Welcome to Charleston, SC – The perfect destination for your next family vacation!
Charleston, SC is a charming and historic city that offers something for everyone. From stunning architecture to delicious food, there is no shortage of things to see and do. But what makes Charleston truly special is its family-friendly atmosphere. best family hotels in charleston sc. In this Insider’s Guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best family hotels in Charleston, SC, as well as some activities and attractions that are perfect for families.
Why Charleston is a great destination for families
Charleston is an ideal destination for families because it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun. With a wealth of museums, parks, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or enjoying some time on the beach, Charleston has it all.
How to choose the perfect family hotel in Charleston
Choosing the right family hotel in Charleston can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that you find the best fit for your family.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Family Hotel in Charleston
Choosing the perfect family hotel in Charleston can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many options available. To ensure that you select the best hotel that meets your family’s needs and preferences, here are some important factors to consider:
Location and proximity to attractions
When traveling with kids, choosing a hotel that is conveniently located near the main attractions is essential. You don’t want to waste precious time commuting to and from your hotel. Therefore, consider booking a hotel that is within walking distance or a short drive from popular family-friendly attractions such as The Charleston City Market, The South Carolina Aquarium, The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, and Fort Sumter National Monument.
Room size and amenities
Family hotels should offer spacious rooms that can comfortably accommodate everyone in the family. Look for hotels that offer family suites, connecting rooms or apartments with separate living areas. You’ll also want to ensure that the room amenities meet your family’s needs. Some of the essential amenities to look for include air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave, a TV, and free Wi-Fi.
Kid-friendly features and services
A family hotel should have plenty of kid-friendly features and services to ensure that your children have a memorable experience. Look for hotels that offer amenities such as a kids’ pool, a children’s playground, a game room, babysitting services, and kids’ menus in their restaurants. Some hotels also offer kid-centric activities, such as storytelling sessions, scavenger hunts, and movie nights.
Safety and security measures
When traveling with kids, safety should be a top priority. Ensure that the hotel you book has adequate safety measures such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Additionally, look for hotels that have a 24-hour front desk and security personnel.
Accessibility for guests with disabilities
If you have family members with disabilities, it’s essential to ensure that the hotel you book can cater to their needs. Look for hotels that offer accessible rooms, wheelchair ramps, and elevators.
Reviews and ratings from past guests
Finally, don’t forget to check the hotel’s online reviews and ratings from past guests. This will give you an idea of what to expect and help you make an informed decision. Look for hotels with high ratings and positive reviews from families who have stayed there before.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect family hotel in Charleston that caters to your family’s needs and preferences.
Top Family Hotels in Charleston, SC
Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing a family hotel in Charleston, let’s take a closer look at some of the best family-friendly accommodations in the area.
Belmond Charleston Place
Belmond Charleston Place is one of the top family hotels in Charleston, SC. This luxurious hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Charleston and is just a short walk away from many of the city’s top attractions. Here are some of the features that make Belmond Charleston Place a great choice for families:
Room options and amenities for families
Belmond Charleston Place offers a variety of room options that are perfect for families. The hotel’s suites can accommodate families with children, and many of them feature separate living areas and pull-out sofas. The rooms are also equipped with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and luxurious bedding.
Kid-friendly features and services
Belmond Charleston Place offers several amenities that are designed with kids in mind. The hotel’s rooftop pool is a great place for families to cool off on hot days, and the hotel also offers a kids’ menu at several of its restaurants. Babysitting services are also available upon request.
Location and proximity to attractions
Belmond Charleston Place is located in the heart of downtown Charleston, which means that many of the city’s top attractions are just a short walk away. The hotel is located near the Charleston City Market, the South Carolina Aquarium, and several historic landmarks.
Reviews and ratings from past guests
Belmond Charleston Place has received excellent reviews from past guests, who have praised the hotel’s luxurious amenities, friendly staff, and convenient location. The hotel has received a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor and is consistently ranked as one of the top hotels in Charleston.
Overall, Belmond Charleston Place is a great choice for families who are looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay in Charleston. With its comfortable rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and central location, this hotel is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for your family vacation.
Wild Dunes Resort
Wild Dunes Resort is another top family hotel in Charleston, SC. This oceanfront resort is located on the Isle of Palms, just a short drive away from downtown Charleston. Here are some of the features that make Wild Dunes Resort a great choice for families:
Room options and amenities for families
Wild Dunes Resort offers a variety of accommodations that are perfect for families, including suites and villas. The resort’s two- and three-bedroom villas are particularly popular with families, as they offer plenty of space and full kitchens. The rooms are also equipped with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding.
Kid-friendly features and services
Wild Dunes Resort offers several amenities that are designed to keep kids entertained during their stay. The resort has two outdoor pools, including one with a waterslide and splash pad. The resort also offers a kids’ club and a variety of outdoor activities, such as beach volleyball and bicycle rentals.
Location and proximity to attractions
While Wild Dunes Resort is located on the Isle of Palms, it is still within easy driving distance of many of Charleston’s top attractions. The resort is located near the Fort Sumter National Monument and several golf courses, and downtown Charleston is just a 30-minute drive away.
