Things to Do in South Carolina
You’ve probably heard a lot of great things about South Carolina and are wondering what you can do there. If you’re a fan of amusement parks, you might want to check out Congaree National Park, Deep water Vineyard, and Charleston’s Historic District. You can also take a boat tour to the Georgetown Lighthouse, which is only accessible by water. This 85-foot tall tower has stood in its same spot since the late 1790s.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, you must visit Family Kingdom Amusement Park in South Carolina. Located on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, this amusement park features 37 rides for all ages. You can ride thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides, and try your hand at go karting. Whether you’re looking for a great time with your family or a thrill ride for the whole family, this amusement park has something for everyone.
The park opened in 1992, but has since expanded to over 35 rides and attractions. The park’s newer rides include the Twist ‘n Shout steel roller coaster and the highest Ferris wheel in South Carolina. Other rides include bumper cars and go-kart tracks. And even the little ones won’t get bored – there are lots of rides for them to enjoy! It’s a great day out for the entire family!
Families with children will love Splashes Water Park, a two-acre water park located next to the Amusement Center. Located in an oceanfront setting, this water park offers 18 attractions, including a kids’ water park, a lazy river, and a giant Lazy River. It’s the perfect place to cool off during a hot day. Both Splashes and Family Kingdom admission are free, but it’s recommended you purchase an all-day pass. Guests can even purchase armbands that will allow unlimited rides at the water park.
Congaree National Park
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing an old-growth forest, you should consider a trip to the 26,276-acre Congaree National Park. Located just 18 miles southeast of Columbia, this park preserves the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to explore some of the park’s pristine trails and experience the park’s stunning beauty.
A swath of the park’s landscape comprises a series of oxbow lakes. These U-shaped bodies of water are formed when a river’s meander loop is cut off. They can take up to a decade to form. The Congaree National Park has several of these unique lakes. Weston Lake is the largest of the oxbow lakes in the park. It is a deep lake with a gravel lake bed, while the others have a silt or clay bottom.
The park is open year-round and there is no entrance fee. However, be aware that the park can experience rapid flooding, so check the water level before visiting. There is free WiFi at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, so you can stay connected with the world online. In case of an emergency, you can use your cell phone to call for help. If you need assistance with directions, you can contact the Park’s visitor center at the park’s headquarters.
Deep water Vineyard
For an authentic taste of Southern hospitality, visit Deep Water Vineyard. The vineyard is one of the few in Charleston, South Carolina. It produces five different types of wine, including a local muscadine grape variety. You can also try one of the other brands that they produce, including Firefly Vodka and a brand of rum made with moonshine from a partnership with a California grower.
For an authentic wine tasting, you can go to Deep Water Vineyard on any day of the week. The winery offers free wine tastings daily, and guests receive souvenir stemless wine glasses. The winery’s Weekend Wine-Down offers local music and food for visitors. During this event, guests can also purchase wine from the vineyard’s winery and bottle it for later use. The event will also feature live music and the chance to buy mead.
Deep Water Vineyard is a 48-acre winery located on Wadmalaw Island. The winery specializes in muscadine grapes, which are native to the South. In addition to its own wines, Deep Water Vineyard also produces wine from California-grown grapes. The winery offers daily wine tastings and special events like wine dinners and hosts four festivals annually.
Charleston’s Historic District
When you’re in Charleston, South Carolina, it’s easy to find many things to see and do. One of the city’s most iconic districts, the French Quarter, seamlessly blends old and new. The streets were once made of ballast from early settler ships, and today the area is filled with art galleries, eclectic shops, and bars. A must-see in the area is the historic City Market, a National Historic Landmark and the center of Charleston’s vibrant downtown. The market stretches four blocks in the old walled city, and contains a historic Greek Revival arcade hall and one-story market sheds.
One of the best things to do in Charleston is to visit Middleton Place, a beautiful complex that showcases southern beauty. The Middleton Place complex was destroyed during the Great Earthquake, but fortunately, it has since been restored to its original splendor. Visitors can learn about its history in the museum, visit the gardens, or shop at one of the numerous shops. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll find the gardens here fascinating.
