Despite the fact that teenagers may not be interested in beautiful buildings and excellent wines, Charleston has a plethora of activities that families can enjoy together. With that in mind, here are some ideas for a family vacation to Charleston with teenagers.

Urban Adventure Quest

What if you could do something that involved everyone in the family working together, allowed you to see historic Charleston from a new perspective, yet still allowed adolescents to stare at their mobiles? Urban Adventure Quest may sound like a fantasy, but it’s a reality. In this game, you and your friends race around the city in such a race to uncover the answers to a clues that crop up on your phones as the game progresses. It’s a great way to see the city and have a good time at the same time.

Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre

You don’t have to just sit back and enjoy the show at Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. As an alternative, they can participate in it. As a result of the audience members reading their scripts, they take on a key role in the show and provide a lot of amusement.

Escape In 60

Escape in 60, located in the heart of the city’s historic and tourist districts, is a thrilling and challenging way for families to spend an afternoon. You have a hour to figure out a room full of hints and complete a series of riddles. Getting away from Blackbeard is a possible scenario in one of the games. You’re in the middle of a prison break in the other. The key of freedom will be revealed to you once you’ve solved all the puzzles. Only 60 minutes remain in your time limit.

Ghost Tours

Maybe some real ghosts for the teenagers who adore horror films? If you live in a city so old as Charleston, you might expect to see some ghosts. In fact, one of most haunted locales in the world may be found in Charleston. Moreover, you and your children can take a nighttime tour of it, with only a lantern to guide you. Haunted Jail Tour participants are taken into Old City Jail, an infamous and horrifying 19th century institution, by Bulldog Tours. No matter what you do, you can’t get away from the unsettling atmosphere. There are a plethora of other haunted and graveyard excursions in Charleston. Other terrible possibilities include Bulldog Tours and Tour Charleston.

Shopping On King Street

King Boulevard in historic Charleston, South Carolina, is a delightful retail and dining street dotted with everything from eccentric boutiques to high-end designers.

Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park

With simply a rope under their feet, families on James Island can take a leap of faith and dangle their feet in the air. In order to keep even the most daring adolescent safe while having fun, Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park has a three-story obstacle course with a variety of activities. Ever wanted to leap from a platform that was 40 feet above the ground? That’s something you can do, too. We’d even go so far as to endorse it.

Day At The Beach And Dinner On Sullivan’s Island

Located just a few miles to the north of Charleston, the Isle of Palms is home to a stunning public beach. It’s fine if you didn’t bring an umbrella or beach chairs with you on the flight. Isle of Palms County Park, which is close on the beach, rents them out. Set them up for both you and they’ll do the rest. Take a ferry across to Sullivan’s Island, where you may grab a bite to eat on Middle Street. Numerous fine dining establishments spill out into the street, many of which feature outdoor seating and an overall beachy vibe. Just because it’s trendy doesn’t mean your kid won’t like it. Maybe.

Kayaking In Mount Pleasant

There are stunning beaches and charming islands all around Charleston, which is a port city. Spend the day discovering what Charleston has to offer its visitors on the coast. With Coastal Expeditions, you may enjoy a three-hour kayak excursion via Shem Creek, past the remains of Charleston’s fishing fleet, to the most stunning perspective of the city there is.

In fact, the fact that so many of Charleston’s attractions are free is one of its finest features. If you don’t have a lot of money, check out our list of free stuff to do in Charleston.

Walk Through White Point Gardens

When it comes to history and scenery, White Point Gardens in Baltimore is known as “the Battery” by locals. Since its inception, the Battery has weathered several wars including the American Revolution & the War of 1812, despite being built as a barrier.

This 5.7-acre park has been wonderfully planted over the years and has numerous historical monuments and battle guns. In addition, the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and Charleston’s historic homes may all be seen from this location.

Charleston Tea Plantation

The only large-scale commercial tea plantation in the United States is located southwest of Charleston. Over one hundred and twenty-seven thousand tea bushes grow on the 127-acre Charleston Tea Plantation on Wadmalaw Island.

The plantation can be toured for free. The trolley tour, on the other hand, has a nominal fee. It’s still worth the little fee to take a tour of the museum. In this course, you’ll study about tea’s history in America and how it is grown & processed for consumption.

Magnolia Cemetery

As a history enthusiast, nature lover, or devotee of ghostly graveyards, Magnolia Cemetery is the place for you. There are a number of notable people who have been laid to rest here.

Photographers are drawn to the area by its serene beauty and the Victorian-era gravestone art. Make sure to pack a lunch & take your time visiting the mausoleums or gravestones of Confederate troops.

Cool Off In Charleston’s Water Fountains

Trying to find something to do with kids that is both free and enjoyable? Summer visitors to Charleston may want to take their children to the waterfront and play in the fountains.

Even while the Pineapple Fountain in Charleston is well-known, there are a number of additional water features that visitors of all ages can enjoy. The fountain at intersection of Concord Street & Vendue Range is a favourite among children. Sunscreen is an absolute must!

