Some cities charm you. A Charleston family vacation sweeps you off your feet, hands you a biscuit, and tells you a story you’ll be retelling all the way home. We stopped in for two nights on our Outer Banks road trip, fell hard for Charleston’s blend of history and family fun, and came back for one more night on the way home. We skipped the beach, and nearby plantation tours this time but put them on our wish list for the next. Whether it’s pirate tales, horse-drawn carriage rides, or hushpuppies by the harbor, this place mixes history, family fun, and southern hospitality like nowhere else.
🐢Must-Do Family Activities in Charleston
1. South Carolina Aquarium
Get up close with sea turtles, river otters, and marine life in this family favorite. The Sea Turtle Care Center was a highlight on our Charleston SC family vacation.
2. Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
Perfect for younger kids, with hands-on exhibits, a pirate ship, and a medieval castle.
3. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
See where Charleston began. Walk the historic grounds and visit the Animal Forest for native wildlife encounters.
4. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Explore the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, the USS Clamagore submarine, and the USS Laffey destroyer. This is a great option for a rainy day as much of the touring is inside these impressive naval vessels. We spent a half day here – I could have gone all day, but I know my families history limit.
5. Folly Beach & Isle of Palms
Sandcastles, dolphin spotting, or just some laid-back beach time—a Charleston SC family vacation must. Tip: If you’re looking to extend your beach time beyond Charleston, check out our guide to the best family-friendly beaches on the East Coast.
🐎Charleston’s Famous Carriage Rides
A carriage ride through Charleston’s historic district is like stepping back in time. The girls loved meeting the draft horses, each with names and personalities (ask your driver!). I loved sitting back while someone else navigated the cobblestone maze. Our ride was a little more than an hour and departed from the City Market area. The city regulates the routes daily to prevent congestion, so no two rides are exactly the same. Along the way, your guide will share stories of pirates, plantations, and architectural gems. It’s a relaxing and educational way to start your Charleston SC family vacation.
🏛️For the History Buffs in the Family
1. Historic Charleston City Market
One of America’s oldest markets. Our girls loved browsing the booths and watching sweetgrass basket makers.
2. Fort Sumter National Monument
A short boat ride takes you to the site where the Civil War began.
3. Middleton Place, Boone Hall Plantation, & Magnolia Plantation
Explore America’s oldest landscaped gardens, plantation homes, and history of the enslaved people who lived there.
4. The Battery & White Point Garden
Walk the promenade, lined with historic mansions and views of Charleston Harbor.
5. Charleston Museum & Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
Visit America’s first museum and explore pirate history and Revolutionary War stories.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Photo Hot Spots
- Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park
- Rainbow Row’s pastel homes on East Bay Street
- King Street’s historic architecture
- The mighty Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island
🛍️ Best Places to Stroll & Shop
- Charleston City Market: Shop for souvenirs and Gullah sweetgrass baskets.
- King Street: Charleston’s premier shopping and dining strip.
- Waterfront Park: Swings, splash fountains, and harbor views.
🍤What to Eat: Must-Try Regional Bites
Charleston SC family vacations are as much about the food as the sights:
Our Family Favorites
- Fleet Landing (waterfront dining near the aquarium)
- Magnolias (our splurge dinner)
- Home Team BBQ (messy & delicious) -my oldest daughter and wife loved the wings!
- Off Track Ice Cream – yes it was worth the line!
Regional Classics
- She-crab soup at 82 Queen
- Fried green tomatoes at Poogan’s Porch
- Hush puppies at Husk
- Oyster roast at Bowen’s Island Restaurant
🏨 Where to Stay on Your Charleston SC Family Vacation
We stayed at the French Quarter Inn—classic southern hospitality with modern perks, located steps from the City Market and horse drawn carriage tours.
I’m told a solid economical choice is the Best Western King Charles Inn.
Other great family areas:
- Mount Pleasant (quiet, near beaches)
- Folly Beach (surf and sand)
- West Ashley (affordable Airbnbs)
- Historic Downtown (walkable, charming)
🗓️ 3-Day Charleston Family Itinerary
Historic Downtown (Day 1)
- Breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
- Explore Charleston City Market
- Carriage ride tour
- Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain
- Dinner at Magnolias
Marine & Military Adventure (Day 2)
- South Carolina Aquarium
- Lunch at Home Team BBQ
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Ice cream at Off Track
- Sunset walk along The Battery
History & Beach Day (Day 3)
- Fort Sumter boat tour
- Folly Beach afternoon
- Lunch at Lost Dog Cafe or Taco Boy
- Optional visit to Angel Oak Tree
💡Tips for Your Charleston Family Vacation
- Visit March-May or September-November for the best weather
- Use the free DASH trolley downtown to visit the major attractions
- Popular attractions like carriage rides and boat tours can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book ahead for family trips to ensure you don’t miss out.
- Keep the kids entertained during the drive with some of the best road trip games for families that are sure to make the journey as fun as the destination.
- Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is in top-notch condition, and you’ve packed all the family road trip essentials to keep things running smoothly.
- Bring layers and be ready for summer heat
Final Thoughts
A Charleston SC family vacation is the perfect blend of hands-on learning, beach breezes, and unforgettable food. From carriage rides to the sweet sound of ocean waves, it’s a city that pulls you back again and again.
If you’re planning to explore more of the Southeast, don’t miss our family guide to Southern Charm in Savannah.
My girls enjoyed the charm and character of the old city, they asked to put it on our repeat list.