A visit to the African American Museum is another interesting experience. This museum is located in the same area as the African American Market, where slaves were auctioned in the mid-1800s. Here, visitors can view artifacts and text-driven exhibits about the African American community in the South. As an added bonus, the museum contains a museum featuring the oral histories of former enslaved people.
Charleston’s Museum of Art
Visiting Charleston’s Museum of Art is a must when planning your South Carolina vacation. You can take in art and history from the perspective of a modern artist. The museum will enthrall you with its unique collection featuring works by local and national artists. Currently closed, the museum will reopen on January 20th with the exhibit On Edge: A Portrait of the Coast of South Carolina. Open Tuesday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
While in Charleston, don’t miss the Gibbes Museum of Art. Founded in 1773, the museum’s collections span centuries and represent a unique glimpse into the city’s history. You can explore the museum’s collection of over 10,000 works of art, ranging from early Native American cultures to Revolutionary War armaments. You’ll leave inspired by the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum also features the Bunting Natural History Hall, which contains fossils, specimens, and other displays. The gallery also has displays of fossils and other natural histories. You’ll get to know the history of the Lowcountry through its fossils and enslaved Africans. The Armory at the Museum is also worth seeing, with examples of historic weaponry from the seventeenth century to the twentieth century. In addition, you can explore the Museum’s Becoming Americans exhibit, which tells the story of Charleston’s role in the American Revolution. Afterward, you’ll see additional artifacts and display panels that illustrate the role of the city in the American Revolution.
Greenville’s Falls Park on the Reedy
Greenville’s 32-acre Falls Park on the Reedy may be the place for you if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful outdoor space. Located in the historic West End district, this urban oasis was reclaimed from the textile industry by the Carolina Foothills Garden Club. Known as Greenville’s birthplace, Falls Park is considered one of the most beautiful spots in the city.
Located downtown Greenville’s Historic West End, Falls Park on the Reedy serves as a city oasis that offers a wide range of activities for its visitors. The park features a multi-use facility and is home to the famous Mice on Main. For a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, plan a visit to Falls Park. You’ll be glad you did! The park is popular with both locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re planning a day trip to Greenville, the perfect time to visit Falls Park is during the spring or summer. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and has free parking in the West End Market lot off University Street. Located in downtown Greenville, Falls Park is easy to access from nearby hotels, restaurants, and businesses. The website has restrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a park map.
Best Sightseeing in South Carolina
In South Carolina, you’ll find subtropical beaches and marshy sea islands. It’s also home to Charleston, a historic city known for its pastel-colored houses, Old South plantations, and the site of the Civil War’s opening shots. The Grand Strand is a 60-mile stretch of beachfront and golf courses. You’ll also find several beaches on the Grand Strand, including Myrtle Beach Plantation.
Olde English District
The Olde English District is a collection of seven counties in north-central South Carolina. English settlers first settled this area in the mid-1770s. The area is home to historic sites, excellent eateries, and even the hottest pepper sauce in the world! In addition, you can skydive or go ATV riding in nearby towns. The Olde English District is full of exciting surprises! If you’re planning a romantic getaway with your girlfriend, you’ll be able to spend a relaxing weekend in the area.
There’s plenty of history to explore in the Olde English District. Winnsboro, for example, is a quaint, old town full of history. Its roots date back to Lord Cornwallis’s 1780 visit. Visitors to the town can see the longest-running town clock in the United States! The town council gave it the authority to install a town clock in the 1820s. The clock was imported to the town by sailboat and is still in operation today!
Fort Sumter
The best way to get to Fort Sumter is by ferry. Fort Sumter Tours runs a ferry that shuttles passengers to the island from Downtown Charleston or Patriots Point. The trip takes about 30 minutes each way. There are several daily departures. You’ll be greeted by a National Park ranger and have about 60 minutes to explore the fort and its grounds. While the tour is free, purchasing your ticket ahead of time is advisable.
