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If you’re planning a family vacation in South Carolina, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of activities and places planned to keep the kids entertained. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from. From historic tours to outdoor adventures, South Carolina offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions.
One of the best places to take kids in South Carolina is Charleston. This historic city offers carriage tours of the historic district, as well as plenty of museums and parks to explore.
Another great option is Myrtle Beach, which has miles of sandy beaches and a boardwalk with amusement park rides and games. For a more educational experience, consider visiting Columbia, the state capital, which is home to many museums and historical sites.
No matter where you go, you’re sure to find some of the best places for kids in South Carolina that will keep them and the whole family entertained. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor activities, this state has plenty to offer. So start planning your trip today and get ready for a fun-filled family vacation in South Carolina!
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
If you’re looking for an exciting and educational day trip for your kids, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, SC is a must-visit destination. With nearly 2,000 animals representing over 350 species from around the world, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is one of the best places to take your kids in South Carolina.
Location
Located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is easily accessible from anywhere in the state. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
Attractions
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has a wide variety of attractions that are sure to keep your kids entertained and engaged all day long. Here are some of the highlights.
- Animal Exhibits: From elephants and giraffes to lions and tigers, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has an impressive collection of animals from all over the world. Make sure to check out the koalas and Siamang apes, too!
- Botanical Gardens: In addition to the animal exhibits, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to a beautiful botanical garden with over 4,200 species of plants. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Splash Zone: On a hot day, your kids will love the Splash Zone, a water play area where they can cool off and have fun.
- Sky-High Safari: For a unique perspective on the zoo, take a ride on the Sky-High Safari, a zip line that takes you over the animal exhibits.
- Interactive Experiences: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden offers a variety of interactive experiences, including feeding the giraffes and lorikeets, and even getting up close and personal with some of the animals in the behind-the-scenes tours.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is an excellent choice for families looking for a fun and educational day trip in South Carolina. With so much to see and do, your kids will love every minute of their visit.
EdVenture Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids in South Carolina, EdVenture Children’s Museum in Columbia is a must-visit. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, your kids will have a blast while learning about science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) concepts.
Location
EdVenture Children’s Museum is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, just a few blocks from the State House. The address is 211 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201. The museum is easily accessible by car, bus, or bike, and there are plenty of parking options nearby.
Exhibits
EdVenture Children’s Museum has three floors of exhibits that are designed to engage and inspire kids of all ages. Here are some of the highlights.
World of Work: This exhibit allows kids to explore different careers and learn about the skills and tools needed for each job.
My Backyard: Designed for toddlers, this exhibit features a treehouse, a garden, and a playhouse where little ones can explore and play.
Wags & Whiskers: This exhibit is all about animals, from pets to wildlife. Kids can learn about animal care, veterinary medicine, and even dress up as their favorite animal.
The Great Outdoors: This exhibit lets kids experience the natural world through interactive displays and hands-on activities.
Eddie: This 40-foot-tall statue of a young boy welcomes visitors to the museum and is a popular photo spot.
In addition to these exhibits, EdVenture Children’s Museum also offers special events and programs throughout the year, including summer camps, birthday parties, and field trips. Check their website for more information and to plan your visit.
South Carolina Aquarium
If you’re looking for an educational and fun experience for your kids, the South Carolina Aquarium is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of Charleston, this aquarium is home to nearly 5,000 animals, representing over 60 species of wildlife.
Location
The South Carolina Aquarium is situated at 100 Aquarium Wharf in Charleston, South Carolina 29401. This location is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available nearby. If you’re taking public transportation, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) offers several bus routes that stop near the aquarium.
Marine Life
The South Carolina Aquarium is known for its diverse marine life exhibits. One of the most popular exhibits is the Great Ocean Tank, which houses a variety of sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. Visitors can also explore the Saltmarsh Aviary, which features birds and reptiles native to the Lowcountry.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the aquarium also offers seasonal and temporary exhibits. These exhibits change throughout the year, so be sure to check the aquarium’s website for the latest updates.
The South Carolina Aquarium is a great place to take your kids for an educational and interactive experience. With its diverse marine life exhibits and convenient location, it’s sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages.
