14 Unique Day Trips That Show Off Our Fun-Filled State Of South Carolina

Have you ever felt like that planned vacation will never come around? That it is months away and all you can think about is hitting the road and seeing something new? Have you found yourself wanting to shed the familiar for something different for a change? If you're anything like us, you're likely researching "unique day trips near me" in South Carolina about every other day. The following 14 unforgettable day trips in South Carolina are at your fingertips - and may just be the answer for you! They show off our fun-filled state and there's a unique destination no matter what type of experience you wish to have.

1. Go smell the roses.

Dotting South Carolina are large glorious gardens, all for your pleasure. Acres upon acres of relaxation await you while the kids can be off feeding the ducks or running and playing hide-and-seek. The garden shown above is the Edisto Memorial Gardens, and you can learn more about it by following the link.

2. Learn about cotton in a whole new way.

In the quaint town of Bishopville stands the first stop of the 'Carolina Cotton Trail' known as the South Carolina Cotton Museum. It will take you back two centuries and shows you how it was done from the farming to the factory. Learn more about the South Carolina Cotton Museum here.

3. Take a drive down to historic Charleston.

Charleston holds so much that you could extend your stay for a weekend or longer if possible. However, if not, I say you should definitely check out the Charleston Market with their unique goods from handwoven baskets to homemade clothes and edibles!

4. Take a tour of our capital.

South Carolina's State House and grounds is a great way to spend the day. They offer tours of this beautiful blue granite building and the grounds are there for you to meander about. There are hidden treasures everywhere on the grounds and gorgeous statues. Don't forget your camera!

5. Pack a picnic basket and visit a state park.

South Carolina has 47 state parks for you to choose from and all of them are unique in their own way. They offer everything from archeology to zipline fun.

6. Take a walk on the wild side.

Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia is 170 acres and includes the Botanical Gardens. There is nothing better than feeding giraffes, watching the lions laze in the sun, or the Galapagos tortoises. Learn more about the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden here.

7. Visit an aquarium!

A trip to the aquarium is a fun activity for people of all ages. A great South Carolina aquarium to visit is Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach.

8. Take the scenic route.

The Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway will give you nature overload at its finest. Originally used as a route for fur traders and the Cherokee to travel from Tennessee to Charleston, it now is 112-mile vision of delight especially when fall comes to the area. This website has more information about the byway.

9. Go treasure hunting!

In out-of-the-way spots all over South Carolina you will find some of the most unique museums ever to be seen. Take a trip to Elloree, SC and visit J's Tea-riffic Teapot Museum (the museum, unfortunately, has closed but the giant blue teapot is still there to see) or jaunt over to Bishopville, SC to see the Button King Museum. Be sure to check ahead of time if they are open, since they aren't always available to visit. Visit this website for more information.

10. Take in some sun.

With over 2000 miles of coastline, it is a sure bet that you are going to find a beach that will please you. Take sunscreen, a good book, and a packed lunch for a day in the sun. I'm told that naps are best when you can hear the waves crashing upon the shore!

11. Venture back in history and explore the Revolutionary War sites.

I always say that it is better to learn on your feet than in a classroom.

12. Stand on the green and take a deep breath.

South Carolina has a total of 462 golf courses. With that many courses about there is sure to be one near you. Even if you are a beginner or if you have never picked up a club in your life, you will find yourself a world away once you start walking the greens, enjoying the fresh air, and the camaraderie that comes with golfing.

13. Learn to flow.

Have you ever been rafting? How about white water rafting? A trip down Chattooga River can give you that experience. There are multiple ways to take this excursion. Wildwater Rafting is one way, and they have more than just rafting.

14. Find Pedro at South of the Border!

Any list of unique trips in South Carolina would not be complete without South of the Border. Kick up your heels and pull out your inner child as you enter this South Carolina staple. Chock full of silliness and child wonderment, you are sure to have a day filled with laughter and, really, what more could we ask for?

Let go of that daily grind and let your hair unwind for a day or two. Pack that lunch, pack the car, pack the kids or that special someone (and don't forget that camera!), and leave your cares behind.

If you're looking for more enjoyable activities to try throughout the Palmetto State, here is an entire list of bucket-list-worthy adventures in SC.