Visiting Fort Sumter isn’t cheap, but it is a must-do for any Lowcountry trip. The site of the first Civil War shot is located on the fort’s waterfront. You can take a ferry service to get to the site and see cannons from the era. A museum on the premises provides interesting information about the Civil War. Fort Sumter is a must-see for both kids and history buffs.
While you’re here, you’ll want to visit the Old Slave Mart Museum, the only one of its kind in South Carolina. This museum tells the stories of former slaves and provides a unique insight into the region’s history. You can also visit the Palmetto Brewery, South Carolina’s first craft brewery. Visitors to the museum will find their spirits refreshed after a long, hard day of sightseeing.
Issaqueena Falls
Issaqueena Falls is a 100-foot waterfall located in the Stumphouse Tunnel Park in Walhalla, South Carolina. This waterfall is an ideal destination for those who enjoy the outdoors and exploring nature. It’s easy to find, and there’s a short hike to get there. In addition to its natural beauty, the park offers a trail that takes visitors through railroad tunnels built before the Civil War.
For a memorable day, you can head to Issaqueena Falls and its nearby Stumphouse Tunnel. The trail is well maintained and short, but there are some steep spots along the way. There’s plenty of parking and restrooms available near the falls. You can also rent bicycles to explore the park. If you’re looking for a little more hiking activity, try a hike on the Blue Ridge Railroad Historical Trail. It’s a 5-mile round trip.
There’s a great view from the top of the falls, and the views of the surrounding area are simply breathtaking. The waterfall is aptly named after the Creek maiden who rode a swift pony hundreds of miles to warn the white settlers about a coming attack. You can also take a video to help you visualize the scene. Casey Shoub, a popular YouTuber known as Upstate Outdoor Adventurer, shot this stunning video from a helicopter above the waterfall. It captures the splashing water and lush forest. The scenery of the waterfall is likely similar to the one that Issaqueena had lived in centuries ago.
Charleston City Market
When visiting Charleston, be sure to stop by the city’s City Market. The 1790s-era market complex spans four city blocks and includes the architecturally significant Market Hall. Visitors can sample a variety of local foods and purchase souvenirs. If you’re traveling with family, take some time to see the City Market and shop for souvenirs. You may be surprised at the unique local wares.
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to take them to the Charleston City Market, which has an incredible variety of food and souvenirs. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood to sweetgrass baskets, and you can even buy souvenirs! The market also contains a Museum of the Confederacy. You can also take advantage of the market’s free parking and credit card payment options. You’ll have a great time shopping, people-watching, and exploring the market’s diverse selection of goods.
While there are plenty of other touristy attractions in Charleston, the city market is worth visiting. The market dates back to 1788, when the city was given the market’s land. The City Council hired local vendors to set up stands at the site for 25 cents a week. The market has grown into what it is today, complete with air-conditioning and a renovated Great Hall. More than 20 new merchants have also joined the market, so you’re sure to find a unique souvenir.
Caesars Head State Park
Caesars Head State Park is located in northern Greenville County, South Carolina, on the border with Transylvania County, North Carolina. It is accessible via US 276. If you want to see a view of the ocean and the surrounding area, you should take a day trip to this beautiful park. You can find several ways to reach the park, including by car, bus, or public transportation.
The scenic park has something for everyone. You can hike up the escarpment or take a scenic drive through the park’s 13,000 acres of wilderness. Restroom facilities, vending machines, picnic tables, and a small interactive museum provide an insight into the park’s geological history. In addition to scenic views, you can also experience wildlife watching.
To see the waterfalls and the surrounding area, head to Caesars Head State Park. There are many scenic overlooks of the surrounding area, including Table Rock Mountain. If you have time, consider taking a hike through Raven Cliff Falls, which is a 4.4-mile round-trip trek. A visit to the waterfall is not complete without checking out the surrounding area. Taking a hike is an enjoyable way to get some fresh air and see the sights and sounds of the surrounding area.
The park offers several hiking trails, including the popular Raven Cliff Falls Trail. Raven Cliff Falls is 420 feet high, creating a thunderous echo in the forest. The 420-foot-tall waterfall is accessible through a suspension bridge that spans the river. Visitors to the park can also enjoy picnics, fishing, and primitive camping. The park is home to 167 species of birds. Wildlife may be seen on the trails, including birds and squirrels.
