Exciting Day Trips in South Carolina for Adventure Lovers

Day Trips in South Carolina: Beaches, Mountains, History & Hidden Gems

From sun-soaked beaches and lush mountain trails to historic towns and quirky roadside attractions, day trips in South Carolina offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a relaxing escape to the Lowcountry, a scenic hike in the Upstate, or a cultural journey through the Midlands, the Palmetto State is packed with unforgettable destinations. This guide highlights the top South Carolina day trips by region—plus budget-friendly and lesser-known spots—so you can plan your perfect in-state adventure.

South Carolina offers a variety of exciting day trips, whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or beach relaxation. Here are some top day trip ideas:

Coastal & Beach Escapes

Charleston – Stroll through the historic downtown, visit Rainbow Row, explore Fort Sumter, or relax at Folly Beach.
Myrtle Beach – Enjoy the boardwalk, ride the SkyWheel, visit Ripley’s Aquarium, or explore nearby Huntington Beach State Park.
Hilton Head Island – Bike the scenic trails, visit Coligny Beach, or play golf at world-class courses.
Beaufort – Explore this charming waterfront town, take a boat tour, or visit the historic homes and museums.

Outdoor Adventures

Congaree National Park – Hike the boardwalk loop, kayak through the floodplain, or go birdwatching in this unique national park.
Caesars Head State Park – Hike to the breathtaking overlook and see the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
Table Rock State Park – Climb Table Rock Mountain for panoramic views or enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Edisto Island – Visit Botany Bay Plantation, kayak the tidal creeks, or relax at Edisto Beach State Park.
Lake Jocassee – Rent a boat or kayak and explore this stunning lake with waterfalls cascading into it.

History & Culture

Columbia – Visit the South Carolina State House, the Riverbanks Zoo, or the South Carolina State Museum.
Greenville – Walk along Falls Park on the Reedy, explore the vibrant downtown, or visit the Greenville Zoo.
Aiken – Experience the equestrian culture, explore Hopelands Gardens, or visit the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame.
Gullah Heritage Tour (near Hilton Head) – Learn about the rich culture of the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry.
Revolutionary War Sites – Visit places like Cowpens National Battlefield or Kings Mountain for a history-packed day trip.

Quirky & Unique

South of the Border – Stop by this kitschy roadside attraction on I-95 for fun photo ops and souvenirs.
Peachoid (Gaffney) – See the famous peach-shaped water tower that has become a South Carolina icon.
Bee City Zoo (Cottageville) – A hands-on wildlife park where you can feed exotic animals.
Bishopville’s Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden – Visit this one-of-a-kind garden created by self-taught topiary artist Pearl Fryar.

Best Day Trips in South Carolina by Region

South Carolina has three main regions: Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry. Here are 10 great day trips for each area!

🌄 Upstate South Carolina (Mountains & Scenic Outdoor Adventures)

Perfect for hiking, waterfalls, and charming small towns.

Caesars Head State Park – Hike to the overlook and see panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Table Rock State Park – Climb to the summit or enjoy an easier lakeside trail.
Jones Gap State Park – Explore waterfalls, trails, and trout-filled streams.
Sassafras Mountain – Visit the highest point in South Carolina for breathtaking views.
Paris Mountain State Park (Greenville) – Hike, bike, or kayak just minutes from downtown Greenville.
Downtown Greenville & Falls Park on the Reedy – Walk across the famous Liberty Bridge, shop, and dine.
BMW Zentrum Museum (Greer) – Tour the only BMW plant in North America.
Cowpens National Battlefield – Walk the Revolutionary War battlefield where American forces won a key victory.
Lake Jocassee & Devils Fork State Park – Rent a boat or kayak to see hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear water.
Historic Pendleton & Clemson University – Visit one of South Carolina’s oldest towns, tour the university, or stop by the South Carolina Botanical Garden.

🏞 Midlands South Carolina (History & Outdoor Recreation)

Great for history buffs, river adventures, and unique attractions.

Congaree National Park – Explore the largest old-growth bottomland forest in North America.
South Carolina State Museum (Columbia) – A massive museum featuring history, science, and a planetarium.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden (Columbia) – One of the best zoos in the Southeast with over 2,000 animals.
Lake Murray – Rent a boat, fish, or relax at Dreher Island State Park.
Aiken – Tour historic mansions, visit the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame, and enjoy equestrian culture.
Newberry & the Newberry Opera House – Catch a show and explore the historic downtown area.
Kings Mountain National Military Park – Walk the battlefield of a key Revolutionary War victory.
Camden & Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site – Tour South Carolina’s oldest inland city and learn about its role in the war.
Peach Tree Rock Heritage Preserve – Hike to unique rock formations and waterfalls.
Sumter’s Swan Lake Iris Gardens – The only public park in the U.S. with all eight swan species.

