MUST-SEE MUSEUMS The long-awaited International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston is open to the public, showcasing a poignant collection of exhibits and artifacts that immortalize a complex history of trauma and triumph. The on-site African Ancestors Memorial Garden notes the significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, where an estimated 40% of enslaved Africans entered the country. Along with the permanent collection, see the special exhibit Follow the North Star , on display May 23– Nov. 3, 2024. With a 4D theater, digital dome planetarium and observatory, plus extensive galleries with permanent and rotating exhibits, the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia Also in Columbia, the South Carolina Military Museum chronicles centuries of conflicts, from the founding of Charleston to modern-day deployments. See weapons that date to the 1600s, plus tanks, artillery and personal equipment. At Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, board an authentic WWII aircraft carrier—the USS Yorktown —and explore the immersive Vietnam Experience Exhibit , which spans more than 2 acres and comes to life in 3D through holograms and a war camp setup. Before leaving, pay your respects to soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice when you explore the interactive exhibits at the on-site Medal of Honor Museum. For a stroll down musical memory lane, stop into Greenville’s Sigal Music Museum , which houses hundreds of iconic and uncommon instruments— some once played by music legends such as INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM brings science, technology, culture and history to life. EXPERIENCE COLUMBIA SC/CRUSH RUSH Photos: (this page, clockwise from top left) South Carolina Military Museum, Columbia; International African American Museum, Charleston (2 photos); (facing page, clockwise from top left) Sigal Music Museum, Greenville; Elloree Heritage Museum, Elloree; Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, Aiken 36 DiscoverSouthCarolina.com INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM
South Carolina Vacation Guide SC 2024: Page 36
