I • SINCE 1968 • FIND FRIENDLY FACES AND LOCAL KNOW-HOW AT SOUTH CAROLINA WELCOME CENTERS t all began with a road trip. In 1965, South Carolina officials hit the highway for inspiration on how to best serve travelers, and they came back inspired. Their fact-finding tour sparked the idea for South Carolina’s very own welcome center program. Backed by Governor Robert E. McNair and the General Assembly, the first center opened in 1968 in Little River, welcoming guests crossing from the North Carolina border. Today, nine South Carolina Welcome Centers greet millions of visitors with more than directions and restrooms—they offer a warm hello, expert travel advice and an array of comfort amenities. Staff undergo intensive training and can even earn national certification, ensuring every stop is guided by genuine experience and Palmetto State pride. Want to learn all about what to see and do in South Carolina? Stop by a Welcome Center to talk to a certified professional who can assist you with accommodation and attraction reservations, trip recommendations and insider tips on how to make the most of your vacation. 9 CENTERS IN CONVENIENT LOCATIONS Eight Welcome Centers are located at key entry points along the state’s border, plus the Welcome Center near the center of the state in Orangeburg County along I-95 Southbound. Find your nearest location and plan a stop during your road trip. FREE AMENITIES These centers have comfort amenities similar to a rest stop, with restrooms and vending facilities, but they also come fully equipped with so much more: picnic areas, free Wi-Fi, coupons and deals for hotels and attractions, travel guides, brochures and, best of all, highly trained travel counselors to assist with trip planning. Some centers also include kiosks featuring Google Maps so visitors can print directions, while wall-mounted screens allow for self-exploration on DiscoverSouthCarolina.com/welcome-centers. SPECIAL EVENTS Visit during special events throughout the year, such as National Travel and Tourism Week held May 3–9, 2026. In the past, this annual event has included complimentary refreshments, coloring books and crayons, putting greens, beanbag tosses, shag and square dancing, and giveaways for attractions and weekend getaways. 1 1. Hardeeville Welcome Center, Hardeeville 58
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