41 Things To Do & Places To Visit In South Carolina

Places To Visit In South Carolina

 

The state of South Carolina has a rich past.

It was the first to leave the Union, the eighth to ratify the U.S. Constitution, and once the state with the highest slave trade activities.

Many of the well-known locations from its past are still there today, including plantations, prisons, museums, ruins, and forts.

Many of its populated cities, particularly Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and Florence, are very well-liked by tourists.

Additionally, South Carolina is a popular tourist destination.

Beautiful beaches, parks and woodland areas, golf courses, recreational places, museums, and several historical sites can be found along the route.

Despite being a minor state, it offers a wealth of opportunities for fun and discovery.

 

1. Old Charleston Jail

Built in 1802, the Old Charleston Jail housed the city of South Carolina’s jail until 1939.

Only the front interior of the jail is left from the original layout since towers, an octagon, and an arched facade were added during the 1855 reconstruction to give it a more menacing look.

The ground floor was designated for “gentlemen,” the second floor for “minor” offenders, and the third story for “hardened criminals.” Each floor was built to accommodate a distinct type of inmate.

Although the worst offenders were hanged in the yard, the majority of the inmates housed in the Old Charleston Jail were small offenders.

Numerous people who were not hanged died of illness or other natural causes.

The overall number of Union soldiers housed here during the Civil War was so great that some prisoners of war were forced to remain in tents in the jail yard.

Parts of the jail were damaged or drastically reduced in 1886 when Charleston experienced an earthquake.

The last hanging took place here in 1911, and when apartment complexes were planned across the street, the jail’s popularity waned in the 1930s.

After being shut down in 1939, it was stored until the 1970s, when it was converted into a museum.

The American College of the Building Arts owns it and is currently restoring and upgrading it, making it one of the most distinctive attractions in South Carolina.

Address: 21 Magazine St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

2. The Button Museum

One of the many enjoyable activities in South Carolina is the Button Museum.

Dalton Stevens, who suffered from extreme sleeplessness that peaked in 1983, devised it.

He began sewing buttons into a suit repeatedly, desperate for something to do.

Stevens proceeded to button his guitar shoes and more after 16,000 buttons were sewn or glued onto it in just two years.

Stevens became extremely famous as a result, even though it didn’t exactly help with his insomnia.

He had more things to do because of this pastime, and he declared himself the “Button King” and began putting buttons on the strangest and most unusual objects he could discover.

The Button Museum would be created when he rented up a place near his house to store all of these artifacts.

Stevens died in Bishopville, South Carolina, in 2016, but the Button Museum endures.

Here, you can find a variety of items decorated in buttons, including hearses, caskets, and an outhouse.

Address: 53 Joe Dority Rd, Bishopville, SC 29010, United States

3. South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is a massive 93,000-square-foot facility with a plethora of fun things to do. It debuted in 2000.

It is one of the best destinations for families and a great place for those who enjoy all types of marine life.

The South Carolina Aquarium features salt marsh aviaries, touch tanks, aquariums, and more.

In addition to reptiles, lemurs, and songbirds waiting to be seen, visitors can touch sharks, feed stingrays, and hold horseshoe crabs.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

4. Tiny Town of Easley

For generations of residents, the Tiny Town of Easley was a popular vacation destination in South Carolina and a major southern attraction.

It all began in 1974 when Perry and Ollie Jennings constructed a small log home for Ollie that was identical to the one she had always wanted to live in but knew she would never be able to.

The couple decided to continue building because Ollie was so happy with the small cabin.

By 1977, they had a complete miniature reproduction of the town where they lived, and as more and more small houses appeared, they added Christmas lights.

The little town was one of the main attractions for kids, who adored it.

By 2009, the Jennings had died, leaving the Tiny Town of Easley with 80 buildings.

There are regrettably just 25 left, and some of them have been modified to make them more kid-friendly.

A tribute to the vernacular craftsmanship that was once a mainstay of the area is the fact that thousands of visitors go to this part of South Carolina each year to see the town.

It is also one of the free activities in the state because there is no admission charge.

Address: 555 Latham Rd, Easley, SC 29640, United States

5. Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing is a must-do for everyone traveling to South Carolina—that is, assuming you enjoy fishing in the first place!

Anglers can find plenty of game species in the deep waters from April to November, including gigantic blue marlin, amberjack, barracuda, sailfish, cobia, and more.

This is particularly true in light of South Carolina’s numerous artificial reefs.