Rainbow Row
If you’re looking for an unique and fascinating sightseeing spot in South Carolina, you’ll want to take a trip to Rainbow Row. Located in Charleston, this historic district features pastel-colored Georgian row houses. Each one has a fascinating story to tell, a testament to the city’s turbulent history. Visitors can explore these homes and learn about their owners’ lives. The Rainbow Row neighborhood is accessible year-round, and the Charleston Dash Shuttle will drop you off right outside the district.
Houses on Rainbow Row have rich histories. You can explore the deas-Tunno house, a four-story blue house. It was originally used for commercial purposes, but its owner lived in the top floor. This house has a side garden and a small library, as well as extensive outbuildings. Another historic home, the James Cook House, was built in 1778. It contains a charming kitchen and drawing room, as well as a library.
Another iconic Charleston landmark is Rainbow Row, a long row of colorful historic homes. These houses were built in the late 1700s, but were not painted brightly until 1931. The first resident to paint her home in a pastel pink color was Dorothy Porcher Legge. She later influenced her neighbors to paint their homes the same color. Today, the row is a popular tourist spot, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Places to Visit in South Carolina
There are many wonderful places to visit in South Carolina. The state has a variety of attractions, from historic harbor towns to pristine national parks and zoos. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there are various things to do in South Carolina. For example, you can visit historic Charleston and see the South Carolina Maritime Museum. If you love the sea, you can also check out the South Carolina Wooden Boat Show, which features over 150 classic wooden boats. In addition, you can visit the nearly 20,000-acre wilderness of Congaree National Park, which features the tallest trees in the world.
Palmetto Islands County Park
One of the places to visit in South Carolina is Palmetto Islands County Park, which has many attractions to offer visitors. The park is home to the country’s largest stand of Rocky Shoal Spider Lillies. It also has a number of exhibits about local geology and animal life. Visitors can watch an 18-minute film about the park’s natural wonders.
Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or boating, there are numerous state parks to visit in South Carolina. Visit any of them for free and pick up a guide from the park office. It has useful information about the various attractions and locations and is stamped with a stamp to commemorate your visit. You can even camp over the water! No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find something to inspire you in this state park.
Visitors can swim at the park’s pool, but it’s important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so you’ll need to know your safety before you dive in. You can also go geocaching in the park; several hidden geocaches are scattered throughout. The park’s gift shop sells t-shirts, mugs, patches, and other souvenirs.
The state’s largest island, Johns Island, is a barrier island 12 miles from the mainland. It is a popular spot for dolphin watching and has an annual Battle of Charleston reenactment. Besides hundreds of species of birds, the island is also home to deer, alligators, bobcats, and coyotes.
Myrtle Beach
If you’re visiting the South Carolina coast, you’ll likely be familiar with the city of Myrtle Beach. This beachfront resort town is a popular destination for vacationers, thanks to its white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class golf courses. But the area is more than just a popular vacation spot – plenty of hidden attractions, quiet museums, and historic haunts.
Watersports enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that Myrtle Beach offers para-sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, and more. In the evening, the city is bustling with restaurants and nightclubs, live music and theater, and spectacular fireworks displays every Tuesday and Friday. Whether you’re visiting during the day or planning a long weekend getaway, Myrtle Beach offers endless entertainment for every visitor.
The Carolina Opry is one of the biggest attractions in Myrtle Beach, featuring live performances and musical productions. Aside from music, this popular attraction also features theatrical performances, comedy acts, and a pier. Its spectacular stage includes an amphitheater where guests can relax with their favorite cocktail in hand. Guests can also purchase souvenirs at many local shops and restaurants.
Visitors can take part in some of the city’s many activities, including visiting Brookgreen Gardens, an art museum, and a brewery. The breweries started in 1998, and today, they produce more than three thousand barrels of ale a year. They have also produced cans of their beer since 2009.
