Looking for affordable fall fun with your kids in Charleston?
🍁 Whether you’re staying close to home or exploring a little farther out, there are tons of things to do that won’t break your budget. From historic walks to nature trails, free museums, and local parks, here are our favorite fall day trip ideas for under $30 for a family of 4 — and yep, most are totally free!
Walk the Waterfront & Explore Downtown Charleston
Cost for family of 4: Free
Take in the breeze at Riley Waterfront Park, swing on the big benches, snap a family photo at the famous Pineapple Fountain, and walk the Battery. The cobblestone streets and rainbow-colored buildings are extra lovely in the fall.
- Stroller-friendly
- Free parking nearby if you’re willing to walk a bit
- Great spot for a DIY family photo shoot!
Visit Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island
Cost for family of 4: Free
This enormous 400-year-old oak tree is a Charleston favorite — and completely free to visit. There are picnic tables, shaded spots, and plenty of open space for little ones to stretch their legs.
- Bathrooms available
- Bring snacks or a picnic!
Get the whole story on the Angel Oak Tree in the story about our visit.
Play + Picnic at Hampton Park
Cost for family of 4: Free
This large, shady city park has gorgeous walking paths, a duck pond, wide-open lawns, and one of Charleston’s best playgrounds.
Hampton Park
- Free parking
- Stroller-friendly trails
- Restrooms are available
Annie’s Hot Donuts & Free Play Area
Cost for family of 4: ~$12–$18
Treat your family to fresh, hot donuts at Annie’s — with special fall flavors right now like Apple Cider donuts– then let the kids burn off the sugar in their free indoor play area! Great for younger kids or as a reward after a morning at the park.
- Donuts are $1.50–$2.50 each
- Coffee & cider drinks available
- Play area is 100% free
📍 Annie’s Hot Donuts, 1247 Ben Sawyer Boulevard, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
🕙 Open 7-3 Monday through Sunday
Get the whole scoop on our visit to Annie’s Hot Donuts
Beach Walks in the Fall (Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island)
Cost for family of 4: Free
Cooler temps make the beach even better in fall. You can walk the shoreline, collect shells, and enjoy the sea breeze without crowds. Parking is free in many off-season areas.
- Pack a towel or chairs and go barefoot
- Skip the beach shops and bring your own snacks
Here’s a rundown of our favorite family beaches for kids in Charleston, SC.
Free Museums & Learning Spots
Cost for family of 4: Free
Want something educational and kid-friendly? These Charleston museums are free to visit and perfect for curious kiddos:
- North Charleston Fire Museum — See historic fire engines, hands-on exhibits, and a fire truck simulator! Great for preschoolers and elementary-aged kids.
- Mace Brown Museum of Natural History — Fossils, dino teeth, megalodon jaws. Located on the College of Charleston campus.
- Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art — Rotating exhibits, modern art, and a quiet space to walk through with older kids.
Nature Trails + Parks for Fall Weather
Cost for family of 4: Free
Fall is the perfect time to head outside without melting in the heat. Try:
- James Island County Park (entry fee only if driving in: $2/person)
- West Ashley Greenway — Wide, flat path great for walking or biking
- White Point Garden at the Battery — Cannons, shady oak trees, and a little history lesson built right in
Local Fall Festivals & Events
Cost for family of 4: Varies, often Free
Charleston hosts some awesome family festivals in the fall! Look for:
- MOJA Arts Festival (September–October): Free cultural performances, kids’ activities, and outdoor events.
- Harvest festivals hosted by churches, libraries, and community centers — many offer free admission + free candy! Find some great options on our Kidding Around Charleston community submitted calendar!
Bonus Picks (Sometimes Under $30 If Your Kids Are Young!)
These are higher-cost outings but can still fall under $30 for families with babies, toddlers, or discounts. Worth keeping on your list!
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
Cost: $13–15 per person
Free for kids under 1
Check out our full story on the Children’s Museum of Lowcountry
- Advanced Admission: $13 per person
- At the door: $15 per person
- Children under 12 months: Free
- SNAP/WIC: $3 per person
So for a family with a toddler under 1, your cost could be just $39–$45 total. If you catch a discount day, it might come down to $30 or less!
West Farm Corn Maze (Moncks Corner)
Cost: $10 per person (ages 3+ on weekdays)
Free for children under 3
Located just outside Charleston, West Farm has:
- A large corn maze
- Pumpkin patch
- Photo spots and farm-themed games
- Weekday admission is $10/person for everyone age 3 and up
We always have a great time playing at West Farm! Our story has all the details.
So, for a family of 4 with one child under age 3, your total is $30 on a weekday. If you have older children, it’ll cost a bit more. Super fun and budget-friendly if you can go midweek!
Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch
Cost: $15 per person (ages 3+)
Free for kids under 2
One of the biggest fall festivals in the Charleston area, Boone Hall’s Pumpkin Patch includes:
- A large corn maze
- Petting zoo
- Live music, inflatables, and hayrides
- Tons of fall photo ops
Cost can add up quickly — but if your kids are under 3, admission is free for them, and a family of 4 might squeeze in for $30 (or a bit more).
Here’s our full story on Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch and Fright Nights.
Quick Tips to Stay on Budget
- Pack snacks or lunch to avoid pricey vendors
- Use resident discounts at museums or parks
- Combine a free event with one low-cost activity
- Check local event calendars for free admission days
Looking for More Fall Family Fun?
🍂 Want to plan more budget-friendly adventures near Charleston? Let us know in the comments what your family loves — or explore even more fun in our Fall Guide to the Lowcountry!