Huntington Beach State Park
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day outdoors with your kids, Huntington Beach State Park is a great destination. With its 2,500 acres of land, 3 miles of pristine coastline, and a freshwater lake, there’s plenty to see and do here.
Location
Located at 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576-5064, Huntington Beach State Park is just 18 miles away from Myrtle Beach. The park is easily accessible by car and there’s ample parking available.
Outdoor Activities
Huntington Beach State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities that your kids will love. Here are some of the top things to do:
- Beach Activities: The park’s 3 miles of beachfront is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. There are also designated areas for fishing and surfing.
- Nature Trails: The park has several nature trails that are perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail is a popular choice for families.
- Atalaya Castle: Atalaya Castle is a historic castle located within the park. It was built in the 1930s and has 30 rooms. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the castle and learn about its history.
- Camping: The park has several campsites that are perfect for families who want to spend the night. The campsites are equipped with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings.
- Picnicking: There are several picnic areas within the park that offer stunning views of the ocean. The picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills.
- Fishing: The park has several designated areas for fishing. Visitors can fish for a variety of species including flounder, red drum, and bluefish.
Huntington Beach State Park is a great place to take your kids for a day of fun in the sun. With its beautiful beaches, nature trails, and historic castle, there’s something for everyone here.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
If you are looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination in South Carolina. With a variety of aquatic exhibits and interactive activities, this aquarium is a great place to spend a day with your family.
Location
Located at 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC, Ripley’s Aquarium is easy to find and accessible for visitors. There is ample parking available, and the aquarium is open 365 days a year, so you can plan your visit at your convenience.
Aquatic Exhibits
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of aquatic exhibits that will fascinate your kids and teach them about the wonders of the ocean.
Dangerous Reef: Walk through an underwater tunnel and get up close and personal with sharks, stingrays, and other dangerous predators.
Rainbow Rock: See a variety of colorful fish and coral reefs in this vibrant exhibit.
Ray Bay: Touch and feed stingrays in this interactive exhibit.
Friendship Flats: Meet and greet with a variety of sea creatures, including horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and more.
Living Gallery: Learn about the diverse marine life found in the Carolinas, including seahorses, jellyfish, and octopuses.
In addition to these exhibits, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for kids, including behind-the-scenes tours, sleepovers, and more.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational day out. With a variety of aquatic exhibits and interactive activities, your kids will learn about the wonders of the ocean while having a blast.
Hollywild Animal Park
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, Hollywild Animal Park is definitely worth a visit. Located in Wellford, South Carolina, this family-oriented park has been offering an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike for over 27 years.
Location
Hollywild Animal Park is located at 2325 Hampton Rd, Wellford, SC 29385, USA. The park is easily accessible by car and there is ample parking available on site.
Animal Encounters
One of the highlights of Hollywild Animal Park is the opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals. The park offers a variety of animal encounters, including feeding the giraffes, petting the baby goats, and even holding a baby kangaroo.
These experiences are a great way for kids to learn about different animals and their behaviors in a safe and controlled environment.
In addition to the animal encounters, the park also offers guided tours that take visitors on a journey through the park’s various habitats. During the tour, you’ll learn about the different animals that call the park home and their natural behaviors.
Hollywild Animal Park is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational day out. With its variety of animal encounters and guided tours, your kids are sure to have a blast while learning about the animals and their habitats.
Myrtle Waves Water Park
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to cool off during a hot summer day, Myrtle Waves Water Park is one of the best places to take kids in South Carolina. This 20-acre park has more than 30 water rides and slides for the whole family to enjoy. Here is some information about the location and water rides at Myrtle Waves Water Park.
Location
Myrtle Waves Water Park is located at 3000 Mr. Joe White Ave, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. It’s easily accessible by car or public transportation. The park is open from May to September, and the hours of operation vary depending on the day and time of year. You can check their website for specific information about hours and admission prices.
Water Rides
Myrtle Waves Water Park has a wide variety of water rides and attractions that are suitable for all ages. Here are some of the most popular rides and attractions at the park.
Turbo Twisters: These are two enclosed tube slides that twist and turn before dropping you into a pool below.
Riptide Rockets: These are two high-speed body slides that drop you into a pool at the bottom.
Snake Mountain: This is a giant water play structure that has multiple levels and more than 20 water features, including slides, waterfalls, and dumping buckets.