Reviews and ratings from past guests
Wild Dunes Resort has received excellent reviews from past guests, who have praised the resort’s family-friendly amenities, beautiful location, and helpful staff. The resort has received a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor and is consistently ranked as one of the top resorts in Charleston.
Overall, Wild Dunes Resort is a great choice for families who are looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation in Charleston. With its spacious accommodations, kid-friendly amenities, and beautiful location, this resort is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for your family.
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina is a luxurious family-friendly hotel that is perfect for families looking for a relaxing getaway. This hotel is located on Patriots Point, just across the harbor from Charleston’s historic district, and offers stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and downtown skyline.
Room Options and Amenities for Families
The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites that are perfect for families. All rooms and suites feature a balcony or terrace with harbor or pool views, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding. The suites also offer a separate living area with a sleeper sofa, dining table, and kitchenette.
Kid-Friendly Features and Services:
The hotel offers a range of kid-friendly amenities and services, including a children’s play area and a children’s menu at the restaurant. The hotel also offers a seasonal Kids’ Club, which provides supervised activities and games for children ages 4-12.
Location and Proximity to Attractions:
The hotel is conveniently located near many of Charleston’s top attractions, including the South Carolina Aquarium and Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to downtown Charleston, making it easy to explore the city’s historic district.
Reviews and Ratings from Past Guests:
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina has received high praise from past guests for its spacious and comfortable rooms, stunning views, and excellent service. Guests have also raved about the hotel’s convenient location and kid-friendly amenities.
Overall, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina is a top choice for families looking for a luxurious and kid-friendly hotel in Charleston.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is another excellent option for families visiting Charleston, SC. This luxurious resort is located on a private island and features stunning ocean views and a wide range of amenities for guests of all ages.
Room options and amenities for families:
The Sanctuary offers a variety of spacious rooms and suites that can accommodate families of all sizes. Families can choose from rooms with one king bed or two queen beds, as well as suites with separate living areas, dining rooms, and even kitchens.
Kid-friendly features and services:
The resort has a dedicated kids’ club called “Camp Kiawah” that offers a range of activities for children aged 3-12, including arts and crafts, sports, and nature programs. Babysitting services are also available for an additional fee.
Location and proximity to attractions:
While the resort is located on a private island, it’s only a short drive away from downtown Charleston, where families can explore the city’s historic sites, museums, and restaurants.
Reviews and ratings from past guests:
The Sanctuary has received excellent reviews from past guests, with many praising the resort’s beautiful location, spacious rooms, and top-notch service.
Overall, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an excellent choice for families looking for a luxurious and peaceful getaway in Charleston, SC
French Quarter Inn
Located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, the French Quarter Inn is a luxurious boutique hotel that offers top-notch accommodations and services for families. With spacious and elegantly designed rooms, the hotel provides a comfortable and relaxing retreat for families after a long day of exploring the city.
Room options and amenities for families
The French Quarter Inn offers a variety of room types that cater to families of different sizes. The Queen Deluxe Room, for example, features two queen-sized beds, while the King Deluxe Room has a king-sized bed and a sofa bed. For larger families, the hotel also has the Grand Suite, which has a separate living area and a pull-out sofa bed.
All rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also provides complimentary breakfast, evening wine and cheese reception, and freshly baked cookies and milk before bedtime.
Kid-friendly features and services
The French Quarter Inn is known for its excellent service and attention to detail, especially when it comes to catering to families with children. The hotel provides children with a welcome package that includes snacks, games, and toys to keep them entertained during their stay.
The hotel also offers a “Kids Are VIPs” program, which includes special amenities such as children’s bathrobes, coloring books, and DVDs. The hotel’s concierge team can also assist in arranging child-friendly activities such as carriage rides, beach outings, and museum visits.
Location and proximity to attractions
The French Quarter Inn is located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, within walking distance to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Charleston City Market, the Gibbes Museum of Art, and the Charleston Harbor. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service that can take guests to nearby locations.
Reviews and ratings from past guests
The French Quarter Inn consistently receives high ratings and positive reviews from past guests, with many praising the hotel’s excellent service, luxurious amenities, and prime location. One guest wrote, “The French Quarter Inn is hands down the best hotel we have ever stayed in. The staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and comfortable, and the rooms are simply stunning.”
Overall, the French Quarter Inn is an excellent choice for families looking for a luxurious and comfortable stay in Charleston’s historic district.
Other Family-Friendly Hotels in Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC has plenty of family-friendly hotels to choose from, and we have a few more recommendations for you to consider.
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
Located in the heart of the Historic District, The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel offers a perfect base for exploring the city. The hotel’s charming architecture and elegant rooms will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options.
Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District
The Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and a convenient location. You’ll be just steps away from Charleston’s famous King Street shopping district and a short walk from historic attractions like the Charleston City Market and the Battery. The hotel also features a rooftop pool and bar with stunning views of the city.
