Summerville, SC, is a quaint little town often overlooked as a tourist destination. However, this city has something for everyone: outdoor activities, history, and art. There are plenty of things for you and your loved one to enjoy when visiting Summerville in the summertime! Whether you’re looking for an escape from the city or enjoy the sun and fun, there are many museums in Summerville, SC, that will keep you busy all afternoon.
Summerville Dorchester Museum
The Summerville Dorchester Museum is a small, historical museum that tells the story of the area’s past. The museum was founded in 1975, and it has since been restored to look like it did when first built in 1892. It was originally used as a schoolhouse and then later became a library before becoming abandoned until its restoration in 1975.
The hours and days of operation vary depending on the season; please check their website for more information.
The best time to visit this museum is during its annual Christmas Open House held each December with festive decorations surrounding antique carousel rides, Santa Claus meet-and-greets, crafts workshops and live music performances from local artists like Carolers & More or Hand Bell Ministries Children’s Choir (both fabulous!). You’ll also get discounted admission if you come dressed up as an elf!
North Charleston Fire Museum
This museum is interesting because it showcases the history of firefighting in North Charleston, which makes for a great story about how much has changed since then—and how much hasn’t! You’ll learn about different equipment used by firefighters over time (and what it looked like), as well as some other facts about their job duties and responsibilities back then compared to now with all the new technology available to them nowadays (namely drones).
In addition to learning all this valuable information about both past and present life experiences within this profession field at North Charleston Fire Department Headquarters’ headquarters location nearby the downtown area; visitors will also get access to see vintage fire trucks parked outside while visiting inside an old truck garage building converted into museum space where there are various exhibits showcasing different types machinery used throughout history.
Drayton Hall
Drayton Hall is one of the oldest remaining rice plantations in South Carolina. It was built by Thomas Drayton in 1738, who was also a planter and politician. It was designed by an English architect named William Jay (not to be confused with William Jay, son of John Jay).
The plantation is open for tours on weekends from February through December. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes from 9:30 am-3 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays (11 am-3 pm during the summer). Still, you can wander around at any time during your visit if you want to take photos or explore on your own.
Charleston Museum
As the oldest museum in South Carolina, the Charleston Museum has been a prized learning and cultural center for locals and visitors alike. The collection features artifacts from across the state, including Native American relics and military items. If you’re looking for something more hands-on, there are plenty of activities to choose from. You can even participate in after-hours programs like “The Science of Cocktails” or “Toys: Then & Now.”
The best time to visit is during lunchtime when crowds tend to thin out – but if you want some company, stick around after dinner when locals start pouring into the area for drinks at nearby restaurants or bars (and hopefully not driving).
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a great place to take children of all ages (and adults, too). Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children. The museum is open from 10 am until 5 pm, with extended hours on Thursday evenings until 8 pm.
The museum has been around since 1982 and features over 100 hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to learn while they play! There are activities in every area of interest, from science experiments to arts & crafts projects.
