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25 Best Things To Do In South Carolina: The Ultimate SC Bucket List

August 24, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you on the hunt for some of the best things to do in South Carolina? You’ve come to the right place!

From stunning waterfalls to the Sky Wheel on Myrtle Beach (and even a few haunted spots for the more courageous traveler), there are plenty of places to visit in South Carolina.

Whether you’re visiting with family and seeking some rest and relaxation or you packed your hiking gear and you’re ready for some adventure, there are plenty of South Carolina activities to try.

If you’re heading to the Palmetto State, we’ve made you a South Carolina bucket list to help you explore this historic state! We wanted to make sure you wouldn’t miss out on the best this state has to offer.

Just a warning: some of these must-see spots are spread out around the state, so get ready to jump in the car for some day trips and make sure to pack your favorite road trip snacks.

Here’s our list of what to do in South Carolina!

Photograph Issaqueena Falls

South Carolina has no shortage of stunning natural attractions. From national parks to animal preserves, there’s plenty this state has to offer, and Issaqueena Falls is no exception.

One of the most gorgeous places to visit in South Carolina, the falls are located near Walhalla about an hour west of Greenville. Visitors can park at Stumphouse Tunnel Park (make sure you have $5 cash for the entry fee dropbox) and take a leisurely 0.3-mile walk to see this 100-foot cascade.

Visiting Issaqueena Falls and the surrounding railroad tunnels from before the Civil War is one of the best things to do in South Carolina with kids.

If you’re looking to go chasing waterfalls, this is the state for you! Make sure to check out our guide to the best waterfalls in South Carolina .

Stroll the Historic District in Charleston

One of the most fun things to do in Charleston is to take a stroll or a guided carriage tour around the city’s Historic District. With more than 1,400 historic homes that have graced the city since 1670, there is plenty to admire.

If you take a walking tour of the area, you can have the chance to tour some of these stately manors. We recommend visiting the Aiken-Rhett House. Here, the lives of enslaved people are central to the tour of the house. These are the people who were the backbone of life at the beautiful home.

Exploring the Historic District is the perfect activity if you are spending a weekend in Charleston! There are also many great places to stay in Charleston !

Explore Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

There are plenty of things to do in Hilton Head , but one of the most unique may be visiting the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.

With over 4,000 acres of protected land, it’s a great spot for the avid (or the beginner) birding enthusiast. Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted here! If you visit in the summer keep an eye out for the multicolored Painting Bunt, which is a species at risk of endangerment.

Visitors can take a moment to escape the hustle and bustle of Hilton Head and explore 14 miles of peaceful hiking and biking trails in the refuge’s salt marshes and maritime forests.

It’s a great spot for some unique sightseeing in South Carolina!

Visit the South Carolina State Museum

A visit to the South Carolina State Museum is one of the must-do things to do in Columbia . Since its opening in 1988, the state’s biggest museum has housed both temporary and permanent state-themed exhibits on four floors.

Visitors can also experience a viewing at their 4D theater (complete with vibrating seats and blasts of air). Admire the skies from the observatory or lay back for a show at the planetarium.

Luckily, the exhibits you’ll want to see are on permanent display! Make sure to check out the megalodon shark sculpture and a life-size replica of the first-ever American-built locomotive. Don’t miss out on one of the best things to do in South Carolina for adults and kids alike.

Discover the Angel Oak

Fantasy nerds may not think there is much waiting for them in the Palmetto State, but they would be wrong!

This Southern hidden gem on Johns Island is one of the most unique places to visit in South Carolina . You’ll definitely feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale!

The Angel Oak is estimated to be 400-500 years old and has survived many hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. Its largest branch spans almost 200 feet!

Don’t miss out on the otherworldly South Carolina attraction waiting for you to step into a fantasy worthy of Middle Earth.

Hike in Table Rock State Park

A must-have item on anyone’s South Carolina bucket list, Table Rock State Park offers visitors some of the most stunning views during the fall. The oranges and yellows of the turning foliage and the brisk autumn air are sure to take your breath away.

For a truly awe-inspiring sight, head to either Foothills Trail or Pinnacle Mountain Trail to enjoy the best leaf-peeping the park has to offer!

The Park Manager recommends a hike out to Carrick Creek Falls if you’re a first-time visitor for a dip in the wading pool beneath the falls in the warmer months.

Spot Ghosts on St. Helena Island

Visitors looking for something more spine-chilling to enjoy during the South Carolina fall months should take a road trip to St. Helena Island.

This is one of the more unique South Carolina tourist attractions. The Chapel of Ease makes for an eerie afternoon of ghostly sightseeing.

The abandoned church is enough to raise the hairs on anyone’s necks, but make sure to keep an ear open for mysterious whispered prayers carried on the wind and the sight of a lady shrouded in white strolling among the tombstones with a child in her arms. Can you say spooky?

Tour the Charleston Tea Garden

As the only tea plantation in North America, this one-of-a-kind SC attraction should be on everyone’s list of best activities in South Carolina.

Take a guided trolley tour around the garden and visit the greenhouse to learn about how they cultivate over 320 varieties of tea on 127 acres of land.

While you’re on the island, you can also stop by the Angel Tree and Deep Water Vineyard for an afternoon of wine tasting at the only domestic winery in South Carolina. This is definitely one of the best things to do in SC.

Admire the Georgetown Lighthouse

Despite the building not being open to the public, the Georgetown Lighthouse is a must-see South Carolina tourist attraction!

The old-timey landmark is only accessible by boat so it’s the perfect day activity if you’re looking for things to do in South Carolina with kids.

There are a couple of local boat tour companies that will take you out on the water to drive by the 85-foot high tower which has stood in the same spot since the late 1790s.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to ride on a shaded 40-ft pontoon boat, this is your chance to find out!

Explore Congaree National Park

If you’re a nature lover and looking to get some serious hiking in, make South Carolina’s only national park the focus of your trip.

Whether you’re looking to spend a few nights outdoors camping or just to take a quick day trip and explore the state’s wildlife, Congaree is one of the most fun things to do in South Carolina.

You may want to stay around for more than a day to see as much of the park’s 11,000 hectares before heading to your next destination. With so much to do from birding to kayaking, it’s worth sticking around to explore!

For a special treat, you can visit the state park in May for the annual Firefly Festival!

Shop at Palmetto Peddlers Antique Mall

Spending an afternoon in Florence? This 38,000 sq. ft treasure trove is one of the must-stop places in South Carolina!

Shoppers will be able to find anything from original antiques, unique furniture, and jewelry to funny vintage oil paintings of cats being mischievous and cute.

The mall is conveniently open seven days a week 10 am to 6 pm, with limited hours on Sundays. It makes a great daytime activity for anyone wanting to see the quirky side of South Carolina.

Palmetto Peddlers also makes a great stop during the hot summer months the temperature is always cool to keep the goodies intact.

Drive the Cherokee Foothills Byway

For the wandering traveler, we recommend hopping in the car and taking a drive down the idyllic Cherokee Foothills Byways. You’ll enjoy all the best sightseeing South Carolina has to offer!

Start your day in Walhalla, a small town with charm, then head to Sassafras Mountain. Make sure to stop at some of the scenic overviews along the way.

Afterward, stop at Campbells Covered Bridge which is an idyllic view in the fall. Finally, end the day at Strawberry Hill USA to enjoy some fresh, local produce at this massive farm.

If you’re looking for other road trips to can take around the gorgeous state, take a look at our Fun South Carolina Road Trips For Your Bucket List .

Stop by the Citadel

Another cool thing to do in Charleston is to stop by the Citadel which is a public senior military college that has been in the city since 1842.

The building was recently rebuilt in 2004 complete with spiral staircases on each side, turrets, and a guard room. Like the Angel Tree, the Citadel will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

The building is only accessible to students and staff, but the castle-like facade is worth a stop if you’ve got some time in the city.

Take a look at our roundup of other castles around the South in this roundup of Fairytale Castles In The South USA You Must Visit ! Maybe it’s time to go castle hunting this summer!

