Family Fun in Charleston, SC

Day 1: Historic Downtown Charleston

Charleston, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

Start your day with a delicious Southern breakfast at this local favorite, known for its fresh and flaky biscuits.
Head to Callie's Hot Little Biscuit in downtown Charleston. Parking is limited so consider using a ride-sharing service.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Charleston City Market

Explore the historic market and shop for local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and unique gifts.
The market is located in downtown Charleston, easily walkable from breakfast.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Husk

Indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience at this acclaimed restaurant known for its Southern cuisine.
Husk is located in downtown Charleston, make a reservation ahead of time.
$20-$30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Charleston Waterfront Park

Stroll along the beautiful waterfront, enjoy the swings, fountains, and take in the panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor.
Walk from Husk to Waterfront Park, it's a short distance.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Carriage Tour of Historic District

Embark on a leisurely carriage tour to learn about the history of Charleston from a local guide.
Book a carriage tour in advance. Carriage pick-up points are available throughout downtown.
$30-$40, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor at this family-friendly restaurant with a great outdoor patio.
Fleet Landing is located in downtown Charleston, a short walk from the waterfront.
$20-$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Charleston Tea Plantation & Folly Beach

Charleston, SC

9:00AM

Visit Charleston Tea Plantation

Take a guided tour of the only tea plantation in North America and enjoy tastings of various teas.
Drive to Wadmalaw Island where the plantation is located, approximately 20 miles from downtown Charleston.
$15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Folly Beach

Head to this laid-back beach community for some fun in the sun, swimming, and beachcombing.
Drive from the Charleston Tea Plantation to Folly Beach, it's about a 30-minute drive.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lost Dog Cafe

Grab a casual lunch at this vibrant eatery known for its eclectic menu and pet-friendly outdoor seating.
Lost Dog Cafe is located in the heart of Folly Beach, just a short walk from the beach.
$10-$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Folly Beach County Park

Relax at the park, go for a swim, or walk along the beach to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Walk or drive to the Folly Beach County Park from Lost Dog Cafe.
$5, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Pier Walk

Catch a stunning sunset at the Folly Beach Pier, a perfect end to your day at the beach.
Head to the Folly Beach Pier, a popular spot for watching the sunset.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Rita's Seaside Grille

Enjoy fresh seafood and Southern dishes at this beachfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.
Rita's Seaside Grille is located near the Folly Beach Pier, perfect for a post-sunset dinner.
$20-$30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Charleston, SC

9:00AM

Tour Magnolia Plantation

Explore the picturesque gardens, iconic plantations house, and learn about the history of the estate.
Drive to the Magnolia Plantation, located about 8 miles from downtown Charleston.
$25, 2 hours

11:00AM

Nature Tram Tour

Take a tram ride through the plantation's wetlands and forests, spotting wildlife and diverse flora.
Join the scheduled nature tram tour departing from the plantation entrance.
$10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Peacock Café

Enjoy a light lunch at the on-site cafe, known for its sandwiches, salads, and refreshing beverages.
The Peacock Café is conveniently located within the Magnolia Plantation.
$10-$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Audubon Swamp Garden

Explore the unique swamp garden boardwalks and see a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Walk or take the shuttle to the Audubon Swamp Garden within the plantation.
$8, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the Plantation

Take some time to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the historic Magnolia Plantation before departing.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds or find a peaceful spot to relax.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Poogan's Porch

Savor Southern classics at this charming restaurant housed in a historic Victorian home.
Drive back to downtown Charleston for dinner at Poogan's Porch, make a reservation in advance.
$20-$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Charleston, SC

9:00AM

Explore USS Yorktown

Step aboard this historic aircraft carrier and discover the interactive exhibits and aircraft displays.
Drive or take a water taxi to Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, a short distance from downtown Charleston.
$25, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Harbor Pavilion

Grab a bite to eat at the waterfront pavilion, offering various food options with views of the harbor.
Enjoy lunch at the on-site dining establishments at Patriots Point.
$10-$20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tour USS Laffey & USS Clamagore

Learn about the history of these naval vessels and explore the unique features of each ship.
Join the guided tours of USS Laffey and the USS Clamagore at Patriots Point.
$20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Flight Academy Experience

Pilot your own plane in the interactive flight simulators at the museum for a thrilling aviation adventure.
Participate in the Flight Academy experience at Patriots Point, suitable for all family members.
$15, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Page's Okra Grill

Enjoy Southern comfort food at this local restaurant known for its fried okra, shrimp and grits, and pecan pie.
Head to Page's Okra Grill in Mount Pleasant for a hearty dinner.
$15-$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: The South Carolina Aquarium

Charleston, SC

9:00AM

Discover Marine Life

Explore the diverse exhibits showcasing aquatic creatures from South Carolina waters and around the world.
Drive to the South Carolina Aquarium located in downtown Charleston.
$30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Interactive Touch Tank

Let the kids interact with stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and other sea creatures at the touch tank experience.
Visit the touch tank area within the aquarium for a hands-on marine encounter.
Free with admission, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at the Saltwater Cowboys

Enjoy a seafood lunch at this casual eatery offering waterfront views and local Lowcountry dishes.
Walk to the nearby Saltwater Cowboys restaurant for a delicious meal by the water.
$15-$25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Go on a guided tour to see the aquarium's animal care areas, feedings, and learn about marine conservation.
Join the scheduled behind-the-scenes tour offered by the aquarium staff.
$15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Waterfront Park

Spend a peaceful afternoon at the park, enjoying the views of the Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge.
Walk from the aquarium to Waterfront Park for a relaxing break by the water.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hyman's Seafood

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at this iconic Charleston restaurant, known for its Southern hospitality and delicious meals.
Head to Hyman's Seafood for a memorable dinner experience in downtown Charleston.
$20-$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Middleton Place

Charleston, SC

9:00AM

Tour Middleton Place Gardens

Explore the expansive gardens with blooming camellias, azaleas, and stunning landscapes at this historic plantation.
Drive to Middleton Place located about 15 miles from downtown Charleston.
$30, 2 hours

11:00AM

House Museum Visit

Step back in time with a guided tour of the Middleton Place House Museum, a preserved 18th-century residence.
Join a guided tour of the plantation house to learn about its rich history.
$15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Middleton Place Restaurant

Enjoy Lowcountry cuisine in a scenic setting overlooking the Ashley River at the on-site restaurant.
Dine at the Middleton Place Restaurant for a taste of traditional Southern dishes.
$20-$30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Rice Fields Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the rice fields and learn about the rice cultivation history in the Lowcountry.
Explore the rice fields area on foot, following the designated paths at Middleton Place.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Animal Encounters

Visit the Stableyards to meet heritage breeds animals and learn about historic farming practices.
Head to the Stableyards area for interactive animal experiences at Middleton Place.
$10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Glass Onion

Enjoy a final dinner at this beloved restaurant offering Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Drive back to downtown Charleston for a farewell dinner at The Glass Onion.
$15-$25, 2 hours
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