The Old 96 Districts blog is home to insider tips and tricks when visiting the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick. Checkback often for information on the best food, fun ideas, hiking locations, and more!
Traveling with little ones doesn’t have to mean skipping out on charm or culture. In South Carolina’s Old 96 District, Abbeville and Edgefield counties welcome families with open arms, historic backdrops, and just the right pace for exploring with a toddler in tow. Here’s a two-day itinerary full of small-town treasures, tasty bites, and memory-making…
By Jason Barnette South Carolina’s “Freshwater Coast” is sixty-five miles of coastline along the Savannah River – and one of the best hidden gems of the Old 96 District. This tourism district, which comprises five counties, is filled with small, charming towns connected by two-lane roads. Life is a bit slower as nature and history…
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the joys of different farms on a road trip! Especially when traveling with family and children, few would pass up the opportunity to pet friendly farm animals or pick fresh fruits right off the vine. Because many of these farms have tight hours and we want you to enjoy each…
If you’ve been to South Carolina before, you know there’s little we love more than good food. When it comes to tasting Southern culture, barbecue packs in a lot. It blends traditional family secrets, regional diversity and fresh innovation, unlike any other cuisine. Barbecue sauce may as well run in our veins (though depending on…
Exploring a new place can be thirsty work. At some point after all that driving, walking, hiking, shopping, and eating, you might just want to sit down to a cold beer, crisp glass of wine, or (depending on how long your day has been), a nice strong cocktail. As I trekked back and forth across…
Hiking and walking is a year-round sport in South Carolina. With mild summers and winters, beautiful springs, and colorful autumns, the ever-changing landscape lends itself to a hiker’s paradise. Also unique to South Carolina is the opportunities to hike and walk trails through Revolutionary War sites and battlefields—not something easily found further west. Steeped in…
When it comes to the holidays, nothing beats celebrating the season in a small town. The festivities, the warmth of the locals and the atmosphere are so welcoming, setting the mood for a memorable getaway. I had the opportunity to sample some of the holiday happenings in the Old 96 District with my kids, and…
Spending the weekend with my family, jumping from different holiday hometowns in the Old 96 District of South Carolina, was a great way to get me into the holiday spirit for Christmas. We pulled into Greenwood late Friday afternoon, where we checked into the Inn on the Square. My first impression of the inn was…
Nestled in the rolling hills and pine forests of South Carolina, the Old 96 District, encompassing Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick Counties, offers visitors a unique lens into the South’s complex past. From the American Revolution to the Civil War, this region played pivotal roles in shaping the course of American history, and its…
I knew I was in for treat when a doe and her fawn greeted me upon my arrival to Calhoun Falls State Park. There’s a long drive through piney woods to reach the park, filled with wildlife and the sounds of birds, so by the time I reached the pristine waters of Lake Russell, I…
Margie Blalock has always talked to those in the ether. The resident of Ninety Six never shared the spirits she witnessed because kids either didn’t believe her or made fun of her psychic abilities. When she became an adult, and perhaps due to the proliferation of ghost tales on TV and in literature, Margie embraced…
The delicious food scene of the Old 96 District Whenever I’m visiting South Carolina, a resident spots my Georgia license plate and promptly lets me know that their state grows more peaches than mine. It happens all the time! California takes the peach cake as the number one producer, but South Carolina comes in second,…
Finding souvenirs is a fun travel activity, but it’s not always easy to distinguish one kitschy trinket from another. Instead, find a meaningful souvenir that feels unique to the Old 96 District – something you can proudly use or savor every day. Souvenirs to Wear and Display Discover a treasure from your time in the…
Embark on a whirlwind tour of international cuisine in the Old 96 District—no passport needed! Abbeville and Greenwood offer a treasure trove of impeccable establishments, each serving up bold flavors that will transport your taste buds around the world: Adelita’s Tucked away in a tiny Latin market in Greenwood, Adelita’s is a hidden gem where…
