Family Attractions in South Carolina

Bringing the kids along? The whole family is sure to find entertainment at countless family-friendly attractions in South Carolina. For family fun, let Choice Hotels help you find the perfect attraction for your next family adventure.

In the Waterfalls & Whitewater Region

Anderson County Museum
202 E. Greenville Street
Anderson, SC   29621
864-260-4737

Educational opportunities abound for the whole family at the Anderson County Museum, where families will eagerly learn about the local history of the area through interactive exhibits which are sure to dazzle and entertain.

South Carolina Botanical Garden
Clemson University
102 Garden Trail
Clemson, SC   29634
864-656-3405

The official state botanical garden of South Carolina, this 295 acre public garden offers sculptures made out of living plant material, a Geology museum, the Frans Hansen Discovery Center, a French Huguenot historic home from 1716, a butterfly garden, a wild-flower meadow, and so much more. End your day at the Garden Gift Shop, where you can take home items crafted by regional artists.

In the Lakes & Blackwater Rivers Region

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site
181 Redcliffe RD
Beech Island, SC   29842

This is one of the most famous plantations in the state of South Carolina, containing a wealth of historic gems depicting a piece of the state’s economic history. “Cotton is king,” declared a South Carolina congressman in the mid 1800’s, right around the time this plantation was built. Enjoy the history of the site, and afterwards learn more at the plantation’s very own museum.

South Carolina State Museum
301 Gervais Street
Columbia, SC   29201
803-898-4969

One of the most fascinating displays of history is exhibited for your eager eyes at the South Carolina State Museum. Experience the state of South Carolina in all its beauty and diversity at this museum, which depicts the past of South Carolina through interactive displays which will engage even the most jaded of minds. Ride a train, stroll alongside a massive beach diorama, and more - all within the museum’s walls.

Carriage Museum at Rye Patch
100 Berrie Road
Aiken, SC   29801
803-642-7631

Bring the family to experience a day spent in the company of some of the grandest carriages the world has ever seen. The Carriage Museum at Rye Patch is one of the only institutions in the country dedicated solely to the showcasing of this fascinating amenity of days past. Learn about vintage carriages and more at the museum.

Boyd Observatory
SC 302
Aiken, SC   29802
803-642-0314

This state-of-the-art observatory has been one of the showcases of the town of Aiken ever since its inception. As such, it’ll afford the entire family the perfect chance to gaze into the stars seamlessly. With as clear a night sky as the town of Aiken provides you’ll want to make a stop over to the observatory the first chance your family can get.

In the Islands & Coast Region

South Carolina Aquarium
350 Concord Street
Charleston, SC   29413
843-720-1990

Visit South Carolina’s most visited attraction, featuring thousands of creatures of the sea in full living display. Watch creatures like sharks in their natural habitats as they display their marine agility, or view the adorable river otters as they frolic and charm guests of all ages. This is one South Carolina attraction the family won’t want to miss out on.

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
25 Ann Street
Charleston, SC   29403
843-853-1042

This interactive children’s museum, one of the finest in the state of South Carolina, features exhibits tailored to those with fewer years of age than the rest of us. Little people of up to 12 years of age will enjoy the educational and experiential trappings found at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, including a wonderful interactive exhibit depicting life on a Shrimping boat.

Pirates Watch
15th Avenue South at Kings Highway
Myrtle Beach, SC   29577
843-448-8600

Who doesn’t love miniature golf? There’s little doubt that nobody in the room’s raising their hands, which is why we know it’s a good idea to treat the family to a day of fun at Pirates Watch, which features two 17-hole miniature golf courses, both with pirate-themed settings. Ahoy, matey, and don’t forget to par accordingly!

Ripley’s Aquarium
1110 Celebrity Circle
Myrtle Beach, SC   29577
800-734-8888

This state-of-the-art aquarium showcases some of the most beautiful sea creatures. Watch jellyfish as they float to and fro, examine sharks and see if they really are as ferocious as they’re known to be, or get up-close-and-personal with the ocean as you hold a starfish in your hand. The possibilities are endless, and it all begins with a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium, located in beautiful Myrtle Beach.

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