Ride the Sky Wheel

The Sky Wheel in Myrtle Beach has been exciting visitors for over ten years. Celebrate a decade of fun with a ride on this 200ft-tall South Carolina attraction. You will also want to check out our list of the Best Beaches In Myrtle Beach!

If you are looking for one of the cool things to do in South Carolina at night, time your ride for the evening when you can see the boardwalk lit up below you.

Make sure to buy tickets ahead of time from the Sky Wheel’s official website to ensure a ride on one of the city’s most popular attractions.

We recommend spending some time by the waves or walking around Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for some delicious vacation food and drinks (it’s always a good time for a margarita) before sitting back and marveling at the city from the sky.

Don’t forget to check out some of the other best things to do in Myrtle Beach during your visit!

Eat at Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken

The only remaining survivor of what once was a successful chain all around South Carolina, this nostalgic bastion of a time gone by serves up some of the best fried chicken in all the land. Take a trip to Hartsville, SC, and enjoy a “pic-a-nic” basket a-la-Yogi Bear.

The menu still has a lot of the original offerings like the Boo Boo Basket, the Beehive, and the Jellystone Box of Chicken.

You’ll know you’re at the right place when a giant roadside Yogi Bear neon sign greets you! It’s definitely one of the most unique South Carolina attractions!

Hike in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

If you find yourself in South Carolina during autumn, you’ll definitely want to stop at the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. The views you can take in give the phrase “sightseeing in South Carolina” a whole new definition.

Take a hike to Jones Gap Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the whole state. Keep an eye open for white-tail deer.

You can also stop by Caesars Head for a color-coded trail map and pick one based on your group’s preferences.

With over 11,000 acres of beautiful hardwood forest, babbling streams, waterfalls, and wildlife, any hike or stop will have plenty to offer. This is truly one of the Best Weekend Getaways In South Carolina!

Visit the Gullah Museum

One of the most special places to visit in South Carolina is the Gullah Museum. Its collection of buildings preserves and interprets the Gullah culture that existed on Hilton Head before 1965 and is unique to the Lowcountry South.

It was established by Louise Miller Cohen, a native islander, who is a direct descendant of the cabin’s original owner. She is known to give tours and help visitors learn what life on the island was like before a bridge to the mainland was built in 1956.

Visitors should note that the museum isn’t open on holidays.

Wander the Brookgreen Gardens

Built on the site of four rice plantations, this sculpture garden collects and preserves original art by American sculptures.

With 9,100 acres and plenty of paths to follow visitors won’t be surprised to learn that there are about 1,400 original pieces of art to admire.

Open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., these stunning gardens are divided into three main areas with a complimentary shuttle that takes visitors from one to the next.

Want to hear some great news? Entry tickets are valid for 7 consecutive days!

Play a Round at the Ocean Course Golf Kiawah Island

You might not know this, but South Carolina is a well-known golf destination!

Add a day on the green to your South Carolina bucket list and you’ll quickly understand why. The blue skies and calm weather really make a perfect golf setting.

The state has lots of golf courses from which to pick, but The Ocean Course Golf Kiawah Island might be the most special. With its holes right next to the seaside the views from your game will be unforgettable.

Make sure to bring your A-game because the course’s beauty is only rivaled by its difficulty. The seaside breeze is no joke! This is truly one of the best beach towns in South Carolina!

Take a Step Back in Time at Middleton Place

This stately home is one of the most beautiful South Carolina attractions! From its red brick exterior to the acres to its stable yards, the picturesque scenes shared with visitors do nothing to diminish its true history.

As one of the great homes of the past, Middleton Place retells history as accurately as possible and unlike many stately homes in the South, they include experiences and realities many would rather ignore.

This is why we recommend you visit and go back in time to learn not only about the family who lived in the house, but just as importantly the enslaved people who made life in Middleton Place possible.

Those who work at Middleton Place all agree they aspire to share “an essential American experience with a mission” with visitors.

Get Spooked at Old Sheldon Church Ruins

If you want to explore one of the coolest haunted places in the South , head to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins.

Built in the mid-1700s, these ruins were once the beautiful Prince William Parrish Church. It did not stand for long before being burned down during the Revolutionary War. The church was eventually rebuilt only to be destroyed again during the Civil War.

With such a sordid history, it makes sense that legends of hauntings now mark this place. Eerie sounds have been recorded and a ghost has been spotted crying over a child’s grave.

Despite the dark past, this is a great South Carolina attraction for photography. The tall oak trees are covered in Spanish moss adding to the creepy atmosphere.

This is surely one of the most interesting places in South Carolina!

Find Peace at Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens is one of the best places to go in South Carolina for nature lovers and movie buffs alike. This 170-acre preserve is a gorgeous place to become one with nature.

Glide through the swamp in a canoe as you admire the bald cypress trees and look for alligators and turtles in the water. This is a fantastic area for birdwatching too.

Visit the Swamparium to learn about the native reptiles, fish, and amphibians found in the swamp. The Butterfly House is a large greenhouse with flowers, birds butterflies, and more.

Interestingly, many TV shows and movies have been filmed here including The Patriot and The Notebook .

Island Hop Near Charleston

There are many pretty islands in South Carolina and two of the best are found just outside of Charleston. If you are looking for a beachy day trip in the South, this is where you should go!

Sullivan’s Island offers plenty of sightseeing as well as a beautiful 2.5-mile-long beach. After chilling in the sand, check out the many lighthouses and historic sites on the island, including the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park.

Isle of Palms sits right next to Sullivan’s Island and is a great place for luxury and delicious dining. The island is dotted with resorts, golf courses, and some of the best restaurants in the Charleston area .

This is one of the best beaches near Charleston . It has a lovely pier and plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas to rent. Have fun swimming and building sandcastles.

Camp at Huntington Beach State Park

If you want to visit another of the best beaches in South Carolina , pack up the kids and a picnic and head to Huntington Beach State Park.

There are three miles of pristine beaches perfect for a family vacation or romantic getaway in the South . Walk the trails to the freshwater lake where you might spot alligators.

Visit the Nature Center to learn about the park’s flora and fauna. Birdwatching is very popular here as well. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded!

History buffs will want to tour the historic Atalaya Castle. This Moorish-style house was the winter home of the Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington.

If you want to stay longer in this beautiful area, the park has a large campground with over 170 sites. You will be able to feel the sea breeze as you fall asleep.

Check Out Falls Park on the Reedy

Falls Park on the Reedy is one of the best things to do in Greenville, SC ! This 32-acre urban green space is one of the best free things to do in South Carolina with kids.

You will have a lot of fun walking the trails. Enjoy views of gardens, sculptures, and the Reedy River with its waterfalls. Cross the Liberty Bridge, a suspension footbridge, for the best vantage point of Reedy River Falls.

The park also hosts the annual Upstate Shakespeare Festival. Watching a play in the park is a great idea for a date night.

Other nearby attractions in South Carolina include the Peace Center Concert Hall, the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, and the beautiful downtown Greenville.

And there it is, our ultimate South Carolina bucket list! From the stunning leaf-peeping opportunities to premiere golf courses, South Carolina has a bit of something to offer any traveler.

You could really spend a lifetime exploring the Palmetto State so if you need a place to start these are the best things to do in South Carolina!

Check out our list of Best Airbnbs in South Carolina for some of the most unique places you can stay while exploring the state!

We promise South Carolina won’t let you down!

The 7 best places to visit in South Carolina: from sandy shores to outdoorsy adventures

Jul 28, 2022 • 6 min read

Get a dose of Southern charm with these top places to visit in South Carolina © iStockphoto / Getty Images

South Carolina is a Southern charm-infused orchestra of landscapes that plays to perfection year-round.

Creating this harmony are world-class white sand beaches and mega golf destinations along its Atlantic edge, Blue Ridge mountain vistas inland, large cities that never overwhelm and Lowcountry towns that leave you in the highest of spirits.

