It may seem like a suburb of Charleston, but on its own, “Mt. P.” is the fourth largest city in the state. Areas like the Old Village and Shem Creek are among the most historic and charming; and the density of families means that kids’ activities abound, like exploring the U.S.S. Yorktown at Patriots Point (www.patriotspoint.org) or the playground at Memorial Waterfront Park (pictured above), with a pier where shag-lovers can dance in the breeze (www.ccprc.com).
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On the Water
Few things spark pure joy in children like a water slide. Splash Island at Palmetto Islands County Park (pictured above) boasts a 200-foot flume, plus shorter slides, geysers, waterfalls, and a “cyclone swirling water ride.” Admission is cheap at $7, and lifeguards are on duty, so parents can find a lounge chair and relax while everyone stays cool and entertained. 444 Needlerush Pkwy., www.ccprc.com
Explore Nature
Off the coast from northern Mount Pleasant is Bulls Island, part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. This primordial wonderland is accessible via the Bulls Island Ferry (pictured above) from Garris Landing in Awendaw, departing Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The $40 round-trip fare includes an interpretive guide from Coastal Expeditions during the boat ride and access to miles of beach you’ll have all to yourself, including a stunning boneyard beach where the ocean has overtaken the maritime forest. In the inland impoundments, you’re virtually guaranteed to see gators. To take full advantage of a day on Bulls, make a reservation to bring along a bicycle with sturdy tires suitable for off-road riding. www.bullsislandferry.com
Cool Off Indoors
When it comes to fun potential, a giant room full of trampolines is hard to beat. Sky Zone features basketball hoops for flying dunks, a dodgeball area, trampoline volleyball, and a pit full of foam blocks for soft landings. In the evenings, lasers and black lights transform the space into a jumping disco party. 411 Wando Park Blvd., skyzone.com
Events
Barn Jams at Awendaw Green (pictured above):
The heart of the music scene is found out in the country at this weekly outdoor concert at the Sewee Outpost in Awendaw. A $5 admission fee gets listeners at least four touring and local performers on the namesake rustic stage. Wednesdays, 6-10 p.m. 4853 U.S. 17 North, awendawgreen.com
Party at the Point: Through June 29
Each Friday evening, bands perform at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, where you can enjoy cocktails and the shows, as well as awesome harbor views.
June 8: Guilt Ridden Troubadour & Sideshow Americans
June 15: Reggae Night with The Dubplates
June 22: 20 Ride, a Zac Brown Tribute
June 29: Sol Driven Train with Sally & George
20 Patriots Point Rd., www.facebook.com/partyatthepointcharleston
Eat & Drink
Johnny’s Hot Dogs: Many locals find it difficult to pick up a box of nails at Royall Ace Hardware without also stopping by the attached stand for a sandwich or hot dog. If you’re headed to Sullivan’s, it’s a perfect spot to grab a quick lunch. 883 Ben Sawyer Blvd., www.facebook.com/johnnyshotdogs
The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene (pictured above): It’s a pleasure to wait for a table at this old-school fried seafood joint on Shem Creek—grab a cold beer and check out the shrimp boats docked on the water. Once you’re seated, take in the rustic surroundings with a bowl of boiled peanuts before indulging in a platter of shrimp or scallops. 106 Haddrell St., www.wreckrc.com
Mainland Container Co.: If traffic on the way to Sullivan’s discourages you, pull into this newcomer with plenty of outdoor seating just across the bridge. The modern menu of tuna poke, local shrimp, and small plates fits the casual vibe. 1528 Ben Sawyer Blvd., www.mainlandcontainerco.com
Pitt Street Pharmacy: The Old Village’s throwback pharmacy serves locally made Wholly Cow Ice Cream at its classic soda fountain. A small milkshake rings up at $2.25, and a malt will only set you back $3.50. 111 Pitt St., www.pittstreetpharmacy.com
Pro Tip
Go on a cocktail sail with friends on the Palmetto Breeze catamaran, which heads out of Shem Creek for harbor tours with themes, like “Margarita Mondays” and “Sangria Sundays” each day. www.aqua-safaris.com
