Discover the Wonders of Animal Forest in Charleston, SC
Experience the beauty of nature and wildlife at Animal Forest, a captivating park in Charleston, SC, perfect for family adventures and serene escapes.
Nestled in the heart of Charleston, Animal Forest is a captivating park that combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of wildlife. This family-friendly destination offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse animal species in a serene forest setting, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.
A brief summary to Animal Forest
- 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, West Ashley, South Carolina, 29407, US
- +1843-852-4200
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots throughout the park.
- Check the park's event schedule for special programs or educational tours.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the trails can be lengthy.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from downtown Charleston, start by heading west on Broad Street toward King Street. Continue onto US-17 S, following signs for Savannah. Take the exit toward Folly Beach and merge onto SC-30 W. Keep straight for about 5 miles, then take a right onto Old Towne Road. Animal Forest will be on your left at 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407. Parking is available on-site, but be aware that there may be a small parking fee.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach Animal Forest via public transportation, you can take the CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus. Board the Route 10 bus from downtown Charleston at the Visitor Center. Stay on the bus for about 25 minutes until you reach the stop at Old Towne Road. From there, it's a short walk (about 0.3 miles) to Animal Forest. Make sure to check the CARTA schedule for exact timings. The bus fare is typically around $2.00 per ride.
Discover more about Animal Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Follys History Walk
1.5 km
Discover the rich history and captivating stories of Folly Beach on an unforgettable guided tour through its historical landmarks.
Lowndes Grove
2.9 km
Discover the enchanting history and breathtaking beauty of Lowndes Grove, a premier historical landmark in Charleston, SC, perfect for all occasions.
First Memorial Day Historical Marker
3.7 km
Explore the heart of Charleston's history at the First Memorial Day Historical Marker in Hampton Park, a tribute to those who sacrificed for freedom.
The Citadel
3.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of The Citadel, a premier military college in Charleston, South Carolina, where tradition and education converge.
Original Site of Wappoo/The Bluff Plantation (Lucas and Pinckney Families)
3.8 km
Explore the historic Wappoo/The Bluff Plantation, where the legacies of the Lucas and Pinckney families unfold amid South Carolina's natural beauty.
Denmark Vesey Monument
3.9 km
Discover the tranquility and historical significance of the Denmark Vesey Monument in Hampton Park, Charleston – a serene retreat steeped in cultural heritage.
Palmetto Fossil Excursions
4.4 km
Discover the ancient treasures of South Carolina's coast with Palmetto Fossil Excursions – a family-friendly adventure into the world of fossils.
Historic Charleston
4.6 km
Explore Historic Charleston’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture in this enchanting southern city.
Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue
5.3 km
Experience the rich Jewish heritage of Charleston at Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue, a historic Orthodox synagogue steeped in tradition.
Historic Rice Mill Building
5.4 km
Explore the Historic Rice Mill Building in Charleston, where rich history meets stunning waterfront views, perfect for events and weddings.
Hyatt House Charleston/Historic District
5.4 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Hyatt House Charleston, your perfect base for exploring the Historic District's rich culture, history, and culinary delights.
William Aiken House
5.8 km
Discover the William Aiken House, a captivating historical landmark in Charleston, SC, with stunning architecture and rich stories waiting to be explored.
Frankly Charleston Black History Tours
5.9 km
Explore Charleston's rich African American heritage with insightful tours that celebrate the city's cultural history and resilience.
Old St Andrew’s Parish Church
5.9 km
Discover the historical and architectural beauty of Old St Andrew’s Parish Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Charleston, South Carolina.
Lowcountry History Hall
6.0 km
Discover the captivating history of Charleston and the Lowcountry at the Lowcountry History Hall, an essential exhibit for every tourist.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
0.0 km
Discover the birthplace of South Carolina at Charles Towne Landing, where history and nature come together in a scenic state park.
Hampton Park
3.8 km
Explore Hampton Park, a tranquil escape in Charleston, SC, featuring stunning gardens, serene waters, and rich local heritage for an unforgettable experience.
Brittlebank Park
4.1 km
Discover Brittlebank Park in Charleston, a tranquil urban park with stunning waterfront views, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Munkle Brewing co.
4.2 km
Discover the charm of Munkle Brewing Co., Charleston's premier destination for craft beer lovers, featuring a diverse selection and inviting ambiance.
Striped Pig Distillery
4.6 km
Discover the art of craft distilling at Striped Pig Distillery in North Charleston, SC, where Southern hospitality meets artisanal spirits.
Revelry Brewing Co
4.7 km
Explore Revelry Brewing Co, Charleston's premier brewery, offering innovative craft beers in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Palmetto Brewing Co.
4.7 km
Experience the essence of Charleston's craft beer culture at Palmetto Brewing Co., where history meets delightful brews and vibrant community events.
Harborview Charters-Boat Tours
4.8 km
Explore the stunning waters of Charleston with Harborview Charters, your gateway to unforgettable boat tours and fishing adventures in South Carolina.
Pirates of Charleston
4.8 km
Experience the thrill of pirate adventures at Pirates of Charleston, a family-friendly attraction filled with history and interactive fun.