South Carolina is primed for a multi-city road trip with several mega interstates and major US roadways zigzagging throughout the state. At a minimum, you’ll want to plan a long weekend or a week in the Palmetto State to truly dabble in its geographic wonders and warm and undeniably twangy natives.

From the 26,000-acre national park to the museum-clad capital, and a coastal gem of a city that will leave any foodie loosening their belt a notch, these are the best places to visit in South Carolina. 

Congaree National Park is the best place for outdoor adventures

Tucked in the middle of South Carolina and approximately 20 miles southeast of Columbia, Congaree National Park is where people come to quietly unwind. This nearly 27,000-acre park is a biodiverse spectacle, with towering hardwoods, stringy Spanish moss, a two-plus mile elevated boardwalk and the calm Congaree and Wateree Rivers comprising its landscape.

Central and staffed, Congaree National Park appeases off-the-grid multi-day campers and those seeking a guided experience. Each Saturday year-round, rangers and local volunteers lead guided tours of some of the park’s most astonishing experiences, including turtles the size of a coffee table, hand-sized spiders and “Champion Trees” that rank among the largest trees on earth.

Myrtle Beach is the place to go for a family day out

As soon as you set foot on Myrtle Beach ’s soft sands, you’ll get why it’s considered the vibrant heart of South Carolina’s “Grand Strand” (a 60-mile stretch of beaches along the Atlantic). Within its coastal confines, there’s truly something for every family member, spanning boardwalk strolls (and perhaps a SkyWheel ride?), craft brewery excursions with bocce ball action at Crooked Hammock Brewery and, of course, endless days on the beach.

For a family-friendly outing, Surfside Beach is the perfect destination, so much so that it's locally known as Family Beach. A small independent community with nearly 2 miles of ocean frontage, it has mini golf (Adventure Falls Golf), the Wild Water & Wheels Water Park and the Surfside Bowling Entertainment Center , ideal for rainy days. 

Charleston is a top destination for foodies

“Holy City” is a godsend for those seeking quintessentially Southern or an internationally infused dining experience. Its King Street artery and urban core tantalizes all the senses, from its mix of Georgian, colonial, and federal-style buildings to its boutique shops selling the local essentials like Southern-inspired hats, bowties and suits to its seemingly endless array of restaurant options.

You and yours will want to go to Charleston hungry and if there’s a must-stop restaurant on your itinerary, make a reservation in advance. One not to miss is the central Hotel Bennett and its Gabrielle patio overlooking Marion Square . 

For arguably the best biscuit in town, there’s a Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit just blocks north (order anything but get it with pimento cheese). For a refined sit-down experience off the main drag, head to Bistronomy by Nico in the town’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial District. Be sure to try the mussels (served in a kaffir lime broth) or the curry crab soup that will have you begging for the recipe.

Where you stay is half the Charleston fun. Central options span the Roaring Twenties-inspired boutique The Spectator Hotel , the French Quarter Inn with a daily wine and cheese reception and the aptly named waterfront HarbourView Inn . 

For a quiet retreat with seamless access to the city, book the Embassy Suites by Charleston Harbor Mt. Pleasant . It has panoramic views of Charleston’s steeple-filled skyline and the nearby former Navy aircraft carrier, the USS Yorktown . If you want to work off all those meals, you can walk across the iconic Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge to get to and from downtown. 

Columbia is the best place for exploring museums and gardens

Stately buildings and open spaces await in South Carolina’s capital city. Where the Saluda and Broad Rivers meet (and, fun fact, where the Congaree River starts), many of the city’s biggest draws are on the shores of the rivers, including the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden and, for disc golf lovers, Granby Park .

On the museum front, major draws include the South Carolina State Museum , Columbia Museum of Art and the nearly 100,000 sq ft EdVenture Children’s Museum .

Columbia is as bustling as a South Carolina town gets with a hybrid of governmental buildings and youthful buzz stemming from the University of South Carolina . Book a South Carolina State House tour to make the best of all worlds.

If you’re visiting South Carolina in the fall or winter months, catch a University of South Carolina football game. Prepare for maximum pandemonium if they happen to be playing in-state rival Clemson.

Greenville serves the best coffee in South Carolina

This upstate city provides a rush in so many ways. Tucked in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, you’ll find Falls Park on the Reedy in its center, where the 345-ft Liberty Bridge guides folks above a multifaceted waterfall. 

The surrounding parks are home to small gardens, theater festivals and locals stretching out for picnics or taking their dog for a walk. The vibe makes it among the best romantic and unique places to visit in South Carolina.

From Falls Park, you can keep the rush going just north along Main Street. Amid mom-and-pop restaurants and regional chains, the Peace Center Concert Hall and a smattering of hotel options, prioritize a trip to Methodical Coffee for the best cup of Joe in all of the Palmetto State. 

Born and bred in Greenville, Methodical Coffee has quickly become a US specialty coffee heavyweight and has three cafes in town. Snag a pour-over coffee or cold brew – don’t put any sugar or milk in it, because it will be flavorful enough without it.

Florence is a great city with a small-town flair

“Magic City” is home to approximately 40,000 South Carolinians and is the soul of the state’s Pee Dee region. (You’ll see various references to Pee Dee plastered along interstates – it refers to the local river as well as the Pee Dee native tribe).

Downtown Florence’s brick-dotted urban core – nearly 1.1 sq miles – has experienced a revitalization in recent years with modern museums, galleries and public spaces taking center stage.

Primed for a day trip, hit the Florence County Museum with rotating exhibits featuring regional artists. Across the street is the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center , which has an amphitheater, two theaters and regular orchestra productions. 

Florence's SC Pecan Festival  held in November is a national draw, attracting 50,000-plus folks wanting to try pecan-infused everything. 

Greenwood is the perfect place for a quiet retreat

Greenwood lives up to its name, with lush trees aplenty throughout its downtown/Main Street thoroughfare and surrounding areas. Arts and parks are vital to making a day in this quiet town of 25,000, which is approximately 90 minutes west of Columbia.

The town's arts hub is the  Arts Center of Greenwood , housed in the stately Federal Building. Here you can peruse pieces by local artists (sometimes including creations by school kids, adorably). The Center also hosts art classes. 

Lake Greenwood State Park is a major draw for largemouth bass fishers (you need a state license to fish) and campers – there are more than 100 campsites along the lake’s shore.

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South Carolina Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 14, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

South Carolina scenic train rides are offered only at the South Carolina Railroad Museum while freight line Lancaster & Chester Railway offers private, luxury charters. 

With the southern Appalachian mountain chain to its west and coastal plains in the east, the Palmetto State produced a wide range of freight including coal, timber, textiles, cotton, and general agriculture. 

Despite containing few organizations geared towards rail heritage, South Carolina played an important role in railroad history and the national rail network. 

Thanks to the port city of Charleston, the state once boasted the longest railroad in the world during the 1830's. 

In modern times, the South's largest railroads, including the Atlantic Coast Line, Seaboard Air Line, and Southern Railway, all maintained strategic corridors through the Palmetto State, reaching such far away points as Washington, D.C., South Florida, and Norfolk.

All three also served Charleston, directly.  Author and historian John Stover notes in his book, " The Routledge Historical Atlas Of The American Railroads ," its mileage peaked at 3,814 in 1920. 

As other transportation modes ate away market share, more than 1,000 miles have been abandoned since that time.  The Association of American Railroads notes that 2,278 miles remain in use today.  

State Rail History

South Carolina's involvement with railroads began very early, at a time when the iron horse was only starting to make its appearance in America. 

It also includes the Southern Railway, a system created in 1894 that went on to become a very successful company until it merged with the Norfolk & Western in 1982, forming today's Norfolk Southern Railway. 

While not a direct corporate ancestor of the Southern, the South Carolina Canal & Rail Road nevertheless wound up within its modern, 6,000+ route mile network. 

