Charleston: A Southern Family Adventure on a Budget
Charleston: Discover Southern charm and create lasting memories for the whole family.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Charleston, United States offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture. Explore the enchanting streets of downtown Charleston, visit the sprawling plantations that provide a glimpse into the region's past, and embark on a thrilling boat tour to catch a glimpse of dolphins and other marine wildlife. With its beautiful beaches, delectable cuisine, and numerous kid-friendly activities, Charleston promises an unforgettable family adventure.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the whimsical Vendue Inn, housed in a restored 1780s warehouse, where the rooms boast antique furnishings and modern comforts.
- Embark on a horse-drawn carriage tour through the cobblestone streets of the historic district, led by a friendly storyteller who spills the secrets of Charleston's past.
- Wander through the colorful and aromatic Charleston City Market, where local artisans display their crafts, from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry.
- Visit the historic Boone Hall Plantation, with its majestic oak trees and manicured gardens that transport you to a bygone era of Southern charm.
- Feast on Lowcountry cuisine at Hominy Grill, where the shrimp and grits will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
- Start the day with a leisurely stroll along The Battery, a seawall promenade lined with graceful antebellum mansions and picturesque views of Charleston Harbor.
- Head to Sullivan's Island, where pristine sandy beaches beckon for sandcastle building and lazy sunbathing, and fortifications from the Civil War add intrigue.
- Embark on a pirate-themed adventure at the Charleston Pirate Tours, where your pint-sized privateers will learn about the city's buccaneer history.
- Indulge in an ice cream cone or two at the charming Jenny's Homemade Ice Cream, where inventive flavors like lavender honey and bourbon vanilla abound.
- Savor a seafood feast at Fleet Landing Restaurant, overlooking the water, as you feast on buttery shrimp and expertly prepared fish.
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, where vibrant blooms, tranquil ponds, and an Audubon swamp garden await your exploration.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque streets of Rainbow Row, a row of pastel-colored Georgian-style townhouses that will make you feel like you're walking through an artist's palette.
- Discover the unique charm of the Charleston Tea Plantation, America's only working tea garden, and sip on refreshing samples while learning about the tea-making process.
- Dine at Husk, a farm-to-table restaurant where Chef Sean Brock showcases the best of Southern cuisine, from crispy fried chicken to decadent shrimp and cornbread.
- Toast to an unforgettable trip at The Rooftop at The Vendue, where you can sip on creative craft cocktails while soaking in breathtaking views of Charleston's skyline.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Charleston, United States by plane is to fly into Charleston International Airport. There are many airlines that offer direct flights to Charleston, including Delta, American Airlines, and United.
Car
Driving to Charleston is a great option, as the city is easily accessible via the I-26 and I-526 highways. There are also many rental car companies that operate out of Charleston International Airport.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Charleston, so it is not possible to get here by train.
Boat
Charleston is located on the coast, so it is possible to arrive by boat. Charleston Harbor provides a popular docking location for cruise ships, and there are also many marinas where you can dock your own boat or rent a charter.
Bus
Taking a bus to Charleston is a great option, with Greyhound being the most popular bus company that offers trips to the city. The Greyhound station is located downtown and offers connections to many other destinations throughout the country.