These lovely locations are ideal for fishing because they have 3,000 miles of tidal shoreline and a variety of fish types!

You can rent private boats, join fishing excursions, or use your own boat at these popular South Carolina locations: Hilton Head Island, Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Beaufort.

6. Oyotunji African Village

Visiting the Oyotunji African Village, an actual Yoruba village, is one of the top things to do in South Carolina.

In the 1970s, Oba Oseijeman Adefunmi I established it in Sheldon, South Carolina, as his supporters came from Chicago, New York, and Indiana.

The oldest genuine African village of its kind in North America is Oyotunji.

There used to be 200 people living here, but now there are just approximately 50.

It is only roughly 10 acres in size, and although it has basic utilities like power and plumbing, the people who live there lead very simple lives.

A royal palace, courtyards, outdoor shrines, and a bazaar with jewelry, artwork, clothes, and herbs for sale.

It’s a fantastic method to become deeply ingrained in a culture that is uncommon in America.

Address: 56 Bryant Ln, Seabrook, SC 29940, United States

7. Poinsett Bridge

Poinsett Bridge is a modest small place with a mysterious past and gothic architecture.

In addition to being the oldest bridge in South Carolina, it also gives the forest reserve where it is located its name.

However, nobody is aware of its builder!

The bridge, which was constructed in 1820 to connect North Carolina and Tennessee, was named for Joel Roberts Poinsett, a well-known local resident at the time.

The bridge is composed of basic stonework set in a medieval-style archway, and the road is 130 feet long.

It is a beloved local landmark that is worth visiting and is regarded as one of the most picturesque locations in the area.

Address: 580 Callahan Mountain Rd, Landrum, SC 29356, United States

8. Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken

The Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken in Hartsville is the final location of the honey-flavored chicken chain, which was founded in the 1960s when celebrity restaurants were at their peak in popularity. It is a little out of the ordinary among South Carolina attractions.

South Carolina residents love eating at this distinctive relic of the past, which came to an abrupt end when Hardees Foods Inc. lost interest in growing the brand.

Since the late 1990s, Hartsville’s branch has been the only one remaining as other locations closed one by one.

This is an intriguing chapter in the history of fast food.

Address: 514 S 5th St, Hartsville, SC 29550, United States

9. Mars Bluff Crater

The Mars Bluff Crater is an intriguing choice if you’re looking for more unusual South Carolina tourist destinations.

Some nuclear bombs were lost entirely during the Cold War, and the military struggled to keep them in the air while they were being carried.

However, the bombs were dropped on American soil twice, including once on Walter Gregg’s house in Horry County, South Carolina.

Fortunately, the bomb wasn’t armed, it didn’t explode, and the area where it dropped wasn’t crowded.

However, the fact that it plummeted at all was the result of negligence on the part of someone who pulled the emergency release pin by mistake.

When the 8,500-pound weapon fell 15,000 feet to the ground, Gregg and his family were thankfully unharmed when it landed and created the Mars Bluff Crater, destroying his house and many homes nearby in the process.

Higher safety standards for moving these weapons were implemented as a result, and Gregg received $54,000 to discreetly begin a new life.

Eventually, he even befriended the crew that caused the fall and remained pen pals with many, even after he moved away.

You can come to visit the partially obscured crater now and marvel at the tragedy very narrowly avoided.

Naturally, it’s one of the state’s free activities!

Address: Crater Rd., Mars Bluff, Florence, SC 29506, United States

10. God’s Acre Healing Springs

One of the many amazing, one-of-a-kind tourist sites in the state is God’s Acre Healing Springs, which is also free to enter.

It gets its name from the fact that God himself owns the land and that the natural spring water is said to have healing properties.

According to legend, British soldiers who had been mortally wounded were left to perish in the woods until Native Americans took them to the spring to recover.

The soldiers were fully recovered and returned to their camps six months later.

After that, ownership of God’s Acre Healing Springs changed hands numerous times till the last owner gave it to “God” in 1944.

The natural springs run freely and are certain to do so for years to come because God, as we know him, is eternal!

Address: Springs Ct, Blackville, SC 29817, United States

11. DuPont Planetarium

One of the top South Carolina attractions for anyone interested in space and the heavens is the DuPont Planetarium, which is a component of the University of South Carolina Aiken.

The teaching area takes pride in its inspirational purpose, which aims to introduce guests of all ages to the wonders of the sky and beyond.

