Now that Spring Break is right around the corner (seriously, it’s next week) and midterms are finally coming to an end, it is only appropriate to think about where to go. South Carolina is notorious for having relaxing places… and let’s face it, we could all use a relaxing break.
Think of your dream spring break. Where would you go? What would you do? Okay, now think of your dream spring break in South Carolina… Think outside of just the typical “Myrtle Beach” scenario that most of us know. Can’t? That’s okay! This article is going to have a number of opportunities that you’re going to be excited about. Where to start? South Carolina has many smiling faces and of course it has a large and vast majority of beautiful places.
1. Historic CharlestonCharleston has a lot to do. No matter what your interests are, Charleston will make sure to cater to each and every individual. If you love aquariums, then the South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor will take your breath away. If you’re a history geek, then the historical sites, and the fact that Charleston is one of the oldest major cities in the U.S., will attract you. If you love architecture and plantation landscapes, then Charleston will appeal to you too. If you love to shop, the charming Old City Market will provide an historic, fun, shopping experience. Needless to say, don’t forget to grab a memorabilia! Charleston also provides a fun opportunity for you to experience a “ghost tour.” It also provides you an opportunity to go on a carriage ride and during your ride you will learn the history.
2. GreenvilleForbes Magazine named Greenville one of America’s Best Downtowns. With this kind of recognition, Greenville features a one-of-a kind “floating” suspension bridge. You can find this gorgeous bridge against the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains! Greenville, known for thriving in the arts scene, has numerous museums, beautiful restaurants, shops, boutiques, festivals, historic sites and significant art collections. At The Peace Center, you will find amazing performances; Caesars Head State Park-gorgeous trails and amazing scenic route; food tours (At the Chef’s Table Culinary Tour); Greenville Zoo; and even Segway tours (Greenville Glides).
3. ClemsonWhile you’re in the notorious “orange” part of South Carolina, you will be able to see parks, lakes/rivers, waterfalls, trails/courses, historic homes, art/culture, attractions and farms/produce. Clemson provides the beautiful Lake Hartwell where you can swim, tube, motor boat, ski, or just relax on the shore. The Fran Hanson Discovery Center was built in 1998 as “The Wren House,” the first Sothern Living Idea House. The home was originally decorated with 85 works of art from 48 local artists, decorated with furniture by Ann Platz, antiques and décor from local shops. It has recently become the Discovery Center for the Mountain Lakes Region of the South Carolina Heritage Corridor. While in Clemson, you can also visit the University itself. The Clemson Tigers take pride of their University and would want you to visit their impressive football stadium (called “Death Valley”).
4. ColumbiaThe famously hot city of Columbia is South Carolina’s capital. The new southern hot spot offers state parks, museums, zoos, and shopping. While in Columbia, visit Sesquicentennial State Park, affectionately known as “Sesqui,” that offers over a thousand acres of pines, camping sites, and nature trails. The park provides kayaking and canoe rentals, fishing, two nature trails, and 6-mile bicycle loop for day-use recreation. EdVenture is the largest children’s museum in the Southeast United States and the best part is it is located in Columbia! The South Carolina State Museum is also the largest museum in the Southeast United States (at the museum you can find four floors of an educational environment that entertain, inspire imagination and creativity, and enrich the lives of visitors). Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a 170 acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden located along the Saluda River and is home to more than 2,000 fascination animals. Clemson’s rivals, The University of South Carolina Gamecocks, reside in Columbia. Here, you can find the campus, which spreads all through the downtown, and the gorgeous Williams-Brice Stadium.
5. Hilton Head Island“Golfer’s paradise” or just a heaven for any sport enthusiast, Hilton Head Island is home to some of the best fairways in the United States. The island also plays host to prestigious sporting events throughout the year. Aside from the “sporty” aspect of the Island, Hilton Head also offers gorgeous sunny beaches and lush greenery. In between the games and luxurious days on the beach, Hilton Head also offers to its tourist the exploration of the natural wonders. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers a close-up look at the swamp (without having to get mucky and yucky!) The raised boardwalks proved a protected path for pedestrians. The Harbourtown Lighthouse, the icon of the island, provides a colorful and eye opening experience to view nature working (you may see sea turtles)!
6. Monkey IslandMonkey Island, formally known as Morgan Island, is a research island that South Carolina opened up to the CDC when the monkey population became over populated. Although the monkey population has been controlled, this island has now become home to all of the monkeys and in 2004 the decision was made to let them stay- that’s why the island is now known as Monkey Island. The monkeys don’t bother the environment of the island or the people, but, I wouldn’t plan on doing a picnics on Morgan Island any time soon!
7. Edisto BeachEdisto is one of the only non-disturbed beaches. Almost everything on the island is locally owned. Fun Fact: Hundreds of doors and shutters are painted blue because the people of the Island believe that the haints (ghosts) won’t pass into their houses due to the blue paint. Aside from the beach life, Edisto is known for maintaining the historic Gullah language and continuing the tradition of basket weaving. While on Edisto, you can find a beautiful shell island called Wilkinson’s Landing. Here, you will have a great shell hunt and find tons of interesting shells (maybe even sand dollars and sharks teeth)! Edisto has a family fun and interesting serpentarium that is full of animal life and historic value.
Regardless of where you go for spring break, we hope that you have fun, enjoy, and most importantly BE SAFE! Happy Spring Break!