Visit South Carolina

Known for world-renowned food, golf courses, and beaches, The Palmetto State is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway and families looking to relax. Popular beach getaways include Myrtle Beach and Kiawah Island. Fun excursions include eating your way through South Carolina’s official “Barbecue Trail.”

But this Southern state is also full of outdoor adventure and history. From family-friendly hikes through the forests of the Blue Ridge Mountain to historic plantation tours, there’s something for everyone in South Carolina.

Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

Charleston

Founded in 1670, Charleston is the oldest and largest city in the U.S. state of South Carolina. 

Fort Sumter National Monument: The sea fort is known for two battles including the one that signified the start of the Civil War.

Historic Charleston City Market: The historic open-air market features locally made sweetgrass baskets, local souvenirs, and cuisine.

Angel Oak: One of the southeast’s oldest living oak trees at 400 to 500 years old, Angel Oak is 65 feet tall, 28 feet in circumference, and attracts visitors year-round.

Old Slave Mart Museum: Take a self-guided tour through the building where slaves were auctioned before the Civil War for a sobering view on our history.

Cities in South Carolina

Myrtle Beach: This vacation resort features a 60-mile uninterrupted stretch of beach front called The Grand Strand.

Hilton Head Island: Known for beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches and world-class golf courses, Hilton Head is a popular vacation destination. 

Greenville: Visit the Greenville County Museum of Art, which features Southern artists spanning several centuries. 

Columbia: Experience over 2,000 animals at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, a 70-acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden.

South Carolina State and National Parks

Caesars Head State Park: Hike the popular Raven Cliff Falls trail where you can view the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls.      

Congaree National Park: Visitors can explore this 26,276-acre park in central South Carolina, which preserves the largest tract of old growth forest, by foot, kayak or canoe.

Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor: This National Heritage Site, which extends through North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, represents the story of the Gullah-Geechee people.

Huntington Beach State Park: This 2,500-acre park features over 100 camp sites, a freshwater lake home to alligators and loggerhead turtles and the annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival.

Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway

There is a lot to see along this short 13-mile drive that parallels the Ashley River. 

Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site: Visit this fort made of oyster-shell concrete for a peak into South Carolina’s colonial history.

Middleton Place: Experience artifacts, view textile and pottery shops and walk the stable yards at this historic plantation, which preserves the stories of the Middleton family.

Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge: Families will enjoy a nautical-themed playground and the 1250-foot Mount Pleasant pier, which features harbor views, fishing, and boutique shops.