The story begins in the 1820's when, according to the book, " Railroads In The Days Of Steam ," by Albert L. McCready and Lawrence W. Sagle, notes that business leaders in Charleston, South Carolina were fearful that Savannah, Georgia would usurp their profitable cotton trade. 

In response, they organized the South Carolina Canal & Rail Road Company on December 19, 1827.  Interestingly, the name was a compromise since Charlestonians weren't sure whether they should construct a railroad, canal, or both! 

However, after hiring Horatio Allen as their chief engineer they quickly realized the iron horse was the future in transportation and travel.

Allen understood early railroad technology quite well.  He had previously been involved with the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company under its chief engineer, John B. Jervis. 

This particular project was originally designed as a combination canal and railroad in the handling of anthracite coal in northeastern Pennsylvania; the former was organized in 1823 while the latter was granted construction three years later.   

The Pennsylvania legislature authorized construction of the gravity line on April 5, 1826.  During a trip to England in the summer of 1828 Allen and Jervis traveled to England where the purchased four steam locomotives at a cost of $12,515.58. 

They were the  America ,  Stourbridge Lion , Delaware , and  Hudson . In a strange turn of events, only the  Lion  was actually tested by the Delaware & Hudson with Allen behind the controls on August 8, 1829. 

The locomotive performed flawlessly although, sadly, proved too heavy for the track.  In spite of this, the Lion is credited as the first steam locomotive put into use in the United States. 

Interestingly, when Allen hired on with the South Carolina Canal & Rail Road, a steam locomotive there was honored with another first in America...  To read more about the Delaware & Hudson's history please click here .

One of Allen's first tasks was to order a steam locomotive, doing so through the West Point Foundry, an early ironworks company based in Cold Spring, New York. 

The contract called for a small 0-4-0 wheel arrangement that differed considerably from the Lion featuring a vertical boiler instead of the horizontal variety which would soon become the standard in steam locomotive production. 

What was christened the Best Friend of Charleston arrived in Charleston Harbor during October, 1830.  By that point the SCC&RR had about 6 miles of track in service running west from it home terminal and the Camden Depot. 

The Best Friend proved a finely crafted machine, capable of an astonishing 30-35 miles per hour by itself.  When tested with six carriage cars, crowded with 50 passengers, the locomotive could still clip along at an impressive 21 mph. 

Satisfied the railroad and its star locomotive were ready for service, Allen treated Charlestonians to a Christmas Day spectacle by initiating service on December 25, 1830. 

The Best Friend performed flawlessly and was credited as the first American-built steam locomotive to haul a trainload of paying customers on a common-carrier railroad. 

- Alas, the Friend also earned the dubious distinction as the first to suffer a boiler explosion when a careless fireman sat on the safety valve lever, causing the pressure to build until catastrophe struck. -

The primary purpose of the railroad, of course, was to haul agricultural and cotton products from inland farms to Charleston for shipment.

The hope was to connect Hamburg, Columbia, Augusta (Hamburg), and Camden to the west along a route more than 140 miles in length with a canal spanning the gap between the Savannah and Ashley rivers (hence the "canal" in the name).

Just as with Baltimore, Charleston feared that if it did not take the risk of building a railroad it may wither and be left out in the cold while other east coast ports gained an edge.

The most pertinent reason for this anxiety was the new canal systems that had been proposed, particularly in the northeast and New York City was already connected via the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company. 

By October, 1833 the entire 136-mile route between Charleston and Hamburg (directly across the Savannah River from Augusta) was open.

It required the work of more than 1,300 contractors and a price tag of $950,000. The route was constructed mostly using strap-iron tracks (literally iron straps bolted to a wooden timbers) that were placed above a wooden sills.   

However, this proved impractical after the first decade or so and lead to the SCC&RR spending another $463,000 in the 1840s to build earthen embankments, still the standard method to construct new railroad right-of-way today, and replace the strap-iron with modern "T"-rail. 

The SCC&RR grew little following its completion.  As railroads expanded and grew, the system merged with the Louisville, Cincinnati & Charleston in 1844 to form the South Carolina Railroad Company. 

Following additional changes and a few bankruptcies, the property came under the South Carolina & Georgia Railroad flag in 1894.  

By 1899 the SC&G was acquired by the Southern Railway as part of its Piedmont Division.  While the SCC&RR was never an original component of the Southern the company nevertheless paid tribute to its heritage. 

A 1971 advertisement featured a painting of the Best Friend of Charleston with the following:

" In 1830, this was the shipper's best friend.  Time was when our $4,000, six-horsepower 'Best Friend of Charleston' revived that city's commerce with America's first regular steam-powered rail service. 

As a shipper-oriented system, we've continued to emphasize service. 

In 1971 we're spending $18 million for 72 diesel locomotives capable of 160,000 horsepower; $58,000,000 for 3,953 freight cars of all types; millions more to improve our Centralized Traffic Control, expedite yard traffic, expand microwave and computer capabilities, and continue track and roadbed improvements. 

All to the point of systematized service, to help you squeeze the waste from distribution.  And we intend to keep on improving service.  It's in our system. "

While nearby states like Georgia, Tennessee, and especially North Carolina have a lot more to offer in regards to railroad attractions the South Carolina Railroad Museum does offer a variety of events throughout the year such as steam train specials, holiday activities, and caboose festivities.

Their excursions are not very long but they are very reasonably priced and within most folks' budget.

The Lancaster & Chester's train rides, however, are much less affordable.

They aren't even really "excursions" in the truest since but private charters large parties can plan, such as business or large family affairs.

They include full course meals in elegantly restored passenger cars and you will need to plan the trip in advance. In any event, to learn more about both excursions please read through the information below.

• Lancaster & Chester Railway

The Lancaster & Chester Railway is actually a long-standing freight railroad that operates between its namesake towns while also serving Catawba and Kershaw.

 It has been in business since 1896 and its nickname is " The Springmaid Line ."  

The L&C actually does not host tourist train excursions but does offer luxury rail car charters for those interested.   For information about their private charters please contact them via their website.

• South Carolina Railroad Museum

The South Carolina Railroad Museum, based in Columbia, predominantly looks to preserve the state's railroad heritage and has a wide collection of equipment on its grounds.

However, it also helps to tell the state's railroad history by offering the only train rides truly available to the public between March and December each year.  For complete information please stop by their website.

• The Museum & Railroad Historical Center

The state of South Carolina's other railroad-related museum is based in Greenwood.  The museum itself carries artifacts related to the local area, region, and state.  

However, one section features a selection of historic railroad equipment and displays with histories related to the Piedmont & Northern (a once-profitable electrified interurban that served the state), Seaboard Air Line, and Erie Lackawanna.  

Their pieces include preserved 2-8-2 #19, a 1906 product of the Baldwin Locomotive Works.

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From  food tours that walk you through Columbia's entertainment districts to historic house and garden tours to brewery and pedal parlor tours , there's something for everyone looking for someone else to show them around the city. Ready to be one with nature, but don't want to travel far from the city? Less than two miles from the city center you can rent a tube or kayak and float down the river with nothing but trees around you and views of the skyline. Check out our listings below to start planning your getaway to the unexpected, urban South.

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Southern Charms: St. Augustine, Savannah & Charleston

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Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

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Uniquely Tauck

Experience with tauck

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Exclusive to Tauck, filmed narratives by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns provides insights on the Civil War

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Tour the Sea Islands off Beaufort, South Carolina

tauck value includes

Hands-on culinary demonstration and lunch featuring Low Country cuisine

Enjoy a private harbor cruise in Charleston, enriched by insightful commentary and seaside views of its maritime treasures

Two-night stay at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa in St. Augustine, one of the first seven Autograph Collection hotels with Marriott

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

An unforgettable trip through coastal South Carolina and Georgia, places reminiscent of long-ago days of gracious Southern living... a rarefied world of 19th-century mansions, magnolias and live oaks hung with Spanish moss...

