The Most Charming College Town In South Carolina Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

The word "Clemson" automatically invokes images and thoughts of college football, the Tigers, and perhaps the color orange. This wasn't always the case. That word became the name for the college town in South Carolina where Clemson University was founded in 1889 when the land it currently occupies was donated along with the Calhoun family home for the formation of the college. Before the name change in 1943, the town was known as Calhoun.

As the college grew, the town decided to identify with the school through its name. Today, the town has a population of almost 18,000 people, and the university has reached over 25,000 students.

The real kicker, though, is home game days, when over 80,000 fans (at sell-out games) take to Memorial Stadium, also affectionately known as Death Valley. Ironically, outgoing Clemson Football Coach Jess Neely told his successor, "Don't ever let them talk you into building a big stadium. Put about 10,000 seats behind the YMCA. That's all you'll ever need."

Memorial Stadium was completed in 1942 and has since seen several expansions, making it the largest in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

It's no surprise that Clemson, South Carolina, has been named a top small college town in America (by Preply). Beyond football, you'll find numerous options for enjoying the great outdoors. Mountain View Park, for example, offers a one-mile trail, a public access boat ramp on Lake Hartwell, a nine-hole disc golf course, picnic areas, and a beach area.

Or there's also the Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park, featuring a boardwalk around a Hartwell inlet with plenty of shade, a few places to fish, a canoe/kayak landing, and access to several restaurants. The lake level does fluctuate, so current conditions will determine the feasibility of fishing at this location.

Also, back at the University, the South Carolina Botanical Garden consists of 295 acres of natural landscapes, display gardens, and miles of streams and nature trails.

You'll have no problem finding a delicious meal in this delightful college town in South Carolina either. If BBQ is your jam, you've gotta stop by the Roller Mills Smokehouse, a food truck, parked only half a mile from the University, with rave reviews.

For burgers, head on over to Mac's Drive-In on Pendleton Road.

The '55 Exchange is your spot for ice cream. It's operated by Clemson college students and is located on the Clemson University campus.

For a wonderful off-campus option, Lindough Bakery offers a variety of sweet treats, including the hot chocolate brownie cupcake, macaroons, and much more.

Shop 'til you drop in Clemson at the Elkmont Trading Company, which is a local, independent outfitter specializing in gear, apparel, footwear, accessories, home decor, gourmet food, women's boutique items, and more.

Other stores worth a visit include the Gateway Village, Emmaline Boutique + Gifts, the Fizz Boutique, the Tiger Sports Shop, and Judge Keller's Store (men's clothing).

If you'd like to stay overnight, you can even keep your accommodations Clemson-themed! This Tiger Lover's Dream Cottage Vrbo is the obvious choice.

But for something a little more subtle, check out The Tiger Den.

Simply put, there are plenty of fun things to do in the charming town of Clemson, SC! We think it's a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Have you ever been to this college town in South Carolina? Are you a Tiger fan? What are your favorite spots in town? We'd love to hear from you in the comments.