The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773 to document the emerging treasures of the New World. Today, the imposing brick building houses a large collection of Charleston furniture, silver, and Lowcountry textiles, making it a good place to learn about life in the British colonies. In addition, the natural history exhibit has massive skeletons of prehistoric animals and fossils—a hit with kids—and the Kidstory exhibit offers hands-on interactive displays created just for children.
Also on-site are two historic properties: the Heyward-Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House. Each of these sites requires a separate entrance ticket; bundled admission, which includes a tour, is available at a discounted rate. Overall museum admission is free for holders of the Charleston Tour Pass.