Article by Clayton Hensley of Knox Road Tripper. Nature and history collide along the highways and backroads of South Carolina’s Old 96 District taking you on an unforgettable journey. From lakes along the Savannah River to battle grounds of the Revolutionary War, outdoor opportunities abound in this part of the Palmetto State. South Carolina’s Freshwater…
Greenwood, nestled in South Carolina’s Old 96 District, dresses up its streets for the annual SC Festival of Flowers in June. More than 30 handmade topiaries, plants shaped into lifesize animals and whimsical characters, decorate the walkable city. Plan for a weekend trip on the festival’s main weekend in June or visit anytime through July…
Three Star Vineyard and Orchard in Johnston, South Carolina has been family owned and operated since 1992 and among many the most-see stops when visiting the Old 96 District of South Carolina. The gift shop opened in August 2019 and the Tasting Room in 2020. It is located one hour from Columbia, less than two…
By Lisa Sokolowski, founder/blogger, DrugstoreDivas.net Love is in the air… all year round in the Old 96 District. So no matter what the season, it’s the season of love. And if you’re looking for someone to go on a date, there are a ton of options in the area. We’re not just talking about…
By Lisa Sokolowski, founder/blogger, DrugstoreDivas.net Winter means colder temperatures. Yes, the Old 96 District is in the south … but not south enough to avoid all the frigid temperatures that Old Man Winter brings. And so, there’s a tendency to make like a bear and hibernate during the winter. Which would be a shame,…
By Hayley Hutson Nestled within South Carolina’s picturesque Old 96 District lies a treasure trove of unique storefronts for locals and visitors alike to explore. Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick counties offer an abundance of charming locally-owned shops, each a haven for those seeking the perfect gift or a touch of indulgence to bring…
By Hayley Hutson During the third weekend in October, my BBQ-loving fiancé and I ventured from Charlotte, NC to Abbeville, SC to check out the annual Hogs & Hens BBQ Festival for the first time. Since its inception a decade ago, this event has been a crowd favorite in the Old 96 District. With the…
By Hayley Hutson One of my favorite things about living in North Carolina is the abundance of charming towns within a few hours’ drive. From major players like Asheville and Charleston to hidden gems like South Carolina’s Old 96 District, there’s a worthwhile destination for every type of traveler. This fall, my fiancé and I…
Are you thinking of exploring the Old 96 District in South Carolina? I’m here to show you what a good time you can have enjoying their beautiful outdoor spaces, learning at important historical sites, and eating delicious food. When my mom told me just her and I were going on a three-day road trip to…
Five historic buildings in the Old 96 District turned eateries, accommodations, event spaces, and more. By Nicole Letts History has deep roots in South Carolina’s Old 96 District. In the five counties comprising the district, countless historic sites and markers dot the area. However, did you know many of these places of the past…
If the idea of getting stuck in school overnight sounds like a nightmare, don’t worry. At Sharon Manor, just on the outskirts of downtown Abbeville, that nightmare turns into a dream when you spend a few nights in the former schoolhouse turned boutique inn. Yes that’s right, what was once a local school was…
By Lisa Sokolowski, founder/blogger, DrugstoreDivas.net If you’re in Abbeville, and you hear something go bump in the night, don’t assume it’s a raccoon in a trashcan or a car’s exhaust backfiring. There’s a better chance that it’s actually a ghost. Yes, a real life ghost. Well … a real dead ghost. Abbeville is filled with…
By Bill Kamenjar By the numbers, the Hickory Knob State Resort Golf Course in McCormick, South Carolina has 87 things going for it. There’s an 18-hole, Tom Jackson designed championship golf course located on the shores of Lake Thurmond. There’s also one Shagbark Snack Bar in the Pro Shop with hot eats and cold drinks;…
by Anna Cook, blogger, Stuck on the Go In the heart of rural South Carolina, the Old 96 District is an unexpected treasure for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Offering multiple waterfront campgrounds with RV-friendly spaces or primitive tent sites, it’s perfect no matter your setup. Have fun exploring these campgrounds in the Old 96 District…
by Cate Schweitzer After spending a weekend in South Carolina’s Old 96 District, I can confidently say you are sleeping on a great time outdoors. This stunning area of South Carolina is chock-full of beautiful state parks that offer great hiking trails, water activities, campgrounds, and other amazing activities to do outside. The Old 96…