Bubble Bay: This is a shallow pool that is designed specifically for toddlers and young children. It has many attractions for entertainment, including water sprays and fountains.
Tsunami: This is a massive wave pool that generates waves up to 7 feet tall. It’s a great place to cool offand have some fun in the sun.
Myrtle Waves Water Park is a great place to take kids in South Carolina. With its wide variety of water rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Carowinds
If you’re looking for a theme park that offers something for everyone in the family, Carowinds is the place to be. With more than 60 rides, including some of the best roller coasters in the country, Carowinds is a popular destination for families with kids of all ages.
Location
Carowinds is located on the border of North Carolina and South Carolina, just off Interstate 77. The park is easily accessible from Charlotte, NC, and Rock Hill, SC. The address is 300 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273.
Thrill Rides
Carowinds is known for its thrill rides, and it’s easy to see why. The park is home to Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, and other popular coasters like Intimidator and Afterburn. But don’t worry if you’re not a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions too.
Here are some of the most popular thrill rides at Carowinds.
- Fury 325: The world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, reaching speeds of up to 95 mph and heights of 325 feet.
- Intimidator: A steel coaster that reaches speeds of up to 75 mph and heights of 232 feet.
- Afterburn: A steel inverted coaster that reaches speeds of up to 62 mph and heights of 113 feet.
- Nighthawk: A flying coaster that reaches speeds of up to 51 mph and heights of 115 feet.
- Carolina Cyclone: A classic looping coaster that reaches speeds of up to 41 mph and heights of 92 feet.
Carowinds also has a large water park called Carolina Harbor, which is included with admission. The water park features a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of water slides for all ages.
Carowinds is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. With a variety of rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts on 8 Best Places to Take Kids in South Carolina
South Carolina is a great place to take your kids for a fun-filled vacation. With so many family-friendly activities and attractions to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. From the beautiful beaches of Myrtle Beach to the historic city of Charleston, there’s something for everyone in this great state.
During your visit, be sure to check out some of the top-rated destinations such as the EdVenture Children’s Museum, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, and Cypress Gardens’ Butterfly House. These attractions offer a unique and educational experience that your children are sure to love.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, consider visiting the charming town of Aiken or the beautiful Edisto Island. These destinations offer a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
No matter where you choose to go, South Carolina is certainly one of the best places to take your kids for a vacation they’ll never forget. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy. So start planning your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Palmetto State!
Frequently Asked Questions about the 8 Best Places to Take Kids in South Carolina
What are the top kid-friendly hotels in South Carolina?
What are some affordable family vacation packages in South Carolina?
South Carolina offers a variety of affordable family vacation packages that can fit any budget. Some of the popular options include Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Charleston. These destinations offer a range of activities, from beach fun to historical tours, that are perfect for families. You can also find great deals on hotels and resorts, especially during the off-season.
South Carolina has many kid-friendly hotels that offer amenities such as pools, game rooms, and children’s programs. Some of the top options include Dunes Village Resort in Myrtle Beach, Wild Dunes Resort in Isle of Palms, and Kiawah Island Golf Resort. These hotels offer activities for kids of all ages and are located in areas with plenty of family-friendly attractions.
What are some fun places to go with family near South Carolina?
If you’re looking for some fun places to visit near South Carolina, consider destinations such as Asheville, NC, Atlanta, GA, and Savannah, GA. These cities offer a range of attractions, including museums, parks, and historical sites, that are perfect for families. You can also find outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking in the nearby mountains and rivers.
What are some kid-friendly day trips in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers many kid-friendly day trips that are just a short drive from South Carolina. Some of the popular options include the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, and the Discovery Place Science Museum in Charlotte. These destinations offer a range of activities, from animal encounters to interactive exhibits, that are sure to keep the whole family entertained.
What are some kid-friendly towns near South Carolina?
If you’re looking for some kid-friendly towns near South Carolina, consider destinations such as Blowing Rock, NC, Greenville, SC, and Aiken, SC. These towns offer a range of family-friendly activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as charming downtown areas with shops and restaurants.
Is South Carolina a good place for a family vacation?
Yes, South Carolina is a great place for a family vacation. With its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and family-friendly attractions, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled trip, South Carolina has it all.
