TABLE OF CONTENTS 04 The Big Five: Essential Experiences in South Carolina’s Signature Cities The Greenest Greens Revolutionary Roots: Tracing the Fight for Freedom in South Carolina Go with the Grands Battle of the Barbecue: Award-Winning “Pit” Stops Provisions & Plates Where to Elope in South Carolina State Parks After Dark 5 Great Lake Escapes Delightfully Surprising Detours Passion for Preservation Hikes & Bites 56 54 38 From Okra to Orations: A Legacy of Gullah Traditions Postcards from the Past: A Road Trip Through South Carolina’s Nostalgic Small Towns Sustainable Stays: Where Southern Style Meets Stewardship The Artistry of Indigo: A Story Woven in Blue Little Stores with So Much More Sip-Worthy Speakeasies Fun Runs & Wacky Races Southern Stars: South Carolina Chefs Lighting Up Your Screen Fields of Flavor: Farm-to-Table Dining in the Palmetto State For the Love of Heirlooms 58 61 112 Welcome Centers Visitor Services Listings Palmetto Plates Bingo 12 16 40 SOUTH CAROLINA On behalf of the citizens of South Carolina, I'd like to welcome you to the Palmetto State and invite you to explore everything our state has to offer. Hospitality is part of our heritage here, and so are good food, beautiful places and smiling faces. Our rich cultural heritage, abundant wildlife and our majestic beaches and mountains make South Carolina a destination like no other. We couldn't be happier to have you here with us. Yours very truly, Welcome to REGIONS 65 74 77 80 85 90 92 98 The Upcountry & Lake Hartwell Country Thoroughbred Country Santee Cooper Country Pee Dee Region Olde English District Old 96 District Myrtle Beach Area & The Grand Strand Lowcountry & Resort Islands 44 20 22 46 48 50 51 52 24 26 28 30 32 36 37 102 Historic Charleston & Resort Islands 107 Capital City & Lake Murray Country Henry Dargan McMaster Governor of South Carolina 2026 SOUTH CAROLINA 1 VACATION GUIDE olina.com DiscoverSouthCar On the Cover The Jocassee Gorges is a 50,000-acre protected wilderness area of roaring waterfalls, rugged trails and sweeping views from Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest peak. St. Phillips Island 2 1. Table Rock State Park, Pickens