🌊 Lowcountry South Carolina (Beaches, History & Coastal Adventures)

Ideal for beach lovers, history fans, and nature enthusiasts.

Charleston Historic District – Walk along Rainbow Row, visit the Battery, and explore historic homes.
Fort Sumter National Monument – Take a ferry to the site where the Civil War began.
Shem Creek (Mount Pleasant) – Kayak through the marsh or dine at waterfront restaurants.
Folly Beach – A relaxed beach town perfect for surfing, shell hunting, and casual vibes.
Hilton Head Island – Rent a bike, visit Harbour Town, or relax at Coligny Beach.
Beaufort & Hunting Island State Park – Walk historic streets in Beaufort, then head to the beautiful beaches of Hunting Island.
Edisto Island & Botany Bay Plantation – A peaceful island escape with unique driftwood beaches.
Gullah Heritage Tour (Hilton Head) – Learn about the Gullah culture and history.
Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet) – Stunning sculptures, gardens, and Lowcountry history.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & SkyWheel – Classic beach fun with great dining, attractions, and ocean views.

Here are 10 budget-friendly day trips for each region of South Carolina, perfect for enjoying the state without breaking the bank! These options include free or low-cost activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.

🌄 Upstate South Carolina (Mountains & Outdoor Escapes)

Great for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring small towns.

Caesars Head State Park (free, $6 parking fee) – Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and hike to Raven Cliff Falls.
Table Rock State Park ($6 entry fee) – Hike to stunning waterfalls or enjoy a lakeside picnic.
Paris Mountain State Park (Greenville) ($6 entry fee) – A great spot for hiking, biking, and relaxing by the lake.
Falls Park on the Reedy (Greenville) (free) – Walk across the Liberty Bridge and explore the scenic downtown park.
Cowpens National Battlefield (free) – A historic Revolutionary War site with walking trails.
Sassafras Mountain Overlook (free) – Visit South Carolina’s highest point for incredible views.
South Carolina Botanical Garden (Clemson) (free) – Stroll through beautiful gardens and nature trails.
Roper Mountain Science Center (Greenville) ($5 entry for some exhibits, free nature trails) – Features a planetarium and nature trails.
Chau Ram County Park (Westminster) ($3 per car) – Picnic by waterfalls and hike along the Chattooga River.
Lake Conestee Nature Preserve (Greenville) (free) – Birdwatching, easy hiking trails, and scenic wetlands.

🏞 Midlands South Carolina (History & Outdoor Fun)

Perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and family-friendly adventures.

Congaree National Park (free) – Hike the scenic boardwalk trail through one of the last old-growth forests.
South Carolina State House (Columbia) (free) – Take a guided tour of this historic government building.
Riverwalk at West Columbia or Cayce (free) – Enjoy a beautiful paved trail along the Congaree River.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens (Sumter) (free) – See beautiful swans and thousands of irises in bloom.
Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site ($5 entry, free for kids) – Walk through one of the oldest towns in South Carolina.
Lake Murray Public Park (Lexington side) (free, small parking fee in summer) – Relax on the shore or take a swim.
Newberry’s Free Walking Tour (free) – Stroll through this charming town and visit the famous Newberry Opera House.
Peach Tree Rock Heritage Preserve (Lexington) (free) – Hike to a unique rock formation and small waterfalls.
Saluda Shoals Park (Columbia) ($5 per car) – Offers trails, river access, and a splash pad for kids.
EdVenture Children’s Museum (Columbia) ($12 per person, free for some on first Sunday of the month) – Great for families with young kids.

🌊 Lowcountry South Carolina (Beaches, Culture & Nature)

Affordable beach getaways, history, and scenic walks.

Folly Beach & Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve (free, small parking fees in some areas) – Walk to the Morris Island Lighthouse for stunning views.
Shem Creek Boardwalk (Mount Pleasant) (free) – Stroll the scenic boardwalk and watch for dolphins.
Charleston’s Waterfront Park & The Battery (free) – Visit the Pineapple Fountain and take in historic views.
Fort Moultrie (Sullivan’s Island) ($10 per adult, free for kids under 16) – A key historic site in American history.
Hunting Island State Park (Beaufort area) ($8 per adult, free for kids under 6) – Explore one of South Carolina’s most beautiful beaches and trails.
Old Sheldon Church Ruins (Yemassee) (free) – Visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of this 1700s church.
Hilton Head Island Public Beach Access (free, small parking fee in some areas) – Relax on this beautiful beach.
Beaufort’s Historic Waterfront Park (free) – Walk along the waterfront and explore the charming downtown.
Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet) ($12 for adults, kids under 4 free, free on certain days for locals) – Stunning sculptures and botanical gardens.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & SkyWheel Viewing (not riding) (free) – Walk the oceanfront boardwalk and enjoy the views.

