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South Carolina is easily one of the most treasured destinations for those seeking a relaxing escape. Its sunny afternoons, green forests, delectable cuisine, and southern hospitality make it easy for visitors to leave their worries behind for a little while. While this tranquility can sometimes be found in South Carolina鈥檚 cities, the small towns in South Carolina largely contribute to the state鈥檚 ambiance that visitors have come to love. Whether strolling through quaint streets, admiring work from local artists, or exploring natural landscapes, these are some of the cutest small towns in South Carolina to soak in all of the culture and beauty that the state has to offer.

Spartanburg

Hosting farmer's markets, performing arts events, historical landmarks, and natural wonders, Spartanburg is a bit of an underrated destination in the state. Outdoor lovers must visit Croft State Park, which features over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails through a beautiful wooded forest. Those who want to fish, paddle, or see wildlife can head out to one of the town鈥檚 nearby lakes or rivers, such as Berry Shoals Pond or Lake Edwin Johnson. Golfers can soak in the sunshine at Heddles Hideaway Country Club, whose course is nestled between lush trees. Heirloom: A Milltown Eatery is a perfect summer spot to eat, having a giant outdoor patio with comfortable seating and a fire pit. Diving into the town鈥檚 art and culture, the Spartanburg Art Museum offers free admission to its impressive contemporary art exhibit and also offers summer art school classes!

Greer

Greer鈥檚 atmosphere is one of a kind, boasting brick-paved streets, chic boutiques, culinary hotspots, and historic architecture. Downtown, visitors can appreciate many historic buildings, over 40 of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The town also is very lively, hosting many large events each year. Food trucks in the park, international festivals, farmers markets, and live music events are a few of the activities that happen intermittently throughout the year. Only a 15-minute drive away, travelers can spend the day at Lake Robinson, which is great for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Hungry after a long day on the lake? Select Restaurant is a highly rated, memorable place to eat, offering modern American dishes with unique, fresh ingredients.

Travelers Rest

Travelers Rest is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, active lifestyle, historical charm, and strong community spirit that warmly embraces visitors. The town鈥檚 streets and paths are popular with cyclists, thanks to its well-maintained biking trails. A notable option is the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile route connecting Travelers Rest to Greenville, ideal for biking enthusiasts. In the town center, visitors can enjoy a variety of boutiques, antique shops, and excellent restaurants. The Tasting Room is a great spot for a drink, offering a wide selection of wines and craft beers, plus live music. Close by, Table Rock State Park offers hikers the chance to immerse themselves in nature with stunning mountain views and trails that wind through streams and waterfalls.

York

Just 13 miles from Rock Hill, York is a historic town brimming with southern charm. History enthusiasts should visit The McCelvey Center, which houses the Southern Revolutionary War Institute, a theater, and the Historical Center of York County. Here, visitors can explore a range of artifacts and historical documents from the area. To further experience the town's appeal, stop by Yorkville Marketplace, a boutique mall with over 30 vendors that occasionally hosts festivals, pop-up events, and shows. For families, York City Park offers a scenic retreat with a splash pad for kids, picnic areas, and a walking trail. Another delightful outdoor spot is Bush and Vine Farm, where visitors of all ages can pick berries or other fruits and vegetables. Garden Cafe is a classic restaurant to visit to end the day, serving mouthwatering cuisine with a southern-inspired twist.

Aiken

Aiken has just about everything a vacationer needs, between its diverse shops, rich history, vibrant art scene, and natural beauty. Aiken has some very charming hotels available for lodging, such as The Willcox Hotel, a historic and luxurious hotel that dates back to 1898. Visitors will not have to travel far to see many of the town鈥檚 attractions. Cozy shops, boutiques, and cafes line the streets downtown, while the Aiken Center For the Arts features many exhibits and galleries with work from local artists. Many restaurants in Aiken are also unique and memorable, such as Neon Fig, an innovative restaurant offering creative, colorful dishes. For those itching to head outdoors, Hitchcock Woods lies nearby and is one of the country鈥檚 largest urban forests. The gorgeous park is a wonderful place to horseback ride, hike, and birdwatch.

Newberry

Nestled in the heart of the scenic midlands, the underrated town of Newberry is steeped in history and South Carolinian culture. A stroll through the old-fashioned town center feels like stepping back in time, with entire blocks featuring buildings listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Key historic landmarks include the Newberry Opera House, the Newberry Arts Center, and the Newberry Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits from the town鈥檚 past. For a nature retreat, visitors can explore Lynch鈥檚 Wood Park, a 276-acre area filled with towering pines, ancient hardwoods, and trails meandering along Rocky Branch Creek.

Greenwood

Greenwood is a great town for travelers eager to dig into South Carolina鈥檚 heritage. The Arts Center of Greenwood and Lander University Art Gallery are excellent places to soak in local artist work. The 11,000-acre Lake Greenwood is another popular destination for tourists and locals alike, where many people can be found boating, sailing, fishing, or just relaxing by the shore. The Ninety-Six Historic Site is a must-visit on the itinerary of all history lovers, which features emblematic railroad history, a Revolutionary War site, and fascinating Colonial and African American history. Looking for a place to retire for the night? The Inn on the Square is a charming classic in Greenwood, preserving the historic building鈥檚 original architecture while having beautiful renovations done on the inside for optimal comfort.

Although small, these towns are nothing short of incredible. From the historic charm of Newberry and York to the outdoor adventures in Spartanburg and Travelers Rest, there are ample opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in the state鈥檚 heritage, culture, and natural beauty. If you are seeking a genuine opportunity to unwind and discover the essence of South Carolina, these towns provide the perfect escape.