Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum is one of the most unique and wonderfully laid out museums. It is perfect for families, and includes a wildlife exhibit that is one of a kid. Featuring rare bones of an extinct specie of bird and drawings of the famous American Naturalist, Mark Catsby.



Circular Congregational Church Bible c. 1760

George Washington's Christening Cup

Me in a hoop skirt, grown ups gotta have fun to :)

Silverworks Room in Charleston Museum

Silver Work and More

Upon walking into the museum, one can look up and see the bones of a huge whale hanging from the ceiling. Children are instantly drawn to all the attractions around them, and families will be ready to explore all the museum has to offer. Walk up the stairs to view a grand chandelier, sign the guest book, and take a left to start the journey through the museum.
The first exhibit viewing to the left is a mass collection of silver work, as well as some wood work dating back to the 1600s. A Bible from the Circular Congregational Church of Charleston dating back to the 1760s. Take a moment to view the many snuff boxes, including Edward Rutledge's (signer of the Declaration of Independence). From there take in the work of the silversmith's from centuries ago, and be sure to view the Christening cup of America's first Commander in Chief, George  Washington. The silver gallery truly shows the riches of Charleston. It is a great start to the tour.

Textiles

The next stop after viewing a 17th century table and 18th century clock and other collectibles is, textiles. Leading to the display of clothing and quilts is a textile wall for children, and a few hoop skirts for children and adults to try on. In fact, parents can enjoy looking at the silver work while the kids make their own quilt on the textile wall.
After making a quilt and transporting back to the 19th Century by way of the hoop skirt, view the clothes dating from 18th to 20th century. The clothes are beautiful, but one piece that stuck out while touring was the Bethlehem Star Quilt. The Quilts are absolutely amazing. To think of the time and work that went into each patch is nuts. Currently, May 5th-December 9, 2012, the textile gallery is featuring Geometric quilts.
The next stop on the journey (a must for kids of all ages) is, THE KID MUSEUM!!!

The Kid Museum (Kidstory)
Charleston Museum's Kid Museum is totally awesome. Start by taking a right and listening to a story from a slave, Indian, and patriot. Then walk through the door of a small replica of the Heyward-Washington House. The children will learn the story of the Heyward-Washington children, experience the music and culture of the time, discover toys and games from the 18th century, try on colonial clothes, and can even light the fire place (it's electric).
After exploring the house, climb aboard a ship to experience the journey to a new and unknown world. Discover what was really in the barrels on the ship, the instruments and tools used by sailors, and raise the jolly roger to set sail on the ocean blue.
From there, move to the lighthouse and learn the story of a boy who lived in the lighthouse. He will tell children of life on an island, in a lighthouse, and watching ships at sea. Then, follow a girl named Rosa as she teaches children about sea and land life in the Charleston area. Go on over to the coloring table and color one of four animals native to the area, and upon leaving, take a moment to look at some animals using a microscope.
This whole exhibit is all about exploring and teaching children how to have fun while learning history. It is a must. Even for the big kids (adults).

Musical Instruments

After stepping out of Kidstory, check out the Victorian Doll Houses and the collection of instruments. One notable instrument is, the canjo. Before the banjo, there was, the canjo. From there move on to the Early Days, going back to ancient Egypt and the early days of Native settlers, then to Nature.
"Natural History"
This part of the museum was outstanding. One of the best exhibits of nature ever. Not only does the museum cover each species of bird native to the area and around the world, it includes ocean and swamp life, as well as the drawings and findings of the famous Mark Catsby. Who made his way along the southeast to document the many different species of animals and plants.
There is a great exhibit of turtles. It includes the loggerhead and many other species. The bird exhibit is definitely the most amazing. There is one called the "Giant Moa," which was flightless and is extinct. Kids will love this section just as much as the Kidstory section, and everyone will be amazed at all the information of animal life of the past and present.

Civil War (Sesquicentennial)
After exploring the animals, prepare to be blasted with an overwhelming abundance of Civil War information and artifacts. It is not surprising that there is so much information and exhibits on the subject in Charleston. After all, the war started at Fort Sumter, in Charleston. For families with kids, the information is almost impossible to take in, but it is an amazing exhibit.
Currently, from 2011-2015, the museum is focusing on the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War. Last year, April 12, 2011, our family made our first trip to Fort Sumter, on the very day 150 years after the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The history of the war runs deep in Charleston, and the exhibit proves it. This one area could easily take an hour to get through, just to read and take in the info. It is a very interesting display.

