Here Are 16 Enchanting Hidden Gems In South Carolina Worth Taking A Detour For
Let’s face it, South Carolina is not the biggest state in the United States. There are so many more that would engulf us, but the fact of the matter is, South Carolina has so many nooks and crannies that it would take a lifetime to see all that it has to offer and you may still miss a spot or two. There are more hidden gems in South Carolina than anyone could know. Here are 16 of them that I assure you are worth taking a detour for.
While many people flock to places like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head, you can visit and become enchanted with Bluffton. There are delightful cafes, charming shops, and grand and glorious inns. There are antique shops, art galleries, as well as beautiful homes to see. Take you time and enjoy!
Just a bit off a 2-lane road you will find this beauty of nature. It's not that it is a secret, it's just that it's not marked well enough for most people to catch it before they have passed it by miles. Visitors are more than welcome and it's just a short walk to the destination. If you are ever up that way make sure you look for the tell-tale stone columns and a small placard that marks the spot.
Walhalla, SC is a mountain city rich in history. It was settled by Germans in the 1800's and its name means "Garden of the Gods". It's not wonder considering the beauty of the area. Walhalla is also home to a few hidden gems including Kudzu Kabin Designs, Issaqueena Falls, and Stumphouse Tunnel. With so much to see, why not take a weekend to discover the "Garden of the Gods"!
When people come to South Carolina to golf they always seem to head straight for the coastal golf courses. They usually have to endure long wait times when they do this. However, in the heart of Aiken, SC, there is a golf course just a little bit down the road from downtown. It was first opened in 1903 and still holds that rustic charm as it did then. Many golfers find the course a challenge; more so than other courses in South Carolina. Here is the Aiken Golf Club website for more information.
It's hard for some to fathom that South Carolina is not just a state with beaches. We are so much more. The Chattooga River offers whitewater rafting and there are hiking trails, parks, and lakes to fish. There are waterfalls to discover as well. There is shopping to be done in Pendleton as well as quaint places to get a bit to eat.
The name itself is an acronym for Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers. More than 1.1 million acres of low islands separated by small rivers, marshes, swamps, and creeks.
The land is home to a horde of wildlife and you are welcome to visit most of it. It may sound like a huge task, but you don't have to do all of it. Go ahead and explore the land we love so much. Learn more at the ACE Basin webpage.
This is truly a gem of a place. The manor was built 1902-1905 in the Greek Revival style. It is a mixture of opulence and bed and breakfast inn that has an award-winning chef on board. During the day you can play golf, go shopping for antiques and sundries, or explore the rich history that abounds in the area. Learn more at the Abingdon Manor website.
Every year they have a fall festival and have activities for young and old alike. You can make butter, paint your own gourd for bird nests, see sheep shearing, and learn to make your own yarn. Who could expected that this was right here in South Carolina? Visit the Ovis Hill Farm website to learn more.
Hatcher Garden rests in the city of Spartanburg, SC and is a quiet and serene setting to get out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Why not visit now while the flowers are blooming and the trees are leafed out providing that much needed shade from the summer sun? Learn more by visiting the Hatcher Garden website.
You can go for a visit and just stroll among the flowers , shrubs, and trees or you can plan a day when they have activities available. Don't be shy...they love visitors. Here is the Moore Farms website if you'd like to find out more.
11. The River Room & Kaminski House Museum, Georgetown, SC
In among all the tourist spots you will find some places that are just magnificent. The River Room offers a respite from your shopping, great food, and a view of the river.
When you are done taking a rest at the River Room you can visit the Kaminski House Museum. Take a tour through the 18th century home that is filled with original antiques and splendor. Learn more by visiting the Kaminski House Museum website.
It is a water-powered grist mill that was originally built in 1826. Also on the grounds are a blacksmith shop, cotton gin, two restored log cabins, a gift shop, and so much more. Should definitely be on your to-do list! Visit the Hagood Mill website to learn more.
The building has been restored over time, but it still offers the wide variety of things that you would never find anywhere else in one place. Cooper's offers everything from whole smoked hams to shotguns and everything in between. It reminds me of when I was growing up. There were more of these around then, but time and corporations have run most of them out of business. Take the time to visit and let them know you appreciate their hard work. Keep up to date by visiting the Cooper's Country Store Facebook page.
