Charleston with little kids
 

Hi all,
You've been a wealth of information in the past and I'm hoping the trend continues! We're staying in Folly Beach for a week in mid-May. We plan some beach time but really picked it for the close proximity to Charleston. I've only visited once before (and loved it) but this was BC (before children). We now have a 4 yr old and a 10 mo old (who will be 13 mos when we visit). Can anyone suggest some activities that the parents will love in the area that are kid friendly too. I know about the Low Country Childrens Museum. Has anyone been there? What did you think? Also my DH has never been and he's definately a history buff-any specific suggestions? Thanks so much.

Well, as a history buff, he can't miss the Fort Sumter tour. Since it's a fort, it's buit around a "courtyard", so it wouldn't be a problem having the kids with you -- you can take turns being in the buildings, and watching them outside.

Another great choice is a walk along the Battery just to ogle the mansions, some of which are open for tours, but I'm not sure whether children are welcome. Also, it's a long walk -- will your 4-year old sit in the stroller when he/she gets too tired to walk?

Don't forget the Aquarium. It's gorgeous.

The children's museum, next to the main Visitors' Center between King and Meeting St. on John St. is wonderful. Perfect for a 4 year old. We take our grandchildren every time we are in Charleston. Don't miss it.

Our 4 yr old is a big fan of the stoller so walking won't be a problem (for her at least)! Being from the landlocked midwest, we try to indulge in fresh seafood whenever possible on vacation-any suggestions for good family friendly seafood restaurants? Also, last time we visited Middleton Place, are there other plantations worth a visit or are they all pretty much more of the same?

ttt

The previous suggestions are great. You might want to visit the Angel Oak. Pics of your little ones with this magnificent tree would be great! The fountain at Waterfront Park and the end of Vendue Range is popular with kids when they get too hot and tired - it's chlorinated water; pack a towel, some extra clothes and some water shoes in the stroller. You might like a carraige ride. In the middle of May they are having rice planting demos at middleton place, and the animals would be fun for the kids, but I see that you've already been. Since your oldest is just 4, you might want to pass on this anyway.

I'm sure your kids will love the beach at Folly! There are some casual dining places there. I don't know if you are staying in the hotel or in a house/condo/villa. If you have kitchen facilities, there are several grocery stores nearby. You'll be there right at the beginning of the shrimp season so I don't know how much local fresh shrimp will be available, but you should be able to get fresh crabs.

May 14 is a Shaggin on the Pier night. This might be fun if you're there...

http://www.charlestonlowcountry.com/...ghtmixers.html

As for other restaurants - most places are pretty accepting of kids, especially if you dine on the earlier side. Calling ahead for reservations or wait times is probably a good idea with small kids. If you give us an idea of the kind of food and budget, etc. I'm sure specific recommendations will follow.

Thanks for the great suggestions. We're staying at a condo right by Bert's Market if that makes sense. It's supposedly right across the street from a beach access. Our tentative plan is to spend the morning out and about with lunch out and then head back to the beach in the afternoon (or nap for the baby). I'm thinking that dinner will likely be in Folly or at the condo most nights. We're pretty open to any type of restaurant but don't want what we can get at home. I know Jestine's is definately on the list. Any seafood place recommendations would be great too. The kids are pretty good in restaurants usually. We're also travelling with my brother and his girlfriend who we plan to hit up for a night of babysitting so a nice restaurant in Charleston for the 2 of us would be a welcome suggestion as well. I know last time I ate at SNOB and liked it. That's an option but others are welcome as well.
Thanks!

PS, we arrive on the 14th and Shaggin on the Pier looks fun! Thanks for the tip.

ttt

I like eating at California Dreaming at the marina at sunset. They are part of a regional chain and are not especially known for seafood, but the food is good. The music is good and there is a great view. It is on the Folly side of Charleston.

Thanks Palmettoprincess. Any other tips?

Hello swalter - It all depends on when you're coming since many of these are seasonal but here are some good ones. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, Thriller (fast boat ride in harbor), Charleston County Park water parks (Wannamaker Park has best one), USS Yorktown (WWII aircraft carrier that you can tour), Dolphin cruises, Eco-Tours to Capers Island.

There are some really good suggestions and links on http://www.travelerofcharleston.com - which is a local travel magazine. Hope this helps