Georgetown, South Carolina: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Have you ever wondered about Georgetown, South Carolina? It’s a charming coastal town with a rich history. It’s the third oldest town in the Palmetto State. Georgetown has a vibrant waterfront culture and many attractions to explore.

Visitors can stroll through the historic district or try local cuisine. They can also enjoy the great outdoors. Georgetown offers a unique experience for those who love South Carolina’s coastal delights.

• Georgetown is the third oldest town in South Carolina, with a rich history dating back to the 1700s.
• The town is situated on the Winyah Bay, surrounded by rivers and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a unique waterfront setting.
• Georgetown was once a major rice production center, producing half of the total American rice crop by the 1850s.
• The historic district features well-preserved antebellum homes and charming shopping along the Harborwalk on Front Street.
• Visitors can explore a variety of museums, historic plantations, and outdoor activities, making Georgetown a diverse destination.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is a city filled with colonial history and a strong maritime culture. It was founded in 1526, making it one of the earliest European settlements in North America. Its location along the Sampit River, near Charleston and Beaufort, made it a key port for the colonial economy.

By the 1850s, Georgetown District was the wealthiest county in the United States. This was thanks to its booming rice production. The Rice Museum showcases this important part of the town’s history. Today, visitors can explore Georgetown’s historic downtown, museums, and plantations to learn about its past.

In 2018, Georgetown was named America’s Best Coastal Small Town by USA Today. This recognition highlights its status as a top destination for history lovers. With roots dating back to the colonial era, Georgetown is a unique and fascinating place to visit.

Georgetown became an official port of entry in 1732. This solidified its role as a port town and center of colonial history. The town’s wealth in the 19th century is seen in its well-preserved historic buildings and homes. Many of these are listed on the National Historic Register.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is deeply connected to the sea. Its waterfront on Winyah Bay is key to its identity and economy. It offers many chances for visitors to dive into the area’s rich maritime history and lively culture.

The South Carolina Maritime Museum is at the heart of Georgetown’s waterfront. It highlights the region’s nautical past. Visitors can see the original Fresnel lens from the old North Island lighthouse, showing the area’s seafaring history.

For a deeper dive, boat tour companies like Captain Rod’s Tours and Rover Boat Tours offer eco-cruises and visits to the Georgetown lighthouse. These tours give a unique view of the area’s natural beauty and wildlife, along with its maritime history.

The waterfront is bustling with activity. It has charming restaurants, local shops, and scenic paths for walking. Visitors can explore the region’s nautical heritage or just enjoy the calm of the waterfront. Georgetown’s maritime culture is sure to enchant and impress.

“Georgetown’s waterfront on Winyah Bay is central to its identity and economy, offering a wealth of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s nautical history and vibrant culture.”

Step back in time and explore Georgetown, South Carolina’s historic district. This charming town has over 60 antebellum homes and buildings. Each one has its own story to share.

Discover Georgetown’s rich heritage on a guided walking tour. Guides like Paige Sawyer and Swamp Fox Tours share fascinating stories. They take you through the town’s 300-year history step by step.

See the town’s architectural wonders, like the Kaminski House Museum. It showcases Georgian-style architecture and period furnishings. Walking through the historic district, you’ll see well-preserved antebellum homes and businesses. They take you back to another time.

Visit Front Street, the heart of the historic district’s shopping. You’ll find unique shops like Doodlebugs Children’s Finery and Bluebird Vintage. Art Harbor Gallery is also there, offering one-of-a-kind treasures and supporting local artists.

Georgetown’s historic district is a mix of old and new. It invites visitors to dive into the town’s cultural heritage and enjoy local shopping.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is a historic coastal town by the Sampit River. It has many attractions and experiences. You can explore the Rice Museum or learn about Gullah Geechee culture at the Gullah Museum. There’s something for everyone in this charming place.

The Rice Museum is a top spot in Georgetown. It’s in the Old Market Building. Here, you can learn about Georgetown’s role in rice production. By the 1850s, it was the wealthiest county in the United States.

The Gullah Museum is another highlight. It dives into the Gullah Geechee heritage. This culture comes from enslaved Africans who worked rice plantations. It was founded by Andrew Rodrigues and his wife, Vermelle “Bunny” Smith Rodrigues.

Don’t miss the South Carolina Maritime Museum for Georgetown’s maritime history. It has interactive exhibits and artifacts.

History buffs will love the Georgetown County Museum. It has items from nearly 300 years of history. Many were donated by locals.

Other attractions include the Lafayette Park and Herb Garden and the Kaminski House Museum. The park honors the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1777 visit. The Kaminski House has antique furniture from the 18th century.

