7 Most Memorable Small Towns in South Carolina
South Carolina was admitted to the Union back in 1788, and it continues to be one of the most naturally beautiful and culturally splendid places in all the Southeastern United States. Filled with loads of charming surroundings, alluring American history, and, of course, splendid warm weather, the “Palmetto State” is a wonderful destination to immerse oneself in. From awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean, majestic panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and plenty of hospitable southern charm, South Carolina and its welcoming small towns are great ways to spend a vacation and learn more about the country. So start making your holiday plans and take to the road, for these memorable small towns in South Carolina await!
Beaufort
South Carolina’s second oldest colonial settlement (after Charleston), the historic and beautiful town of Beaufort, was founded in 1711. Home to a modern population of nearly 13,000 residents, Beaufort is stunningly situated on Port Royal Island on the Atlantic Coast, where breathtaking views and an abundance of 18th-century allure await. Visit the Historic District, where a wonderful array of 18th and 19th-century buildings and landmarks still stand, including those from the antebellum period just prior to the Civil War in the 1860s. And with its hot summers and warm winters, spending time outdoors in Beaufort is always a delight. Enjoy such activities as swimming, sailing, fishing, and sunbathing while a casual stroll on the boardwalk at the Sands in Port Royal. It is truly one of the most picture-perfect places in the entire state of South Carolina.
York
Also known as the “White Rose City,” the town of York can trace its foundational history to the 1750s, and it served as an important battle center during the American War of Independence. With a modest modern population of some 8,500 inhabitants, this seat of the same named county is indeed a welcoming locale of living history. Spend time at the York Historic District, where, incredibly, the majority of all the landmarks have been included on the National Register of Historic Places, including the County Courthouse (1914) and the Allison Plantation (1860). And do not forget about the Old Town Clock, where postcard-perfect photos await all who pose with it. Add in a great assortment of truly charming local eateries, shops, and other businesses, and York not only gives South Carolina a good reputation but creates an ideal snapshot of small-town USA.
Pendleton
A must-visit for any history lover, the town of Pendleton was founded in the 1790s, and today, just under 3,500 people call this historic center home. For those curious about a genuine look at life in the 18th and 19th centuries and the days of the American Revolution, spending time at the Pendleton Historic District cannot be missed. Here, such landmarks as the Bonne-Douthit and Woodburn Plantations, amongst many others on the National Register of Historic Places, illuminate the growth of early America and the strategic importance of States like South Carolina. Meanwhile, like many small towns in the State, loads of special Southern charm can be experienced in Pendleton, where novelty stores, family-run restaurants, and a truly friendly atmosphere abound. It is indeed a great place to learn more about history and experience the allure only a small town can offer.
Georgetown
The seat of the same named county and South Carolina’s third oldest colonial settlement, Georgetown is a wonderfully scenic and historical destination in the state’s Lowcountry region. Though formally established by the British in 1729, Georgetown was originally claimed by the Spanish in 1526, and today, it stands as the second-largest seaport in South Carolina. Home to a modest population of just under 8,400 residents, Georgetown was once an indigo and rice production center, and guests can continue to experience a sense of the old world by visiting its historic streets and landmarks. Visit the Historic District and its wonderful cobblestone streets and numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places that really transport one back some two hundred years. These include the Arcadia Plantation (1794) and the Battery White (1862), amongst many others. And, of course, with its seaside location, Georgetown is a great place to enjoy the water and the scenic beauty that is South Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean.
Hartsville
Though formally established in the 1890s, Hartsville was first settled by colonists in the 1760s, and today, just over 7,500 residents call this charming historic community home. A great place to learn about early America and the indigenous people who lived there prior, visitors can explore a number of fascinating historic sites in Hartsville. These include the Hartsville Depot Train Station and the Jacob Kelly Mansion, amongst several others that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, nature lovers will not want to miss the Kalmia Gardens, where, over an area of some 30 acres, a wonderful array of local plants and curated trails create a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. Add in Hartsville’s charming assortment of local eateries, family-run shops, and other galleries, and this is one South Carolina town that surely will not be forgotten soon.
Aiken
Situated near the border with Georgia, the town of Aiken was founded in 1835 and serves as the seat of the same named county. Home to the campus of the University of South Carolina Aiken (1961), this town is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about American history in a friendly midsized town. Visit Hitchcock Park for a chance to go horseback riding or spend an afternoon at Boyd Pond Park, where splendid hiking trails and chances to see a variety of wildlife make it a great excursion for all ages. And do not forget about the special Hopeland Gardens and its wonderful collection of locally grown flowers all bathed in the warm and welcoming Southern sun. Meanwhile, visiting the Aiken Train Museum will surely be a delight. Learn about the Eastern Railroad’s expansion and browse through various fascinating artifacts at this informative and interactive place.
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is a beautiful resort town with centuries of history and a geographic splendor that makes it unique amongst South Carolina locales. With its nearly 12 miles of stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline, Hilton Head always has an abundance of breathtaking views, inviting waters, and hot sun. Just some 30 miles from the border with Georgia, visitors and locals alike enjoy such activities as swimming, sailing, sunbathing, and even playing games like golf and tennis in a scenic ambiance. Visit Coligny Beach Park for awesome boardwalk panoramas while a great range of shopping outlets and other fine dining establishments fill out the surroundings. Meanwhile, perhaps a helicopter tour of the area might be just the exciting rush one is looking for, especially for the truly courageous explorer!
The “Palmetto State" of South Carolina is undoubtedly one of the true cultural and natural treasures of the Southeastern United States. With its warm and inviting climate, its fascinating cultural allure, and loads of intriguing American history, a visit to South Carolina and its charming towns are indeed great wonders waiting to be discovered. From the unique setting that is Hilton Head Island to the historic streets of York, these and other memorable small towns in the State serve as splendid reminders of why South Carolina is such a beautiful place. So pack your bags and take to the road; the wonders of small-town South Carolina await, all with a thirst for culture, adventure, and genuine Southern charm.
