8 Coziest Small Towns in South Carolina

South Carolina, well known for its southern hospitality, rich culture, flavor cuisine, and slow living, is home to a treasure trove of small towns with deep history, beautiful architecture, and charming landscapes.

Here are eight of the coziest small towns in South Carolina with around 30,000 residents or less, excluding the well-known cities like York and Hilton Head Island (they are worth visiting, too). So whether you are looking for a quiet getaway spot or cities with hearty US history without the crowds, here are eight of the coziest small towns in South Carolina. 

Beaufort

With a population close to 13,000, this small town on Port Royal Island is best known for its beautiful coastal scenery. However, it is also well known for its well-preserved buildings from the early-to-mid-19th century and late 18th century. Among other things, a full three hundred and four acres of Beaufort has been designated a National Historic Landmark. For more historical information, you can visit the Penn Center- a former school for freed slaves now a place to learn about the history and culture of African Americans. For more scenery, however, stroll along the Spanish Moss Trail former railroad or visit the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Travelers Rest

Surrounded by pristine lakes, waterfalls, and peaceful scenic views, there are endless opportunities to enjoy in Travelers Rest. Just an eighteen-minute drive from Greenville, this small town offers a dose of outdoor adventuring and small-town living. With a population of nearly 8,000, it is a welcoming retreat for vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking are just some of the many available outdoor activities. Before hitting the water or trail, stop in at the Tandeau Creperie and Coffeehouse to fuel up.

Cope

The smallest town in this list is a dot roughly in the middle of Orangeburg County. With fewer than 100 people, it is one of the smallest towns in America. Refrain from letting that deter you from visiting this place; a few tourists come here, making it a fantastic spot to take in this place's beauty fully. The 1894 Manchester and Augusta railroad station is a great place to understand Cope's history. This small town has so much to take in, from the adorably tiny town hall to the murals painted on the sides of some buildings. This town has several charming churches, like the Macedonia AME Church, which wraps up almost everything about this unique destination.

Newberry

A town rich in history and known for its rural beauty and small-town charm, its population is just over 10,000. There is an abundance of things to see in this intriguing town. Starting with the downtown area, which is the centerpiece of the community, it is the hub for culture, government, and local trade. Venture down the downtown streets and enjoy the heritage preserved in the buildings. Speaking of historic buildings, beautifully renovated buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Speaking of historic places, there are unique attractions like the Newberry County Historical Museum, the Art Deco Newberry Firehouse, and the Newberry Opera House. Once done pursuing the downtown treasures, you can grab a bite at one of the downtown eateries like The Palms Grill and Bar, Figaro, or The Cabana restaurant. 

Anderson

Nicknamed "The Friendliest Town in America," how could you not want to stop here? A charming town with a population of over 28,000, the community here has a warm and welcoming aura to travelers and visitors alike. There is much to explore in this vibrant town, from the Palmetto distillery, where moonshine is sold by the truckload, to a kid venture playground with all the playground amenities. Looking for something to do with your friends or family? Stop at the Boulevard Canes or C&C Ice Cream and Arcade. However, If you want to learn more about the town's history, stroll down Anderson Historic District or Anderson College Historic District. When strolling down the Anderson Downtown District, check out the hydroelectric dam nearby to see where Anderson gets their second nickname, "The Electric City''.

Abbeville

Abbeville is a beautiful stop if you are not a fan of crowds. With a population of just above 5,000, this walkable town is full of friendly locals. Mansions, Houses, and even an opera house make up the five hundred and twenty-eight buildings of the Abbeville Historic District. This collection of buildings dates back to the 19th century, a true testament to the long history of Abbevillie. Once finished with the bricks and mortar, heading southeast out of town, you can take a serene hike in some gorgeous woodlands.

Georgetown

The third oldest city in South Carolina, this beautiful, quaint waterfront community of over 9,000 is filled with charm, history, and personality. It is a must-visit location. Home to more than 250 historic homes in and around its downtown district, more than 60 of the houses are on the National Register of Historic Places. All within a stroll of the Harborwalk, you can discover shops and award-winning restaurants. If you want to learn more about this town's history, you can visit one of the five museums in the downtown area. There are several unspoiled beaches only a short drive from downtown Georgetown. Whatever you decide to do in this town, remember to bring a camera with you to capture some of the most photographic opportunities in the South.

Landrum

Full of exciting attractions, historically significant sites, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals, This small town of over 2,000 is perched on the border of North and South Carolina and has much to offer for its small size. This small town has striking landscapes, and plenty of outdoor activities surround downtown, including a you-pick lavender farm, a nature preserve, and historic spots such as the Campbells Covered Bridge, the state's only remaining covered bridge. Downtown, the shops and local restaurants are housed in vintage brick buildings from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Serving anything from pub food to pizza, and even a restaurant that serves  Thai-Japanese food. There is something for everyone to taste downtown,  not only in the restaurants but in the many local shops downtown. Landrum has something that will pique your interest, so do not pass it by if you are traveling through South Carolina. 

South Carolina's Hidden Charms

South Carolina has countless cozy towns that are great for relaxing or escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with their breathtaking landscapes, pleasing atmospheres, and welcoming residents. Whether you are a visitor or a local, it is always a pleasure to experience South Carolina’s towns' cozy atmosphere.