HISTORIC DISTRICT. The oldest museum in the United States, the Charleston Museum was founded in 1773. The museum includes interesting exhibits that portray the colorful history of the Lowcountry as well as a popular interactive children's area. The museum is open 7 days a week. The Charleston Museum also owns and operates the Heyward ­ Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House, and combination tickets are available: Museum only $10, House only $10; Two sites $16, three sites $22.

DOWNTOWN. You'll find no "Do Not Touch" signs at this museum! Kids learn best though hands-on activities, and they can do that here as they explore a castle, gardens, waterworks, a supermarket, and more. There's even an exhibit devoted to shrimping, a familiar livelihood in the Lowcountry. Special classes and events just for youngsters are scheduled throughout the year.

NORTH DOWNTOWN. If you want to learn more about the history of the Military College of South Carolina and Corps of Cadets, this is the place to start. Exhibits range from 1842 to present.

DOWNTOWN. Officially called the Charleston United Daughters of the Confederacy Museum, this historical collection is located inside Market Hall, and contains excellent exhibits of Confederate memorabilia.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. The Gibbes Museum of Art displays mostly American pieces dating back to the 16th century. Peale, Sully and West are just a few of South Carolina's famous artists whose works are housed here.