For culture, visit the Strand Theatre. It’s home to the Swamp Fox Players and hosts live theater.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is rich in history and culture. It’s surrounded by natural beauty. It’s a top destination for a unique and memorable trip.

Georgetown’s museums give you a peek into the area’s rich history and culture. Dive into the stories and artifacts that highlight the region’s past and present.

The Rice Museum is in the historic Old Market Building. It tells the story of Georgetown’s rice production days. You can see how rice was grown, the role of enslaved Africans, and how rice helped the area grow.

The Georgetown County Museum shows over 300 years of local history. It’s a journey through time. You’ll find artifacts from the Civil War, learn about hunting traditions, and discover the community’s identity.

The South Carolina Maritime Museum celebrates the state’s maritime history. It has interactive exhibits. You can learn about local sailors, try sailing lessons, and get a feel for coastal culture.

“Georgetown’s museums provide a window into the region’s storied past, inviting visitors to discover the fascinating cultural heritage that has shaped this vibrant coastal community.”

Explore Georgetown, South Carolina’s rich history through its historic homes and plantations. These buildings are architectural wonders that show the area’s prosperous past. They highlight the region’s deep cultural heritage.

The Kaminski House Museum is a must-see. It’s a Georgian-style house that overlooks the Sampit River. Built in the 18th century, it showcases Charleston-made furniture. This gives visitors a peek into the lives of the region’s elite back then.

Don’t miss the Hopsewee Plantation, a National Historic Landmark. It offers tours of its 1740s rice plantation home. Here, you can learn about the Gullah culture and the African-American community’s role in the area’s success.

These sites, along with Georgetown’s preserved antebellum architecture, show the town’s lasting legacy. They are perfect for history lovers or anyone wanting to connect with Georgetown’s cultural roots. These historic homes and plantations offer a fascinating look into Georgetown’s past.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is a haven for nature lovers. It offers many outdoor adventures and eco-tourism activities. Winyah Bay, a vast estuarine system, is home to diverse wildlife.

Winyah Bay invites you to explore its serene waters. You can fish, kayak, or join guided eco-tours. The bay is famous for its fishing, with species like redfish and flounder.

Kayakers can see birds, dolphins, and marine life. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the bay’s beauty.

Join an eco-tour to explore Georgetown’s ecosystems. These tours take you through salt marshes and cypress swamps. You’ll see wildlife like egrets and alligators.

Birdwatchers will love spotting many bird species. It’s a great chance to see both migratory and resident birds.

• Shelling expeditions to pristine barrier islands
• Visits to the historic Georgetown Lighthouse
• Scenic sunset cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway

There’s more to explore beyond Winyah Bay. The rivers and Intracoastal Waterway offer nature and water sports fun. You can go shelling, visit the Georgetown Lighthouse, or enjoy a sunset cruise.

Georgetown’s natural attractions and outdoor activities are endless. They’re perfect for both seasoned nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful getaway. Dive into the area’s rich ecosystems and create lasting memories.

Georgetown, South Carolina, is a culinary gem. It offers a mix of Low Country cuisine and fresh seafood from Winyah Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The local restaurants show off the region’s Southern hospitality and culinary traditions.

Visitors can try shrimp and grits, a Low Country favorite. They can also enjoy rice-based dishes that honor the area’s heritage. Don’t miss local treats like pralines from Sweeties Sweets and Gullah cuisine, a blend of African, European, and Native American flavors.

For a true taste of the region, visit Georgetown’s acclaimed eateries. Buckshot’s, a family-owned spot, is famous for its authentic okra purloo. Ma Gloria Trinidad in North Charleston serves the iconic fried bake & shark on weekends.

Georgetown’s culinary scene offers fresh seafood, traditional Low Country cuisine, and Gullah culture. It will delight your senses and leave you wanting more of the area’s local flavors.

“Darius Rucker has spent a lifetime dining all over South Carolina, and he says the state’s culinary scene is second to none.”

Georgetown is a great place to start exploring the beautiful coastal areas around it. Just a short drive away is Pawleys Island, famous for its stunning beaches and relaxed vibe. You can enjoy the views, try local foods, and find unique shops and cultural spots.

Pawleys Island is perfect for families, with lots of water sports like kayaking and jet skiing. There are also ten top-notch golf courses nearby, designed by famous architects. You can shop, eat at different restaurants, and enjoy festivals and concerts all year round.

Hobcaw Barony is a 16,000-acre reserve with a rich history. It offers tours of old homes and the last 19th-century slave village on Waccamaw Neck. It’s a chance to see the area’s past and the wildlife and ecosystems that live there.

Huntington Beach State Park is a natural wonder. You can walk on its beautiful beaches, watch birds, and see Atalaya Castle, a National Historic Landmark. It’s a great place for adventure or just to relax and enjoy nature.