Georgetown South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Georgetown, South Carolina.
1. Georgetown Harborwalk
SCENIC WATERFRONT PROMENADE
The Georgetown Harborwalk is a picturesque boardwalk running along the Sampit River, offering stunning views of boats and the historic waterfront. Lined with charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries, this pedestrian-friendly promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, spot local wildlife, and immerse themselves in the heart of Georgetown's historic district.
2. Hopsewee Plantation
HISTORIC SOUTHERN RICE PLANTATION
Hopsewee Plantation is a beautifully preserved colonial rice plantation dating back to the 18th century, located just south of Georgetown. Visitors can explore the stately mansion, lush grounds, and original slave cabins, while learning about the region's history. The property offers guided tours and an on-site Southern tearoom for a unique cultural experience.
3. Kaminski House Museum
ANTEBELLUM WATERFRONT MANSION
The Kaminski House Museum is housed in an elegant antebellum home overlooking the Sampit River, showcasing 18th and 19th-century furnishings and decorative arts. Guided tours provide insights into Georgetown's maritime and social history. The surrounding lawn and gardens make it a popular venue for special events and weddings.
4. Rice Museum
HERITAGE OF RICE CULTIVATION
The Rice Museum details the story of rice cultivation, a crop that shaped the Georgetown region's history and economy. Through artifacts, dioramas, and interactive exhibits, visitors learn about the rise and decline of this staple crop. The museum is located in the historic Old Market Building, adding to its charm and authenticity.
5. Hobcaw Barony
EXPANSIVE NATURE AND HISTORY RESERVE
Hobcaw Barony is a sprawling former plantation that now serves as a research reserve, encompassing diverse habitats from marshes to forests. Guided tours introduce visitors to the history of its owners, including the Baruchs, and the lives of enslaved people who lived there. The property also hosts environmental and archaeological programs throughout the year.
6. Georgetown County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Georgetown County Museum offers a comprehensive look at the area's unique history, from its earliest inhabitants to modern times. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia highlighting the cultural and economic development of the region. The museum is popular among both tourists and locals for its engaging displays and knowledgeable staff.
7. South Carolina Maritime Museum
NAUTICAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The South Carolina Maritime Museum preserves and presents the state's rich maritime history through engaging exhibits and historic vessels. Visitors can explore nautical artifacts, ship models, and rare photographs documenting the area's seafaring legacy. The museum frequently hosts educational programs and special maritime events for all ages.
8. Big Tuna Raw Bar
WATERFRONT SEAFOOD DINING
Big Tuna Raw Bar is a popular local restaurant situated along the Georgetown Harborwalk, offering fresh seafood with views of the waterfront. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and signature tuna dishes, it attracts both visitors and residents. The casual setting, outdoor seating, and live music make it a favorite spot for a relaxing meal.
9. Thomas Cafe
HISTORIC SOUTHERN CAFE
Thomas Cafe is a beloved local eatery in downtown Georgetown, known for its classic Southern breakfast and lunch fare. Established in the 1940s, the cafe exudes small-town charm with vintage decor and friendly service. Patrons return regularly for favorites like shrimp and grits, homemade biscuits, and fresh seafood plates.
10. Waterfront Books
CHARMING INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Waterfront Books is a cozy independent bookstore located steps from the Georgetown Harborwalk, specializing in regional literature and local authors. The shop offers a curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children's books. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite stop for book lovers exploring downtown.
11. Rice Birds Gifts & More
UNIQUE LOCAL GIFTS
Rice Birds Gifts & More is a specialty shop offering a diverse selection of gifts, coastal home décor, and handcrafted souvenirs. The shop is known for its friendly staff and carefully chosen merchandise that reflects the character of the Lowcountry. It's a perfect stop for unique mementos and artisan products while visiting downtown Georgetown.
12. Georgetown Art Gallery
REGIONAL ART AND EXHIBITS
The Georgetown Art Gallery showcases works from local and regional artists, ranging from paintings and photography to sculpture and jewelry. With regularly rotating exhibits, the gallery provides an ever-changing array of creative expression. It is a cultural hub for art lovers and collectors in the heart of historic downtown.
13. Winyah Bay
FISHING AND BOATING DESTINATION
Winyah Bay is a renowned recreational area offering excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, birdwatching, and ecotourism. Its rich estuarine environment is home to a variety of fish and wildlife species. Guided tours and charter services are available for those who wish to explore the bay's scenic waterways.
14. Brookgreen Gardens
HISTORIC GARDENS AND SCULPTURE
Brookgreen Gardens, located just north of Georgetown in Murrells Inlet, is a renowned sculpture garden and wildlife preserve set on the grounds of former rice plantations. Visitors can explore expansive themed gardens, outdoor art installations, and native animal exhibits. It is a regional highlight for art, history, and nature enthusiasts alike.
15. Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
COLONIAL-ERA PLANTATION ESTATE
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site, located just outside Georgetown, preserves an 18th-century plantation house and its scenic grounds. Guests can tour the elegant mansion, walk nature trails under centuries-old oaks, and learn about the site's ties to early American history. It is a peaceful retreat for those interested in heritage and the outdoors.