With only 45 seats and a circumference of only 30 feet, the theater is comparatively modest.

Its educational and entertainment value, however, more than make up for its lack of size.

For the audience, it creates a stunning night sky projection.

On Saturday nights, there are regular public performances that cover subjects like biology, astronomy, and the weather. This is the ideal way to spend your weekend.

Seasonal presentations with a theme, like the Seven Wonders of the Earth, are also available.

An observatory, a camera obscura, two sundials, and even a walk-in kaleidoscope are located on the first floor.

You might be able to see planets, star formations, and more through the observatory’s public telescope.

Address: 427 Scholar Loop, Aiken, SC 29801, United States

12. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Another plantation in South Carolina is Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens.

When the plantation was first established in 1681, it was used to raise cotton and nuts.

Since its founding more than three centuries ago, it has continued to operate, and it has now expanded to include fruits and vegetables that it sells at its market.

In 1983, the Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the United States.

With 738 acres, it’s one of the most enjoyable destinations in South Carolina for a blend of nature, history, and exploration.

It’s perfect for sightseeing, with gorgeous oak trees, a beautiful butterfly pavilion, and a magnificent rose garden.

To examine the house’s treasures and travel back in time, you can even go to the mansion itself.

Address: 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States

13. McLeod Plantation Historic Site

The McLeod Plantation Historic Site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 because it plays an important role in both American and Gullah history.

It was established in 1851 and spans 37 acres, of which 9.2 acres are specifically maintained for educational and touring purposes.

For anyone interested in learning more about the history of the area, it’s among the top destinations in South Carolina.

45-minute tours of the McLeod Plantation Historic Site take you through several immaculate structures that have preserved much of their original characteristics.

The tour includes the main plantation house, a pavilion by the river, a cotton-processing barn with antique machinery, and even six clapboard slave huts.

Address: 325 Country Club Dr, Charleston, SC 29412, United States

14. Greenville Zoo

In search of enjoyable activities in South Carolina, one of the most stunning states in the United States?

An excellent choice is the Greenville Zoo!

It occupies 14 acres and opened in 1960.

It was established to educate the people and promote a love of animals and the natural world, but it has since grown to be one of South Carolina’s most popular tourist destinations.

The Greenville Zoo offers showcase areas for a wide variety of species in various environments.

Monkeys, African lions, gigantic anteaters, snakes, turtles, toucans, lizards, giraffes, frogs, Amur leopards, and both domestic and farm animals can all be seen.

Additionally, there is the amazing Quarters for Conservation research program, which contributes to funding the protection of endangered species.

You may easily explore the Greenville Zoo thanks to a variety of cycling and pedestrian trails.

You can even pause to play in the playgrounds, get some food at the picnic areas and concession stand, or play sports on the tennis and volleyball courts.

Remember to check out the programs and activities, as well as the gift store!

Address: 150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

15. Drayton Hall

For those seeking a blend of history and genuine Georgian Palladian architecture, Drayton Hall is often regarded as one of the state’s top destinations.

It was constructed for John Drayton using a combination of slave and free labor over the course of four years, ending in 1742.

The family owned the house, which is situated on 630 acres of property, until 1974.

Two of the outbuildings were demolished during that period due to calamities in the late 19th century, but they have been preserved for more than 260 years.

Fourteen years after being designated a National Historic Landmark, the structure was given to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1974.

It is regarded as one of the best surviving plantation homes in America by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History.

Its full wood paneling, ornate entrance hall ceiling, and stunning double staircase earned it National Trust classification, and it was the only one in the region to survive both the Civil War and the previous American Revolution.

You can get amazing insights into the culture and eras of the building’s busiest years through professionally led tours of the house and self-guided excursions of the gardens.

The red-brick main house has little changed from its original design.

The National Trust’s numerous programs complement the other opportunities to learn about the site’s history offered by the African American Cemetery, Ashley River and marsh, and Gates Gallery.

Address: 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

16. Charleston City Market

Although it’s not enjoyable to learn much about, the Charleston City Market’s depressing past makes it an essential trip for anybody interested in South Carolina’s history who wants to see the whole, unvarnished truth.

For obvious reasons, it was dubbed the “Old Slave Mart” when it was constructed in 1859.

The Charleston City Market in South Carolina was viewed as a way to give space for private auctions as slavery rules became more stringent.

Although Congress outlawed participation in the international slave trade in 1808, it did not declare the domestic slave trade illegal until 1865.