Folly Beach

Every year, millions of tourists go to Charleston to enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches. Folly Beach is one of Charleston’s most family-friendly beaches, despite the little parking cost.

A beach holiday rental for entire family can save you money on parking if you plan to be at the beach for an extended period of time. You may stay directly on the beach and still be close to downtown Charleston if you rent a beach vacation home.

Farmers’ Market In Charleston

It is really a terrific place to find a locally made souvenir to take home with you. Each Saturday, the farmers market in downtown Charleston features a diverse selection of goods from local artisans and sellers.

Sip on freshly squeezed juice and crepes while you shop for one-of-a-kind pieces of jewellery and clothes. If you’re looking for a sweetgrass basket from Charleston, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll be able to locate a wide variety of handcrafted goods in this area.

Charles Pinckney Historic Site

One of America’s founding fathers, Charles Pinckney was a resident of this historic property in Mount Pleasant. The property, which is now a National Historic Site, is open to the public and provides a fascinating look into the life of this long-forgotten founder.

Free films, exhibits, and displays may be found on plantation’s 28-acre Snee Farm, which you can explore at your leisure. Nature walks and picnic areas are also available.

On Ravenel Bridge, The Bike Wonders’ Way

With its 12-foot-wide “Wonders’ Way,” the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge in Charleston, South Carolina, offers stunning views of city’s harbour, Patriot Point and Fort Sumter. In order to complete the 2.5-mile bridge, tourists can opt to go all the way or just to the halfway point (1.2 miles).

Bicycle rentals can be found near the base of the Ravenel Bridge just on Mount Pleasant side of the riverfront, where parking is free. Exploring Mount Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park can help you make the most of your visit.

The Angel Oak

This isn’t your average piece of lumber. It is thought to be about 500 years old & stands more over 65 feet in height on John’s Island.

It is located in a beautiful park and is free to visit, making it an ideal location for a picnic. For an hour or two, pack a picnic lunch and take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Charleston.

Free Tour With A Guide

If you’re looking for a free tour of Charleston, this is the place to go. Free Tour by Foot offers a free walking tour of Charleston.

Rather than charging you for the tour, you decide how much you want to pay at the end of your time in Charleston. A local expert can answer all of your questions about the city, including where to eat, based on the sort of tour you select.

Explore the city on foot, whether you’re interested in Civil War history or the city’s architecture, to suit your interests and budget.

Conclusions

Having a good time in Charleston does not necessitate a large outlay of cash. There are countless ways to get the most out of your time in Charleston, from plantation excursions to day trips to the beach.

In addition, taking advantage of the city’s many free attractions implies that you may spend your money on the things that really important. You can splurge on your lodgings or a meal at one of Charleston’s most popular restaurants with the savings you’ve made.

Most importantly, visiting Charleston with kids is a blast. You can easily move about, the weather is usually pleasant (though the summers may be sticky or humid), as well as the atmosphere is quite family friendly. With kids in tow, our family has been visiting Charleston and the nearby barrier islands for over a decade.

Charleston Museums & Family Fun

1. Charleston Museum

In addition to its natural history display (which includes a megalodon jawbone), the city’s museum of art and culture’s permanent Kidstory exhibit has hands-on art projects & kid-sized reproduction of a historic Charleston house, making it a must-see on any sunny day in Charleston.

2. South Carolina Aquarium

Getting tired of the heat (or the rain)? In South Carolina Aquarium, near the historic Arthur Ravenel Bridge on the Cooper River. These interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and kid-friendly exhibitions like Lego Alive, that recreates some of Charleston’s most beloved aquatic inhabitants in tiny LEGO blocks, will keep the kids entertained for hours! The two-story 385,000-gallon ocean tank featuring sea turtles, sharks, & daily diving displays deserves at least an hour of your time.

3. Children’s Museum of  Lowcountry

If your kids like creative play, take them to this charming children’s museum: They have a castle, a pirate ship, a giant water lab, an art studio, a little outside play area, and more. Membership in an Association of Children’s Museums Reciprocal Network member museum allows you entrance for FREE with your membership in this museum. They provide military discounts and allow guests to bring their own meals.

4. North Charleston Fire Museum

Have a firetruck-obsessed kid? Entrance to the Fire Truck Museum is free and open to the public.

5. Piccolo Spoleto

It’s possible to catch the annual Spoleto Event, an interdisciplinary international arts festival bringing music, dance, cinema and art to Charleston in late April. Not only is Spoleto action-packed and enjoyable, but so is Piccolo Spoleto’s array of family concerts, films, art and craft exhibits as well as kid-lit readings and activities. Reserving seats for concerts in advance is advised.

