South Carolina

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Quaint Brittlebank Park by the Ashley river in Charleston.

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Overview

Moss-draped oaks. Stately mansions. Wide beaches. Rolling mountains. And an ornery streak as old as the state itself. Ah yes, South Carolina, where the accents are thicker and the traditions more dear. From its Revolutionary War patriots to its 1860s secessionist government to its outspoken legislators, the Palmetto State has never shied away from a fight.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Aiken-Rhett House

Charleston

The only surviving urban town-house complex, this 1820 abode gives a fascinating glimpse into antebellum life on a 45-minute self-guided audio tour. The…
Guardians of Charleston Harbor

Charleston

The first shots of the Civil War rang out at Fort Sumter, on a pentagon-shaped island in the harbor. A Confederate stronghold, this fort was shelled to…
Magnolia Plantation

Charleston

This 500-acre plantation, which has been owned by the Drayton family since 1676, is a veritable theme park. Enjoy a tram tour, a petting zoo and a guided…
Old Slave Mart Museum

Charleston

Formerly called Ryan's Mart, this building once housed an open-air market that auctioned African American men, women and children in the mid-1800s, the…
Brookgreen Gardens

South Carolina

These magical gardens, 16 miles south of Myrtle Beach on Hwy 17S, are home to the largest collection of American sculpture in the country, set amid more…
Heyward-Washington House

Charleston

As the name hints, this 1772 Georgian-style town house is kind of a big deal because George Washington rented it for a week, and visitors can stand in…
Table Rock State Park

South Carolina

The Upcountry's marquee natural attraction is Table Rock Mountain, a 3124ft-high mountain with a striking granite face. The 7.2-mile round-trip hike to…
Columbia Museum of Art

South Carolina

One of South Carolina's most impressive collections of European and American art, the CMA was undergoing a $5- million permanent gallery expansion at the…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Enjoy beach time, outdoor excursions, family adventures, fresh seafood and much more in and around Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

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Best Places to Visit

Explore South Carolina’s best places to visit, including a national park, a coastal foodie haven and the museum-clad capital.

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Best Time to Visit

Myrtle Beach’s 60 miles of coastline attracts large crowds during the summer months, but during other times of the year, savvy travelers can find deals and…

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Things to Know

Before heading to South Carolina, check out these 16 tips on planning, etiquette, and health and safety.

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Free Things to Do

You don’t need to dole out much cash to experience the best of South Carolina.

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Best Neighborhoods

There’s a reason Charleston, SC, is a consistent favorite among in-the-know travelers. Along the coast, beach communities charm visitors while the urban core…

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Money and Costs

In South Carolina, you can easily splurge or save depending on the direction your itinerary takes. Try these top tips to enjoy South Carolina on a budget.

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Best Road Trips

You could zigzag through South Carolina – and back again – taking in totally different landscapes and cultural facets with each track taken.

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