The Vendue
The Vendue is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter, just a few blocks from the Charleston City Market. The hotel’s unique art-themed rooms and suites feature original works of art by local artists. The Vendue also offers a rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel
The Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the Historic District. The hotel’s elegant rooms and suites feature plush bedding and modern amenities. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options.
Hampton Inn Charleston – Historic District
The Hampton Inn Charleston – Historic District is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort or convenience. The hotel’s clean and comfortable rooms are equipped with all the amenities you need for a pleasant stay. You’ll also enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, as well as a fitness center and rooftop pool with views of the city.
All of these hotels have excellent ratings and reviews from past guests, and they offer a variety of amenities and features that make them great choices for families visiting Charleston, SC.
Activities and Attractions for Families in Charleston, SC
Charleston is a city full of history, charm, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here are some of the best things to do and see with your family in Charleston:
The Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the country, dating back to the 1790s. Here, you can browse through dozens of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to local food and snacks. Kids will love exploring the market and picking out souvenirs to take home.
The South Carolina Aquarium
Located in downtown Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for families. With more than 60 exhibits, including a touch tank and a sea turtle hospital, there’s plenty to see and do here. Kids will love getting up close and personal with sea creatures like stingrays, jellyfish, and sharks.
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a hands-on museum that offers a variety of interactive exhibits for kids. From a pirate ship to a medieval castle, there’s something here for every child’s interests. The museum also offers programs and classes for kids of all ages.
Fort Sumter National Monument
For history buffs, Fort Sumter National Monument is a must-visit attraction. Located on an island in Charleston Harbor, this historic fort was the site of the first battle of the Civil War. Families can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about the history of the Civil War.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
If you’re looking for a beautiful outdoor attraction to visit with your family, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is the perfect spot. With 60 acres of gardens to explore, including a petting zoo and a nature trail, there’s plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. The plantation also offers guided tours and a boat tour of the nearby rice fields.
Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Located just across the harbor from downtown Charleston, Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a great place for families to learn about naval history. Kids will love exploring the museum’s collection of ships and planes, including the USS Yorktown and a Vietnam-era helicopter.
Tips for Traveling with Kids to Charleston, SC
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a lot of fun. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your family vacation in Charleston, SC:
Pack smart and travel light: When traveling with kids, it’s easy to overpack. To avoid carrying heavy bags around, make a list of essential items and pack only what you need. Don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the kids.
Keep your kids entertained during the trip: Long car rides or flights can be boring for kids, so it’s important to keep them entertained. Bring books, toys, games, or download movies or shows on a tablet to keep them occupied.
Plan your itinerary ahead of time: Charleston offers many attractions and activities for families, but it’s important to plan your itinerary ahead of time. This way, you can make sure you don’t miss any must-see places and avoid wasting time deciding where to go.
Take breaks and rest when needed: Traveling can be tiring for everyone, so it’s essential to take breaks and rest when needed. Whether it’s stopping for a snack, taking a nap, or just sitting and relaxing for a while, make sure to listen to your body and take the necessary breaks.
Be flexible and open to changes: Even with the best-laid plans, things can change, and unexpected events can happen. Stay flexible and open to changes, and be prepared to adjust your itinerary if needed.
Stay safe and practice good hygiene: During your trip, make sure to follow safety guidelines and practice good hygiene to protect yourself and your family. Wash your hands regularly, wear a mask if needed, and maintain social distancing when possible.
Conclusion
Charleston, SC, is a fantastic destination for families, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the historic downtown, relaxing on the beach, or visiting one of the many family-friendly attractions, Charleston has something for everyone.
When planning your family vacation, be sure to consider the factors that are important to you when choosing a family hotel. Location, room size and amenities, kid-friendly features and services, safety and security measures, accessibility, and reviews and ratings from past guests are all crucial factors to consider.
Finally, follow these tips for traveling with kids to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip. By packing smart, keeping your kids entertained, planning your itinerary, taking breaks, being flexible, and practicing good hygiene, you can make the most out of your family vacation in Charleston, SC.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Charleston, SC with kids?
The best time to visit Charleston, SC with kids is during the spring and fall seasons, from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. However, if you’re looking for summer fun, the months of June to August offer plenty of activities and events for families.
Can I bring my pet to family-friendly hotels in Charleston, SC?
Some family-friendly hotels in Charleston, SC do allow pets, but it’s always best to check with the hotel beforehand to ensure their pet policies align with your needs. The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel and the Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel are two hotels that offer pet-friendly accommodations.
Are there any budget-friendly family hotels in Charleston, SC?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly family hotels in Charleston, SC. The Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District and the Hampton Inn Charleston – Historic District are two options that offer comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price.
What are some fun outdoor activities for families in Charleston, SC?
Charleston, SC offers plenty of outdoor activities for families, including visiting the beaches of Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, exploring the nature trails at the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission, and taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic downtown area.
How do I book a family-friendly hotel in Charleston, SC?
Booking a family-friendly hotel in Charleston, SC is easy. You can use online travel sites like Expedia or Booking.com to search for hotels that meet your needs, or you can visit the hotel’s website directly to make a reservation. Be sure to read reviews from past guests and check the hotel’s policies and amenities to ensure it’s the right fit for your family.