If you’re planning your next vacation or trip to South Carolina, then you’re in luck! Located in the South-Eastern part of the US, South Carolina has plenty to offer for tourists passing through or new residents. This sunny state boasts a variety of attractions and Southern comforts. From gorgeous natural wonders to rich historical sites and entertainment!
Whether you’re planning a trip to South Carolina, or you’re curious to learn about what there is to see in the area, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about South Carolina, what to do, and what to see to make sure your next stay is perfect! Read on and find your new favorite place to visit in this sunny East-Coast state!
Charleston
Kicking off the list of must-see places in South Carolina is the history-packed and gorgeous Charleston. The Antebellum architecture and the rich history make Charleston a popular tourist destination. If you’re a history buff, there are plenty of reasons to visit Charleston, starting with the fort in the harbor. Fort Sumter is an important bastion of Civil War history and a must-see if you’re in South Carolina.
You can access the fort by ferry and spend your day learning about the Civil War. Do this to better understand not only the rich history of the South but of the entire US. While you’re in the area, you can also saunter down to the French Quarter and visit some of the many wonderful art galleries.
Myrtle Beach
The next must-see location in South Carolina is the world-famous summer getaway; Myrtle Beach! The beach makes for a break from the sweltering Southern weather and for the perfect weekend getaway. Myrtle Beach has plenty to offer so take a stroll down Broadway and sample some of the local food and entertainment.
From minigolf to Ferris wheels to aquariums, shopping, and eating venues, Myrtle Beach has it all! The beach and shoreline make for a great outing for the whole family or just a few friends. With spring on its hind legs and summer just around the corner, Myrtle Beach makes for a great destination for your next vacation!
Columbia
If the beach or the shore is not really your style, then head over to Columbia to explore the capital city of South Carolina! This sprawling, southern metropolis has much to offer starting with the huge university campus. The University of South Carolina is one of the best and most coveted in the states and makes for a great spot to visit.
While you’re in the capital, you can appreciate the unique architecture and history that predates the Civil War. There are also plenty of gardens, shopping centers, and curiosity shops to check out. Be sure to swing by the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens for some greenery and Five Points for some shopping! Take your time in the capital and get to know the unique hidden gems that it has to offer!
Congaree National Park
While on the topic of greenery and Columbia, the next must-see place on this list is the Congaree National Park. This famous national park is located just outside the capital and is a testament to the beauty of the south. The Congaree park was named after the native Congaree tribe that once lived and fished in the area.
The park offers an interesting mix of floodplain swampland and forests, making for a unique natural wonder. There are many ways to explore this national park but hiking and canoeing are the crowd favorites. The Cedar Creek Canoe Trail offers visitors a unique way to explore the area and become one with nature! Be sure to check out some of the tallest cypress trees in the world, do some bird watching, or snap some pictures for Instagram!
Caesars Head State Park
Another great national park to check out when you’re in South Carolina is Caesars Head State Park. Located in Cleveland, this state park offers some of the best views in not only the state but the country! The million-dollar view of Table Rock from The Overlook is just one of many of these fantastic views. Be sure to check out The Raven Cliff Falls trail or the Jones Gap Trail too while you’re at it!
If you’re a fan of birds or birdwatching, the escarpment attracts hawks on their yearly migratory route to South America. There are also great fishing rivers in the park, perfect for campers or fishing enthusiasts! Be sure to bring your binoculars or fishing poles when visiting Caesars Head, and you’re in for a fun time!
Plantation gardens
If you’re looking to combine nature with history then visiting some of the plantations in South Carolina is a must! The state is home to some 2000+ plantations and all of them are open to visitors. Some of the most visited plantations include the Magnolia and Boone Hall plantations which are crowd favorites for a reason.
The Magnolia Plantation is the oldest public access garden in America and has a unique grand Romantic style. The Boone Hall Plantation is one of the oldest in the country and today works as a functioning farm. Keep in mind that while a place of beauty today, these grounds have a bloody history, so remember to tread the lands with respect.
Greenville
Last but not least, if you’re looking for something brand new and exciting in South Carolina, look no further than Greenville. Everything else in the state has a traditional, historic feel, but this bastion of innovation has a mind of its own. Greenville is the modern, progressive part of South Carolina, boasting a new and rich cultural landscape.
In Greenville, you can emancipate yourself and check out the Museum of Art or catch a touring Broadway show at the Peace Center Theater. If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, be sure to check out Falls Park on the Reedy and see the giant waterfall. Explore the unique combination of the Old South and New South in Greenville!
So there you have it! With this guide in mind, you’re ready to take on the world in South Carolina! Start off your trip in historic Charleston or take the day off at Myrtle Beach. Visit the capitol, Columbia, and get acquainted with university culture! Check out some of the many gorgeous natural parks and plantations the state has to offer and end your trip in the refreshing city of Greenville!