Top 19 Places to Visit in South Carolina

1. Charleston – a city in South Carolina with a fancy history and posh cultural attractions. You can check out the Charleston City Market for some sweet souvenirs, soak up the beauty of the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, or learn about some American history at Fort Sumter National Monument. There’s also the South Carolina Aquarium and Brookgreen Gardens for those who appreciate some nature and art.
2. Myrtle Beach – a coastal city in South Carolina that’s as pretty as a postcard with its beaches, boardwalks, and golf courses. If you’re bored, just head to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for some good ol’ shopping, eating, and entertainment. And if you want some adventure, Hunting Island State Park has a lighthouse, hiking trails, and beaches.
3. Hilton Head Island – an island in South Carolina that’s bougie as hell with its beaches, golf courses, and outdoorsy shenanigans. If you want to be one with nature, check out the Hilton Head Island Beach or the Hilton Head Island Lighthouse. But if you prefer some luxury, there are plenty of fancy resorts and vacation rentals to choose from.
4. Congaree National Park – a national park in South Carolina where you can get lost in the old-growth forest and hiking trails. And if you’re lucky, you might see some critters roaming around. It’s also a great spot for camping and kayaking if you’re feeling adventurous.
5. Greenville – a city in South Carolina with a mix of culture and nature. Take in some art at the Greenville County Museum of Art or groove to some classical tunes from the Greenville Symphony Orchestra. And if you need some fresh air, Falls Park on the Reedy and Cleveland Park are waiting for you.
6. Columbia – the state capital of South Carolina with museums, cultural attractions, and outdoor spaces. You can check out the Columbia Museum of Art and the South Carolina State Museum for some knowledge or head to Finlay Park and Riverfront Park for some sunshine and fun.
7. South Carolina State Capitol – a historic building in Columbia that’s home to the South Carolina General Assembly. It’s been around since 1907 and has some snazzy architecture, including a dome and marble columns. Take a tour to see how the other half live and learn about the building’s history.
8. South Carolina Aquarium, a fascinating marine life center located in Charleston. This aquarium boasts impressive exhibits of sea creatures, including a salt marsh and a coral reef. You can even get up close and personal with some of the animals in the touch tank. The aquarium offers an array of educational programs and activities for the curious and adventurous types.
9. Next up is Brookgreen Gardens, a splendid botanical garden and sculpture park situated in Murrells Inlet. This majestic park features over 9,000 sculptures and a vast array of delightful flora and fauna. Take a guided tour of the gardens, or explore your artistic side with some art classes. You can also discover the various exhibits and galleries that the garden has to offer.
10. Finally, we have the Charleston City Market, a historic marketplace with an abundance of food and handmade crafts. This vibrant and bustling market is a must-visit destination. Don’t forget to take some time to visit the Old Slave Mart Museum and the Old Exchange Building, where you can learn about the fascinating history of this charming city.
11. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: A fancy plantation with stunning gardens, including the Romantic Gardens and Camellia Garden. You can even go on guided tours or boat rides if you’re feeling posh!
12. Fort Sumter National Monument: A national monument dedicated to the Civil War and the site of the first battle. Take a ferry to the island and learn about the history of the conflict and Fort Sumter’s role in it.
13. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A popular boardwalk filled with shops, restaurants, and amusement parks. You can stroll along the beach and soak in the ocean views or have a go at the arcades!
14. Hunting Island State Park is a breathtaking state park with a lighthouse, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches. Whether you want to go fishing, camping, or have a picnic, you will be able to appreciate the natural beauty of the marshes, dunes, and beaches.
15. The Angel Oak Tree is a natural wonder that is worth visiting. Located on Johns Island, this 400-year-old live oak tree is known for its impressive size and age. Take a walk around and marvel at the beauty of this awe-inspiring tree!
16. The Aiken-Rhett House is a historic house museum located in Charleston, dating back to 1818. By touring the house, you can learn about the Aiken family, who lived there for over 100 years.
17. The McLeod Plantation is a historic plantation and museum on James Island with a strong connection to the Gullah Geechee culture. By taking a tour, you can learn about the area’s history and inhabitants. This is an opportunity to delve deeper into the fascinating stories that shaped South Carolina’s past.
18. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: A state historic site in Charleston with exhibits on the early history of South Carolina, including the first European settlement. Check out the interpretive center and replica of the first settlement.
19. Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor: A cultural heritage area that spans coastal communities with African American roots, including the Gullah Geechee people. Explore the corridor from Wilmington, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida in the south, and learn about their strong connection to their African heritage and tradition.