicycle ride with the kids at Palmetto Islands County Park. The 943-acre park features tidal creeks and lagoons, trails for you and the kids to explore, picnic sites, an off-leash dog park and paddle boats.
For more information visit: www.ccprc.com
The North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum & Educational Centre
Conveniently located just minutes from Charleston International Airport and the Tanger Outlet Mall, the North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum & Educational Centre is the perfect opportunity to get your kids some real hands-on learning about the job of a firefighter and the history of firefighting. Complete with unique fire vehicles and antique fire equipment fating all the way back to the mid 1700’s.
For more information visit: www.northcharlestonfiremuseum.org
Boone Hall Plantation
This “must see stop on any trip to Charleston” according to SC by NBC Daytime, Boone Hall Plantation offers one of the more stunning entrances with the Avenue of Oaks. Discover the Gullah Culture and the Black History in America Exhibit within 9 original slave cabins.
For more information visit: www.boonehallplantation.com
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Established in the 1670’s, Magnolia is the oldest plantation site on the Ashley River and is the oldest public garden in the United States and Charleston’s first tourist destination. With 60 acres of gardens that bloom all year, the camellia collection in winter and azaleas in spring, take the kids on a journey through the pre-Revolutionary War plantation house. Enjoy local plants on a nature boat and/or train tour and learn about the African-American contributions to Magnolia and Lowcountry South Carolina on the award-winning ‘Slavery to Freedom’ cabin tour. Specially designed youth programs are available.
For more information visit: www.magnoliaplantation.com
Edisto Beach State Park
Just an hour away from Charleston, Edisto Beach State Park offers miles of Atlantic shore and marshes to explore with excellent swimming opportunities. There’s also a number of short trails for beginner and young hikers, bike riders etc. offering a unique opportunity to spot deer, alligators and sometimes even bobcats. Rent a cabin or tent site for your campervan or caravan right by the beach for a view of the dolphins feeding near the pier as the sun comes up.
For more information visit: www.southcarolinaparks.com