The South Carolina Midlands is a region full of southern charm and hospitality. Discover the area’s history dating back to Native American tribes, spend the day relaxing next to a man-made lake and stroll around downtown streets where the tempting smell of American comfort foods, such as macaroni and cheese and barbecue, wafts through the air.
The biggest city in the South Carolina Midlands is South Carolina’s capital city, Columbia, and there is lots to see and do here. Walk up the grand steps of the South Carolina State House and cheer on the University of South Carolina’s football team, the Gamecocks, at Williams-Brice Stadium. Relax at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and go fly fishing in the Congaree River.
Enjoy sunny days and fresh air in Aiken. This city with a mild climate once served as a health resort. Aiken is also known as “horse country” due to the number of stables dotted throughout the city. Watch a traditional game of polo and admire the lovely country cottages owned by local equestrians.
Revolutionary War enthusiasts flock to General Thomas Sumter Memorial Park in Sumter, while art lovers are drawn to the downtown Sumter Gallery of Art. Head to Orangeburg for lush green golf courses and buy crafts and pottery from the Catawba Cultural Center in the tiny town of Catawba, named for the Catawba Indian Nation that settled the area.
In Camden, go shopping at Camden Antiques Market and study peculiarly shaped topiaries at the Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden. Other popular attractions include Hanging Rock, a Revolutionary War site, and Lee State Park where deer, raccoons and red foxes can be seen in their natural habitats.
Summer is festival season in central South Carolina. Plan your trip for June, July or August and you may even get to attend a barbecue festival. Spring is a beautiful time to visit due to the blossoming azaleas and jasmine, while fall means football season and changing leaves. To reach the region, fly into Columbia Metropolitan Airport or ride an Amtrak train to the state’s capital city.
Explore the South Carolina Midlands to discover a place where big cities meet small-town America.
