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South Carolina

South Carolina, United States

South Carolina: Where History Meets Hospitality on the Southern Coast South Carolina beckons travelers with its captivating blend of history, hospitality, and natural beauty. From the cobblestone streets of Charleston t…

#Southern hospitality#Historic landmarks#Beautiful beaches#Outdoor activities#Southern cuisine

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into South Carolina.

Top Hotels in South Carolina

Top Flights to South Carolina

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in South Carolina.

Tours

Charleston Historic District Tour

Explore the historic charm of Charleston with its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets.

South Carolina State Museum Visit

Discover the history and culture of South Carolina through extensive exhibitions.

Brookgreen Gardens Tour

Immerse yourself in the beauty of art and nature at Brookgreen Gardens.

Columbia Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Visit

A family-friendly zoo and botanical garden offering wildlife exhibits and beautifully curated gardens.

Shopping

Greenville Shopping Experience

Shop from a variety of shops and boutiques in the heart of Greenville.

Outdoor

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Experience the bustling atmosphere of Myrtle Beach with arcades, shops, and eateries along the beach.

Congaree National Park Hiking

Embark on a nature hike through the lush landscapes of Congaree National Park.

Hilton Head Island Golfing

Enjoy world-class golfing experiences on the picturesque Hilton Head Island.

Paris Mountain State Park Adventure

Explore outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking at Paris Mountain State Park.

Charleston Waterfront Park Stroll

Enjoy a relaxing stroll with views of the Charleston Harbor at Waterfront Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in South Carolina.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

5.3 million

Languages

English, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on South Carolina.

What people love

South Carolina, located in the southeastern region of the United States, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it a popular destination for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to South Carolina:

Beautiful Beaches: South Carolina is home to some stunning beaches along its coastline, including Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Folly Beach. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and relaxing by the ocean.
Historic Sites: South Carolina has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Charleston's historic district, Fort Sumter, and plantations like Boone Hall and Magnolia Plantation.
Outdoor Activities: The state's diverse landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. Places like Table Rock State Park and Congaree National Park are great options for nature lovers.
Southern Cuisine: South Carolina is known for its delicious southern cuisine, including dishes like shrimp and grits, BBQ, she-crab soup, and sweet tea. Visitors can enjoy trying out different local restaurants and food festivals.
Festivals and Events: South Carolina hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. The Charleston Wine + Food Festival and Spoleto Festival USA are just a couple of examples.
Southern Hospitality: Visitors to South Carolina often rave about the friendly and welcoming demeanor of the locals, known for their southern hospitality. This adds to the overall positive experience of traveling in the state.

Overall, South Carolina offers a mix of history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, delicious food, and warm hospitality, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a diverse and enjoyable experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to South Carolina in the United States include:

Extreme Weather: South Carolina experiences hot and humid summers, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers. Additionally, the state is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Crowded Tourist Areas: Popular tourist destinations in South Carolina, such as Myrtle Beach and Charleston, can become crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. This may lead to longer wait times at attractions and restaurants.
Traffic Congestion: Like many popular tourist destinations, South Carolina can experience traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas and along major highways. This can lead to delays in reaching your desired destinations.
High Tourist Prices: Prices for accommodations, dining, and activities in popular tourist areas of South Carolina may be higher than in other parts of the state. Travelers should be prepared for potentially higher costs when visiting these areas.
Limited Public Transportation: South Carolina's public transportation system is not as extensive as in some other states, particularly in rural areas. Travelers may need to rely on rental cars or ridesharing services to get around.
Racial Tensions: South Carolina has a complex history with racial tensions and issues. Travelers should be aware of this history and its impact on the state's culture and society.

It is important to note that these cons may vary depending on the specific location within South Carolina and the time of year you are traveling.

South Carolina, one of the original 13 colonies of the United States, has a rich and varied history filled with significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Pre-Colonial and Colonial Period

Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlement, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Catawba.
European Exploration: Spanish explorers were among the first Europeans to explore the region in the 16th century. In 1526, a short-lived Spanish settlement was established in what is now South Carolina.
English Settlement: The first permanent European settlement was established by the English in 1670, named Charles Town (now Charleston) after King Charles II of England.
Colonial Economy: The economy of colonial South Carolina was largely built on agriculture, with rice and indigo as major cash crops, and it became heavily reliant on enslaved African labor.

Revolutionary War Period

Role in the Revolution: South Carolina played a significant role in the American Revolution, with key battles such as the Siege of Charleston and the Battle of Cowpens.
Statehood: South Carolina declared independence from Britain in 1776 and was one of the original states to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1788.

Antebellum Period

Slavery and Agriculture: The economy continued to depend on plantation agriculture and slavery. The state was a major cotton producer.
Nullification Crisis: The state was involved in the Nullification Crisis of the 1830s, asserting the right to nullify federal tariffs.

Civil War and Reconstruction

Secession: In December 1860, South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union, leading to the Civil War.
Fort Sumter: The war began with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor in April 1861.
Reconstruction: After the war, South Carolina underwent a period of Reconstruction, marked by significant social and political changes, including the establishment of schools for freed slaves and the election of African American officials.

20th Century Developments

Civil Rights Movement: South Carolina was a significant site during the Civil Rights Movement, with notable events such as the Orangeburg Massacre in 1968.
Economic Changes: The state's economy diversified in the 20th century, with growth in manufacturing and tourism.

Significant Historical Figures

John C. Calhoun: A prominent politician and statesman, known for his strong advocacy of states' rights and his role in the Nullification Crisis.
Robert Smalls: An enslaved African American who became a Union hero during the Civil War and later a U.S. Congressman during Reconstruction.
Strom Thurmond: A long-serving U.S. Senator known for his controversial stance on segregation.

Important Landmarks

Charleston Historic District: A well-preserved area known for its antebellum architecture and historical significance.
Fort Sumter National Monument: The site of the first shots of the Civil War.
Congaree National Park: A national park known for its large, intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest.

South Carolina's history reflects its complex legacy of conflict, transformation, and resilience, contributing significantly to the broader narrative of the United States.