Explore National Historic Landmark Districts in Savannah, Charleston and Beaufort... a hands-on culinary demonstration focusing on dishes representing the unique cuisine of the coastal Low Country region... tour the islands off Beaufort, South Carolina... take a private cruise in Charleston Harbor... celebrate 300 years of history in Beaufort... and more. Tauck's Southern Charms  journey is as refreshing as a cool glass of sweet tea!

Life in the Sea Islands

A guided tour gives you insights into life on the islands.

Amidst the scenic marshes, islands and inlets of the Sea Islands region, communities have sustained themselves for centuries through fishing traditions and the catching of oysters, crabs and shrimp. You'll join a local guide who offers an in-depth look at this unique cultural heritage on a tour of the islands off historic Beaufort, South Carolina.

Savannah's culinary traditions

Sample the rich flavors of lowcountry cuisine in savannah.

From gumbo and she-crab soup to Country Captain, Frogmore Stew, chicken bog, Kedgeree and Hoppin' John, the Lowcountry cuisine of the Georgia and Carolina coasts tempts with rich concoctions featuring seafood, rice, spices and tons of flavor. In Savannah, enjoy a hands-on culinary demonstration and lunch featuring Low Country cuisine.

Private Charleston Harbor cruise

Tales of charleston's rich maritime heritage on a harbor cruise.

As one of America's oldest towns, Charleston is a history-lover's dream… harboring many stories, secrets and mysteries within the cobblestone streets that lead to its historic harbor… centuries-old homes, walled gardens, the Citadel military academy and the Battery promenade whisper tales of soldiers, sailors, statesmen and pirates. A private boat cruise on scenic Charleston Harbor imparts a wealth of information about the city's centuries of maritime history during your visit.

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Charleston, South Carolina

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Travel Documents

Southern Charms: Savannah, Charleston & Hilton Head begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are traveling by land or sea to join and depart from this tour within the U.S., you will need to consult with your Tauck Reservations Sales Consultant or your travel agent to determine what travel documentation, if any, is required.

If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here . Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 90 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $350 per person

89-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General 

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly. 

Southern Charms: Savannah,Charleston & Hilton Head   tour is relaxed and the pace is leisurely. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. Some of the historic homes and plantations we visit are centuries old and have been preserved in their natural setting. The motor coaches are not always allowed to drive directly to the front entrance. Some of the excursions involve a considerable amount of walking and many steps. A few of the historic sites that we visit are not wheelchair accessible.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Temperatures in Georgia and South Carolina average 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C) during the spring and fall months and 70 to 95°F (21 to 35°C) during the summer months. The heat index rises from moderate in spring and fall to high in summer, when rainfall is significant.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in southeastern U.S. in spring and fall is warm and somewhat humid; in summer the weather is hot and humid. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions a jacket with/without tie is recommended, for all other functions casual resort wear is appropriate. Some hotel dining rooms request that guests not wear tennis shoes, and that men wear a jacket for dinner.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your tour of Charleston and Savannah:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• A jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Visit These 9 Historic Plantations In South Carolina For An Unforgettable Experience

Robin Jarvis

More by this Author

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, South Carolina has several historic plantations that are open for tours. You may recognize a few of these and others may be newly added to your radar. Each wonderful property has major history behind it, as well as just being beautiful and interesting to visit. Tour all of these historic plantations in South Carolina for unforgettable experiences.

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South Carolinians have done a wonderful job of preserving so much of the plantation history in the Palmetto State. Visit any one, or ALL, of these historic plantations for an experience you’ll never forget.

Have you toured any of these yet? And which is your favorite? We’d love to know in our comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Jocassee Lake Tours

Your portal to lake jocassee and the jocassee gorges.

Contact us: 864-280-5501

Choose Your Tour!

• Most Popular!
• Users Up to 12 People per boat
• Hour Glass 3-6 Hours
• User All Ages

Join Jocassee Lake Tours to explore the wilderness wonder of this beautiful lake. Swim in waterfalls that are only seen by boat! Enjoy fall’s color explosion, winter’s solitude, and spring’s rebirth of nature.  National Geographic declared the Jocassee Gorges one of the World’s 50 Last Great Places!

Private Lake Tours

Let Jocassee Lake Tour’s naturalist guides introduce your family and friends to the wild wonders of America’s most beautiful lake.

• Hour Glass 1-7 Days Rentals

Kayak Rentals

Paddle along Lake Jocassee’s scenic shoreline at your own pace, solo or tandem. We highly recommend exploring the Devils Fork arm towards Howard Creek along Lake Jocassee’s western shore. Waterfalls and places to swim are along the way. Book your kayak rental today!

• Hour Glass 6 Hours

“All The Falls” Tour

See all of Lake Jocassee’s biggest waterfalls in a single, fast-paced, six-hour tour with Jocassee Lake Tours’ naturalist guides. In winter, we see waterfalls not visible in summer. In summer, there are opportunities to swim in the waterfalls! Reserve your spot now and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey. Limited seating.

• User 10+ Years Old

Kayak Adventure Tours

Experience the tranquility and beauty of Lake Jocassee with our guided kayak tours. Book your adventure today and discover Jocassee a whole new way in our kayak tours!

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Sunset Tours

Experience an unforgettable evening with Jocassee Lake Tours. Relax with serene waters, breathtaking sunset views, and the capable guidance of our experienced naturalist guides.

Full Moon Rising Tours

The Full Moon Rising Tour is a relaxing end-of-day excursion to watch the sun go down over the mountains and the full moon rise over Jocassee Dam. The shifting colors of light on the water is a wonder to behold. Join us, and experience this for yourself!

We know this place. It’s that simple. We will not only get you to where you want to go, but we will also gladly help you plan your excursion.

• Hour Glass 4 Hours

Jocassee (Family) Adventure Camp!

Kids (of all ages!) love to explore the wonders of nature together, especially when discovering new things! Family members (of all ages!) will bond over exploring a ‘cave,’ searching for salamanders, or getting a waterfall ‘massage.’ Book your family adventure at Jocassee Adventure Camp today!

• User 8+ Years Old

Kids Kayak Class & Fun Adventure

Next scheduled adventure is Tuesday July 16,2024. Are you interested in learning some cool strokes and how to get out of your boat for a dip in the water or to play in the waterfalls, but then back in, too? If so, this class is for you!

• Users Up to 4 People

Jocassee Fishing Adventures w/ Capt. Zach

Whether you’re after Jocassee’s famous lunker brown and rainbow trout, its record largemouth and smallmouth bass, or want to wet your line chasing wild trout in the lower reaches of Lake Jocassee’s beautiful streams—which are only accessible by boat—Zach’s your man!

Private Club Tours

We can organize a private tour around your special day or event, including photography, hiking, bird-watching, garden clubs, and wedding parties. A private Clubs Tour allows all guests to pay their own way. Join Jocassee Lake Tours to explore the wilderness wonder of America’s most beautiful lake!

Gift Certificates

Jocassee Lake Tours gift certificates are available for every adventure, and are available in any amount.   “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences.”

Hiking the Gorges

Section-hike the Foothills Trail with experienced naturalist guides who have a passion for leading adventurers through the Jocassee Gorges. Hike leaders are first aid and CPR certified and carry global satellite communicators for your safety.  Five hike options cover distances between 5 miles and 8.6 miles!

The difference is knowledge, love of place, passion

Join our naturalist guides for an exploration into the Jocassee Gorges, where four rivers tumble off the Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment, through a rugged temperate rainforest, and into beautiful Lake Jocassee. Our tours lead you through an ancient geological landscape that reveals the dynamic process of mountain building and harbors a diversity of rare plant and animal species. Let this fascinating place stimulate your curiosity, whether your interests lean towards the engineering of hydroelectric power or local Cherokee history. The Jocassee Gorges are one of the world’s great wild places!

Join our Jocassee Lake Tours in Salem, SC! ★★★★★

We had a great time on our pontoon boat tour. The guide was very knowledgeable about the local history and the natural wildlife. She really got us up close and personal with several waterfalls, which was incredible! Lake Jocassee is truly beautiful and this is a great way to get out there and see different parts of the lake. I highly recommend this tour.

