Discover South Carolina's Top Attractions

South Carolina offers a diverse range of attractions, from historical sites and scenic parks to family-friendly resorts and beaches. Whether you're into history, beach relaxation, or activities for the whole family, you'll find something to enjoy in the Palmetto State.

1. Charleston's Historic District

Step back in time in Charleston with its over 1400 historic buildings. Take a carriage ride or a walking tour to explore historic homes like the Aiken-Rhett House and Nathaniel Russell House, which showcase fine arts collections. Don't miss the Old Exchange Building, Old Slave Mart Museum, and the Charleston City Market, where you can see the crafting of sweetgrass baskets.

2. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a summer favorite with its sandy shores and classic seaside activities. Enjoy shows at the Carolina Opry, take a ride on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, or explore Broadway at the Beach. Families will love the water parks and the Apache Pier, the East Coast's longest wooden pier, offering fishing, live music, and an arcade.

3. South Carolina Plantation Gardens

Visit Charleston's plantation homes like Magnolia Plantation, Middleton Place, Boone Hall Plantation, and Drayton Hall to see America's oldest gardens and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who sustained these estates. These plantations offer guided tours, exhibits, and programs that delve into African-American history and culture.

4. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is perfect for a more relaxed beach experience with fewer crowds. Bike along the trails, spot dolphins, and explore the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Don't miss Harbour Town with its iconic lighthouse and marina.

5. Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor

The Civil War began at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Visit the fort by boat for a historical tour, or enjoy a sightseeing boat tour for views of other forts, the USS Yorktown, and the Ravenel Bridge.

6. USS Yorktown and Patriots Point, Mount Pleasant

Explore the historic USS Yorktown aircraft carrier at Patriots Point, along with other maritime exhibits and submarines.

7. Congaree National Park, Hopkins

Congaree National Park is a wilderness haven with the country's largest old-growth bottomland forest. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting in this UNESCO biosphere reserve.

8. Watch Wildlife at Huntington Beach State Park, Murrells Inlet

Huntington Beach State Park is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 300 species. Alligators, loggerhead turtles, and rare plants are also attractions here, along with the Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival.

9. South Carolina State Museum, Columbia

The state's largest museum features exhibits on natural history, art, culture, science, and technology, with interactive displays and a planetarium.

10. Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet

Brookgreen Gardens combines a sculpture garden, zoo, and wildlife preserve on a former rice plantation. It's home to the largest collection of American figurative sculpture.

11. Deep Sea Fishing

South Carolina's waters are ideal for deep sea fishing, with artificial reefs and a variety of game species. Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Beaufort, and Hilton Head Island are prime spots for fishing adventures.

12. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Columbia

Home to over 2,000 animals, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden offers exhibits like the African Plains, Ndoki Forest, and Asian habitats, along with a botanical garden and ziplines.

13. Caesars Head State Park

Caesars Head State Park offers stunning views, hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing opportunities. It's also a key site for hawk watching during migration.

14. Columbia Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts should visit the Columbia Museum of Art to see regional, national, and international artworks, including Baroque, Renaissance, and American pieces.

15. EdVenture, Columbia

EdVenture Children's Museum is a hands-on learning experience for kids, with outdoor activities and interactive play areas.

Whether you're exploring the historic charm of Charleston, relaxing on the beaches of Myrtle Beach, or delving into the rich history and natural beauty of South Carolina's plantations and parks, there's something for everyone in this captivating state.