Here are 10 budget-friendly, lesser-known day trips for each region of South Carolina—perfect for escaping the crowds while enjoying beautiful and historic locations! Most of these spots are free or low-cost, offering hidden gems that locals love.

🌄 Upstate South Carolina (Hidden Outdoor Gems & Historic Towns)

Great for off-the-beaten-path hikes, small-town charm, and unique landscapes.

Bee Cove Falls (Oconee County) (free) – A secluded multi-tiered waterfall with a rewarding hike.
Campbells Covered Bridge (Landrum) (free) – The last remaining covered bridge in South Carolina, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Nine Times Preserve (Pickens County) (free) – A beautiful nature preserve with quiet hiking trails and wildflowers.
Stumphouse Tunnel & Issaqueena Falls (Walhalla) ($5 per car) – Explore an abandoned railroad tunnel and see a scenic waterfall.
Lake Hartwell Dam & Recreation Area (Anderson area) (free) – A great spot for fishing, birdwatching, and walking along the dam.
Oconee Station State Historic Site (free) – A former military outpost with easy trails leading to Station Cove Falls.
Landsford Canal State Park (Chester County) ($6 per adult, kids under 6 free) – A historic canal system where you can see rare Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies bloom in spring.
Poinsett Bridge (Travelers Rest) (free) – The oldest bridge in South Carolina, surrounded by a peaceful forest.
The Shoals at Cedar Falls Park (Fountain Inn) (free) – A hidden park with scenic river views and short walking trails.
Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site (Clinton) (free) – Learn about a Revolutionary War battle and explore nature trails.

🏞 Midlands South Carolina (Hidden Historic Sites & Outdoor Adventures)

Great for quiet riverfront walks, history buffs, and peaceful natural spots.

Goodale State Park (Camden) (free) – A quiet spot for kayaking through a cypress swamp.
Lee State Park (Bishopville) (free) – A lesser-known park with artesian wells and boardwalks through wetlands.
Little Pee Dee State Park (Dillon County) ($3 per adult, free for kids under 6) – A peaceful lake for fishing and kayaking.
Battle of Eutaw Springs Site (Eutawville) (free) – A Revolutionary War battleground with a scenic lake nearby.
Lake Wateree State Park (Winnsboro area) ($3 per adult, free for kids under 6) – A great fishing spot with beautiful lake views.
The Big Red Barn Retreat (Blythewood) (free, donation-based)* – A relaxing nature retreat with walking trails, open to veterans and visitors.
Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site (Summerville area) ($3 per adult, free for kids under 6) – Explore the ruins of a colonial settlement.
Congaree Bluffs Heritage Preserve (St. Matthews) (free) – Offers stunning views of the Congaree River from towering bluffs.
Little Mountain (Newberry County) (free) – A quiet hiking spot with a beautiful overlook of the Midlands.
Draper Wildlife Management Area (York County) (free) – Perfect for birdwatching, wildflowers, and photography.

🌊 Lowcountry South Carolina (Hidden Coastal Escapes & Unique Cultural Spots)

Ideal for those looking for quiet beaches, local history, and nature walks.

Old Santee Canal Park (Moncks Corner) ($5 per adult, kids under 6 free) – Features boardwalk trails, gators, and South Carolina’s first canal.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center (Ravenel) ($2 per adult, kids under 2 free) – A peaceful, historic Lowcountry swamp walk with birdwatching.
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site (McClellanville) (free, donation-based tours) – A lesser-known historic rice plantation surrounded by nature.
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area (Green Pond) (free) – A quiet place to spot alligators, migratory birds, and marsh landscapes.
Cuckold’s Creek Heritage Preserve (Jasper County) (free) – A hidden kayaking gem with cypress trees and wildlife.
Edisto Island Serpentarium (Edisto Beach) ($8 per person) – A small but interesting reptile exhibit featuring snakes and alligators.
Spanish Mount Point Trail (Edisto Beach State Park) ($8 per adult, free for kids under 6) – Leads to a prehistoric Native American shell mound.
South Bluff Heritage Preserve (Hilton Head area) (free) – A quiet, off-the-beaten-path hiking area with marsh views.
Shell Ring Trail (Hilton Head Island – Sea Pines Forest Preserve) ($8 per car entry to Sea Pines) – A fascinating short trail to ancient Native American shell rings.
Buck Hall Recreation Area (Francis Marion National Forest) ($5 per vehicle) – A peaceful fishing and picnic area with scenic views.