PLAY TIME
Get back in the swing of things with family outings that will have your brood exploring, learning, challenging themselves, and just plain having fun!
Take Flight
Well worth the drive to Awendaw, the Center for Birds of Prey hosts nearly 50 species of raptors—the collection is one of the largest and most diverse in the US and includes more than a dozen varieties of owls alone. The coolest experience that regularly has kids of all ages awestruck is the flight demos in the outdoor amphitheater, featuring untethered hawks, kites, falcons, and eagles performing their natural hunting techniques. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. 4719 N. Hwy. 17, Awendaw. Thursdays & Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. $20, $15 youth. thecenterforbirdsofprey.org (opens in a new tab)
Make the Climb
Many visit the 643-acre James Island County Park for its biking trails, crabbing dock, and Splash Zone water park. For those looking to reach new heights, it also boasts one of the Lowcountry’s tallest outdoor climbing walls, towering at 50 feet with more than 4,500 square feet of climbable surface. Bring your own gear or rent a harness at the nearby Rock Shop, then work with knowledgeable guides to develop your technical skills. Look for the periodic “Intro to Climbing” classes ($20). Advance registration & masks required. 871 Riverland Dr., James Island. Daily, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. $12. ccprc.com (opens in a new tab)
Zip Along
Always wanted to glide through the treetops? Charleston Zipline Adventures in Awendaw offers a canopy tour through 10 acres of unspoiled forest. Soaring 65 feet up in the air, you’ll move from platform to platform via seven zipline cables with stops on three towers, three swinging bridges, and a grand finale ride of more than 750 feet nonstop. Tours are led by trained guides who do all the “clipping,” letting you fully enjoy the exhilaration and views that come with the “zipping.” 1152 Guerins Bridge Rd., Awendaw. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $79 per person. charlestonzipadventures.com (opens in a new tab)
Hike Through History
Gather your brood and head to Old Santee Canal State Park for a deep dive into Lowcountry natural history. Located along the backwaters of Biggin Creek at the southern end of the nation’s first summit canal, the 195-acre park offers a maze of trails and four miles of swamp boardwalks where naturalists lead guided walks for groups of 10 (preregistration required). Take a break at stops like the Interpretive Center for a look at 6,000 years of local history. 900 Stony Landing Dr., Moncks Corner. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Park admission is currently waived. oldsanteecanalpark.org (opens in a new tab)
Go Fish
Part of the Memorial Waterfront Park complex, the 1,250-foot Mount Pleasant Pier stretches into Charleston Harbor near the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge—plenty of room to cast a line or two. Rent rods and pick up some bait at the pier tackle shop, then claim your spot to reel in flounder, sea trout, and more. Are you and your crew showing promise? Keep practicing for the Cast Off Fishing Tournament (September 11), open to adults and little ones alike. Harry M. Hallman Jr. Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m., $5, $4 active military, $3 seniors & kids 12 & under. ccprc.com (opens in a new tab)
Kid Around
Stretch, breathe, and laugh alongside the resident baby goats during 60-minute outdoor vinyasa yoga classes at The Goatery at Kiawah River. This experience allows yogis of all ages and levels to enjoy the company of four-legged friends and mindful exercise while maintaining social distancing. Let your stress go and get ready for baby goat nuzzles, then stick around for a farm tour. Check the schedule and purchase tickets online. 3883 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy., John’s Island. Days & times vary. $25. thegoateryatkiawahriver.com (opens in a new tab)
Learn the Ropes
Do your kids have you climbing the walls? Have them climbing the ropes instead. The outdoor adventure courses at James Island’s Wild Blue Ropes are designed for all ages and abilities to promote physical activity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Beginners can take on the Explorer’s Gateway for an easy hour of fun, while those seeking a challenge can navigate the Ninja-Fit Course, based on obstacle courses designed for TV show American Ninja Warrior. 1595 Highland Ave., James Island. Thursdays & Fridays, noon-7 p.m. & Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $19-$45. wildblueropes.com (opens in a new tab)
Play Ball
The boys of summer are back! Charleston RiverDogs fans can enjoy a full lineup of reduced-capacity home games featuring the local Low-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays at their home stadium, Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park this season. While the RiverDogs batter up against rivals at The Joe, grab a Southern-inspired beef hot dog topped with pickled okra and cole slaw, or the stadium’s signature shrimp burger. Find ticket packages, as well as a range of fun promotions online, but note Fireworks Fridays to end the game with a bang. 360 Fishburne St. Days & times vary. $8-$18. riverdogs.com (opens in a new tab)