With so much to see and do in the Palmetto State, it stands to reason that some places remain under the radar, even for locals. That's where we come in! From underrated state parks to hard-to-find restaurants, we're always happy to shine some light on lesser-known things to do in South Carolina. Take a look below and then decide when you can visit these fun spots in person.
1. Milliken Arboretum - Spartanburg
Billed as the largest corporate greenspace in the Southeast, the Milliken Arboretum is comprised of more than 600 acres of manicured greenspace that includes more than 500 species of trees. The arboretum is free and open to the public. It is located on Milliken Road in Spartanburg.
2. The Spirit of Lake Murray (boat tour) - Leesville
The only dinner and tour yacht on Lake Murray is available for chartered events, but it's also open for public cruises on scheduled dates. Sail around the lake enjoying the lovely views, and perhaps a sunset as beautiful as the one shown above. More information.
3. Emerald Farm - Greenwood
For a day trip to remember, head to this country farm where you're sure to find fresh air and loads of fun. Ride a mini train around the farm, visit the animals, and picnic while you enjoy a day in the life of farm living. Emerald Farm is located at 409 Emerald Farm Rd., Greenwood, SC 29646 and is open Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. More information.
4. Fort Lamar Heritage Preserve - Charleston
An underrated and often overlooked historic site on Charleston's James Island, this historic preserve marks the site of the Battle of Secessionville on June 16, 1862. It's also the home of a forever gone ghost town known as Riversville. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission is free. The preserve is located at 1231 Fort Lamar Rd., Charleston, SC 29412.
5. Carter & Holmes (Orchid Farm) - Newberry
If you've never visited a nursery dedicated to the cultivation of one of the most loved flowering plants ever, then you'll especially love seeing them at this little-known nursery outside of Newberry. Carter & Holmes Orchids is located at 629 State Rd S-36-273, Newberry, SC 29108. It's open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. More information.
6. Runway Park - Greenville
This fun park for kids is cleverly located next to a small airport (GMU). Enjoy watching small planes land and take off, and if you get hungry, there is a restaurant on the other side of the parking lot. Runway Park is located at 21 Airport Rd. Ext., Greenville, SC 29607.
7. Battery White - near Georgetown
An artillery battery built and used by the Confederates sits on private property (but open to the public) on the Winyah Bay near Georgetown. The site was closed for many decades, but reopened to the public ten years ago. It's located on Belle Isle Road in Georgetown. Admission is free.More information.
8. Port Royal Sound Maritime Center - Okatie
Experience, explore and discover the sights and critters of the Lowcountry waters in this unique (and free) hands-on adventure near Port Royal. It's located at 310 Okatie Hwy., Okatie, SC 29909 and open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m., and admission is free. More information.
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Fortunately, any season in South Carolina is great to explore things right here at home in our own back yard! We're always looking for new and interesting places to write about. Feel free to leave suggestions in our comments!
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