The Charleston Museum

America's first museum welcomes families with the exceptional Kidstory exhibit, where children don colonial-era clothing, explore a hands-on discovery room, and experience what daily life was like for Charleston children in the 1700s. Beyond the interactive exhibit, families can explore natural history displays, Civil War artifacts, and a fascinating Egyptian mummy that captivates young imaginations.

• ✓Kidstory hands-on exhibit with colonial dress-up clothes and interactive discovery room
• ✓Ancient Egyptian mummy that fascinates children of all ages
• ✓Natural history displays featuring local wildlife and fossils
• ✓Civil War artifacts and weapons that engage history-loving kids
• ✓Replica of the CSS Hunley submarine model

1. 1.Head straight to the Kidstory exhibit when you arrive, as it can get crowded with school groups during weekday mornings,afternoons are typically quieter.
2. 2.Parking is available in the museum's lot on Ann Street (just behind the building), which is much easier than searching for street parking in this busy area.
3. 3.Combine your visit with tickets to the museum's historic houses (Heyward-Washington House and Joseph Manigault House) for a discounted combo ticket.
4. 4.The museum shop has excellent educational toys and books about Charleston history that make great souvenirs.
5. 5.Bring a camera,kids love posing in the colonial costumes in Kidstory and with the Egyptian mummy display.

Visit on weekday afternoons (after 1 PM) or Sundays to avoid school field trip crowds. Weekday mornings from September through May can be busy with organized groups. The museum opens at noon on Sundays, making it a perfect after-lunch activity.

Admission is typically $15 for adults and $10 for children (ages 3-12), with children under 3 free. The museum is fully accessible, has public restrooms, and allows small snacks in designated areas but no full meals inside.

The museum is open year-round and climate-controlled, making it an excellent rainy day or hot summer afternoon activity. The museum occasionally hosts special holiday events and summer camps,check their website for seasonal programming.

Walk two blocks to Dave's Carry Out (casual comfort food with chicken tenders and mac & cheese kids love) or head to Sesame Burgers & Beer on Meeting Street for gourmet burgers with a dedicated kids menu in a relaxed atmosphere.