Visiting Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia for Family Fun

Charleston

The Historic Charleston City Market – Here you can find all types of treasures.

Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park – Relaxing on the Cooper River.

South of Broad for a stroll down beautiful blocks of colorful row houses and lush gardens.

King Street for shopping and eating, great boutiques and cafes!

South Carolina Aquarium – An aquarium where you can spot wild dolphins swim in the harbor on the back deck.

Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island Beach – I recommend bringing a chair rather than a blanket to sit on. 

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens or Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – While both have a horrible past, it is essential history to learn about while in Charleston.

Savannah 

Explore downtown River Street and Broughton Street. Both are filled with shops and restaurants.

The Paris Market is one of my favorite shops and has delectable French desserts. You almost forget you aren’t in Paris.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is one of the most beautiful churches.  

Take a break in Forsyth Park.

Tybee Island – Just a quick ride from downtown and has beaches, as well as an 18th-century functioning lighthouse.

Charleston

Another Broken Egg – Extensive breakfast menu. You can even order off-the-menu.

Millers All Day – Adorable spot, creative menu items and serves breakfast all-day.

Mercantile and Mash – Great spot to bring your computer or swing by for a quick lunch.  Salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers and bakery items.

Magnolias – Delicious lunch, go for the fried green tomato sandwich!

FIG – James Beard award-winning neighborhood bistro that has everyone wanting to get  a reservation.

Husk – Downtown restaurant set in a 19th century home with an ever-changing menu and attentive staff. 

Lewis Barbeque – Super casual BBQ with huge portions and good food.

Bistronomy by Nico – French restaurant with a modern twist.

Herd Provisions – Great vegetarian options.

Savannah

The Grey – A must see, eat and drink while in Savannah. An old greyhound bus station that was restored and turned into a restaurant keeping a similar aesthetic. Chef Mashama Bailey received the James Beard 2022 “Outstanding Chef” award.

The Grey Market – Owned by The Grey, the market leg is a tiny lunch counter and grocer with a dine in lunch counter and high top seating.  Perfect for grab and go or a quick bite.

Cotton & Rye – Awesome restaurant for dinner with friends that is fun and creative, and has great cocktails and food.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room – A fixture on historic Jones Street. Strangers share tables eating fried chicken and cornbread.

700 Drayton Restaurant – Upscale southern cuisine at Forsyth Park Hotel. Eclectic, award-winning dining experience.

Leopold’s Ice Cream – A Savannah tradition since 1919. Try the ‘Chocolate Chewies & Cream’ if it’s on the menu.

For more family fun travel, check out Jill's guide on 'Family Adventure to Montreal'.