Poisonous Snakes and Spiders in South Carolina
I was visiting with a friend in Beaufort, South Carolina over the weekend when he received a phone call from his…
2024 South Carolina Visitors Guide
South Carolina defines Southern hospitality. If the South Carolina Upcountry, with its scenic mountains and forest habitat – or the South Carolina Coast, shouldering the Atlantic Ocean and boasting some of the freshest fish in the country, doesn’t bring you back to South Carolina then the people and the atmosphere surely will.
Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, is situated in the South Carolina Heartland and is an industrial powerhouse of the state that maintains a hometown air. A city preserved in time, Charleston is located near the South Carolina coast and is the epitome of charm, complete with narrow, cobbled streets. Another coastal city, Myrtle Beach is a part of the Grand Strand and is a haven for golfers, swimmers, and other recreational enthusiasts. Hilton Head Island lies off the coast of South Carolina and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of aquatic activities as well as a number of golf courses.
South Carolina Coast
The Coastal region in South Carolina offers fun-in-the-sun beaches, great nightlife, and some of the best seafood in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach is the central city located on the Grand Strand, a sixty-mile-long area curving along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors will find over 100 golf courses within a half-hour drive from this city, known for its golfing and tennis. America’s history unfolds through the charming streets of Charleston. This elegant city has numerous 18th-century mansions, antebellum houses, and early plantation sites. The Coastal region can support almost any water sport or fishing desire and has a plethora of aquariums and water parks.
South Carolina Heartland
South Carolina’s Heartland is the industrial center of the state and contains its capital Columbia. The University of South Carolina is located in the capital city and boasts a large annual enrollment of almost 37,000 people. South Carolina is famous for its historical restoration and the Heartland is no exception to this. Columbia’s Historic District is home to many antique buildings, dating back to before Confederation. Lexington, located to the west of Columbia, is the fastest-growing county in South Carolina. This area is a large agricultural producer that prides itself on peach cultivation. In the midst of this bustling economic area are the Saluda and Congaree rivers, providing both recreational activities such as kayaking and white water rafting and a natural getaway from the hustle of the cities.
South Carolina Upcountry
The serene, natural setting that makes up a large portion of South Carolina’s Upcountry, is a playground for outdoor and natural enthusiasts. The Blue Ridge Mountains are a favorite for hikers, offering a mix of challenging and easier hiking trails. A variety of animals can often be seen in these forests, which annually host many campers, outdoor sportsmen, and fishermen. The Upcountry also offers all the conveniences of modern South Carolina. Greenville, situated north of the Mountains, was once the textile center of the world and now has over 60 city parks and areas dedicated to preserving the city’s heritage. Rock Hill is located to the east of Greenville and is considered to be one of the most progressive municipalities in South Carolina. While not as famous for golfing as on the coast, the natural rolling hills of Upcountry South Carolina make for a few great courses.
Visiting South Carolina
Charleston Visitors Guide
Some areas of Charleston still reflect the three-hundred-year-old history of this coastal city. Charleston’s Historic District encompasses over 2,000 historic buildings; the city and surrounding areas have a multitude of plantation houses, some of which are still in use today. The Boone Hall is one such plantation that is still cultivating some of its original industry.
From the harbor, a breathtaking view of the large antebellum houses and mansions that snake along the narrow cobblestone streets is offered to visitors on boat tours. Tours of the area are plentiful and informative. Visitors can get an up-close look at some of these significant buildings and learn about their rich history.
Columbia, SC Visitors Guide
Columbia is rich in colonial history. The University of South Carolina was chartered in 1801, and 10 of its original buildings have been restored. Columbia is also home to the Criminal Justice Hall of Fame, a museum that focuses on contemporary and historical aspects of law enforcement in the state. The Columbia Museum of Art showcases paintings from the Baroque, Renaissance, and Medieval periods, as well as sculpture and decorative arts.
Hilton Head Island Visitors Guide
Hilton Head Island is a playground for enthusiasts of any sport or activity. With more than 25 golf courses and dozens of tennis courts, there is an abundance of recreation available on this holiday resort island. Hilton Head’s location, just off the coast of South Carolina, also makes water activities popular. Visitors will enjoy the panoramic views of the island while parasailing 400 feet over the area. Sailing, dolphin, and nature cruises are also popular. Seafood lovers will appreciate the variety of fresh catches served at Hilton Head Island’s many fashionable restaurants.
Myrtle Beach Visitors Guide
For lovers of golf or deep-sea fishing, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination. Centrally located on the temperate Grand Strand coastal area of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach is a great mix of history and outdoor fun. Golf courses are practically everywhere, and Pine Lakes Country Club has been housing golfers since 1927. Museums, such as Hopsewee Plantation, provide a peek into the history of Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. Or, take in a performance at the Carolina Opry.
North Myrtle Beach Visitors Guide
Formed in 1968 from four small, adjacent towns, North Myrtle Beach has since become a favored vacation spot, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Live entertainment can be found at several venues in North Myrtle Beach, including Tribute!, a performance that features a variety of celebrity impersonators. The Alabama Theatre offers another space for live performances and is named for the country music band Alabama, a one-time resident of Myrtle Beach. Fishing is a major draw for visitors to the area, with the Cherry Beach Pier providing a communal space for anglers to cast their lines on the Atlantic Ocean. Deep-sea fishing charters are also available from the Cherry Beach Pier. Visitors preferring to stick to land can enjoy three different golf courses in the area, each offering different layouts for golfers of all skill levels.
Spartanburg Visitors Guide
Sometimes known as the Fresh Peach Capital of the South, Spartanburg is perhaps better recognized as a popular location for corporate headquarters, with the head offices of more than 40 corporations in the city. Not entirely about business, there are a fair number of leisure activities to partake in once in Spartanburg. Hollywild Animal Park is where more than 500 native and exotic animals call home, and where visitors can take safari-type rides through the park. Car aficionados will want to plan a visit to the BMW Zentrum, a welcome center that includes vintage BMWs, a museum, and an educational center.