Hobcaw Barony Children's Programs & The Discovery Center
ADDRESS: 22 Hobcaw Road, Georgetown, SC
PRICE: Discovery Center and Children’s Programming is FREE
MORE INFO: Website
MORE FOR ADULTS: They have so many amazing looking tours that are best for adults and older kids. Will be checking those out soon!
PLAN TO SPEND: The children’s programs last 30 minutes–1 hour. The Discovery Center is small so kids may be done there within 30 minutes. There is a classroom in the back that kids can explore as a part of some programs but don’t count on this being available unless you’re there for a program.
what is hobcaw barony?
Hobcaw is many things but primarily it is a nature reserve dedicated to the preservation of the Waccamaw Neck area. It operates through the Belle Baruch Foundation as a nonprofit and is used for research, education, tours, and more. It is the home to several former rice plantations and many homes, slave villages, cemeteries, and other history is preserved on this land.
They offer an interesting array of tours and programming so be sure to check with them often to take advantage!
things to know...
1. The children’s programs are really great. We’ve been here for a school field trip and for the Feeding Frenzy program. Both were excellent. The staff are truly exceptional and take so much time to get to know the kids and interact with them to ensure they feel comfortable and learn!
2. The classroom/learning zone in the back is cool. This area is not open to the general public but when a portion of the program requires that you go back there it’s very cool to see! There is an alligator and a snake plus lots of specimens and other educational materials. There is even a sand sensory play bin that always entices my kids.
3. The Discover Center is fun but small. This area has a touch tank and several fish. There is lots of other info on coastal habitat and the Winyah Bay area in particular. It’s informative but small so young kids might run out of things to do/see here quickly.
4. The area just outside is worth exploring too. There are historical placards, junk art, and some pretty flowers to explore just outside the Discovery Center.
5. Keep an eye out for their programming. Keep an eye out for the children’s program options. They don’t do a whole lot of them but I feel confident that they’re all really well done.
6. The rest of Hobcaw is more friendly to kids 7+. Most of the historical tours of Hobcaw Barony require that kids are at least 7 years old to enjoy. They are a bit longer and some are more physical. We haven’t done any of these but I’m anxiously awaiting my oldest to turn 7 so we can explore it!
what else is nearby?
Hobcaw is located just above Georgetown so you could drive on down there to enjoy a day shopping along the Harborwalk. There are some fun parks and great dining there too. Check out our Georgetown Day Trip.
You could also drive back up to Pawleys Island and spend the day there!