HIdden in plain sight on Palmetto Street is the Thieves Market. Walking in the door is like walking through time and space to 'when it used to be'. You can spend hours going through the isles and think you were there for just a moment. Check out the Thieves Market Facebook page for more information.
They have been there for 15+ years and I only discovered them this recently. I feel so cheated! This little shop is tucked away on Evans Street. When you walk in you are greeted by a delightful woman and you choose your seating.
You can choose from a variety of special teas. My favorite is the Russian Tea. I think I can drink a whole pot. The dishes that you order are delightful as well and they have a special of the day. They also have a "Tea" and a "Victorian Tea" you can choose which comes with all the goodness of what you believe a tea should be. I, myself, have a love affair with the scones that comes with lemon curd and Devonshire cream. Top Hat is the true definition of a hidden gem! Here is the Top Hat Special-Teas website if you'd like to find out more.
In the small town of Denmark, SC, there lives a painter who paints the landscapes of South Carolina. I know Jim and he knew my mother. He is a delightful man who never stops thinking or painting. The art gallery is worthy of that detour I am talking about. You will not believe you eyes. And, when you are done there you can go to the Wee Bake Bakery for a fresh baked dessert! Here is a link to the Jim Harrison Art Gallery website for more information.
There is so much packed in this state! Rich in natural beauty and culture there’s no wonder the love I have for South Carolina. It is even better to know that I can find something new around every turn of the road. What are some other hidden gems that no one knows about? Would you like to share them? Please, do so at our nominations page.
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Address: Bluffton, SC, USA
Address: Oconee County, SC, USA
Address: Walhalla, SC, USA
Address: 555 Highland Park Dr SW, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Address: Chattooga River, United States
Address: Pendleton, SC 29670, USA
Address: Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, South Carolina, USA
Address: 307 Church St, Latta, SC 29565, USA
Address: 1501 Weaver St, Timmonsville, SC 29161, USA
Address: Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, 832 John B White Sr Blvd, Spartanburg, SC 29306, USA
Address: Moore Farms Botanical Garden, 100 New Zion Rd, Lake City, SC 29560, USA
Address: Cooper's Country Store Inc, 6945 US-521, Salters, SC 29590, USA
Address: Thieves Market, 1820 E Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29506, USA
Address: 234 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501, USA
Address: 4716 Carolina Hwy, Denmark, SC 29042, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hidden Gems In South Carolina
October 09, 2020
Leah
What are the most unique things to do in South Carolina?
Here are some lesser known things to see in South Carolina that are unique to the state. Not many people known that the Palmetto State is home to the nation's only tea plantation. Located near Charleston, the Charleston Tea Plantation claims themselves as "America's only tea garden." You can tour the garden and tea factory and try some of their delicious drinks. South Carolina is also home to a supposed Fountain of Youth. This natural spring is tucked away in a forest and pumped out of the ground with a simple pipe. It doesn't look like much, but people swear by the healing properties of the water.
What are the best road trips through South Carolina?
What better way to explore the state than taking one of many South Carolina road trips? We've put together quite a few road trips that will cater to many different kind of adventures you want to take. If you enjoy viewing lighthouses, here is a South Carolina Lighthouse Road Trip. If you enjoy all things paranormal and are feeling particularly brave, try this South Carolina Haunted Road Trip. Visit the state's prettiest natural areas on this South Carolina Natural Wonders Road Trip. We also have a South Carolina Small Towns Road Trip that'll take you to some of the most charming, picturesque towns in the sate.
What places in South Carolina should I see before I die?
There are many day trips in South Carolina that should be on your bucket list. No South Carolinian or visitor to the state should go without a stop at America's #1 City: Charleston. The historic sites, lively atmosphere, and lengthy list of things to see and do are simply a must. To see an even older, living piece of history that's unlike any other, stop by the Angel Oak. This magnificent tree is said to be around 1,500 years old. It's huge and amazing to behold in person. The Angel Oak is located on Johns Island.
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Gwen is an author, artist, illustrator, graphic designer, mother, wife, and part-time super hero. She loves to tackle her dreams head on and takes life by storm. Coffee is her best friend and a good book cannot be beat! When does she have the time, you ask? Well...do you really need that much sleep?