This indicated that up to 40% of all Africans who were enslaved were transported through Charleston and sold to one of the several estates in the South, which in fact led to the height of the American slave trade.

The Charleston City Market was established in 1856 when the city banned public auctions.

In its gloomy past, the Charleston City Market has auctioned livestock, farms, and enslaved people.

Auction buildings were gradually demolished after the Union Army occupied the city, ending most of the industry’s operations. Only the Charleston City Market remained.

Once a tenement, the structure later became a museum, a car dealership, and now a real market with a museum within.

In addition to the creations of the “basket ladies,” who are of West African heritage, you may buy leather items, toys, souvenirs, and clothing here.

Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

17. Congaree National Park

Although it was only officially recognized as a national park in 2003, the Congaree National Park is one of the greatest places to visit and a source of pride for the state.

It is expansive and marshy, with 20,000 acres of lush wilderness and one of the largest tracts of old-growth forest in the United States.

You can take a canoe or kayak out or stroll down the boardwalk to experience the breathtaking Congaree National Park.

While Cedar Creek provides thrilling water vessel adventures, the Boardwalk Loop is a convenient place to explore on foot.

The park is home to synchronous fireflies, bobcats, birds, snakes, and more, all of which may be seen when traveling through it.

The Congaree River’s floodplains provide the basis of Congaree National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

It has some of the tallest trees on this side of the Mississippi and the largest canopy of deciduous trees in the nation.

Every year, around 100,000 people comes to see the plants and animals.

Address: 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, United States

18. The Angel Oak

The Angel Oak appears to have been lifted from a fairy tale.

It is located at Johns Island, South Carolina, and is among the oldest oak trees still standing on this side of the Mississippi River.

It’s a bit of a hidden gem, but it’s an amazing must-do experience.

The Angel Oak is a sight to behold, with a shaded area of 17,000 square feet, a circumference of 28 feet, and a height of 65 feet, or six stories.

Its largest branch is a staggering 187 feet long!

The Angel Oak is a Southern live oak, a type of plant indigenous to the lowland country region of the coastal Carolinas, and is said to be 400–500 years old.

It has experienced many natural disasters over the years, including floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.

It even sustained damage during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, but it bounced back quickly and continued to expand.

The Angel Estate is the source of the name, and there are rumors that former slaves haunt the area.

Since then, it has been owned by Charleston City, and the local Coastal Conservation League has put up a valiant effort to keep it safe from any harm that might result from development.

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, United States

19. The Peace Center

Located in the center of Greenville’s downtown, the Peace Center is widely regarded as the cultural center of the region.

The multipurpose space can accommodate 400 people in its theater, 1,400 in its amphitheater, and 2,100 in its music hall.

It is extremely versatile for performers of all kinds because it contains many stages, event spaces, and practice spaces.

The Peace Center hosts about 300 events a year, with genres to satisfy a wide range of preferences.

Broadway, jazz, comedies, political gatherings, musical concerts, and celebrities all come to perform here.

The Peace Center is also home to the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and the South Carolina Children’s Theater.

It should come as no surprise that one of the best things to do in South Carolina is to see a show here, given its wide variety!

Address: 300 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

20. Hilton Head Island

Are you unsure of what to do in South Carolina that is relaxed and practical?

This weekend, visit Hilton Head Island, one of the attractions ideal for low-country activities and smaller crowds.

Although it is one of the many beach towns in South Carolina, it offers activities to keep you entertained and relaxed while you are there.

Hilton Head Island is an absolute treat, with sandy beaches, golf courses, restaurants, shopping options, dolphins at low tide, and bike paths with informative signage and beautiful views.

It’s one of the most gorgeous locations in the state and a wonderful island getaway away from the hustle and bustle of a busy tourist destination.

21. Charleston Tea Garden

Being the only tea plantation in North America, the Charleston Tea Garden is incredibly unique and unquestionably one of the best South Carolina attractions.

The plantation, which is owned by Bigelow Tea Company, has a fascinating beginning.

The Camellia sinensis plant, which is essential to all tea, was introduced to North America in the late 1700s by French botanist Andre Michaux.

Dr. Charles Shepherd established the Pinehurst Tea Plantation, a thriving plantation in Summerville, South Carolina, in 1888 after successfully creating plants that could grow tea in the American environment.

His plantation was left in ruins after his death in 1915.

