South Carolina Day Trips

1. Savannah

• What makes Savannah a historic city?
  • Savannah is one of the American South’s most historic cities.
  • It was originally developed in the 1730s by Georgia colony founder James Oglethorpe.
• What is Savannah known for?
  • The city is famous for its gorgeous Spanish moss and live oak trees.
  • Visitors can stroll along its cobblestone streets or enjoy horse-drawn carriage tours.
• What is unique about Savannah’s downtown area?
  • The city's lovely historic downtown is one of the largest urban historic districts in the U.S.
  • It features a unique grid-style layout with beautiful public town squares.
• What historic sites can visitors explore?
  • The birthplace of Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low is a popular site.
  • Visitors can also tour the Telfair Academy, one of the American Southeast’s oldest museums.
• Are there any cultural attractions in Savannah?
  • Yes! The city is home to the Savannah Theatre, which presents regular live performances.
  • The Savannah Ballet also showcases ballet and dance productions.
• What kind of food can visitors expect in Savannah?
  • The city is known for its delicious Southern cuisine.
  • Many restaurants serve up some of Georgia's best gourmet dishes.

2. Augusta

• What is Augusta known for?
  • Augusta is Georgia's second-largest and second-oldest city.
  • It is world-famous as the home of the prestigious Masters Golf Tournament.
• Where is Augusta located?
  • The city sits near Georgia’s border with South Carolina.
  • It is located along the state’s Piedmont region on the banks of the Savannah River.
  • Augusta is within easy day-trip distance from Charleston, Savannah, and Atlanta.
• What are Augusta’s top attractions?
  • Augusta Museum of History – Features exhibits on local history and James Brown, an Augusta native.
  • Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson – A preserved historic landmark.
  • Morris Museum of Art – Home to cultural exhibits and regional art collections.
  • Augusta Riverwalk – A scenic pathway along the river with beautiful views.
  • 1845 Augusta Canal trails – Perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature.
• What type of cuisine can visitors find in Augusta?
  • Augusta is known for excellent Lowcountry, Creole, and Cajun cuisine.
  • The city's acclaimed restaurants serve a mix of traditional Southern flavors and gourmet dishes.
• What unique tours can visitors take in Augusta?
  • Petersburg boat tours through the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area.
  • Trolley tours of the city’s major landmarks.

3. Beaufort

• What is Beaufort known for?
  • Beaufort is a charming city located on Port Royal Island.
  • It is known for its gorgeous preserved Antebellum-era mansions and historic landmarks in its beautiful downtown historic district.
• Where is Beaufort located?
  • The city is located in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region.
  • The Lowcountry is known for its rich history, coastal beauty, and Southern charm.
• What awards and recognitions has Beaufort received?
  • Southern Living named it the South’s best small town.
  • National Geographic recognized it as one of the nation’s top adventure towns.
• What historic landmarks can visitors explore in Beaufort?
  • The John Mark Verdier House Museum is a must-see.
  • It showcases splendid 19th-century Federal-style architecture and offers insights into the city’s history.
• Are there any cultural attractions in Beaufort?
  • Yes! The city is home to numerous art galleries and cultural attractions.
  • Major annual events include the Beaufort International Film Festival, which takes place on President’s Day weekend.
• Why is Beaufort considered one of America's top fishing towns?
  • The city offers ample fishing spots for species such as:
    • Redfish
    • Trout
    • Tarpon

4. Bee City

• What is Bee City?
  • Bee City is a family-operated bee farm and interactive zoo.
  • It is located in the charming city of Cottageville, South Carolina.
• What makes Bee City unique?
  • The zoo celebrates the importance of honeybees in international ecosystems.
  • Visitors of all ages can observe bees in their natural honeycomb habitats.
• What animals can visitors see at Bee City?
  • The children's petting zoo features exotic and domestic animals, including:
    • Wallabies
    • Coatimundis
    • Ringtail lemurs
    • Alpacas and llamas
    • Turkeys, goats, and pheasants
    • Miniature horses
• Does Bee City have a reptile center?
  • Yes! Visitors can observe South Carolina native reptiles, including:
    • Baby alligators
    • Turtles
    • Snakes
    • Frogs
• Are bee-based products available for purchase?
  • Yes! The center sells high-quality pure raw honey and other bee-based products.

1066 Holly Ridge Ln, Cottageville, SC 29435, Phone: 843-835-5912

5. Bluffton

• What is Bluffton known for?
  • Bluffton is a charming Lowcountry town in Beaufort County, South Carolina.
  • It is located just minutes from the popular Hilton Head Island along the scenic May River.
  • The town is known for its stunning live oak trees and gorgeous Antebellum-era historic homes.
• Why is Bluffton a great summer getaway?
  • Bluffton is a top non-beach summer getaway, offering relaxation without the crowds.
  • The town’s vibrant downtown district is home to a young, hip population, delightful art galleries, unique boutiques, and excellent Lowcountry restaurants.
• What outdoor activities are available in Bluffton?
  • Fishing and kayaking opportunities abound along the scenic May River.
  • Many oceanfront beaches are just a short drive away, providing easy beach access.
• What unique attractions can visitors explore?
  • The 18th-century Church on the River – One of the American South’s most beautiful churches.
  • The Bluffton Oyster Factory – South Carolina’s only operating oyster factory.
  • The Bluffton Oyster Factory hosts oyster roasts throughout the autumn months.

6. Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve

• What is Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve?
  • Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve is one of Edisto Island's premiere tourist attractions.
  • The preserve protects over 4,600 acres of undeveloped beachfront landscapes.
• When was Botany Bay Plantation opened to the public?
  • The South Carolina state preserve is anchored around the 1930s-era Botany Bay Plantation facility.
  • It was opened to the public in 2008 as a living history facility.
• What historic structures are preserved within the preserve?
  • Three outbuildings from the 1840s-era Bleak Hall Plantation are preserved.
  • These structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places for their Gothic Revival-style architectural design.
• Are there any other notable historical features in the preserve?
  • Yes! The remnants of Townsend’s Japanese garden are preserved.
  • The prehistoric Fig Island Shell Rings are also located within the preserve.
  • These shell rings are believed to date back as far as 5,000 years.
• How many registered historic sites are within the preserve?
  • In total, there are 21 registered historic sites within the preserve.

1066 Botany Bay Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, Phone: 843-869-2713

7. Edisto Island

• What is Edisto Island known for?
  • Edisto Island is one of the last remaining unspoiled beach communities in the U.S.
  • It is easily accessible via a 40-minute drive from Charleston.
  • The Sea Islands region offers a more relaxed and picturesque alternative to heavily developed islands like Hilton Head Island.
• What are the major attractions on Edisto Island?
  • The Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve – A 4,600-acre preserve that protects historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway – A 14-mile scenic drive showcasing breathtaking coastal landscapes.
  • A top regional golf course is also located on the island.
  • The Edisto Island Serpentarium – A unique attraction with exhibits on the region’s native reptiles and wildlife.
• What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
  • Visitors can go on eco-touring adventures to explore the island’s natural beauty.
  • The island features bike trails for scenic rides through unspoiled landscapes.
  • Fishing charter excursions are available for those looking to experience deep-sea fishing.
• Are there restaurants and shops on Edisto Island?
  • Yes! The island features delightful restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine.
  • There are also unique shops throughout the business district, offering souvenirs and artisan goods.

8. Elloree

• What is Elloree known for?
  • Elloree is a quaint historic town in Orangeburg County, South Carolina.
  • It is located along the banks of Lake Marion, offering beautiful waterfront views.
  • The town’s name comes from an indigenous American word meaning "the home I love".
• What is the historical significance of Elloree?
  • Elloree became a major regional business hub after the Civil War.
  • The town’s rural settlements were transformed by businessman William J. Snider.
• What can visitors explore in downtown Elloree?
  • The town's historic downtown district features:
    • Lovely antique shops
    • Charming art galleries
    • Unique boutiques
    • Delicious Southern-style restaurants
• What museums can visitors explore in Elloree?
  • The Elloree Heritage Museum and Cultural Center showcases exhibits on South Carolina’s rural past.
  • The museum highlights the town’s founding and development by William J. Snider.
• Does Elloree host any annual special events?
  • Yes! The town hosts several annual special events celebrating its history and culture.

9. Georgetown

• Where is Georgetown located?
  • Georgetown is one of South Carolina’s oldest cities.
  • It is situated between Myrtle Beach and Charleston in the state’s Lowcountry region.
  • The town features a quaint waterfront community lined with gorgeous live oak trees.
• What historical attractions can visitors explore in Georgetown?
  • The Georgetown Lighthouse – One of only two federally-operated lighthouses still in operation in South Carolina.
  • The lighthouse was constructed in 1811 and guards the entrance to Winyah Bay.
  • Several historic plantations are preserved throughout the city.
  • The Hobcaw Barony – A 16,000-acre research reserve dedicated to conservation and history.
• What can visitors do in Georgetown’s historic downtown district?
  • The city’s historic downtown is home to lively shopping and dining destinations.
  • Visitors can enjoy excellent Lowcountry cuisine at various local restaurants.
• What outdoor attractions are near Georgetown?
  • Huntington Beach State Park – A natural wonder featuring:
    • Three miles of unspoiled beachfront
    • Maritime forests
    • Salt marsh ecosystems

10. Givhans Ferry State Park

• What is Givhans Ferry State Park?
  • Givhans Ferry State Park is a beautiful state park located in Ridgeville, South Carolina.
  • The park was originally created in 1934 after the donation of lands by ferry master Phillip Givhan.
  • It was one of the original parks developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), preserving historic structures.
• What activities can visitors enjoy at Givhans Ferry State Park?
  • Visitors can participate in fishing, picnicking, boating, canoeing, and geocaching.
  • The park is home to beautiful copper marl limestone bluffs along the banks of the Edisto River.
  • These bluffs are protected as a Heritage Trust Site and are known for their prehistoric origins.
• Can visitors swim or hike at Givhans Ferry State Park?
  • Yes! Visitors can swim in the Edisto River.
  • Hiking options include:
    • River Bluff Trail – Showcasing the park’s native landscapes.
    • Old Loop Trail – A scenic trail highlighting diverse habitats.
• Are there overnight accommodations at the park?
  • Yes! Visitors can stay in historic cabins constructed by the CCC.
  • The park also offers the Riverfront Hall, which can accommodate up to 100 guests.

746 County Rd S-18-30, Ridgeville, SC 29472, Phone: 843-873-0692