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Also known as the Palmetto State for its official tree, the prolific sabal palm, South Carolina attracts over 15 million tourists each year. And while it’s the larger destinations like Myrtle Beach and Charleston that get much of the attention from visitors, South Carolina is home to many lovely small towns that offer an equally authentic Southern experience.

Fancy a family beach vacation? Then the sandy shores of Edisto Beach are worth considering. Prefer to step back in time? If so, head to the historic streets of York. Along with the communities of Landrum, Newberry, Aiken, and McClellanville, these scenic small towns in South Carolina are perfect places to sample the very best that the South has to offer.

York

Situated just southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, and west of Rock Hill, South Carolina, the pretty town of York is steeped in history dating back to its role in the Revolutionary War. It was in fact established by settlers from Pennsylvania who nurtured strong ties to the House of York in England, hence its nickname of "The White Rose City." Visit York’s pretty downtown area and it’s easy to see it’s a well-deserved nickname, with its attractive main street and red-brick buildings looking not unlike the prettiest towns in Yorkshire, England.

Topping the list of landmarks among the over 180 protected buildings in York Downtown Historic District are the Allison Plantation, York County Courthouse, and Witherspoon-Hunter House, all offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Another highlight is the Sylvia Theater, a restored 20th-century movie house that now serves as a venue for live performances and film screenings, contributing to York's vibrant cultural scene. The Kings Mountain National Military Park, which commemorates a pivotal battle of the Revolutionary War, is another must-visit.

Landrum

Landrum’s setting at the foothills of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains near the state border with North Carolina has ensured its popularity among day-trippers and vacationers alike. With an origin story that dates back to the early settlers in 1760, Landrum’s idyllic small-town appeal is enhanced by Campbell’s Covered Bridge, a marvel of engineering built in 1909 (and the last of its kind in South Carolina).

For outdoor enthusiasts, Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve is another scenic gem. In addition to its challenging hiking trails, it’s a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Be sure to allocate time to explore historic downtown Landrum, too. In addition to its well-preserved homes and commercial buildings dating back as far as the 1800s, businesses like The Millstone Gallery, with its local art and handcrafted goods, offer a unique shopping experience.

Newberry

Its location on the I-26 50 minutes northwest of the state capital of Columbia makes Newberry a great choice of stop-over for those wanting to explore the best places to visit in South Carolina. Recognized by HGTV as one of the most charming small towns in America, top Newberry attractions include the Wells Japanese Garden with its stone lantern, moon bridge, and even a koi pond (and now on the National Register of Historic Places); and the elegant 19th century Newberry Opera House which to this day hosts everything from from concerts and plays to ballets and operas.

The town’s architectural beauty is best observed via a stroll through downtown Newberry with its collection of historic buildings, including the Newberry College campus, founded in 1856. The city also celebrates its European heritage with its annual Oktoberfest offering visitors a taste of local cuisine, crafts, and​, of course… beer​.

Edisto Beach

An easy hour’s drive south of Charleston, Edisto Beach is an idyllic destination for those looking to unwind on the Atlantic coast. Edisto Beach State Park is a big draw and features the state’s longest system of accessible walking and biking trails, as well as camping. The region’s history is on display at the Edisto Island Museum with its displays of Native American and Gullah cultural artifacts (there’s also a gift shop).

The unspoiled sandy beaches here are another big plus, with some of the best bits easily accessible from top-quality hotels and resorts including Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge and Wyndham Ocean Ridge Beach Walk.

Aiken

Only a half-hour drive from downtown Augusta, Georgia, Aiken was established in 1835 as a winter destination for the affluent from the Northeast, a legacy that is still visible in its grand 19th-century mansions and wide, tree-lined streets​​​​. Top attractions here include the Aiken Winter Colony Historic District where visitors can admire the beautiful homes that were once winter retreats for society's elite.

Nature enthusiasts will want to include Hitchcock Woods in their Aiken travel itinerary. One of the largest privately-owned urban forests in the country, this huge tract of over 2,000 acres of protected forest boasts an extensive network of trails suitable for walking, hiking, or horseback riding. Explore the region’s equestrian past at the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame & Museum which celebrates its deep-rooted connection to horse racing. The Aiken Center for the Arts is also worth visiting if there’s time.

McClellanville

Its location between Charleston and Myrtle Beach makes McClellanville a charming stopover for those journeying between these two larger South Carolinian cities. With a population of only 600 people, McClellanville, despite being more of a village than a town, boasts a variety of fun things to do. Topping the list is popping into the Village Museum with its interesting exhibits that detail McClellanville's past from its Native American origins to its rise as an important fishing village… a fact that makes it a great spot for fresh seafood (check out the daily specials at T. W. Graham & Co.!).

McClellanville is also popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its proximity to the Francis Marion National Forest and the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, both of which provide opportunities for outdoor adventures​​​​. The Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is also a must-visit and is a prime spot for bird-watching.

The Final Word

There’s no doubt that South Carolina's small towns can compete with the usual travel destinations when it comes to finding fun things to see and do. From the Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop of Landrum to the historic elegance of Aiken's opulent old mansions, these six most scenic small towns in South Carolina invite curious travelers to get to know them a little better.