‘School’s out for the summer!’ The kids are home and the temperatures are rising, but that doesn’t mean we need to sit inside and twiddle our thumbs. It’s time to explore. It’s time to play. It’s time to splash. Let’s dive into all the things Mount Pleasant has to offer to keep our kids occupied and having fun while staying cool all summer-long.
First, let’s talk about the water. There are so many great ways to explore the Lowcountry in and around the water.
Beach It
Grab a towel, pack a picnic and head to the beach. Honestly, family time should be simple so there’s no need to overthink the beach. Encourage exploration with a net, scoop up my family’s favorite — the Surfer Dude beach toy at Wonderworks — or pack a ball for creative games like beach golf or bowling.
Get Out on the Water
Whether you are chartering a boat, buying a ticket for Charleston Water Taxi or Daniel Island Ferry or belong to a boat club, there is something incredibly peaceful about being on the water. Kids love seeing our town from the water, and there are so many options to experience it. Looking to slow things down a bit? Try renting a stand-up paddle board or kayak for the day.
Palmetto Islands County Park
How lucky are we to have an incredible water park right in the heart of Mount Pleasant? Splash Islands Waterpark is located inside Palmetto Islands County Park and is open daily after June 8. Everything from pools to slides will keep your kids cool and smiling.
Take a Break From the Sun
And we are fortunate to live in a place that’s jam-packed with indoor activities to keep the kids cool and playing day after day. You can play indoors in style at Sky Zone, Crush Yard, Charleston Fun Park and MIX (older kids) all in Mount Pleasant. If you’re willing to drive a little farther, it’s worth checking out Bizzy Bee, OutSlide In and Summit and Flight adventure parks. All of these ignite creativity, spark imaginative play and get the wiggles out.
Feeling Artsy?
Get those creative juices flowing at spots like The Art Place Studio or Beads & Brushstrokes, where your little Picassos can let their imaginations run wild. And for some hands-on fun, check out Nailed It DIY for wood décor or Oyster Candle Company for candle-making workshops – talk about a unique souvenir!
The Fun Doesn’t Stop There
Don’t miss out on budget-friendly activities like $1 movies at Regal, where you can entertain family without breaking the bank. Be sure to check the full schedule and plan a Tuesday in the A/C.
When it comes to keeping the kids cool and happy during the scorching summer months in Mount Pleasant, there’s no shortage of sweet treats to enjoy. Start by visiting hotspots like Dulce Churros, Ice Cream and Cocktails, where myriad flavors of creamy gelato await, or The Dolly Llama, where inventive ice cream creations are served up with a side of whimsy. For a taste of nostalgia, head to Pitt Street Pharmacy, where old-fashioned milkshakes are hand-spun to perfection, while Izzy’s Scoops & Sweets offers a playful shop and convenient location.
And if it’s classic favorites you’re after, Pelican’s SnoBalls, Ben and Jerry’s and Sweet Frogs all deliver with their signature frozen treats. But for the ultimate sugar rush, look no further than The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar, where towering shakes topped with every imaginable indulgence promise to satisfy even the most insatiable sweet tooth. Grab your spoons and prepare to cool off in the most delicious way possible – because in Mount Pleasant, every day is a perfect day for ice cream.
When in doubt, swing by your local library for story time, scavenger hunts or computer games. Pair it with a lunch outing, and it’s a perfect morning if you ask me.
Make a short trip over the Ravenel, and you can cool off while exploring the wonders of the sea at the South Carolina Aquarium or play interactively and spark curiosity at The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.
When you’re ready to cool off without leaving the comfort of home, why not set up some backyard fun with sprinklers, water balloons and homemade slip ‘n slides? It’s a simple yet thoroughly entertaining way to beat the heat and make memories together.
So there you have it – a summer survival guide for keeping your kids cool in the Lowcountry, without breaking the bank. Whether you’re soaking up sun at the beach, getting creative indoors or planning budget-friendly outings around town, fun-filled adventures abound. Happy exploring!
By Katie Finch
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