Revolutionary War
After witnessing the Civil War display, see the story of how America came to be, by way of the Revolutionary War. There are several items of Francis Marion, many weapons, and clothing from the time period. There is even a battle map, displaying locations of where battles took place.


Colonial and Plantation Life in Charleston

Finally, witness what plantation life was like in South Carolina. View photos of plantations and their story. Listen to the story of the plantations as they play throughout the display room. Take time to see the exhibits around the room, the tools used for cotton and rice, and items such as the slave badge and unique pottery.

The museum is a great experience for visitors, no matter which display one starts the walk. While there, be sure to go outside and walk the museum mile, visiting other historic buildings along the way. Also, take time to visit one or both of the homes preserved by the museum, the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington home. There are several different ticket packages available, the museum by itself is $10 per adult, $5 per child, and parking is available for museum visitors on the right side of the building or at the visitor center. It is a museum trip that will not be forgotten.

Morris Island Lighthouse

A must see while visiting Folly Beach is, Morris Island Lighthouse. 1200 feet off shore and a walk a way out from the beach and beach homes of Folly, stands a lighthouse that originated in 1767.

History of Morris Lighthouse

For years, before the construction of the lighthouse, ships were landing at Folly. Most were dropping off the sick or the dead, but in 1767, a lighthouse was erected to guide ships. A taller tower was built in the early 1800s, but destroyed during the Civil War in order to keep the Union from using it.

A new one was built in 1876, sold to a private citizen in the 1900s, then bought by a group of preservationists in 1999. Ever since, the focus has been to restore and keep up the structure and history of the lighthouse.

Viewing the Morris Island Lighthouse

There is no way to walk to the lighthouse, but for those wanting a close up view, many kayak and boat tours go by the lighthouse. Some even stop for bike rides or nature adventures on Morris island. To view the lighthouse, drive to the end of Folly Road and take a left. Drive all the way to the end and park (not in the cul-de-sac). Get out and enjoy the walk to see the lighthouse. It is an easy walk, and is nice to take some time on the secluded beach area to sit and enjoy the view.

Where To Eat On Folly Beach

So, breakfast was covered in the previous blog. With the exception of mentioning Rita's brunch (which is very good and offers a variety of omelets). Now, to move on to the main meals or meal of the day. Lunch and dinner, or as I like to say, Linner (for those of us who combine the two anywhere from 3PM-5PM).

The List here offers potential spots to dine and a little info on some of the food tasted while visiting the restaurant. Even so, be aware, there are other places to eat, but this is a personal list of favorite spots.

1. Loggerheads

Loggerheads Beach Grill is located at close to the beach. Drive to the last stop light on Folly Road and take a left, and it will be on the right (or at least down that road). This was the first place we had a meal at when first visiting Folly last year, and the last we went to this year. The fried fish and oysters are awesome!

We found this hidden restaurant thanks to locals, and we truly thank them. The menu is good, the staff was friendly, I would dare to say they made some of the best margarita's on the island, and the kids enjoyed their food.

Some must try dishes is definitely: Macho Nachos, Fried Green Tomatoes, the Shrimp Hoagie, and (no joke here) any of the fried or broiled seafood. The seafood there was great, and there were no complaints. Another item one might like to try is definitely the onion rings. Overall, this is a great spot to dine while visiting the area.

2. Woody's Pizza

Woody's Pizza is fantastic! When a family eats at a restaurant 3 times in a week, it's a good place to eat. The staff is friendly and quick, and the pizza is mouth watering good.

One item that could be a meal by itself is, the cheese sticks. Cheese or no cheese, their bread sticks are by far the best ever tasted. Pizza can be ordered by the slice or the pie, and they will do half a topping and half another topping of choice. We even saw people order 1/3 topping pizza's. When dining there, sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. The Goodfella and Gardner subs are delicious, and the calzones are a two person meal and good. A personal favorite pizza was, the White Pizza. The kids enjoyed the meathead.

