Swansea South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Swansea, South Carolina.
1. Swansea Market
LOCAL GOODS AND PRODUCE
Swansea Market serves as a community hub and shopping destination for both locals and visitors. The market offers a variety of locally sourced products, fresh produce, and handcrafted items. Visitors can experience authentic South Carolina culture while interacting with friendly vendors and sampling regional specialties.
2. Clyne Gardens
EXOTIC BOTANICAL SHOWCASE
Clyne Gardens features extensive and exotic plantings ranging from rhododendrons to Elephant Rhubarb and American Skunk Cabbage. The Japanese garden with its brightly painted bridge adds to the glorious visual experience. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy peaceful walks through the diverse botanical displays throughout the year.
3. LC Waterpark
FAMILY AQUATIC ADVENTURE
LC Waterpark is a state-of-the-art attraction suitable for all ages in the Swansea area. It features countless slides and tubes, providing endless entertainment for families and thrill-seekers. Visitors can also hone their surfing skills on a never-ending wave feature.
4. The Swansea.com Stadium
PREMIER SPORTS VENUE
The Swansea.com Stadium is an impressive 20,000-seat facility that serves as a premier venue for sporting events. Since opening in 2005, it has hosted numerous exciting matches and community events. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the electric atmosphere while watching local teams compete.
5. Mumbles Village
CHARMING SEASIDE DESTINATION
Mumbles Village is a vibrant seaside community featuring over 120 shops, restaurants, and pubs. This charming area is renowned for its exceptional seafood caught locally and served in fine establishments. Visitors should not miss trying the famous ice cream from one of the competing premier ice cream parlors.
6. Congaree National Park
NATURAL WILDERNESS PRESERVE
Congaree National Park offers a pristine wilderness experience just a short drive from Swansea. The park preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems via elevated boardwalks and hiking trails while observing unique wildlife.
7. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
WILDLIFE AND BOTANICAL WONDER
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a premier wildlife and botanical attraction located near Swansea. The facility houses more than 2,000 animals representing over 350 species from around the world. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, educational programs, and beautifully landscaped gardens spanning 170 acres.
8. South Carolina State Museum
CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL TREASURE
The South Carolina State Museum showcases the state's rich history, art, science, and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits. Located in a historic textile mill, the museum features four floors of permanent and changing displays. Visitors can experience everything from prehistoric fossils to innovative technology and space science.
9. Edisto Memorial Gardens
SCENIC FLORAL PARADISE
Edisto Memorial Gardens combines natural beauty with landscaped elegance across 150 acres near Swansea. The gardens are famous for their impressive collection of roses and azaleas, with over 4,800 plants representing 79 varieties. Visitors can stroll along the Edisto River, enjoy picnic areas, or attend seasonal events like the Festival of Roses.
10. Shealy's Bar-B-Que
LEGENDARY SOUTHERN BARBECUE
Shealy's Bar-B-Que is a renowned dining institution serving authentic South Carolina barbecue since 1969. The restaurant is famous for its all-you-can-eat buffet featuring slow-cooked pork, fried chicken, and numerous Southern sides. Visitors travel from across the state to experience their distinctive mustard-based barbecue sauce and legendary hash and rice.
11. Lake Murray
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Lake Murray provides 50,000 acres of recreational opportunities just a short drive from Swansea. The lake offers excellent fishing, boating, swimming, and water sports against a backdrop of stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy lakeside dining, rent watercraft, or simply relax on the shoreline.
12. South Carolina State House
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT LANDMARK
The South Carolina State House stands as an impressive architectural landmark and the seat of state government. Construction began in 1851, and the distinctive copper dome and intricate details represent the state's rich political heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about legislative processes and view monuments on the surrounding grounds.
13. Sesquicentennial State Park
URBAN WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Sesquicentennial State Park offers 1,400 acres of natural escape not far from Swansea. The park features a 30-acre lake for fishing and paddle boating, plus miles of hiking and cycling trails through pine forests. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, a dog park, and seasonal programming at this accessible outdoor destination.
14. Palmetto Trail
SCENIC HIKING EXPERIENCE
The Palmetto Trail passes near Swansea as part of its 500-mile journey across South Carolina from the mountains to the sea. This section offers hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts a chance to experience diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Outdoor adventurers can enjoy day hikes or connect to longer sections for multi-day treks.
15. Lexington County Museum
COLONIAL HERITAGE COMPLEX
The Lexington County Museum preserves the area's rich colonial and antebellum history through a complex of historic structures. The seven-acre site includes over 30 historic buildings dating from the 1700s to the 1800s. Visitors can experience authentic period furnishings, tools, and artifacts that tell the story of early European settlement in the region.