Inside: A list of things to do with teens in Charleston, SC; tested and teen-approved.
Teens looking for things to do in Charleston, SC? Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, crave cool hangouts, or just want to eat all the desserts, Charleston has something for every teen — and their grown-ups, too!
Here’s your local-style guide to teen-approved things to do in Charleston.
Outdoor Adventures for Active Teens
1. Cypress Gardens
3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Paddle a boat through the dreamy blackwater swamp where The Notebook was filmed! Teens can spot turtles, birds, and maybe even gators. There’s also a Butterfly House, Swamparium, and trails to explore. It’s a cool mix of nature and adventure just outside Charleston.
Want to know more? We went kayaking at Cypress Gardens, check out our review!
2. Paddleboarding at Folly Beach
Charleston Paddleboard Company
8 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Let teens paddle alongside dolphins and sea turtles while soaking up the sun on Folly Beach.
Paddle tours, rentals, and more at Folly Beach
3. Kayaking on Shem Creek
Coastal Expeditions
514 Mill Street, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Spot dolphins, paddle through scenic marshes, and maybe grab lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants after your tour.
Kayak on Shem Creek
4. Biking the Ravenel Bridge
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
Access from East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
A thrilling ride with panoramic views — the bike and pedestrian path is wide, safe, and perfect for active teens.
Or, for a different kind of ride, head to Daniel Island. Visit parks, stop for lunch or a snack, and enjoy the coast!
5. Charleston Aqua Park
3050 Marlin Road, Johns Island, SC 29455
Bounce, slide, and splash your way through a floating obstacle course AND a water ropes course! Open to ages 6+, this seasonal water park is teen-tested and full of laughs.
Thinking about a visit? We have all the details in our real parent review of Charleston Aqua Park.
6. Boneyard Beach on Bulls Island
Accessible via ferry from Garris Landing, Lighthouse Roadd, Awendaw, SC 29429
Boneyard Beach is a wild, otherworldly stretch of shoreline filled with sun-bleached driftwood and ocean views. To get there, you’ll take a scenic ferry ride with Coastal Expeditions, followed by a short hike through maritime forest. It’s peaceful, eerie, and perfect for nature-loving teens.
Want to know more? Check out our visit to Bulls Island’s Boneyard Beach.
7. Barrier Island Eco Tours
50 41st Avenue, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Hop aboard a guided eco-boat tour to explore Capers Island and the salt marshes around the Isle of Palms. Teens will love spotting dolphins, pulling crab traps, and learning about marine life. Tours include beach walks, wildlife spotting, and even sunset cruises.
My family has been on Barrier Island Eco Tours several times for homeschool trips and its definitely a favorite of our teens.
Barrier Island Eco Tours
Dive into History and Culture
8. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
40 Patriots Point Road, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Explore the massive USS Yorktown, hop in fighter jet cockpits, and experience life aboard a historic aircraft carrier.
Read all about one of our visits to Patriots Point & Maritime Museum.
9. International African American Museum
14 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401
A powerful and interactive museum sharing the stories, struggles, and achievements of African Americans. Teens will walk away inspired and informed.
International African American Museum
10. Charleston City Market
188 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Explore local vendors, find sweetgrass baskets, and try local treats in this vibrant open-air market that’s full of local flavor and history.
Unleash Creativity
11. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art
161 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
A rotating collection of thought-provoking art exhibits perfect for teens interested in creativity and design at the College of Charleston.
Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art
12. Redux Contemporary Art Center
1056 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
From hands-on classes to studio visits, Redux offers art experiences teens can engage with, not just look at, like making stained glass.
Redux Contemporary Art Center
Teen-Approved Eats & Fun
13. Ashley Lanes Tavern
1568 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard, Charleston, SC 29407
Looking for a place to bowl, snack, and chill with friends? Ashley Lanes Tavern is your go-to hangout. With 24 lanes, bumpers if you want them, and cool lighting, it’s the perfect spot for casual games or full-on family bowling battles. They’ve got pizza, burgers, and super good desserts — plus plenty of space to kick back between turns. It’s a great rainy day or Friday night pick for teens.
Ashley Lanes Tavern
14. Carmella’s Café & Dessert Bar
198 East Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
End your day with a sweet treat at this popular dessert café. Cannoli, gelato, and epic cake slices make it a favorite stop.
We got this delicious chocolate peanut butter cake.
Carmella’s Cafe
Evening Entertainment
15. The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre
164 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
Catch a comedy-mystery show where the audience helps solve the case. It’s interactive, silly, and great for family laughs.
Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre
16. Ghost Tours in Downtown Charleston
A variety of locations and tour hosts
Spooky stories, historic buildings, and a dash of drama — Charleston’s ghost tours are a nighttime hit with teens.
Sound like a fun idea? You’ll want to read this: ➡️ Here’s our story on Haunted Ghost Tours with Sandlapper Water Tours in the Charleston Harbor
Charleston is full of fun, history, and hands-on experiences teens will actually enjoy. From the eerie beaches to energetic art spaces, it’s a city that encourages curiosity and makes room for play — no matter how tall your kids are getting.
What’s your family’s favorite teen activity in Charleston? Share your adventure with us — and keep exploring!
