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Authentic Southern Culture In The Old 96 District
Made up of five counties nestled in the Upper Western section of South Carolina, the Old 96
District’s summers are packed with experiences for the whole family. Enjoy hiking, camping,
boating and biking in the area's many parks and nature preserves, such as Hickory Knob State
Resort Park and Calhoun Falls State Park. Get a taste of authentic southern culture with summer
events like South Carolina Festival of Discovery in Greenwood (great if you’re a BBQ aficionado),
the Ridge Peach Festival in Trenton or the Ware Shoals Catfish Feastival. Visitors can also take a
trip back in time at the Ninety Six National Historic Site, home to a unique star-shaped fort that
played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War.
Electrifying Fun In Anderson
Nicknamed “The Electric City” for its pioneering use of hydroelectric power, Anderson is located
at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and buzzes all summer long. Start your family trip at
Ballyhoo Petting Zoo, the Upstate’s favorite little zoo with over 30 different species. You’ll meet
Skippy the Red Kangaroo, Pocahontas the African Crested Porcupine, and other furry friends.
Next, Split Creek Farm is a Grade A dairy barn designed and built by the owners to include the
milking and cheese operations and a kid nursery. Lastly, for those who aren’t afraid to get their
hands dirty, the Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina offers hands-on
experiences to learn about the culture and history of farming in South Carolina.
The Best Small Town Of The South
A few years ago, Southern Living magazine dubbed Aiken its “Best Small Town of the South” —
and this charming South Carolina spot peaks during the summer months. On Monday nights
through June, bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket to scenic Hopelands Garden for a free,
family-friendly Concert Series featuring the best local musicians. Meanwhile, Amp the Alley
happens every Thursday evening from April through October — dance to the live music, let your
kids play in the Alley and enjoy a delicious dinner downtown. At the same time as Amp the
Alley, the Market in the Alley offers a festive environment with farm fresh produce, artisan
goods, samples and food and drinks. For some fresh-air fun in the great outdoors, Hitchcock
Woods & Gateway Park is among the largest urban forests in the nation, home to more than
2,100 acres of protected forest. Equestrians, hikers, dog walkers and runners enjoy the 65 miles
of sandy trails that provide access to a stunning variety of ecosystems in the woods.
Making A Splash In Spartanburg
Cool down this summer in Spartanburg, a town set against a backdrop of rich history and
culture in the Upstate mountains region. Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport Park is
home to a wide-open splash pad — perfect for families looking to beat the heat while watching
a few planes take off and land. Shipwreck Cove in nearby Duncan is home to a massive,
pirate-themed water park with something for everyone. There are spiraling slides sure to
awaken your inner adrenaline junkie, lazy rivers for anyone looking to just relax, and several
areas for children, featuring kiddie pools and smaller slides. Meanwhile, The Children’s Museum
of the Upstate Spartanburg is designed for kids ages five and under with 6,000 square feet
dedicated to play-based learning. And not far from there, Spartanburg’s landmarks are featured
prominently on each hole at Sparkle City Mini Putt, the only free, urban miniature golfcourse in
the state.
Coastal South Carolina At Its Finest
With miles of pristine white-sand beaches, Hilton Head Island is one of South Carolina's most
luxurious — and most family-friendly — summer destinations. Enjoy an unforgettable getaway
with the new Ultimate Family Escape Package at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. It includes
sumptuous accommodations in a two-bedroom villa, a $200 resort gift card and much more.
While you’re at Palmetto Dunes, the whole family can play a round at Toptracer Range at the
Robert Trent Jones course, offering interactive golf experiences for all ages. For two-wheel
excitement, head to Hilton Head Outfitters, which boasts the largest rental bike and electric bike
fleet on the island, while strollers, tag-a-longs, kiddie carts, bikes with baby seats, adult
three-wheelers, tandem bikes and beach joggers are also available. Now in its 34th year,
HarbourFest is Hilton Head Island’s largest multi-week event, offering 12 firework shows, live
entertainment and a variety of kids activities from May 27 to September 3.
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About the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism
The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism is a cabinet agency assigned to
operate and manage South Carolina's state parks, market the state as a preferred vacation
destination, and provide assistance to communities to develop recreation assets. Explore the
official tourism site of South Carolina and discover all the rich history, sandy beaches, and family
attractions a South Carolina vacation has to offer at DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.