3. Folly Beach Crab Shack

Folly Beach Crab Shack is another great spot for families. At the end of the meal, the kids get to get a treasure out of the treasure box. Meanwhile, they can enjoy good portions and cooked fried shrimp or other kid favorites (burgers, chicken nuggets, and more). Before giving them the main course, and ordering one for the adults, get the hush puppies. Aside from Gilligans in Charleston (and Forsyth BBQ in Henderson, NC-which has the best ever), the hush puppies here are perfectly cooked. The price isn't too bad either for the large portion offered.

For the adults, the eating options are endless. The fried shrimp, scallops, and flounders (along with the corn on the cob) are terrific and a must eat for fried seafood lovers. For those wanting Crab at the Shack, get a bucket. The Crab legs are definitely steamed to goodness and a meal for two or three people.

As for the drinks, try the Pina Colada and the Tropical Storm (I think that's the name, it might be Hurricane Hugo, and there is another called Cruzan something that was really good).

4. Surf Bar

For anyone looking to take a break from seafood, and eat a good sandwich instead, try the Surf Bar. In fact, try the gyro for some different and delicious. For those looking for a good steak sandwich and kickin' BBQ shrimp, along with a beer and a good price, this is the place to go. It is mainly a sandwich shop with a bar and the prices are perfect. On the plus side, they deliver around the island for those wishing to eat in. This is a great place to break and hang out.

5. Snapper Jack's

Snapper Jack is very much a bar atmosphere, but for anyone who loves fried calamari and oysters, try it out. The calamari are by far some of the best and the portion is huge! Another must try menu item, pimento crab dip. Of course, while there, try a burger or a sandwich. The Pepper Jack Portabello is highly recommended, along with the Steak Philly. The seafood platter is very good, and for those feeling the need to eat (or wanting to share with 3 or 4 people), get the BEOWULF.

Two other places that are great to stop in for lunch, dinner, drinks, and appetizers are, Rita's and The Grill. The Grill has great burgers, fries, and shrimp. The Sweet Shrimp Dynamites and other shrimp dishes are a must at The Grill. The Pina Colada is also good.

Rita's in located across from The Tide's hotel and the Pier. It is a hot spot for sport fans. This restaurants offers a reasonably priced Brunch on the weekends that has every food a person could want. The hummus, Po Boy sandwiches, and fried pickles were a nice change from other foods enjoyed on the trip.

Where To Eat At Folly Beach: Breakfast

Folly Beach has several great places to eat. Whether looking for seafood, pizza, subs, breakfast, tacos, or some beverages, Folly Beach has got it covered.

Breakfast At Folly Beach

Breakfast in the south is almost as important as dinner. A good southern breakfast leaves one full for the majority of the day and happy. When visiting Folly, there are two places that are a must for breakfast: The SandBar and the Lost Dog Cafe.

The Sandbar is located on Sandbar lane by the Folly River. It is a quiet, cozy type of restaurant. Upon walking in, one feels as if they are entering the captain's quarter on a ship. Especially with the pirate heads carved out of the wood posts. Even so, the food turned out to be delicious and affordable! Service is great, and the serving sizes are good.

The menu is simple and easy to read, and the beignet's (although, not New Orleans) are delicious. The eggs benedict are a definite WIN, and the shrimp and grits are wonderful. Every time visited, breakfast has been a success. Don't be fooled by the odd appearance, the food is good.

The Lost Dog Cafe is another great spot for breakfast or lunch. The food is fresh and their breakfast burrito is good for one or two. For anyone looking for some biscuits and gravy to start the day, this is the place to go. Add some bacon alongside, and it's southern breakfast heaven. As for the shrimp and grits, no complaints. Of course, one of the best parts about Lost Dog is, the prices. The prices cannot be beat at Folly Beach and the food is good. It is a great place to sit down with a cup of coffee on a gorgeous sunny day and enjoy a southern specialty. As for lunch....that is another story and this is a great place to grab a good mozzarella, tomato, and pesto sandwich.

Both of these places are great to eat at. The staff is friendly and the food is good. Most of all, they offer a taste and atmosphere of southern charm (or Folly charm).

