Charleston with Kids: The Ultimate Guide for a Short & Sweet Trip
Are you trying to decide if Charleston is worth it with kids? I recently took my kids on a South Carolina road trip for one of their school breaks, and we had two lovely days in this charming town.
Charleston is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of history, outdoor fun, and delicious food. I’m excited to share our journey with you and show how Charleston with kids can be a great getaway!
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🏨Mid Range Hotel
🛏️Rental House
🚗Car
✈️Flight
👟Walking Tour
👻Ghost Tour
⛵️Harbor Cruise
Fort Sumter
Tips for Your Family-Friendly Charleston Visit
- Spring and late fall are the best times to go! Early fall is still very hot. Winter is also lovely, but check the weather and pack layers.
- Take advantage of school breaks and avoid the crowds! We went in mid-February, encountered small crowds, and found discounted lodging.
- Summer is hot and humid, so be prepared with bug spray and sunscreen. Make sure to pack water bottles! Consider pairing your trip with a beach visit to cool off.
- Look for stroller-friendly areas if traveling with little ones. Many historic streets have cobblestones so that a baby carrier might be a good backup.
- Make dinner reservations in advance, especially for family-friendly spots on weekends.
- Check parking garage locations if you’re driving, as they are centrally located near major attractions and cut down on long walks with toddlers or little kids who tire easily.
- Pick a kid-friendly rental for extra space, a kitchen, and laundry facilities.
- Sprinkle in fun activities or breaks to let them burn off energy. For instance, let them run loose at the Battery or spend some time in the playground near Rainbow Row.
- Snacks!! Make sure to bring snacks each day as well as water if it is hot.
- Keep realistic expectations- you are traveling with kids and may not be able to do everything on your list.
How to Get to Charleston
Charleston is centrally located on the South Carolina coast and can easily be reached by car or flight. If you’re coming from the South, it’s likely within driving distance. Keep in mind the traffic will intensify during rush hour.
If flying, Charleston (CHS) is the closest airport. Columbia (CAE) or Savannah/Hilton Head (SAV) are options, but you’ll need a rental car from those locations.
Where to Stay in Charleston with kids
I highly recommend a rental home for a family trip for the extra space, kitchen, and laundry facilities. You can easily have breakfast before you start the day, giving you the option to come back for lunch and/or dinner. It doesn’t force you to eat out all meals, which can be difficult for kids.
Plus, you can put them to bed and still enjoy time with your partner and/or other adults without sitting in a dark hotel room trying not to wake up kids.
We stayed in a charming 4-bedroom house in the Cannonborough neighborhood with restaurants and shops within walking distance. I loved this house because it had three full bathrooms, laundry facilities, and a full kitchen.
our favorite rental in Charleston, photo credit: R. Schwartz
For hotels, here are some family-friendly options:
- Hyatt Place or Hyatt House – Conveniently located near King Street and great for families.
- Charleston Place – A more luxurious option with a pool.
- Beachfront rentals in Folly Beach – A great choice if your kids love the beach!
- Wild Dune Resort in Folly Beach- a lovely resort with hotel rooms and condos.
Best Family-Friendly Activities for Charleston
Charleston is a great destination for families. It has plenty of interactive museums, outdoor activities, and historic sites that kids will love. You can book a walking tour to see the highlights.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic District
King Street
King Street is a fun place to walk around, with a mix of shops, bookstores, and kid-friendly cafes. You’ll find toy stores and candy shops that your little ones will love.
You have to venture into the OMG Candy store while on King. Take it from me- have a plan before you walk in there because it is expensive!
OMG Candy on King Street, photo credit: R. Schwartz
City Market
One of the oldest open markets in the U.S., the Charleston City Market is a great place to browse local crafts and grab a snack. Kids will enjoy watching artisans make sweetgrass baskets and other handmade goods. There were also some toy shops sprinkled into the market.
City Market, photo credit: R. Schwartz
Rainbow Row
Take a short walk to East Bay Street to see the colorful historic homes of Rainbow Row. It’s a perfect photo spot and a fun way to teach kids about Charleston’s history.
Hazel Parker Playground
A few steps from Rainbow Row on East Bay Street, you’ll discover a small but quaint playground and basketball court. Our kids loved burning off some energy and taking a break from the sightseeing.
Hazel Parker Playground, photo credit: R. Schwartz
Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain
Waterfront Park is a great place for kids to run around and play. On warm days, they can play in the splash pad near the Pineapple Fountain. Remember to pack a change of clothes and some sunscreen!
The Battery & White Point Garden
Walk along The Battery to see cannons and statues from Charleston’s past. This is a great place for kids to stretch their legs and admire the views of the harbor.
FYI- there are signs everywhere prohibiting the climbing of the trees, but our kids still had a blast running around.
Ghost Tour (Older Kids & Teens)
If you have older kids, consider a spooky ghost tour in the evening. Charleston’s history comes alive with fascinating and eerie stories!
Harbor Cruise
Book a daytime or sunset cruise for a fun way to see the city from the water. Many tours offer dolphin spotting, which kids will love!
Day 2: Hands-On Fun & Outdoor Adventures
Below is an exciting list of suggestions for sightseeing. Depending on your kids’ ages, choose one or two instead of trying to do it all in one day.
South Carolina Aquarium
A must-visit for families! The South Carolina Aquarium is home to sea turtles, sharks, and interactive exhibits. The touch tank is a favorite among kids.
photo credit: R. Schwartz
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Visit the USS Yorktown, an aircraft carrier from WWII, where kids can explore the massive ship and see vintage aircraft. It’s a great stop for little history buffs.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Take a ferry to Fort Sumter to learn about the Civil War while enjoying scenic views. This is a great way for kids to experience history firsthand.
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Just outside Charleston, Boone Hall offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Kids can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about the Gullah culture of the Lowcountry.
Bonus Activities for Extra Time
- Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry – A great indoor play space with hands-on exhibits.
- Charleston Tea Garden – A fun place to explore, with a free trolley tour around the only tea plantation in North America.
- Folly Beach – If your kids love the ocean, spend an afternoon at the beach!
- Hilton Head– add a few days to your trip and visit this scenic island.
- Day trips– you can use the city as a base to explore the Lowcountry, local beaches as well as Congaree National Park
Charleston, photo credit: R. Schwartz
In Conclusion: Charleston with kids
I hope my guide on visiting Charleston with kids helps you plan your next great adventure.
South Carolina Resources
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Hilton Head in Fall
Greenville
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2 days in Charleston, SC
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Best Activities in Charleston for families