Great guide!! Very knowledgeable and fun...saw lots of great waterfalls, coves and a few of her "special places". Learned the history of the lake and feel very well informed! Thanks much, Tricia!!

We had a wonderful day on this beautiful lake. We got lots of information and saw several waterfalls. Our guide was very personable and knowledgeable. She gave us time to swim at several locations. I highly recommend the 4 hour tour!

I booked a kayak for 3 days for camping at the boat-in campground, and the pickup and dropoff was very simple. The equipment was great quality, the campground was well maintained, and exploring the falls was really interesting as long as you're willing to paddle out.

Our private fall tour was excellent!! Jennifer was a very knowledgeable and personable tour guide. The weather and views were beautiful. This is our second tour, and we will return!

This place is the BEST! The guides are friendly and very experienced. They explain all about the hidden history of the area, and also all about the natural wonders you are seeing. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

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ADVENTURE SIGHTSEEING

Sightseeing tours in charleston, sc, get the best look at charming charleston.

• most popular!
• Clock 1.5 Hours
• Users All Ages

See It All Charleston City Bus Tour

Our professional and knowledgeable guides share 350 years of Charleston history with you while you cruise through the city’s historic district in cool, air-conditioned comfort.

• bestseller!
• Clock 4.5 Hours
• Users Ages 4+

Magnolia Plantation Tour

Get the true Lowcountry experience on this guided tour of one of America’s first tourist attractions and America’s first public gardens.

COMBO: CITY BUS TOUR & CHARLESTON HARBOR TOUR

Join us for our See It All half-day city tour by minibus followed by a harbor history tour aboard the Carolina Belle. See the best of Charleston!

• Clock 3 Hours
• Clock 7 Hours

Combo: City & Magnolia Plantation

Explore one of America’s first tourist attractions, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, then embark on a city bus tour!

Boone Hall Plantation Tour

Take a trip through history as you explore one of America’s oldest working, living plantations: Boone Hall Plantation.

• Clock 4 Hours

USS Yorktown Tour at Patriot’s Point Tour

Let us transport you in our climate controlled mini bus from downtown Charleston across the water to the Patriot’s Point!

Combo: Boone Hall & Charleston Harbor Tour

Join us for a combination tour of the Boone Hall Plantation and Charleston’s top-rated Harbor of History Tour!

Combo: City Bus Tour & Charleston Harbor Tour

• Clock 2 Hours

Combo: City Bus Tour & Mansion or Museum Tour

Join Adventure Sightseeing for a historic Charleston city tour. Then, choose from the Charleston Museum or the Joseph Manigault House tour.

Combo: Magnolia Plantation & Harbor Tour

See some of the best historic sights in Charleston! Embark on a Charleston Harbor Tour aboard the Carolina Belle, then visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

• Clock 6 Hours

Combo: See It All City Bus Tour & Boone Hall Plantation Tour

Take a trip through the history of America’s oldest working, living plantation, Boone Hall, then enjoy our top-rated city bus tour!

ALL THE BEST SIGHTSEEING IN CHARLESTON

There is no better way to sightsee in the historic and captivating Holy City than on Adventure Sightseeing’s Charleston bus tours. Experience all the charm of Charleston, including opulent mansions, Rainbow Row, the historic city market, gardens, churches, and more! Enjoy a comfortable journey on our air-conditioned, climate-controlled buses. Each city tour includes a knowledgeable and engaging narrator on board who informs and entertains you as you take in the best sightseeing in Charleston. Please note: The city of Charleston does not allow hop-on, hop-off bus tours, so the See it All City Bus Tour is your best way to enjoy Charleston!

JOIN US FOR THE BEST CITY TOURS IN CHARLESTON

Take advantage of all the great deals offered by Adventure Sightseeing, including the best plantation tours in Charleston and combination tours that give you discounts by pairing up city bus tours with harbor tours, plantation tours, or mansion and museum tours. Combination tours save you money and give you the best Charleston sightseeing experience!

The best way to see Charleston is on our climate-controlled, air-conditioned, comfortable bus tours through the historic city of Charleston, showing off all of its stunning architecture, beautiful flowers and gardens, and Southern charm.

PLANTATION TOURS

Charleston’s best plantation tours give you an up-close-and-personal look at historic Charleston landmarks Boone Hall Plantation and Magnolia Plantation, with transportation provided.

COMBO TOURS

Make the most of your Charleston experience and save money with Adventure Sightseeing’s combo tours that allow you to mix and match tours to suit your appetite. Tours include the See It All City Bus Tour, Harbor Tour, and plantation and museum tours.

OVER 1,200 5-STAR REVIEWS FROM GUESTS!

We enjoyed a lovely, relaxing 90 minute tour of Charleston Harbor. The Captain was entertaining and besides all of the wonderful history, he offered a few trivia questions to keep us on our toes. We especially liked the way the chairs in the below deck were facing the huge window, so we didn't miss any photo opportunities.

This is about the 3rd or 4th time we have taken a tour in Charleston by different means. This tour was the best of any due to the excellent narrative by Shawn. We were so impressed by his unbelievable memory of dates and names and the running commentary for nearly and hour and a half. Shawn was very pleasant, friendly and funny too. The bus was comfortable and cool, much better than riding in a horse-driven carriage in the heat with flies. Also I believe we covered more miles than the horse and carriage did.

A great way to tour Charleston and see many things you would not have known about or thought about visiting. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. I definitely recommend the tour.

We thoroughly enjoyed our bus tour with Shawn as our guide. He is knowledgeable & oh so amusing. We only have a day & a half in the Holy City & we felt we learned so much from this trip. We understand so much about the houses, neighborhoods, churches & history of this fantastic 8 mile square peninsula from hopping on this comfy air conditioned bus. We are older & could never have gotten to all these unbelievable & lovely places on our own in such a short amount of time. If you want more than seafood & bars, please, take this tour. Totally worth every penny.

Took advantage of the ability to tour the Magnolia Plantation without having a car to get us there. Alan was our tour guide. He's one of the better tour guides we had during our visit. Very knowledgeable and to-the-point. The tour itself was well-organized. I only wish we would have had more time to actually grab a bite to eat and walk the grounds.

LOVED the tour! Our guide, Alan, was very knowledgeable and you can tell he really loves history/his job. It was worth it, especially since the weather wasn’t great-it was an awesome way to see more of Charleston while staying out of the rain! His stories and explanations were great, I would definitely recommend this tour when visiting Charleston! Thanks so much Alan!

My family and I took this tour and had a wonderful time. We learned so much about the city of Charleston history important sites around town. We would highly recommend it to anyone that wants to learn more about the town.

Visiting Boone Hall Plantation allowed us to enjoy a beautiful day outside, see places some of our favorite movies were filmed, and take a trip back in time. The best part of our visit was the agricultural tour of the farm, a must do! Booking through Adventure Sightseeing was simple and they even transported us from our hotel to the plantation and back!

SEE IT ALL CITY TOUR GIFT CERTIFICATE

Host your next celebration in style with a private See It All City Bus Tour. See the best of Charleston and celebrate your event in style on a comfortable, climate-controlled bus tour. Adventure Sightseeing gives your guests an afternoon or evening they will never forget. Whether you are hosting a corporate outing, birthday party, or a simple gathering with friends and family, choosing Charleston Tours & Events will make it an experience to remember.

FOR ARTISANS

      FOR TOUR SITES           FOR ARTISANS         RESOURCES

JOIN US FOR THE 2024 TOUR!

CHECK EACH COUNTY PAGE FOR TOUR LISTINGS

The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a free , self-guided tour of farms and markets that feature local artisans at every stop! During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to see first-hand where their food comes from, watch artists in action and purchase their works, enjoy the melodies of local musicians, and learn more about rural life. The tour is the largest free farm and art tour in the nation with over 85,000 visitors participating since 2012.