Folly Beach, South Carolina

From Oahu, Hawaii, I'm gonna take a journey all the way to east coast U.S.A., to Folly Beach, South Carolina.

Folly Beach is known as "the edge of the world." It is a very popular destination, be it spring, summer, fall, or winter. Its short drive to Charleston and historic past makes it a tourist paradise. Visitors can enjoy days at the beach, a water park, and still engulf themselves in Charleston rich heritage and good cookin'.

The next many blogs will focus on Folly Beach, Charleston, and then travel on down to beautiful Savannah, GA. For anyone who loves the beach and American history (especially early American history), these places are some of the best to visit or even live.


Where to Stay At Folly Beach

Being as how I am a bit selfish, I will not give out my secret destination of choice. However, I will say that one of the best places to stay is not on the beach or in a beach house, but just across the bridge along the marsh land of the Folly River. There are numerous villa's to rent, along with a few homes. Of course, there are plenty of beach homes to choose from. All offer easy access to the beach and the wonderful town (full of daytime and night time fun) of Folly. Even so, if looking for a hotel, the only hotel on the beach is Tides Folly Beach. There is another Inn, called Water's Edge.

The Tides offers all the amenities of a beach front hotel, including a pool and delicious award winning restaurant, BLU. For anyone not really into renting a beach house and wanting to have extremely easy beach access while enjoying other amenities, this is the place to stay. Not to mention, anyone who has an ocean view will be blessed with one of the most amazing sunrises ever!

For those staying across the bridge in one of the many homes or villas, be sure to witness a gorgeous sunset over the marsh. The skyline is breath taking and the colors are absolutely astonishing.

Folly Beach is a must visit destination for any Charleston traveller looking to take a beach break.

Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor

One site that is a must visit on the island of Oahu is, Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor tells the story of what happened, December 7, 1941, and is the final resting place of the U.S.S. Arizona. The memorial is a sombering reminder of what happened on that dreadful day during World War II. For anyone visiting Oahu or living there, it is a must see site.

Upon walking into the memorial, there is a museum. It is all open air, as many places in Hawaii. The museum is filled with information about the story of what happened before, during, and after the attack. Before journeying to the Arizona, walk around the plagues telling the story of where the first and last attack took place on the island.

Many do not know or forget that Pearl Harbor was not the only area attacked during that day. The first attack occurred at Kaneohe Bay Marine Base, on the other side of the island. From there, the Japanese flew around the island hitting other areas such as Bellows Air Force Base and Hickam. The museum has a lovely outdoor exhibit about the times and locations of each wave of attack. For many it is an eye opener as to how wide spread and serious the attack really was, and a reminder that it was a larger portion of the island than many know.

After touring the museum, learning the history, and maybe even enjoying the open air, get in line to watch the video about December 7, 1941, before going to see the Arizona Memorial. The video is mandatory. From there, sit down on the ferry and pay respect to those who died that day.

The Arizona memorial is simply and very well laid out. Look over the railing to see the Arizona's final resting place. Located on the far wall is a plaque with the names of all who died at Pearl Harbor during the attack. It is a beautiful memorial and a horrible reminder of WW II.

After touring the museum and memorial, stop by the bookstore and the snack bar before leaving. No bags (purses, camera bags, diaper bags, fanny packs, backbacks, and any type of bag) are allowed in the museum or the memorial. There are lockers available, but the best thing to do is get what is needed out of the bags-place in pockets and leave bags at the hotel. The lockers fill up quickly, and one may feel a bit more comfortable with belongings at a hotel rather than a parking lot. Strollers are not allowed in the theater or on the ferry, only in the museum.

This is a must visit site while on Oahu.

Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki

Looking for a great family hotel or just a place to spend some much needed alone time, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki is the place. This hotel has everything anyone would want from a Hawaiian vacation. Local food, bars, a luau, entertainment, a view of diamond head, multiple pools, surfing, boat tours, and the beach! Even so, exploring outside the hotel is a must when in the Aloha state, but the hotel is still a great place to stay.