The remaining tea plants were relocated to Wadmalaw Island, which is close to Charleston, and placed in a research center after the Thomas J. Lipton Company bought the dying plantation in 1960.

Over 300 tea kinds were developed over the course of 17 years of arduous work and experimentation, but Lipton didn’t believe tea could be cultivated successfully in America because of the country’s environment and labor expenses.

The study location was eventually acquired in 1987 by a man named Bill Hall, who was the son and grandson of tea tasters.

In what would become the Charleston Tea Garden, he created eight different types of tea on-site after reviewing previous studies.

In 2003, the Bigelow Tea Company acquired Hall’s tea and began distributing it across the country.

As they say, the rest is history!

The plantation currently has a gift shop with a wide selection of teas and mementos, as well as guided trolley excursions of the grounds.

Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States

22. Myrtle Beach

One of the most popular destinations in South Carolina and a great place to go on vacation, particularly during the summer, is Myrtle Beach.

There are plenty of beach activities to try out and enjoy, and it receives 13 million tourists a year.

In addition to lounging on the beach, you may see some of the main attractions in this South Carolina retreat.

Many retail and entertainment options are available at Broadway at the Beach, which is divided into quaint themed zones.

In museums, aquariums, and other entertaining venues, the Ripley’s attractions highlight the strange and unusual.

Last but not least, the 187-foot Myrtle Beach SkyWheel offers a 10-minute journey in a beautiful gondola to take in the breathtaking perspective of the outer world.

23. The Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden

In addition to being a free activity, the Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden is a popular tourist destination in South Carolina.

The story starts in 1981 when the title character, Pearl Fryar, and his spouse were given their first yard space in their new house.

Fryar was motivated to become the first Black man in Bishopville to win the local Gardener’s Club Yard of the Month award after experiencing racial discrimination and the dread of their white neighbors over their alleged incapacity to keep up a yard.

He began saving plants that had been dumped into nursery compost piles in order to do this.

Despite his lack of horticultural experience, Fryar taught himself what he could, and his plants flourished under his watchful care.

He disregarded recommendations to apply insecticide and fertilizer, and he hardly watered them at all, but they continued to grow!

Then, using an electric hand saw, he began cutting his plants into abstract shapes, gradually transforming his three acres of land into 300 topiaries.

Even now, Pearl Fryar still takes care of his yard every day, adding more handcrafted “junk-art” to his property.

You can see that Fryar puts a lot of passion into every single detail because you can see fantastical forms in the letters, fish skeletons, and even vegetation.

The Friends of Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden and the Garden Conservancy joined forces in 2006 with the goal of keeping the garden intact for a very long time.

Feel free to come and take a look around!

Address: 145 Broad Acres Rd, Bishopville, SC 29010, United States

24. Alligator Adventure

In addition to being the largest reptile zoo in South Carolina, Alligator Adventure is among the biggest in the world!

It covers 15 acres and seeks to provide visitors with a safe, up-close look at these deadly reptiles.

In a safe setting, you can see alligators being fed and even get up close and personal with one.

Unbelievably, Alligator Adventure is home to more than 200 animal species, including frogs, birds, mammals, and even a variety of exotic critters, in addition to alligators.

However, the alligators continue to win!

One of the most enjoyable things to do in South Carolina is to visit Alligator Adventure, regardless of what you’re hoping to see.

Address: 4604 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, United States

25. UFO Welcome Center

One of the most unusual destinations in South Carolina is the UFO Welcome Center.

Jody Pendarvis, a local, constructed it everything by hand using waste wood, metal, and various rubbish stuff.

A pair of silver UFOs balanced on top of one another behind a fence of metal fragments is the intended appearance of the design.

Designed to be a decent residence for a cosmic traveler who needs a somewhere to rest, the lower UFO structure has a television, toilet, shower, bed, sofa, and even air conditioning.

Since the building has superior air conditioning than his own trailer, Pendarvis even remains inside when it becomes too hot!

The UFO Welcome Center is 42 feet wide and was finished in 1994.

It’s a bit of a novelty and might not be to everyone’s taste because the admission charge goes raised rather frequently. Nevertheless, it’s located in Pendarvis’ backyard and loudly announces its name by spray-painting “UFO Welcome Center” on the scrap fence.

Address: 4004 Homestead Rd, Bowman, SC 29018, United States

26. Falls Park on the Reedy

A wonderful city park that should be on your list of things to do in South Carolina is Falls Park on the Reedy, a gorgeous urban area filled with lush greenery located near Greenville.

