about CML
The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is a nonprofit, community-based organization with the mission to create innovative learning experiences in our museum and throughout our community that equip and inspire all children to become creative problem solvers.
hours of operation
admission
Admission is free for members and children before their first birthday, $13 for SC Residents, and $15 for non-SC Residents. Museums for All admission is $2/person (you will also need to submit proof of current SNAP, Medicaid, or foster family status). You may leave and return again on the same day by showing your ticket.
We are happy to offer a 10% discount on admission for educators, seniors over 65, and all military personnel with current ID.
Please Note:
- Adults may only enter the museum with children and children may not enter the museum without adults.
- Adults must remain with their children at all times.
- Groups may receive discounted admission with early reservations by emailing Andrew
- We all love our pets, but CML is only able to welcome trained service animals to the museum.
accessibility
Restrooms are wheelchair accessible. Service animals are welcome.
CML is typically quieter during school on weekday afternoons.
Families with children with special needs can visit the museum FREE during SuperStars Sundays. Held on the second and fourth Sundays of every month from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, children are their families can explore and PLAY throughout the museum while it is quieter. For more information, click here.
hungry?
CML offers a variety of snacks and drinks to cure those mid-morning and mid-afternoon cravings.
Hint: You can always pack a lunch and eat outside at a picnic table! There are also a number of delicious restaurants within walking distance.
your comfortable clothes
CML hosts a full Art Room and many interactive rooms. While we have smocks and our paint is washable, you may want to leave your Sunday’s best at home…
museum photography & videography policy
CML routinely takes images and videos for use by new media as well as in marketing and promotional materials and on CML’s web and social media platforms. Please be advised that promotional images, video, and audio may be captured during your visit to the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Entrance to the Museum constitutes acceptance of this policy. If your likeness cannot be used for CML promotional purposes, please alert the CML Front Desk staff upon arrival.
group visits
Groups of 15 visitors or more may be eligible for a group discount if registered in advance. A grown-up-to-child ratio of 1:5 and a credit card to hold the reservation are required. Click here for more information.
where to park
The Visitor’s Center Parking Garage and the Camden/Exchange Parking Garage are located near the Museum. The garages cost $2.00/hour and accept cash and credit cards.
The City of Charleston provides a number of metered parking spaces around the Museum for $2/hour.
Hint: The meters accept change or credit cards for up to two hours at a time – and the meter maids around town take their jobs very seriously!
what to do when you get here
The museum has seven interior exhibit galleries and a backyard full of hands-on interactive exhibits that are sure to keep your family engaged in playful learning for hours. The museum is self-guided and encourages family interaction and imagination.
Hint: We suggest starting in the Art Room, that way all masterpieces can dry before it is time to go home.
Hint: Look for themed books in each interactive – perfect for quiet time!