This hotel has been featured in episodes of the new Hawaii Five-0, and is actually offering a package through December 2012, based on the popular series. The package includes a stay at the well known Rainbow Tower (one of 5 towers on the resort), 1st Season of the show on DVD, $50 credit for the Tropics Bar & Grill (which is highly recommended to eat and drink at, great blue hawaiians-right where the drink begin), and several other perks. For anyone who has watched the series, this package seems like the ultimate five-0 experience, and the show does a lot at this resort. So, if a fan of the show, definitely go for this package while available.

The Towers

There are 5 towers at the resort: Ali'i, Rainbow, Tapa, Kalia, and Diamond Head. Each tour is uniquely decorated and themed. For families, the Tapa tower is perfect. Tapa is the cloth that makes the Hawaii fashions (shirts, dresses). The tower is full of beautiful Tapa cloth and Polynesian decor. The rooms are wonderful, and it is also a great place for a conference.

The Rainbow Tower is the most popular tower of the five. The rooms in this tower feature spectacular ocean views, and wonderful views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. It is also very close to all the shops and eateries on the resort. It also features a great way to start the day by eating breakfast on the lanai. There is nothing like watching the morning sun while enjoying a delicious Hawaiian breakfast on the beach, and for dinner go inside to Bali Steak and Seafood.

For those looking for the ultimate experience and chance to enjoy their own private pool deck and bar, stay in the Ali'i Tower. Ali'i means royalty, and one definitely feels like royalty while receiving a massage on the private deck of the Ali'i Tower. The tower is great for couples, but kid friendly as well. It is also the location of Tropics Bar and Grill.

Kalia Tower is the first tower upon entering the resort. It may not be the Ali'i, but it is the home to the resort spa, shop, and a Starbucks. It is surrounded by calming waterfalls and tropical gardens, and offers a large amount of ocean view rooms. While staying in the tower, try to visit the Mandara spa. In fact, go ahead and spend half a day there. It is welcoming and offers guests a chance to just forget about everything and enjoy relaxation in Hawaii.

Diamond Head Tower is close to the Village gardens, wildlife, and pools. It offers a short walk to all the main pools, shops, and a Starbucks. Which is located in the tower.

Activities and Entertainment

As was mentioned, one could visit this resort and never leave it. The resort not only offers shows and numerous activities, it also offers a childcare (Camp Penguin) so parents can take a day to themselves.





The resort actually has a boat (which has been in Hawaii Five-0) called, Spirit of Aloha. The Spirit sets sail throughout the day. There are several adventures one could take upon this fun catamaran, including a firework sail (only on Fridays). Other adventures include, snorkeling and sunset. No matter which one is picked, one is sure to see wildlife in this area.

Of course, the number one thing anyone wants to experience when visiting the Aloha State is, a Luau! Hilton Hawaii's Luau has also been in episodes of Hawaii Five-0, and is one of the best in the islands. There is the cuisine, traditional dance and dress, story telling, music, and everything (including fire dancing) one would want or expect. It is a must see show (a preview of the luau and the Rainbow Revue, is offered each Friday at the pool beside the Ali'i Tower).

Another popular show is the Rockin Rainbow Revue, which is a tribute to everything Hawaiian. Including a tribute to the famous Hawaiian surfer, Duke Kahanamoku. There is also nightly entertainment around the resort at the Tapa bar and Tropic Bar and Grill, as well as weekly Friday night fireworks.

Also, ask about tours and other area events.

Shopping and Pools

Be aware, if something was forgotten for this once in a lifetime journey, there are convenient shops to purchase travel needs. From sun glasses to soap or towels, the resort has the guests covered. Even so, there is also exquisite jewelry and home decor available, along with delicious eats. A must stop shop is Hawaiian Cookie Company. The cookies are worth it! The company offers exotic island flavors and the cookies make great take home items.

Moana Quilts is also a wonderful shop. It features traditional, light and comforting Hawaiian quilts. The traditional design is breadfruit design, and like everything in this enchanted land, there is a story behind the design. From quilts and pillows, to handbags and wall hangings, this is another great take home item.

 A great past time at the resort, besides shopping, is enjoying the many pools. There is one outside Tapa, Rainbow, and Ali'i Towers. All complete with a bar and lots of character. Of course, there is always the beach.

 No matter what one decides to do, Hilton Hawaiian Village is a terrific place to stay and experience Hawaii. Aloha! Hang Loose, and enjoy some more pictures.