It hosts the Upstate Shakespeare Festival every year and offers picnic areas, bike paths, and even a man-made waterfall.

The 32-acre Falls Park on the Reedy was completed in 1967.

It is embellished with quaint stonework, public sculptures and artwork, and the fairly intriguing Liberty Bridge architecture.

Even better, you can climb the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which goes into Cleveland Park!

Address: 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

27. White Point Garden

White Point Garden has been a popular destination in South Carolina since 1837.

This 5.7-acre public park is located in Charleston, directly on the tip of the peninsula.

The views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor are stunning, and it’s a terrific place to unwind and take pictures.

The fact that White Point Garden served as a fortress during the Civil War is one of its primary attractions.

This indicates that mortars, cannons, and other war artifacts are still strewn around the region.

They are located along the pathways that are shaded by oak trees. When you need a rest, there are benches and a gazebo available.

Address: 2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

28. Poe’s Tavern

It may surprise you to learn that Edgar Allen Poe, then known as Edgar A. Perry, served in the army from 1827 to 1828 on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina.

Some Charleston residents think that Sullivan’s Island is the setting for his 1843 tale, The Gold Bug.

As a result, poets and authors would soon recount stories about Poe’s alleged southern heritage, even going so far as to claim that Poe’s ghost still roams the state’s beaches.

Some even believe Annabel Lee is based on a local woman Poe met here!

To be honest, a lot of Poe’s association with South Carolina has become more myth than reality.

That being said, Poe’s Tavern is still a must-see location close to the Atlantic coast!

Poe references and photographs of the late great author abound in this quirky, colorful, and entertaining little restaurant and pub.

It’s a fun spot to have a snack and talk to locals while taking in some of Poe’s illustrious legacy!

Address: 2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

29. Fort Moultrie National Monument

Fort Moultrie National Monument, located on Sullivan’s Island, was designated a monument in 1948 after protecting Charleston for 171 years, from the Revolutionary War to World War II.

Thanks to restoration work, it has maintained most of its original aspect since it was constructed in 1776.

Two times a day, guided tours of the Fort Moultrie National Monument provide you a unique and enjoyable glimpse into the past, making them one of the top South Carolina activities.

Self-guided tours are also made possible via interpretive signage and educational plaques.

Address: 1214 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

30. Old Sheldon Church Ruins

One of the most eerie destinations in South Carolina might be the Old Sheldon Church Ruins.

They have gothic architecture and were built in the middle of the eighteenth century.

Its origins are unclear, however it is thought to have been a part of a place of worship called the Parish Church of Prince William.

It was abandoned after British forces almost destroyed it during the Revolutionary War.

Reconstruction efforts started in 1826, but when the Civil War started, General Sherman’s forces invaded South Carolina and set it on fire.

Since then, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins have remained in that condition, giving tourists a very lovely yet depressing experience.

Tall trees and ancient graves make it a popular location for photography and photo shoots, and it’s also one of the state’s free attractions.

Address: Old Sheldon Church Rd, Yemassee, SC 29945, United States

31. South Carolina State Museum

The South Carolina State Museum is housed in the former Columbia Mills Building, the first electric textile mill in history, located in downtown Columbia.

It is a cutting-edge site brimming with exhibits and displays on the region’s natural history, art, science, culture, history, contemporary lifestyle, and technology.

It was established in 1988 and, as its name suggests, is the largest museum in the state. It still has many of the basic features of a textile mill.

Both temporary and permanent exhibits can be found on the four exhibit floors of this museum.

You can explore replicas, artifacts, and local art in four different display categories: art, science and technology, natural history, and cultural history.

The megalodon shark sculpture and a life-size model of the Best Friend of Charleston, the first locomotive ever built in America, are two of the most entertaining and well-liked displays.

Pop culture displays and exhibits of various kinds are part of the state-themed temporary exhibits.

Many displays in contemporary exhibit styles include interactive or multimedia content.

A 4D theater with vibrating seats, air blasts, and even leg ticklers is also available.

An observatory, bookstore, digital dome planetarium, and a gift shop add to the many other ways to enjoy one of the main South Carolina attractions!

Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States

32. Charleston Historic District

The Charleston Historic District is a fantastic place to start your search for South Carolina vacation destinations.

It gets its name from being one of the first neighborhoods in the city to be built, yet it’s still one of the busiest today!

