HOW TO SPEND TWO DAYS IN CHARLESTON with kids (family friendly itinerary)
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After our son returned from serving two years in Afghanistan, we decided to road trip with him as he moved to his new duty station in North Carolina. On the way, we took the long route back to Dallas and stopped in Charleston, Savannah, Atlanta, and some meaningful Civil Rights landmarks in Alabama.
Charleston ended up being one of our favorite stops. This coastal South Carolina city is compact, walkable, and full of charm. With cobblestone streets, Antebellum mansions, and family-friendly attractions, Charleston is one of the best cities in the U.S. for a quick getaway. If you’re planning 2 days in Charleston with kids, this guide will help you hit the highlights without feeling rushed.
HOW TO GEt to charleston
Charleston, South Carolina is easy to reach thanks to Charleston International Airport (CHS), which is serviced by all major U.S. airlines. If you’re already road-tripping along the Southeast, consider pairing Charleston with Savannah, Georgia (which is what we did) it’s only a two-hour drive away and makes for a perfect family travel combo.
Where to Stay in Charleston
When traveling with kids, location matters. Staying in the Historic District of Charleston means you can walk to most attractions and avoid the hassle of parking. Here are some family-friendly hotels (and how to book with points & miles if you’re into rewards travel):
We used points to stay free at the Hyatt Place Charleston
Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District - The hotel is located in the Upper King Historic District and just a short walk to the French Quarter and Battery. It is adjoining the Hyatt House hotel and both hotels share a large dining room for breakfast and rooftop bar and indoor pool.
Standard award nights book for 12k points/night for a two queen plus sofa bedroom
Full breakfast
Valet parking is $32/day with in and out privileges. There is a city owned parking garage next door.
Hyatt House Charleston Historic District - As I mentioned above, this property is connected to the Hyatt Place and they share common spaces including parking, checking, dining room, pool, etc. Rooms are different here as they have a full kitchen and I couldn’t find rooms that fit five.
Standard award nights book for 15k points/night for a king room plus soft and full kitchen
Free Breakfast
Valet parking is $32/day with in and out privileges. There is a city owned parking garage next door.
OTHER POINTS HOTELS IN CHARLESTON
Hyatt House Charleston Historic District – suites with kitchens, great for families (15k points/night).
Courtyard Charleston Historic District (Marriott) – outdoor pool, 48k points/night.
Embassy Suites Historic District – two-room suites, free breakfast & evening reception, 70k Hilton points/night.
Courtyard Charleston Historic District - This Marriott property is located in the heart of the historic city center and kids will love that it has an outdoor pool. Cash rates start at over $400/ night so this is a great place to use your 50k night award if you hold the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card.
Standard award night books for 48k points for a two queen room
On-site restaurant
Parking: Valet $37 a day
All information about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card has been collected independently by Points for Family Travel. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Embassy Suites Charleston Historic District - I’m including this one because it’s in a great location and I love Embassy Suites for family trips. This hotel has an outdoor pool as well. You can earn Hilton points from several cards like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
GETTING AROUND CHARLESTON
HOW TO GET AROUND CHARLESTON
Most of the main sights are walkable if you are staying in the historic district. For sights that are further apart, just hop on the DASH which is a FREE Hop on Hop off shuttle that has three different routes from one end of the historic district to the other. You can locate the route maps here. To access the beaches, plantations and Cypress Gardens you will need a car.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON
Charleston is packed with family-friendly things to do. Here are our favorite activities for a 2-day itinerary:
Explore the Historic District
Walk along King Street for shopping, visit the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and stop by Philadelphia Alley, a historic dueling site. Charleston’s famous Palmetto palms line every street, making even a simple stroll an experience.
Visit Fort Sumter
Take a boat ride to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Admission to Fort Sumter is free, but you must purchase a ticket for the boat ride/tour. Don’t miss the short Ranger-led tour when you arrive, it sets the stage perfectly for kids.
See Rainbow Row
These pastel-colored Georgian houses (83-107 E Bay St) are one of Charleston’s most photographed spots. Visit during the day and again at dusk when the gas lamps are glowing, it’s magical.
Splash at Pineapple Fountain
Located in Joe Riley Waterfront Park, this fountain is Instagram-famous and kid-approved (ours loved splashing here to cool off). Parking is tricky, so take the DASH shuttle instead or walk.
Walk Battery Park & The Promenade
A free, relaxing way to take in Charleston’s Antebellum mansions and harbor views. Perfect for a family stroll.
One of the many antebellum homes along Battery Park
Cypress Gardens
Kids will love this 180-acre preserve with its blackwater swamp and moss-draped cypress trees. If it looks familiar, you may recognize it from The Notebook.
Boone Hall Plantation
Known for its history and focus on the life of the enslaved. Don’t miss the Slave Cabins exhibit and presentations on Gullah culture. The Avenue of the Oaks driveway is breathtaking.
Charleston City Market
Built in the 1800s, this indoor market is a great place to support local artisans and escape the summer heat.
Head to the Beach
After sightseeing, reward the kids with beach time! We drove to Isle of Palms, just 30 minutes away, and picked up towels and sand toys at Target for a spontaneous beach day.
Visit the Angel Oak Tree
Located just outside Charleston, this 400-year-old live oak is one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the U.S. Put it on your list if you have a car.
Try a Carriage Ride
This is one of the most popular things to do in Charleston, but I must admit I was really on the fence about doing this. We had never done a carriage ridge before and I was really concerned about the heat and the condition of the horses. We did last minute research and found a carriage company that reports that they give their horses breaks, take their temperatures, etc. and we made the decision to do it.
Because there are so many horse pull carriage companies in Charleston, they have divided the historic district by routes. You have no idea which route your carriage will be on until you are on board and the driver pulls up to the “lottery window” where they are handed the route they’ll take. Ours was not the route that goes down to Battery Park by the mansions, but it was very interesting.
Charleston Travel Tips for Families
It’s hot! Charleston summers are hot and humid. Start sightseeing early, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
Wear comfy shoes – cobblestones + heels = no fun.
Parking is tough – leave the car at the hotel and walk or use the free DASH shuttle.
Pair your trip – if you have more time, combine Charleston with Savannah for the ultimate Southern road trip.
Charleston is one of those cities that feels like stepping back in time while still being incredibly kid-friendly. With just 2 days, you can experience history, culture, food, and fun without overwhelming the kids (or yourself!).
If you’re planning a family trip, this Charleston itinerary with kids is the perfect starting point.
Happy Travels!