Charleston, SC Family Itinerary (December 26, 2025 – January 3, 2026)

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Downtown

Morning: The family arrives at Charleston International Airport, collects rental vehicles, and checks into the downtown hotel. Luggage is dropped off and everyone freshens up for the day.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk to Rainbow Row and the Battery to admire the pastel mansions and waterfront views, perfect for family photos. Stop at a nearby café for a light snack.

Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a waterfront restaurant on Waterfront Park, where kids can watch the fountains while adults sample Lowcountry cuisine.

Day 2: Fort Sumter & Harbor

Morning: Board the ferry from Liberty Square for a guided tour of Fort Sumter National Monument, learning about Civil War history.

Afternoon: Return to the harbor for a narrated Charleston Harbor Cruise, spotting historic ships and dolphins.

Evening: Dine at Fleet Landing with a casual seafood menu and enjoy a sunset stroll along the pier.

Day 3: South Carolina Aquarium & City Market

Morning: Visit the South Carolina Aquarium, where interactive exhibits keep the children engaged with marine life.

Afternoon: Explore the bustling Charleston City Market, picking up handmade sweetgrass baskets and local treats.

Evening: Grab pizza at a family‑friendly spot on King Street and walk the illuminated streets of the historic district.

Day 4: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Morning: Drive to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens for a guided tram tour of the historic house and its famous oak‑lined avenues.

Afternoon: Stroll through the botanical gardens, visit the petting zoo, and take a boat ride through the swamp to spot turtles.

Evening: Return to town for a relaxed dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, allowing the kids to unwind with a movie night.

Day 5: Boone Hall Plantation & Angel Oak

Morning: Tour Boone Hall Plantation, exploring the slave cabins, historic cemetery, and iconic avenue of oaks.

Afternoon: Take a short drive to Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island for a picnic beneath the massive southern live oak.

Evening: Enjoy a casual Southern BBQ dinner back in Charleston, followed by a walk along Waterfront Park to see the famous Pineapple Fountain.

Day 6: Beach Day & Leisure

Morning: Head to Folly Beach for sandcastle building, gentle surf, and a sunrise walk along the boardwalk.

Afternoon: Rent bikes and explore the beachside promenade, stopping for ice cream and fresh seafood at a local shack.

Evening: Return to the hotel for a family game night and early bedtime to recharge for the holiday celebrations.

Day 7: Christmas Eve Festivities

Morning: Visit the Historic Charleston Garden Club to see the city’s holiday light displays and enjoy a hot chocolate.

Afternoon: Take a carriage ride through the historic district, listening to festive stories about Charleston’s past.

Evening: Attend a candlelight service at St. Michael’s Church, followed by a special holiday dinner at a classic Lowcountry restaurant.

Day 8: New Year’s Eve Celebration

Morning: Relax with a leisurely brunch at Poogan’s Porch and explore the nearby art galleries.

Afternoon: Spend time at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, touring the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier.

Evening: Board a New Year’s Eve fireworks cruise on the harbor, where the family can watch the spectacular midnight display while enjoying dinner and music.

Day 9: Departure

Morning: Pack up and check out of the hotel; enjoy a final walk along King Street for any last‑minute souvenirs.

Afternoon: Grab a quick lunch at a local deli before heading to the airport.

Evening: Fly home with memories of a festive Charleston holiday.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Fort Sumter National Monument – Approx. 2 hrs – $200
• Charleston Harbor Cruise – Approx. 2 hrs – $150
• South Carolina Aquarium – Approx. 2 hrs – $140
• Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – Approx. 4 hrs – $180
• Boone Hall Plantation – Approx. 3 hrs – $150
• Angel Oak Tree (Day Trip) – Approx. 2 hrs – $60
• Charleston City Market (Shopping) – Approx. 2 hrs – $0 (optional purchases)
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise – Approx. 2 hrs – $250
• Patriots Point Naval & USS Yorktown – Approx. 3 hrs – $180
• Total Estimated Cost for Family of 6 – $1,310

Tips

For a shorter trip, skip the beach day and combine Magnolia and Boone Hall into a single full‑day excursion; this reduces the itinerary to seven days while still covering the major historic sites. To extend the stay, add a day exploring nearby Isle of Palms or take a guided culinary tour of Lowcountry cuisine, which offers additional family‑friendly restaurants and cooking classes.