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Aug 25, 2016

When you’re traveling with kids, the activities and places to see are often quite different from what you’d see on a vacation with adults. Check out some of these kid-friendly activities in and around Orangeburg, South Carolina, so everyone in your family can enjoy the trip.

Orangeburg County Aquatic Center

Taking the kids to a swimming pool might seem like a daunting task, but it’s one of the best ways to cool down on a hot day and allow them to burn off some of their extra energy. Located on St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg, the aquatic center has a lazy river, rain drop fall, two slides for all ages, spider spray play area, and a bowl slide. Younger kids will enjoy playing in the tot pool, which also has its own small slide.

You can reserve the group pavilion if you’re hosting an event, or simply pick up munchies and drinks at the on-site snack bar. YMCA members get in free, and the cost of admission for non-members is $4 for kids. It opens in mid-June and closes after Labor Day.

EdVenture Children’s Museum

Located in Columbia, the EdVenture Children’s Museum is about 40 miles from Orangeburg, and it’s well worth the trip. The purpose of each exhibit within the museum is to create new generations of lifelong learners. In addition to exhibits, kids can participate in camps dedicated to specific topics and themes.

Admission is $11.50 for adults and kids ages three and up and $10.50 for seniors ages 62 and older, members of the military, and educators. If you’re coming with a group of 15 or more, make a reservation and save an extra $3 off each child or adult admission. Eddie is one of the main attractions: the world’s largest 10-year-old boy.

Orangeburg County Fair

If you’re in the area during the first week of October, be sure to visit the county fair. It includes crafts, livestock competitions, live music and other entertainment, food and drinks, midway games, and carnival rides, so there is truly something for everyone. On Monday through Thursday it’s open from 5:00–10:30 p.m. and it stays open until 11:00 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday it’s open from 11:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. and on Sunday you can go between 1:00 and 7:00 p.m.

Santee State Park

Spending time outdoors is often a favorite pastime of families since the kids can explore and have adventures. Santee State Park is a great spot to visit, with biking and hiking trails for people of all ages and skill levels. Some of the trails are paved so you can take a stroller on them. If you plan to spend the night, reserve a campground in the park and get a little closer to nature. Or you can also reserve one of the 10 cabins within the park. The Village Round is a community building that also includes an enclosed area for grilling.

Skip the typical activities this weekend and instead have fun together as a family at one of these cool locations.