Smyrna South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Smyrna, South Carolina.
1. The Fear Farm
THRILLING SEASONAL ATTRACTION
The Fear Farm offers visitors a spine-tingling experience in the heart of Smyrna. This highly-rated seasonal attraction provides a unique blend of frights and fun for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Visitors can enjoy various themed experiences designed to test their courage in a rural setting.
2. Smyrna Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Smyrna Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church stands as the namesake and historical heart of the town, established in 1834 and chartered in 1843. The church represents the origin point around which the community developed and eventually incorporated. Its long-standing presence continues to serve as an important cultural and spiritual landmark for the small town.
3. Whitesides General Store
HISTORIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Whitesides General Store was established in 1898 and served the community until its closure in 2007. This historic establishment was part of the Whitesides Company and represented a central commercial hub for the tiny town. There are plans to potentially reopen the store as part of a historic preservation effort.
4. Kings Mountain National Military Park
REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELD
Kings Mountain National Military Park preserves the site of a crucial 1780 Revolutionary War battle that helped turn the tide of the war in the South. Visitors can explore the battlefield via hiking trails and learn about this pivotal historical moment through interpretive exhibits. The park offers a glimpse into American history with its visitor center, monuments, and natural beauty.
5. Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill
APPLE FARM & CIDERY
Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill offers visitors a chance to experience apple picking and hard cider production in a scenic rural setting. This family-owned operation produces award-winning hard ciders and provides seasonal activities like apple picking, hayrides, and fresh baked goods. Visitors can enjoy the farm store, tasting room, and special events throughout the apple season.
6. Kings Mountain State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Kings Mountain State Park provides over 6,800 acres of pristine natural space for outdoor recreation adjacent to the National Military Park. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, and over 20 miles of hiking trails through diverse Piedmont landscapes. The park also features a living history farm that recreates 19th-century farm life with authentic structures and demonstrations.
7. Historic Brattonsville
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Historic Brattonsville offers visitors a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century life across its 800-acre living history site. The attraction features more than 30 historic structures, including the Revolutionary War battlefield site of Huck's Defeat. Costumed interpreters demonstrate period crafts, farming techniques, and daily life activities throughout the year during special events.
8. Carowinds Theme Park
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Carowinds Theme Park straddles the North and South Carolina border, offering over 400 acres of rides, attractions, and entertainment. The park features world-class roller coasters, including Fury 325 - one of the tallest and fastest coasters in the world. Visitors can also enjoy Carolina Harbor water park, live entertainment, and seasonal festivals throughout the operating season.
9. Camp Canaan
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
Camp Canaan offers adventurous visitors the opportunity to soar through the air on zipline canopy tours on its 100-acre island in the Catawba River. The facility provides various outdoor activities including a challenge course, kayaking, and team-building experiences. Camp Canaan combines adventure recreation with beautiful natural surroundings for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
10. SouthTown Wake Park
WATER SPORTS COMPLEX
SouthTown Wake Park offers wakeboarding enthusiasts a cable-pulled system that eliminates the need for a boat. The facility caters to all skill levels with various features and obstacles for performing tricks and jumps. Visitors can enjoy this innovative water sports complex with equipment rentals and instruction available on-site.
11. Catawba Cultural Center
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
The Catawba Cultural Center preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the Catawba Indian Nation, the only federally recognized tribe in South Carolina. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring pottery, artifacts, and cultural displays that highlight the tribe's 6,000-year history in the region. The center offers educational programs, demonstrations of traditional pottery making, and a gift shop featuring authentic Catawba crafts.
12. Glencairn Garden
HISTORIC URBAN GARDEN
Glencairn Garden enchants visitors with 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds featuring fountains, ponds, and diverse plant collections. The garden began as a private residence in 1928 before being gifted to the city of Rock Hill in the 1960s. Spring brings spectacular displays of azaleas, dogwoods, and other flowering plants that draw visitors from throughout the region.
13. Anne Springs Close Greenway
NATURE PRESERVE & TRAILS
The Anne Springs Close Greenway encompasses 2,100 acres of protected natural area with over 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This vast nature preserve features historic buildings, lakes, and forests that provide habitat for diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities, educational programs, and special events throughout the year in this pristine natural setting.
14. Martin Gold Mine Site
HISTORIC MINING LOCATION
The Martin Gold Mine Site represents an important part of Smyrna's 19th-century gold mining history. This historic location gained fame in 1851 when a remarkable 20-pound gold nugget was discovered here. The mine is part of a series of gold deposits found throughout the area that contributed to regional development and Smyrna's growth.
15. Silver Comet Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL TRAIL
The Silver Comet Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a paved path perfect for walking, running, cycling, and skating through beautiful natural settings. This converted rail-trail extends for miles through scenic countryside and connects to an extensive trail system. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained pathway that provides access to landmarks like the historic Concord Covered Bridge.