Anderson is a community-minded town set in the foothills of South Carolina. When you’re not enjoying the lively downtown district filled with bars and breweries, spend your time hopping between family-friendly farms and wineries in the countryside.
Things to do in Anderson
Walk around historic Downtown Anderson and discover 16 blocks of cafes, restaurants and breweries. Shop at mom-and-pop stores and admire handsome buildings like the Anderson County Courthouse and the P&N Railroad Depot. The district is dotted with outdoor sculptures, as well as dozens of tiny bronze Carolina wrens, the official state bird of South Carolina.
Head to the weekly Anderson County Farmers Market to stock up on local produce. Depending on what’s in season, you’ll see stalls laden with apples, asparagus and peaches, all grown within 80 kilometres of Anderson County. Food trucks will tempt you with Palmetto State classics like “chicken bog” rice, golden-fried flounder and shrimp and grits.
Enjoy outdoor concerts and movies in Carolina Wren Park. Located in the heart of Downtown Anderson, the paved park features an open-air amphitheatre and a kid-friendly splash plaza. Stay fit with community yoga classes and visit after dark to catch the nightly light show.
Venture into the countryside for a taste of life in rural South Carolina. Head to Split Creek Farm to meet the friendly herd of goats and sample award-winning cheeses. Palmetto Distillery will tempt you with its crystal-clear moonshine and fantastic small-batch whiskey.
Cast a line in Lake Hartwell, one of the top fishing lakes in the United States. Set on a peninsula, Sadlers Creek State Park is one of the best places to access the lake. Launch a kayak from the boat ramp and reel in bass from the 30-metre-long fishing pier. You’ll also find scenic walking and cycling trails, plus shady picnic spots.
Getting around Anderson
Downtown Anderson is compact and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Anderson County at your own pace. The town is a two-hour drive from Columbia and 3.5 hours from Charleston International Airport.