2024's Towns In South Carolina That Come Alive In The Fall

It is no exaggeration to say that South Carolina is one of America’s greatest travel destinations. While the state’s bustling cities and tourist meccas attract most of the attention, its smaller communities reward travelers with unique experiences. Autumn paints small-town South Carolina with vibrant colors throughout November, with the Upstate region hitting peak color early in the month, the Midlands region in mid-month, and the Lowcountry region in mid-to-late November. Here are seven of the best small towns to explore during the height of South Carolina’s autumn beauty.

Clover

Nestled in the expanding Charlotte metro area, Clover boasts a lively downtown filled with quaint shops and local eateries, retaining a charming small-town atmosphere. Clover is proud of its early settlers’ Scots-Irish heritage, which is celebrated annually at the Clover Highland Games (Feis Clobhair) on November 9, 2024. This event features traditional sports, dance performances, and delicious local food, making it a highlight of the fall calendar. Nature lovers can also take advantage of Clover's proximity to Kings Mountain National Military Park, where beautiful hiking trails offer stunning views of fall foliage. Similarly, New Centre Park provides a relaxing getaway where visitors and locals can retreat from urban woes.

Bennettsville

Once a bustling agricultural hub, Bennettsville now charms visitors with its Victorian-era architecture and informs them with its Gulf District, which showcases the resilience of the local African American community. Held this year on November 2, the annual Scarecrow Festival draws crowds with local crafts, dance performances, and delicious food, providing a perfect opportunity to experience the town’s vibrant culture. Even if you miss out on the festival, Bennetsville is always full of life, especially along Main Street. Whether you want to grab a delicious sandwich at Magnolia On Main or learn about the town’s attractions at the Bennettsville Visitor Center, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Orangeburg

Orangeburg, often referred to as the “Garden City,” hosts its famous Festival of Roses each year in May. Apart from this, the town maintains its reputation for stunning landscapes, both natural and man-made, even as the peak fall foliage season of mid-November sets in. The Edisto Memorial Gardens come alive with 175 acres of beautiful floral displays and serene walking paths, perfect for a peaceful afternoon. The town is also home to two historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Claflin University and South Carolina State University, which create an eccentric atmosphere during autumn’s cool weather. For an unforgettable experience, come to this year’s Haloween Bar Crawl: Walking Dead at the Blind Tiger Pub on the 25th of October.

Beaufort

Beaufort, the jewel of Port Royal Island, captivates visitors with its coastal charm and historical significance. One of the oldest towns in South Carolina, Beaufort features beautiful antebellum architecture and lush landscapes. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district is lined with iconic landmarks, such as the 1776 William Elliott House, 1839 Robert Smalls House, and 1786 Tabby Manse. Consider timing your visit to catch the tail end of the peak fall foliage season and the beginning of the holiday season, which Beaufort celebrates with several great community events from December 6-8: A Night on the Town, A Gullah Taste of Christmas, and the town Christmas Parade. Even if you come to town early, the mix of red, golden, and yellow hues along the Atlantic Ocean’s tranquil waters creates a gorgeous environment throughout.

Gaffney

Known as the "Peach Capital of South Carolina," Gaffney is a charming town that shines during the early November fall foliage season. While some events have been canceled due to damage from Hurricane Helene, including the South Carolina Historical Society Fall Tour, there are still plenty of reasons to visit. The town’s iconic Peachoid water tower, a quirky landmark shaped like a giant peach, draws many visitors, while the Gaffney Premium Outlets offer excellent shopping opportunities. Nearby, Kings Mountain National Military Park provides beautiful hiking trails surrounded by vibrant autumn colors, and Cowpens National Battlefield offers a glimpse into Revolutionary War history. Despite the recent challenges, Gaffney remains a delightful destination for fall explorers.

Abbeville

While not near a Civil War battlefield, Abbeville is called the “birthplace and deathbed of the Confederacy” because of important Civil War political events that happened in town. Courthouse Square and the surrounding downtown area speak to the town’s past and make a great autumn backdrop for community events like Scare on the Square, a family-friendly Halloween event on October 24, 2024. After enjoying the festivities, take a relaxing stroll through the picturesque town with plenty of outlets like Main Street Coffee Co. and Two Brews, where you can enjoy a hot coffee to get away from the chilly autumn breeze. Or, embark on a more challenging hike in the surrounding forested hills of Long Cane Scenic Area, where the fall colors are exceptionally breathtaking.

Pickens

Pickens, like Gaffney, suffered widespread damage from Hurricane Helene in late September 2024. Recovery is ongoing, and popular autumn events like the Appalachian Folk Festival (November 1-2) and Holiday Market and Tree Lighting (November 29) are still scheduled. While this fall will be a different experience, Pickens remains one of the most beautifully situated towns in the state, with the peak autumn foliage of early-to-mid November painting the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you choose to delay your visit to allow more time for recovery, plan to attend the fantastic Azalea Festival in late April 2025. If you miss out on the events, the town is still worth a visit, whether for a historical view of the 1903 Old Pickens Jail or outdoor sightseeing of fall colors at the Glassy Mountain Heritage Preserve.

Conclusion

South Carolina’s small towns offer an ideal blend of relaxation and exploration, particularly in the enchanting fall season. With a full slate of events, stunning landscapes, and rich histories, it is easy to see why so many choose to visit and even relocate to this beautiful state. While autumn 2024 will be out of the ordinary for some of the state’s towns due to hurricane damage, a visit to South Carolina will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return next fall.