If you’re among the lucky ones who have retired, you’re in good company in South Carolina. Known as a retirement haven for snowbirds and transplants from across the country, the Palmetto State’s sunny weather, mild winters, beaches, lakes, and mountains make it a retiree’s dream come true. It’s also brimming with plenty of activities to help you make the most of your free time. Even if you aren’t a permanent resident here, make sure you add these 8 best retirement activities in South Carolina to your must-do list.
Touring historic Charleston is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, but given the sheer size of the city it can be hard to see it all by foot. Hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage and see all the best hot spots just like your ancestors did. You can enjoy the beautiful buildings and history without walking for miles, plus get a little history lesson to boot.
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Oconee Station is a free state park in Walhalla that features two historical buildings and a beautiful, easy 1.5-mile walking trail that leads directly to Station Cove Falls. You can bring your pet along for the trip, or simply enjoy exploring the trail on your own. If you visit the site in the springtime, you’ll also get a sweeping view of wildflowers all along the trail and near the falls.
The trend started in Ohio, but Upstate South Carolina was the first to adopt the fun activity in the south. The Heritage Quilt Trail is a local series of quilts that are prominently displayed throughout the area, each bearing a special significance. Quilts and quilt panels can be found on historic businesses, in downtown areas, and near landmarks. The “trail” is a great way for people to explore the county and get to know more about the area. Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson counties all participate in the program, giving you plenty of places to travel to.
The Palmetto State is chock full of scenic drives, but this one spanning 118 miles from Georgia to North Carolina isn’t to be missed. Starting (or ending) at Exit 1 on I-85, drivers can take Highway 11 almost to the NC/SC border in Gaffney for some of the best sights in the state. Along the way, you’ll get breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All total, the drive is 118 miles, but there are towns and stopovers for you stretch your legs and snap a few photos before completing the drive.
There are plenty of birdwatching hotspots throughout the state, and Huntington Beach State Park is among the best in the entire southeast. You can start your visit at the nature center, where you’ll discover the various bird species you’re likely to encounter and pick up a checklist. Then, you can travel along the short trail systems while you scope out wading birds, bald eagles, teal, ducks, and other wildlife. There are a variety of ecosystems within the park that make it an ideal haven for a large number of birds, especially in the winter.
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Myrtle Beach is arguably one of the golf capitals of the world, playing home to dozens of highly rated courses and attracting thousands of visitors worldwide each year. The area is brimming with golf resorts that can take you away from the bustling Grand Strand and place you directly in golf mode without ever leaving the hotel.
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This museum is kid-friendly, but it’s not just for children. Retirees, especially if they aren’t South Carolina natives, will enjoy learning about what makes the state so unique, along with a variety of fresh exhibits each year to make every visit one of a kind. The museum also features a planetarium and observatory that hold shows and lectures to keep your social calendar full.
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Part of Clemson University, this botanical garden is open to the public and free to explore. The series of trails lead around ponds and beautiful scenery, as well as historical structures. The garden hosts regular events that retirees can participate in, as well as volunteer opportunities to keep the gardens thriving.
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