Top Family-Friendly Activities in North Charleston: A Complete Guide for 2024

 

North Charleston, South Carolina, is not only a bustling hub of culture and commerce but also an excellent destination for families seeking adventure, education, and entertainment. Whether you're visiting or a local looking for new ways to bond with your loved ones, North Charleston offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that cater to kids of all ages and interests. From museums to parks and outdoor adventures, this guide will cover the best family-friendly attractions in North Charleston for a fun-filled experience.


1. Play at Wannamaker County Park

Wannamaker County Park is a family favorite with something for everyone. Spread across 1,015 acres, it’s the perfect destination for families to enjoy a picnic, explore nature trails, or participate in outdoor activities.

Highlights for Families:

  • Spray Play: The park features a seasonal Splash Zone waterpark, with interactive fountains, slides, and a lazy river, perfect for younger children to cool off during summer.
  • Playground & Picnic Areas: Kids can explore playgrounds while parents relax at one of the many shaded picnic areas.
  • Pedal Boats and Kayaking: Rent pedal boats for a fun paddle around the lagoon or take a relaxing family bike ride along scenic trails.

Location: 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC


2. Explore the North Charleston Fire Museum

If your children love firetrucks and engines, they’ll be thrilled by a visit to the North Charleston Fire Museum. It showcases the history of firefighting through interactive exhibits and a large collection of vintage firetrucks.

Highlights for Families:

  • Fire Safety Activities: The museum offers hands-on activities where kids can practice fire safety drills and learn about fire prevention in fun, engaging ways.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Kids can climb inside fire trucks, try on firefighting gear, and experience what it’s like to be a firefighter.
  • Impressive Vehicle Collection: Featuring rare fire engines dating back to the early 20th century, the museum offers a unique educational experience for the whole family.

Location: 4975 Centre Pointe Dr, North Charleston, SC


3. Discover Nature at the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Charles Towne Landing offers a mix of history, wildlife, and nature exploration. It’s a place where families can step back in time and learn about the first English settlers in South Carolina.

Highlights for Families:

  • Animal Forest Zoo: This small zoo features native wildlife such as otters, bobcats, bison, and alligators, offering children a chance to get up close with animals.
  • Living History Exhibits: Meet actors in period costumes who demonstrate life in the 17th century. Kids can explore the replica of a colonial ship, the Adventure.
  • Walking and Biking Trails: Bring bikes or rent them on-site to explore scenic trails that wind through ancient live oaks and along the Ashley River.

Location: 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC

4. Adventure at Frankie’s Fun Park

For an exciting day out, Frankie’s Fun Park offers a range of activities to keep kids entertained for hours. It’s one of the most popular family attractions in the area, ideal for both younger kids and teenagers.

Highlights for Families:

  • Mini Golf: Enjoy a round of mini golf on their beautifully designed courses.
  • Go-Kart Racing: Let older kids zoom around the racetrack while parents cheer from the sidelines.
  • Arcade Games & Laser Tag: The indoor arcade offers dozens of games, and the laser tag arena is a hit with kids.

Location: 5000 Ashley Phosphate Rd, North Charleston, SC


5. Educational Fun at the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center

The North Charleston Coliseum hosts family-friendly performances, including children’s musicals, concerts, and ice skating shows. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your kids to the arts.

Highlights for Families:

  • Seasonal Performances: Look out for family-friendly events such as Disney on Ice, circus shows, and live performances of popular children’s movies.
  • Sports Events: The Coliseum is home to the South Carolina Stingrays, and attending a hockey game is a fun experience for sports-loving families.
  • Educational Workshops: Check their schedule for workshops and shows aimed at children to learn about music, dance, and theater.

Location: 5001 Coliseum Dr, North Charleston, SC


6. Visit Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is a scenic destination along the Cooper River that offers family-friendly spaces for play, picnicking, and relaxation. It's also a great spot to explore local art installations and take in some history.

Highlights for Families:

  • Playground and Open Spaces: Kids will love running around in the open spaces and playing on the playground equipment.
  • Family-Friendly Events: The park often hosts festivals, outdoor movie nights, and concerts that families can enjoy together.
  • Memorial Walk: Take a peaceful stroll along the river and learn about the park's naval history by visiting the monuments and memorials.

Location: 1001 Everglades Ave, North Charleston, SC


7. Tour the H.L. Hunley Submarine

History-loving families will enjoy a guided tour of the H.L. Hunley, a Civil War submarine that was raised from the ocean floor and is now displayed in North Charleston.

Highlights for Families:

  • Engaging Guided Tours: Learn about the history of the Hunley through interactive exhibits and knowledgeable guides.
  • Hands-on Activities: Kids can try out interactive displays to see how the submarine works.
  • Educational Exhibits: Discover artifacts found inside the submarine and learn about the scientists' efforts to conserve them.

Location: 1250 Supply St, North Charleston, SC

8. Get Active at Velocity Air Sports

This massive trampoline park provides hours of indoor fun for families, especially on rainy days. It’s packed with trampolines, obstacle courses, and foam pits.

Highlights for Families:

  • Open Jump Sessions: Kids of all ages can jump freely across interconnected trampolines.
  • Dodgeball and Basketball: Engage in friendly competition with dodgeball games or practice slam dunks with basketball hoops over trampolines.
  • Ninja Warrior Course: Older kids can test their skills on the obstacle course inspired by the popular TV show.

Location: 8551 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC

9. Learn and Play at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

A short drive from North Charleston, this museum offers interactive learning opportunities for young children. It combines fun and education, making it a great family destination.

Highlights for Families:

  • Hands-On Exhibits: Kids can explore exhibits related to art, water play, science, and more.
  • Outdoor Play Space: Enjoy a picnic in the museum’s garden or let kids explore the outdoor playground.
  • Special Events: Look for workshops, storytelling sessions, and art classes throughout the year.

Location: 25 Ann St, Charleston, SC


10. Enjoy a Day at Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark

Located within Wannamaker County Park, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark is the ultimate summer destination for families.

Highlights for Families:

  • Kiddie Pool: The Lily Pad Lagoon is perfect for toddlers with shallow waters and fun play structures.
  • Lazy River and Wave Pool: Float along the Rollin' River or catch some waves in the Big Kahuna pool.
  • Thrilling Slides: Older kids and teens will enjoy slides like the Tubular Twister and the Big Splash Tree House.

Location: 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC

Conclusion

North Charleston is filled with exciting activities that cater to families of all sizes and ages. Whether you want to explore the outdoors, engage in educational adventures, or just have some fun indoors, there is no shortage of options. From historical sites and museums to waterparks and entertainment venues, the city offers memorable experiences for every family.

Plan your next family adventure in North Charleston and create lifelong memories with these fun-filled activities. 

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