The region consists of more than 1400 structures from the 18th and 19th centuries, including churches and “single house” residences.

There is something endearing about the antebellum-era playfulness that still exists, and the ambiance is pleasantly laid back.

The area, which is a National Historic Landmark, is brimming with attractions that comprise many of the most important destinations in South Carolina.

While learning a little bit about the history of the area, a carriage ride can show you about and point you in the direction of the most popular tourist destinations.

Since there is so much to do this weekend that it will take up all of your time, walking streets make sightseeing simple.

The 1808 Nathaniel Russell House, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul, the Charleston County Courthouse, the Old Exchange Building, and the Aiken-Rhett House are a few of the historic buildings that may be toured in Charleston’s Historic District.

You may also just stroll around Meeting Street, Broad Street, and King Street to see how history and contemporary yet charming stores and restaurants coexist.

33. Fort Sumter National Monument

For both history enthusiasts and scholars of the conflict, the Fort Sumter National Monument is among South Carolina’s top tourism destinations.

The fort itself plus a unique Visitor Education Center, where you can learn more about the historic monument, make up this complex.

It is situated on an island and can be reached by boat in thirty minutes.

You can use your own boat and anchor it on the western side of the fort, or you can arrange a ride a day in advance.

In 1861, the first shot fired in the Civil War was fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston.

You may relive this pivotal moment in the struggle for civil rights in America by taking a walking tour of the National Monument as it has been preserved.

Although many areas of the monument are only reachable by stairs, the climb is worthwhile.

Civil War-era guns are still kept in caverns, and the Visitor Center offers a variety of relics and comprehensive information about the significance of the fort.

Address: Charleston, Columbia, SC 29412, United States

34. Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is the only place to go if you’re searching for enjoyable outdoor activities in South Carolina.

The most well-known use of this gorgeous coastal natural preserve is for birdwatching and birding.

It offers a variety of nature programs and spans three kilometers of land.

Huntington Beach State Park is home to over 300 distinct bird species.

Additionally, there is a Nature Center with live animals and historical information, a freshwater lake where you can see alligators, and programs where you can interact closely with endangered species like loggerhead turtles.

The uncommon indigenous flora can also be seen by going out on the trails!

If you’re not into nature-based attractions, you can still take in a special piece of South Carolina history by visiting the Atalaya Castle, the home of the Huntingtons.

The “castle” residence is open for tours and reenactments, and the Atalaya Visitor Center features fascinating exhibits.

Naturally, the beach area is the ideal place to unwind and recuperate.

Lastly, you can visit the Atalaya Castle in September to take part in the Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival.

Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, United States

35. Middleton Place

It is no surprise that Middleton Place is ranked among the top 10 locations in South Carolina because it is home to the oldest planted gardens in the country.

Located on 65 acres of lovely grounds, this historic plantation, which opened for business in 1755, offers a genuine window into life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Although only one of the original mansion’s structures is still surviving, Middleton Place is also a National Historic Landmark.

You can visit that section, which is filled with a lot of its original, authentic furniture.

Interesting finds include porcelain, portraits, and other rare items.

Camellias, magnolias, azaleas, and other beautiful flowers abound in the typical French-style gardens.

You can take a carriage excursion to see the stunning grounds.

Additionally, you may visit the Middle Place Restaurant, which offers delectable meals, and the Plantation Stableyards, which are home to heritage-bred animals.

Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

36. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

One of the most interesting things to do in South Carolina is the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, particularly if you have an interest in history, the army and its elements, and various types of watercraft.

Located in South Carolina’s Charleston Harbor, the USS Clamagore and USS Laffey are two of the three remarkable museum ships that are available for tours.

The USS Yorktown, a 1943-completed aircraft carrier of the Essex class, is the most well-known vessel in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

The ninth aircraft carrier in the US Navy, it received eleven combat stars during World War II and five more during the Vietnam War.

Additionally, it serves as the backdrop for the 1944 documentary The Fighting Lady.

The USS Yorktown assisted in the Apollo 8 mission’s astronaut recovery in 1968.

It was retired to the museum in 1975, where it is currently housed.

Among other things, the USS Yorktown now houses a Medal of Honor museum with 25 airplanes on display.

In the meantime, the USS Clamagore is a submarine that will soon be converted into an artificial reef.

The USS Laffey carries on the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum’s theme of presenting maritime history and decommissioned naval vessels.

Fun self-guided or docent-led tours are available to explore and wander through all three ships.