Pawleys Island
The town of Pawleys Island, South Carolina, is a barrier island known for its sand dunes and beaches. The town’s historic district is a popular place to visit, with homes dating back to the 18th century. The Brookgreen Gardens feature native plants and sculptures to the north of town. You can also check out Huntington Beach State Park, where you can visit the Atalaya Moorish-style mansion.
With three top-rated healthcare systems in the area, the town is the ideal place for those seeking peace of mind. Tidelands Health System is the largest health care provider in the area and is affiliated with the University of South Carolina. This hospital serves the Carolinas from four hospitals and more than 60 outpatient locations. The island’s proximity to the coast also makes it easy to reach the area by car.
Several shops on Pawleys Island can satisfy any shopper’s desires. The original Hammock Shop, with its wide selection of rope hammocks, is a favorite among visitors. You can also check out other stores and restaurants, including Pawleys Prime and Cerra Sushi. While you’re there, you can also watch weavers create rope hammocks. Besides buying hammocks, you can also get souvenirs and gifts at the Hammock Shop.
If you’re into art, Pawleys Island also has a thriving art scene. The Island Art Gallery, located in Pawleys Island Village Shops, sells fine art and offers educational art classes for locals and visitors alike. You can even sign up for open studio time here if you’re a beginner or an experienced artist. The Cheryl Newby Gallery, on the other hand, has a unique collection of antique maps, fine paintings, sculptures, and even ceramics.
Murrell’s Inlet
The unincorporated community of Murrell’s Inlet is a census-designated place in Georgetown County, South Carolina. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 7,547. It is located 13 miles south of Myrtle Beach and 21 miles north of Georgetown. There are many places to visit in Murrell’s Inlet, South Carolina. For a list of places to visit in Murrell’s Inlet, check out our directory of things to do in Murrell’s Inlet, SC.
Located in Murrell’s Inlet, South Carolina, COSTA Kitchen and Bar offers farm-to-table Italian cuisine with a seafood twist. The venue is also known for its open-air lounges, where visitors can enjoy live music and fun cocktails. For an evening out, try a Charleston Mule, an iced coffee with a hint of sweet-tea vodka.
If you love fishing, you must try the Jolly Rogers Fishing Adventures. This is the ultimate tourist attraction in Murrell’s Inlet, South Carolina. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the wide range of activities, including fishing, sailing, and dolphin watching. While visiting Murrell’s Inlet, you should also take some time to check out the local art galleries and smaller shops.
If you love nature and the outdoors, you will find many opportunities to enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in this area. Huntington Beach State Park is also an ideal destination for hiking and has a pristine beach. In addition, the park is home to the famous Atalaya Castle. Those who want to enjoy the beach are sure to be captivated by its lush landscape and magnificent oceanfront views.
Georgetown
Georgetown is the third oldest town in South Carolina and the county seat of Georgetown County. The city is nestled in the Lowcountry and has a population of 9,163 people in the 2010 census. For more information about Georgetown, SC, read below. During the early 1700s, Georgetown was a thriving fishing village that was known for its shrimp and oysters. Since then, the community has become a thriving tourist attraction.
A visit to the historic town center will reveal the city’s rich history. The area was home to South Carolina’s largest Jewish community until the 19th century. Today, it is home to the second-oldest Jewish cemetery in the state. Whether you are visiting for the history or to meet the people who lived in Georgetown in the early 1700s, you will find a wide range of culture in this area. Listed below are some of the most popular attractions in Georgetown, SC.
Located on the waterfront, Georgetown has a rich history tied to rivers, bays, and oceans. Native American, European, and African influences have all enriched Georgetown’s heritage. The city boasts award-winning restaurants, antique stores, and waterfront parks. Visitors will enjoy dining at the town’s many waterfront restaurants and the water’s views. Its harbor is also an important part of the city’s tourism industry.
There is a large historical district in Georgetown. The city center is located in Georgetown, South Carolina. The city is home to the Georgetown County Museum. The Georgetown County Museum houses artifacts from 300 years of local history. A cypress dugout canoe found near Caledonia Plantation is on display in the museum. The Georgetown County Museum also displays an original letter from Gen. Francis Marion to his wife, Nathaniel. Georgetown is one of the most historic cities in South Carolina.