2024 TOUR SCHEDULE

Saturday 9am-4pm    |    Sunday 9am-4pm

McCormick County

Abbeville County

Aiken County

Lancaster County

Sumter County

Bamberg County

Colleton County

Newberry County

Pickens County

Allendale County

Clarendon County

Kershaw County

Barnwell County

Berkeley County

Richland County

York County

Fairfield County

Lexington County

Chester County

Laurens County

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR?

To keep the tour free to the public, the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is funded through grants and other sponsorships. As a sponsor, you will be able to share your organization with tour participants while supporting area farmers and artisans.

HOW TO ENJOY THE TOUR

• Pick a weekend (or several) and plan your tour by exploring the 'Participating Counties' menu item to see what farms, markets and artisans will be featured in each county. With many counties to discover and spread over multiple weekends, there is sure to be something for everyone!
• Choose tour sites to visit , being aware that you might not be able to see everything in one day.
• Load up your car with your friends and family and begin your tour! You can start at any tour site and remember there is no admission! Bring a cooler and pick up some fresh veggies, let your kids enjoy a hay-ride and barnyard animals, watch artists in action, and enjoy a day in the country!
• Visit our Ag + Art Tour check-in table at every tour stop to sign-in. You will need to sign-in at each tour site you visit. Don't forget to use #agandarttour in all of your social media check-ins!
• Stay in touch and support local! Use this tour as your year-long guide to find locally grown food and handmade items throughout South Carolina.

FOLLOW ALONG WITH US #agandarttour

Thank you to our sponsors!

Slide title

Our Participating Counties:  Abbeville County , Aiken County , Allendale County , Bamberg County , Barnwell County , Berkeley County , Chester County , Clarendon County , Colleton County , Fairfield County , Kershaw County , Lancaster County , Laurens County , Lexington County , McCormick County , Newberry County , Pickens County , Richland County , Sumter County and York County .

Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.

SC Ag + Art Tour,

Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service.  All Rights Reserved.

Site design by Strong Bird Designs, LLC.

Factory Tours

Celebrating american imagination and industry, 5 tours in south carolina.

Historic Fort Sumter Tours & Boat Cruises

Explore a National Historical Park!

Book Your Tour

Explore. Discover. Learn.

Fort Sumter is where the bloodiest war in the history of the United States began. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Charleston, South Carolina. Fort Sumter Tours is the authorized concessioner offering the only boat service to and from Fort Sumter that actually docks at the Fort.

Walk Where the Civil War Started

Your $37  Adventure Includes

Tour Fort Sumter

Stand where America’s deadliest war began. The first shots of the Civil War were fired upon Fort Sumter.

Learn How the War Began

Explore the exhibits at the Fort Sumter Visitor Center to understand how the Civil War started.

Package your Fort Sumter tour with other historic sites and tours for a greater understanding of our nations's history.

Explore All

The Fort Sumter Experience Then and Now

Board your tour boat from either downtown Charleston or Mount Pleasant and get ready for a scenic ride through the historic harbor. Soak up the Southern sights. Marvel at the landmarks.

Then, arrive at Fort Sumter for a self-guided tour covering one of the most pivotal times in American history. After exploring this national park, you’ll go home changed. You walked the grounds and read the accounts of those who played a role in the Civil War, the most divisive conflict in American history.

See Even More On Your Charleston Vacation

Maximize your time in Charleston and learn even more about our city’s rich history. Join with our trusted partners for additional tours and attractions.

Save money when you combine tours and book these exclusive offers online!

USS Yorktown & Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter and walk in the footsteps of heroes.

Charleston Strolls & Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter and book a two-hour walking tour of downtown Charleston.

Gray Line City Tour & Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter and then get a citywide tour from the comfort of a climate-controlled bus.

Boone Hall Plantation & Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter and experience 300 years of plantation history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Departure Time?

Cancellation Policy?

How Long Does The Tour Last?

Where Are The Departure Points?

Where Can I Buy a Ticket?

Accessibility

Liberty square – downtown charleston.

• Jan 2 – Feb 29 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
• Mar 1 – Mar 22 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
• Mar 23 – April 7 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:30 & 4:15 p.m.
• April 8 – May 23 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30.
• May 24 – May 26 9:00 a.m.,12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 4:15 p.m.
• May 27 – July 3 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
• July 4 – July 7 9:00 a.m.,12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 4:15 p.m.
• July 8 – Aug 29 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
• Aug 30 – Sept 1 9:00 a.m.,12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 4:15 p.m.
• Sept 2 – Nov 30 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
• Dec 1 – Dec 24 11:00 am & 2:00 p.m.
• Dec 26 – Dec 31 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
• Thanksgiving, Dec 25 & Jan 1 No Tours Available

Patriots Point – Mt. Pleasant

• Jan 2 – Feb 29 12:30 p.m.
• Mar 1 – Mar 22 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.
• Mar 23 – April 7  10:30 am, 1:15 p.m. & 3:45 p.m.
• April 8 – May 23 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.
• May 24 – May 26 10:30 am, 1:15 p.m. & 3:45 p.m.
• May 27 – July 3 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.
• July 4 – July 7 10:30 am, 1:15 p.m. & 3:45 p.m.
• July 8 – Aug 29 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.
• Aug 30 – Sept 1 10:30 am, 1:15 p.m. & 3:45 p.m.
• Sept 2 – Nov 30 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.
• Dec 1  – Dec 24 12:30 p.m.
• Dec 26 – Dec 31 10:30 a.m. & 1:15 p.m.

Daytime Tours:

Fort Sumter Tours tickets are 100% refundable if cancelled 2 hours in advance of the departure time. If tickets are cancelled less than 2 hours from
departure time they are non-refundable. Fort Sumter Tours will cruise in most weather conditions all-year round. Time on the Fort may be impacted by weather at the discretion of the National Park Service.

Sunset At Fort Sumter Cruises:

Cancellations with refunds accepted up to 24-hours in-advance.

The total tour time is 2 1/4 hours with about 1 hour spent on the fort.  Please note the 9:00 am trip to Fort Sumter offers 75 minutes at the fort and the remaining trips of the day allow for 60 minutes.

Downtown Charleston

Fort Sumter Visitor Center, 340 Concord St. Charleston, SC 29401

Mt. Pleasant

Patriots Point 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Book online or visit either departure point (based on availability).

Privacy Policy

Ramps used to access the ferry can vary based on tides and adverse conditions. Therefore, the ferry departing from downtown Charleston or Patriots Point is not always fully accessible. To ensure your visit will be fully accessible, we recommend contacting Fort Sumter Tours on the day of your visit at 843-722-2628.

Please note that copies of the vessel’s narration are available to visitors with hearing impairments. Braille copies of the park’s brochure are available to individuals with sight impairments.

There is no elevator service at Fort Sumter.

The museum, museum bookstore and top level of Fort Sumter are only accessible by climbing stairs.  Visit the National Park Service’s page on accessibility  to learn more or call  843-883-3123 .

Still Have Questions?

This is a charleston tour to talk about.

Very informative tour of one of our country's most important landmarks. The guide was so knowledgeable and made the Fort come alive. Highly recommend!

Jim Famulare

Fantastic tour and very informative presentation at the flag pole during the lowering of the flag. We saw dolphins and pelicans and the Jr. Ranger program for kids is great.

Katie Whitestone

Wonderful experience! They really treat you well and can learn a lot of history too.

Craig Cocoz

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Check out our new combo tour with Palmetto Carriage Works !

Ukrainian soldiers, who are also musicians, are on a thank you tour in the U.S.

LEILA FADEL, HOST:

Active duty Ukrainian soldiers, who are also musicians, are on a concert tour backed by the Ukrainian government. Officially, they're here to thank the U.S. for the latest round of military aid to Ukraine. But at side concerts, the musicians try to win over people in districts with members of Congress who opposed the aid package. Chuck Quirmbach of member station WUWM reports.

CHUCK QUIRMBACH, BYLINE: Before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of his country, Yurii Ivaskevych sang with a regional philharmonic orchestra in Ukraine.

