The incoming fall season in South Carolina opens many doors. Firstly, it's getting cooler out - and that means we can more easily enjoy spending time outside. Secondly, with the summer season behind us we have a little more stability in our schedule - freeing up some time just for ourselves. Before the onslaught of holiday madness takes over, plan on getting some R&R. Here are some idea starters for very best things you can do in South Carolina in the autumn. Enjoy!

1. Take a road trip to see the best fall foliage in the Palmetto State.

The height of the fall season is always the explosion of color. Some parts of South Carolina get more colors than others so why not take a fun family road trip and take it all in? Discover the best weekends to see it, and take our pre-charted route that you'll find here.

2. Have an amazing outdoor adventure chasing waterfalls.

The Upstate of South Carolina is a waterfall lover's paradise. There are really just too many to count! Spend a memorable day relaxing while you check some of them out. We put together a waterfall road trip trail through the Sumter National Forest featuring seven great waterfalls in close proximity. Check it out in this article.

3. Take a day trip by train!

Before the holiday season sets in, gather up the family and head to the next city or state over by way of train. It's the perfect adventure and offers a diversion from everyday distractions. We put together five train trips for a day of fun and you can read about those here.

4. Take some time for yourself and find your zen in nature.

Like we said, the holidays are approaching — so take the time now while you can! A hike is a great way to escape the nonsense and have a little time alone. Here are seven iconic hikes in the Palmetto State that should do the trick.

5. Grab your bestie and go shopping.

Find that venue that offers oodles of opportunities to be outside during your shopping excursion so you'll be able to enjoy the sights and smells of autumn. We suggest this popular village as a place to make it happen.

6. Head to the beach for a quiet lunch.

The summer season has come to an end and that means fewer people flocking to the ocean. Who knows? Maybe you'll even have the whole place to yourself! For a secluded little-known beachfront cafe, check out the Cabana Cafe in Litchfield Beach.

7. Take a road trip to see the lights!

Soon enough the only lights you'll be looking for will be draped on buildings, bushes and around trees, so why not get the light spotting started early this year with a road trip to see South Carolina's lighthouses? You'll find more information, including a map, in this article.

8. Head to this epic outdoor shrimp festival.

Spend the day outside enjoying the fun fellowship of this waterside festival in Little River. Come hungry and leave satisfied after you stuff your face with all the shrimp and fair food you can possibly imagine. Find out more here.

9. Speaking of festivals...don your Bavarian spirit and head to one of these fun Oktoberfests.

Fall is a great time to sample the foods, beers and wines of Germany while also enjoying some of the culture too. South Carolina is home to a number of Oktoberfests. You'll find nine of them listed here. Enjoy!

10. Head to a state park for the day.

South Carolina is blessed with 47 state parks and historic sites where you can kick back and relax. Enjoy the quiet respite before the launch of the incoming holiday season. Check out these 12 state parks where the fall foliage is outstanding.

11. Do something free for a change.

The South Carolina Botanical Garden dishes up acres and acres of outdoor enjoyment — all for free. There are many free attractions throughout the state. We listed 15 of them in this article. Get out there and have some free fun!

12. Get your creep on by exploring the state's most haunted road.

With Halloween approaching you can get an early fright by exploring the attractions on the most haunted street in the Palmetto State. Discover a fort with a wandering headless soldier, an open tomb from the 1800s and a mysterious floating light along the road. Read more in this article.

13. Head to one of the most remote restaurants in the state.

Why not? You don't need a special occasion to enjoy a top-notch steak at the Mill Pond Steakhouse. An added bonus is all the great scenery you'll enjoy getting to this remote eatery. Find out more here.

14. Spend some time with family.

No matter how far apart we are, our roots are right here in South Carolina. Family is - home. In fact, here are 15 relatable reasons why the Palmetto State will always be home - no matter where you are.

Fall may be the best season of the year. It's inbetween that crazy summer schedule we all maintain and that deliciously wonderful holiday season ahead - and offers the perfect chance to get away and do something fun for yourself. What's your favorite thing about autumn? We'd love to know!

For more seasonal fun in the Palmetto State, here are 10 country roads in South Carolina that are pure bliss in the fall.