Onshore exhibitions are also available at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

This features two helicopters, a Civil War cannon, and interactive exhibits of memorabilia from World War II and the Vietnam War.

Before you depart, you may also have a bite to eat at the cafe or snack shack and browse the gift shop for mementos!

Address: 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States

37. Brookgreen Gardens

In terms of sights to view, the Brookgreen Gardens are unquestionably one of the South Carolina attractions you shouldn’t pass up.

The term “gardens” may conjure up the image of a little region, but in reality, it refers to a vast expanse of land spanning 9,100 acres, with a variety of fascinating locations to explore.

More than 2,000 figurative sculptures may be found at the award-winning and well-known Brookgreen Gardens, which is the largest and most extensive collection of its kind in the United States.

Given that renowned sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington was one of the gardens’ founders in 1932, it is not surprising that over 430 different artists have their works on show here.

It was also the first sculpture garden in a public setting in the nation.

It’s interesting to note that the Brookgreen Gardens’ grounds were formerly four separate rice plantations.

A variety of themed areas, such as the Palmetto Garden, Kitchen Garden, terrace garden, and even children’s garden, are filled with sculptures.

Once a year, the garden is fully decorated with candles and lights for the Nights of a Thousand Candles event, which you might be able to attend if you’re here in time.

Address: 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, United States

38. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Any nature lover who enjoys having a good time must visit the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.

The wealthy and well-known Drayton Family founded the plantation in the 1670s and it is located near Ashley River, Charleston County, South Carolina.

It became the first public garden in America when it opened to the public in 1870.

Even though it’s old, the same family who owns it has been caring for it for the past three centuries and more!

Given its age, much of the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens predate even the Civil War, offering a fascinating look at the common plants of the era, particularly magnolias!

The blooms are present throughout the year, with azaleas in the spring and camellias in the winter, which adds to the romantic ambiance.

Although there are many tours with various topics, “From Slavery to Freedom: The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour” is the most well-liked.

You can also take a tour of the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, which is a stunningly gorgeous home despite being less elaborate than other plantation homes.

Few, however, contest that the gardens themselves are the real attraction.

There is an abundance of wildlife, including gators, otters, and turtles in the Audubon Swamp Garden, as well as a large number of native birds in the waterfowl refuge.

Great insights into the gardens can also be gained from a nature center, several walks, and a horticultural maze.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

39. Caesars Head State Park

When it comes to touring and taking in the natural surroundings, Caesars Head State Park is among the top destinations and activities in South Carolina.

Located in Cleveland, South Carolina, it has 13,000 acres of stunning, verdant countryside with vistas of Georgia and the Carolinas.

Because of the Blue Ridge Escarpment sections inside, it’s also teeming with photo opportunities.

Caesars Head State Park has an elevation of almost 3,200 feet and mountainous scenery.

Commonplace wildlife includes hawks, falcons, and black bears.

The Jones Gap Trail’s swimming holes, the Raven Cliff Falls, the state’s tallest waterfall, and the Overlook viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of Table Rock, are just a few of the activities available here.

In addition, there are rivers for fishing, geocaches for finding hidden treasure, and the Foothills Trail, which leads 77 miles to the next state park!

Don’t forget to visit Devils Kitchen while you’re here.

Its name comes from a mythology that the devil himself sculpted the distinctive geological structure, which is composed of gneiss granite.

The Devil’s Kitchen stairs lead down into the tiny crevice in the rock that was created thousands of years ago when water on the mountain froze and expanded.

Address: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, United States

40. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

A great and enjoyable choice for family or child-friendly activities in South Carolina is the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

With eight specially created habitats that mimic natural areas, it occupies 170 acres of land and is home to an astounding 2,000+ species animals.

This 70-acre botanical garden is sectionally organized and features 4,200 plant varieties and more than 350 animal species!

Koalas, kangaroos, elephants, meerkats, gorillas, giraffes, zebras, baboons, ostriches, African lions, lorikeets, California sea lions, grizzly bears, Komodo dragons, Siberian tigers, and more are among the creatures that can be seen here.

The two-acre African Plains exhibit, an Asian species’ Ndoki Forest, and other habitats are included.

Ziplines, animal feeding, a carousel, a vertical rope course, a climbing wall, and even a three-acre play area are among the attractions offered by the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

Put simply, it’s more than just a zoo—in fact, it’s among the best in America!—and it’s definitely worth a visit!

Address: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, United States