Saltwater Tours
5.1 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit with Saltwater Tours, exploring the stunning coastal beauty and rich marine life of Charleston, South Carolina.
Philip Simmons House
5.6 km
Explore the Philip Simmons House in Charleston, SC, a unique museum celebrating the legacy of master blacksmith Philip Simmons and his exquisite ironwork.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site
5.6 km
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Charleston at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site, an essential stop for every traveler.
Avery Research Center - College of Charleston
5.8 km
Explore the rich tapestry of African American history at the Avery Research Center, a cultural treasure in Charleston, South Carolina.
American Theater
5.8 km
Experience the historical charm and vibrant cultural events at the American Theater, Charleston's premier venue for arts and entertainment.
Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
5.9 km
Unleash creativity and curiosity at the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, an interactive haven for young explorers in Charleston.
Essential places to dine
The Glass Onion
3.0 km
Discover the flavors of Charleston at The Glass Onion – where fresh ingredients meet innovative American cuisine in a charming setting.
Park & Grove
4.0 km
Experience the best of Charleston's culinary scene at Park & Grove - where Southern flavors meet contemporary cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Waffle House
4.3 km
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Lewis Barbecue Charleston
4.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Lewis Barbecue in Charleston - where flavor meets tradition!
Little Jack's Tavern
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Little Jack's Tavern in Charleston - where every meal feels like home.
Maison
4.7 km
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Leon's
4.8 km
Experience the best of Charleston's seafood at Leon's Oyster Shop - fresh oysters and Southern flavors await you!
California Dreaming
4.9 km
Discover California Dreaming in Charleston: An American culinary haven offering delicious seafood and family-friendly dining experiences.
R. Kitchen
5.1 km
Experience New American cuisine at R. Kitchen in Charleston—where local flavors meet culinary creativity in an inviting atmosphere.
Wild Common
5.1 km
Experience innovative cuisine at Wild Common in Charleston, where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity in a charming setting.
Southbound
5.2 km
Discover Charleston's culinary scene at Southbound – where local ingredients meet innovative Southern cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.
Sorghum & Salt
5.4 km
Experience innovative Southern cuisine at Sorghum & Salt in Charleston - where tradition meets modern tapas flair.
The Ordinary
5.5 km
Experience Charleston's finest seafood at The Ordinary - where fresh flavors meet Southern charm in an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
The Darling Oyster Bar
5.6 km
Experience fresh coastal cuisine at The Darling Oyster Bar in Charleston—where every dish celebrates Southern flavors.
The Hut Restaurant
5.7 km
Experience authentic American flavors at The Hut Restaurant in North Charleston - where comfort food meets local charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Island Bazaar
1.8 km
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Architectural Antiques & Design
1.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of architectural salvage and garden antiques in the heart of Charleston, SC, at Architectural Antiques & Design.
Carolina Girls Personalized Jewelry & Gifts
2.8 km
Explore Carolina Girls Personalized Jewelry & Gifts, where unique treasures and personalized jewelry celebrate the charm of Charleston, SC.
Classic Consignments
3.2 km
Discover unique treasures at Classic Consignments, Charleston's premier consignment shop for fashion, furniture, and decor.
Rhodes Home & Gift
4.3 km
Explore the charm of Charleston at Rhodes Home & Gift, where unique treasures await for your home and loved ones.
Rhodes Boutique
4.3 km
Discover unique baby clothing, personalized gifts, and expert embroidery services at Rhodes Boutique in West Ashley, Charleston.
Pluff Mud Mercantile
4.5 km
Explore Pluff Mud Mercantile in Charleston, SC, for unique gifts, artisanal candles, and holistic wellness products that celebrate local creativity.
The Tiny Tassel
5.3 km
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Patina Market
5.4 km
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Something About Me
5.6 km
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Altar'd State King Street
5.7 km
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Two Cumberland
5.8 km
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Ensemble Consignment Boutique
5.8 km
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Farside Vintage
5.9 km
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Closet Case Thrift Store
6.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tin Roof
1.5 km
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R Pub
2.3 km
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The Roost
3.3 km
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Aqua Terrace Roof-Top Bar
4.2 km
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Faculty Lounge
4.4 km
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The Ritz Bar & Grill
4.8 km
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Recovery Room Tavern
5.0 km
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The Royal American
5.0 km
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Elliotborough Mini Bar
5.1 km
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Bar Rollins
5.2 km
Discover Bar Rollins, Charleston's premier wine bar offering a curated selection of wines in a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
Sugey's Bar
5.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Charleston at Sugey's Bar, where craft cocktails and good vibes create unforgettable memories.
Bar George
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Bar George - Charleston's trendy hotspot for drinks and delightful bites.
Bourbon N' Bubbles
5.4 km
Experience the charm of Southern cuisine at Bourbon N' Bubbles, a must-visit restaurant and lounge in the heart of Charleston, SC.
Uptown Social
5.4 km
Experience the heartbeat of Charleston at Uptown Social, where great food, live music, and vibrant nightlife come together in perfect harmony.
Pour Taproom: Charleston
5.4 km
Experience Charleston's craft beer scene at Pour Taproom – a unique self-serve beer garden offering a rotating selection of local brews in a vibrant atmosphere.