6. Beaches

Beaches are beautiful and clean all year long in the barrier islands around Charleston. A 20-minute trip from downtown are the Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island. We prefer Acme Lowcountry Kitchen & Sea Biscuit Café for lunch and ice cream. Isle of Palms is a simple day excursion with clean public toilets and changing facilities. There are no public restrooms on Sullivan’s Island, but the natural beauty & small-town charm more than compensate. 30 minutes away, Kiawah Island has unspoilt beaches and luxurious resorts. See here to know 5 Amazing Restaurants In Charleston, SC.

7. Schooner & Pirate Cruises

Schooner Pride, a three-masted ship, conducts 2 afternoon and sunset cruises. In 1718, the famed pirates Blackbeard held the port captive, the crew knows. Take a 12-hour Pirates of Charleston cruise along the North Edisto River, replete with facial expression, & lots of “arrrrrrghs” to learn more about Charleston’s pirate heritage.

8. Angel Oak Tree Park

Visit the state’s one of the country’s oldest trees on St. John’s Island. One of the park’s many highlights is the majestic Angel Oak Tree. The animal pond with ducks,  turtles, or geese is a kid’s delight. The park is a great alternative to plantation excursions for youngsters.

9. Nature and Wildlife Boat Tours

Exploring Charleston by boat is the finest option. Ocean-going bottlenose dolphins reside year-round in the seas of Charleston and may be seen in the port.  Charleston Maritime Center offers a variety of highly rated private excursions. An uninhabited island, Capers Island, was recently explored by our family on a fantastic sunset wildlife cruise, with such a naturalist on board giving a lively interactive discussion and even picking up some crabs to show the kids.

A short drive and boat trip will take you to a quiet beach, a sandy playground for the whole family, or a bustling seaside leisure area. Your trip to Charleston will be much more enjoyable if you visit one of the many nearby beach towns or island playgrounds.

Best For A Laugh-Out-Loud Time

Folly Beach is greatest place to be if you have to be in the thick of the activity in the Charleston region.

1. Folly Beach, South Carolina, U.S.A

Folly Beach, a barrier island between both the Folly River as well as the Atlantic Ocean, is known to residents as “The Edge of America.” By night, Folly Beach is a great destination for locals and tourists looking for a good time in the sun. There are plenty of exciting bars and restaurants along the beach’s bustling main street that attract tanned beachgoers at night.

There’s no denying that Folly Beach is endowed with a sandy beach where you may spend the day relaxing. It is anticipated that the Folly Beach Pier will reopen in spring of 2023, after a year-long rehabilitation project. The deck and facilities, on the other hand, are free to the public and provide an excellent vantage point.

The Crab Shack is a great place to get a bite to eat in your beachwear and flip flops. Rita’s Seaside Grill is another delightful Folly Beach restaurant where you can sit back and have a relaxed lunch. Rooftop establishments on Center Street light up at night, and the music & party scene picks up.

Early beachgoers may find plenty of street parking using the Passport Parking app. With the app, you don’t have to get out of your blanket if you really want to extend your stay.

Clean bathrooms, picnic areas, and dressing rooms are available at Folly Beach County Park. For families with small children, this is a great location.

Best For Relaxing Beach Walks

Some beach activities need seclusion, which may be difficult to come across in busy tourist destinations. Three island beaches in Charleston, South Carolina, allow visitors to relax in the sun while maintaining its own particular, zen feel.

2. Sullivan’s Island

There is a bridge that connects Sullivan’s Island to the mainland. At low tide, the beach, which is slightly over three miles long, is extraordinarily broad and pleasant.

On Sullivan’s Island in the past, guests would be taken around the island by electric trolley, pausing at public access to the beach sites known as stations. You’ll note that each beach stop is referred to it by its station number, and the station reference is still in use today. Plan a sunset just on beach for a romantic evening. Watch the sun set over the lighthouse at station 18, where a blanket is waiting for you.

Make your way to a Obstinate Daughter for a European twist on some of the best dishes from the Lowcountry. A pizza with red & green tomatoes, mozzarella and basil is an excellent choice for a low-key evening.

Visit Fort Moultrie while on Sullivan’s Island for some historical exploration. This fort has undergone several reimaginings throughout the years, as seen by the history displayed below, which starts in 1776 and continues until World War II.

3. Bulls Island 

Uninhabited Bulls Island is the perfect place to go to if you’re craving some time in the great outdoors.

Trees that have fallen and been sun-bleached along the infamous Boneyard Beach. An abandoned graveyard filled with colossal bones looms large in the dismal landscape. Slow and tranquil walks through the graveyard of trees are a great place to reflect on your own life. Because of the destruction caused by severe hurricanes, this beach serves as a powerful reminder of Mother Nature’s destructive might.

It is a naturalist’s haven and a fascinating laboratory on Bulls Island. An abundance of birds may be seen in the area, making it an important stop just on migratory bird route. Many migratory and local species have been documented by the Carolina Bird Club. Many uncommon birds may be found on Bulls Island, such as the beautiful frigatebird and the fork-tailed flycatcher and the snow bunting.

If you’re interested in visiting Bulls Island, consider taking a ferry from Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.