South Carolina's 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024
From its gorgeous shores along the Atlantic coast to the spectacular vistas in the Appalachian foothills, South Carolina is a world-class travel destination. Cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach get most of the hype, but the “Palmetto State” also has dozens of great small towns that offer historic charm, natural beauty, and much more. The seven underrated gems on our list may not be on your South Carolina travel itinerary right now but are definitely worthy additions.
Bennettsville
Situated along the Great Pee Dee River in the northeastern part of the state, Bennettsville has transformed from an agricultural and commercial hub into a destination for heritage tourism. Home to about 7,000 residents, Bennettsville is renowned for the many Victorian-era homes and commercial buildings in its downtown National Historic District. Separated from the main business district, the Gulf District stands witness to decades of racial segregation and the persistence of African Americans in building successful professional and commercial establishments. Beat the summer heat by visiting in December to enjoy Bennettsville’s fun holiday parade and seasonal events.
Beaufort
Port Royal Island, home to the town of Beaufort, is nicknamed the “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands.” Beaufort plays a big role in the island’s regal reputation, as it is one of the oldest and most beautiful colonial settlements in South Carolina. Downtown Beaufort’s National Historic Landmark district, covering 300 acres, is even more lovely when taken in on a horse-drawn carriage tour. This little gem shines brightest in midsummer when it hosts the annual Beaufort Water Festival (July 12-21, 2024), but it also always makes a fantastic side visit from nearby Hilton Head Island.
Abbeville
South Carolina’s move to secede from the Union began in Abbeville in 1860, and the Confederate government dissolved there in 1865, making this little town of 5,000 the “birthplace and deathbed of the Confederacy.” Historic homes, sites, and markers connected to the Civil War abound in Abbeville, while the town’s iconic courthouse square serves as host to community events and festivals throughout the year. The historic 1908 Abbeville Opera House, located on the square, bustles with live performances ranging from 1980s rock tribute acts to musical comedies. All the while, the forested hills of South Carolina’s Upper Western region serve as a lovely natural backdrop.
Gaffney
The Upstate region town of Gaffney followed a boom-and-bust cycle from the late 1800s to mid-1900s, rising with the textile industry and falling when the interstate highways changed regional commerce. Throughout the long recovery from its midcentury decline, this town of 13,000 has latched onto its agricultural heritage and its claim as the “Peach Capital of South Carolina.” Gaffney hosts the South Carolina Peach Festival each July, with food, games, entertainment, and much more. Gaffney is also close to two Revolutionary War Battlefields, Cowpens and Kings Mountain, making it a great base of operations for history buffs.
Clover
The little town of Clover has been enveloped by the ever-expanding Charlotte, North Carolina metro area, and the influx of city commuters has added a jolt of vitality to the downtown business district. Despite a relative population surge, however, Clover is still a small community of 6,500 with a strong Scots-Irish heritage. This heritage is celebrated at the annual Clover Highland Games (Feis Chlobhair), with traditional sports, foods, crafts, and more, each November. Clover is also one of the closest towns to Kings Mountain National Military Park, which commemorates a critical turning point victory during the Revolutionary War in 1780.
Orangeburg
The town of Orangeburg should perhaps be renamed Roseburg since its most famous community event is the fantastic Festival of Roses held each May. Regardless of its given name, the town is known as South Carolina’s “Garden City” because of the beautiful floral displays on show at sites such as Edisto Memorial Gardens. Even when the growing season is past, Orangeburg puts on beautiful displays during its Children’s Garden Christmas in December! Along with its gardens, Orangeburg is known as the home of two historic Black colleges (HBCUs), South Carolina State University and Claflin University.
Pickens
Pickens occupies an enviable perch in the foothills of western South Carolina, providing lovely views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and quick access to numerous trails and state parks. Thanks to the mountain surroundings, historic Pickens highlights, such as the county courthouse and the Old Jail, take on an even greater charm. Fun community events like the annual Christmas parade and, most notably, the Pickens Azalea Festival each year in late April further showcase Pickens’ beauty and community spirit. The Azalea Festival is jokingly called the region’s biggest family reunion because people simply love to meet up in the cute little town of Pickens!
South Carolina has long been a popular travel destination, and it has now also become one of the fastest growing states by population. Whether you are just interested in a great visit or are thinking about relocating, make time to explore the seven small towns on our list. These communities are full of history, natural beauty, and community spirit, and host great events throughout the year. So do not miss out on your chance to experience the best of the Palmetto State in 2024!