(SOUNDBITE OF PIANO PLAYING)

QUIRMBACH: And his voice is still captivating.

YURII IVASKEVYCH: (Singing in non-English language).

QUIRMBACH: Since the war began, there's been a big change for the sergeant. While fighting for the Territorial Defense Forces, he stepped on a land mine and lost much of his left leg.

IVASKEVYCH: (Non-English language spoken).

QUIRMBACH: Vadym Adamov is an interpreter for the group.

VADYM ADAMOV: So while I'm singing, Yurii says, he is having this moment when he is going back in his mind to his civilian normal life, and it is also helping a lot.

QUIRMBACH: Adamov and Ivaskevych are part of a small company from a Cultural Forces unit that usually entertains troops in Ukraine, often playing a mix of instruments.

QUIRMBACH: For the last month, the group of soldiers has been touring the U.S., their spokesperson, Valery Shyrokov, says, as a thank you.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

VALERY SHYROKOV: We are benefiting from the support from the American people, and we are very grateful for it. We hope that this support will continue.

QUIRMBACH: But the $61 billion Ukraine aid package that passed a couple of months ago was controversial. Many Conservative Republicans voted against it. So a U.S.-based humanitarian group, Razom for Ukraine, has organized side concerts apart from the official Cultural Forces tour but with some of the same personnel to try to gain public support in those Conservative districts. Razom spokesperson Daniel Balson.

DANIEL BALSON: We need policymakers to understand this - that their constituents care about Ukraine, care about Ukraine's future and support the close partnership between the United States and Ukraine.

QUIRMBACH: To emphasize that partnership, Yurii Ivaskevych occasionally performs a song in English.

IVASKEVYCH: (Singing) And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.

QUIRMBACH: About 50 people showed up for one of the side concerts in Oconomowoc, Wis., a half hour west of Milwaukee. Conservative House Republican Scott Fitzgerald represents the area, and he voted against the Ukraine package. One of his constituents, concert goer Karen Haertel, says she supports the arts but contends oversight of aid to Ukraine is lacking. She says accountability is a top issue for her.

KAREN HAERTEL: Because it's our money. It's our tax money. It should be on everything.

QUIRMBACH: In March, the Government Accountability Office recommended ways to improve oversight of aid to Ukraine. And concert goer Renee Strong says she's somewhat optimistic that the Ukrainians' cultural efforts will have an impact.

RENEE STRONG: Hopefully it gets a conversation going. And, you know, maybe with enough momentum, people will persuade our Congress people. But I often think their votes are for their own, you know, interests, unfortunately.

QUIRMBACH: Representative Fitzgerald's office did not respond to repeated requests for comment. However, Ukraine Cultural Forces bandura player Taras Stoliar says he's less focused on the politicians and more on the American public.

TARAS STOLIAR: Maybe some of Americans will understand better what for this war is, why we are still fighting and what we are fighting for.

(SOUNDBITE OF BANDURA PLAYING)

QUIRMBACH: The Ukrainians will continue their U.S. tour through June 28, as they work to gather more support for their country's fight against Russia.

For NPR News, I'm Chuck Quirmbach in Milwaukee.

(SOUNDBITE OF BANDURA PLAYING) Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

South Carolina WBB’s 2024-25 schedule coming together. Here’s the latest

The South Carolina women’s basketball team’s 2024-25 “repeat tour” schedule is coming together.

The Gamecocks will participate in the Fort Myers Tip-Off event from Nov. 28-30, it was announced Wednesday. South Carolina will compete in the “Island” division with Iowa State, Purdue and Middle Tennessee State.

The “Shell” division will consist of Michigan (which play South Carolina in Vegas Nov. 4 to open the season), Belmont, Virginia Tech and Davidson. South Carolina men’s basketball will also participate in the event from Nov. 25-27.

While the Shell division will play a traditional bracketed tournament, teams in the Island division with the Gamecocks will play two games against “predetermined opponents.” South Carolina will face off against Iowa State Nov. 28 and Purdue Nov. 30

Other notable games on USC’s schedule as it currently stands are a Final Four rematch with N.C. State in Charlotte Nov. 10, a cross country battle at UCLA Nov. 24 and two games (one at home and one away) versus Texas as part of the new 16-team SEC schedule.

The Gamecocks will host the UConn Huskies again as a continuation of that East Coast rivalry and the Duke Blue Devils as part of the ACC/SEC Challenge. South Carolina will also welcome home former assistant Fred Chmiel and his Bowling Green Falcons to finish their home-and-home contract.

USC is the defending national champion and went 38-0 last season, defeating Iowa in the title game in Cleveland to give coach Dawn Staley her third national championship.

South Carolina women’s basketball 2024-25 schedule

• Nov. 4: vs. Michigan in Las Vegas
• Nov. 10: vs. N.C. State in Charlotte
• Nov. 24: at UCLA
• Nov. 28: vs. Iowa State (Fort Myers Tip-Off)
• Nov. 30: vs. Purdue (Fort Myers Tip-Off)
• Dec. 5: vs. Duke (ACC/SEC Challenge)
• vs. UConn (non-conference)
• vs. East Carolina (non-conference)
• vs. Bowling Green (non-conference)
• vs. Arkansas
• vs. Florida
• vs. Oklahoma
• vs. Texas A&M
• vs. Kentucky
• at Ole Miss
• at Mississippi State
• at Missouri
• at Tennessee
• at Vanderbilt

Jelly Roll adds 15 more stops to fall tour

(Gray News) – Jelly Roll has just added 15 more stops to the Beautifully Broken Tour , expanding the tour now to 52 U.S. cities.

The country music star announced the new dates on Wednesday.

Jelly Roll also announced new opening acts for select dates, including ERNEST, Shaboozey, and Allie Colleen.

Warren Zeiders and Alexandra Kay were previously announced as opening acts for other dates.

The tour kicks off in Salt Lake City on Aug. 27 and now ends in Jacksonville, Florida, on Nov. 23.

Here is the full list of tour dates (dates in bold are newly added):

Aug. 27 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center

Aug. 28 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center

Aug. 30 – Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena

Aug. 31 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

Sept. 1 – Portland, OR – Moda Center

Sept. 3 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center

Sept. 4 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center

Sept. 6 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

Sept. 7 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center

Sept. 9 – El Paso, TX – Don Haskins Center

Sept. 11 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center

Sept. 13 – Lafayette, LA – CAJUNDOME

Sept. 14 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center

Sept. 17 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center

Sept. 19 – Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum

Sept. 20 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena

Sept. 21 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Sept. 24 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena

Sept. 26 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Sept. 27 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Sept. 28 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena

Sept. 29 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center

Oct. 1 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center

Oct. 2 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center

Oct. 5 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena

Oct. 6 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center

Oct. 9 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena

Oct. 11 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Oct. 12 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center

Oct. 15 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena

Oct. 16 – Springfield, MO – Great Southern Bank Arena

Oct. 18 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center

Oct. 20 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena

Oct. 22 – Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena

Oct. 23 – St Louis, MO – Enterprise Center

Oct. 25 – Knoxville, TN – Food City Center

Oct. 26 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Oct. 27 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center

Oct. 30 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena

Nov. 1 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum

Nov. 4 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Center

Nov. 7 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Nov. 8 – Lexington, KY – Rupp Arena

Nov. 10 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center

Nov. 12 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center Arena

Nov. 13 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center

Nov. 14 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center

Nov. 17 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center

Nov. 18 – Corpus Christi, TX – American Bank Center Selena Auditorium

Nov. 19 – Austin, TX – Moody Center

Nov. 22 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena

Nov. 23 – Jacksonville, FL – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Presale for the new dates starts June 28 at 10 a.m. local time. Fans can sign up for the presale at Jelly Roll’s website here .

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Coroner identifies driver in deadly crash near I-385 in Greenville Co.

Deadly home explosion in Florence County under investigation

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