It’s been written that true players revel in the game’s curious topography. That they ‘will pay a month’s wages to fly across the country or across the ocean to be humbled by a sacred patch of green earth.’ But it doesn’t have to be like this. There’s great golf that’s not so bodily demanding right…
Text and photos by Anna Cook of Stuck on the Go. While many people may not think of a rural area as a great solo travel destination, I tend to disagree. You find the kindest people in small towns and there’s always plenty to do when you know where to look. Not to mention…
Exploring different places at Christmas brings a sense of wonder and magic to the holiday season – especially when you’re in the Old 96 District. These small towns pack some big Christmas spirit and can provide great family fun, a couple’s getaway, or even a solo adventure. If you want to avoid major…
Part 4 of 4 (In Parts 1, 2 and 3 in this series, we noted how Old 96 District transported us baby boomers to a simpler time. Our first trip to the area, started in Abbeville and continued in Greenwood.) We devoted part of our second day of this first Old 96 District visit treating…
Part 3 of 4 (In Parts 1 and 2 in this series, we noted how Old 96 District transported us baby boomers to a simpler time. Our first trip to the area, started in Abbeville and continued in Greenwood). After exploring the topiaries from Greenwood’s annual Festival of Flowers and stopping by The Museum and…
Part 2 of 4 (In Part 1, we noted that Old 96 District transported us baby boomers to a simpler time. Our first trip to the area started in Abbeville and continued in Greenwood). Our original Greenwood itinerary might have coincided with the city’s annual, well-attended Festival of Flowers, in its 55th year. A need…
Part 1 of 4 A drive-in movie, a jump in a lake, a downtown right out of Mayberry, old-timey train cars to ignite fantasies of long-ago rail travel, even a building that hosted Houdini and the Ziegfeld Follies. And a somber reminder of the early days of the Civil Rights movement. We had no idea…
Feeling cooped up and ready to get back into the sunshine? It’s the perfect time to plan your getaway to South Carolina’s Old 96 District! Famous for outdoor adventures, small town charm, and lively, family-friendly festival experiences, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time. Encompassing the five counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick,…
By Carol Timblin Every year fans of the South Carolina Festival of Flowers look forward to the return of the “living” topiaries to Uptown Greenwood. During the weekend of June 10-11, on the 15th anniversary of the topiaries and the 55th anniversary of the popular festival, visitors will be treated to a brand new topiary.…
By Vanessa Infanzon Donna Livingston with Edgefield County Chamber of Commerce reminisces about the homemade peach cobbler from her childhood. Her mom and grandmothers baked the fruity dish for dessert on Sundays, a simple recipe with flour, sugar and milk. “I’ve lived here my whole life,” she says. “Peaches have always been part of my…
By Lori Blalock With an endless supply of warm sunshine, cool lake breezes and the sounds of water gently lapping the shore, the Old 96 District is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s the ideal location for a fun outdoor weekend. Here, in western South Carolina, where the Savannah River forms the border with Georgia, three…
By Jason Barnette From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, early railroads and a miniature gold rush, to historic homes and museums, there is a lot of history to explore in the Old 96 District. But, the exploration is more than just artifacts safely tucked away behind a pane of glass in a museum…
By Jason Barnette Every day of thrilling outdoor adventures requires a peaceful night of rest – that’s one of the many unwritten rules of human nature. Fortunately, the six state parks located in South Carolina’s Old 96 District offer a fine balance of both. Learn about the outdoor adventures unique to each park, the things…
By Jason Barnette The Old 96 District spans across South Carolina’s backcountry. At the heart – literally and figuratively – is the “big city” of Greenwood. All roads through the district converge on Main Street, surrounded by local retail shops and dining, history museums, and entertainment venues. It’s an incredible place for a weekend getaway…
In honor of Black History Month this year, we’re celebrating Black Excellence by highlighting some Black-owned shops, restaurants, and attractions we are proud to have in South Carolina’s Old 96 District, featuring the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick. Chef Erica McCier- Indigenous Underground, Abbeville, SC Abbeville, SC native Chef Erica McCier’s dream…
Many a-couple fantasize about getting away for a few days, driving through the countryside on a romantic small-town getaway! We’ve taken care of the details and planned out a three-day itinerary with couples in mind, showcasing the best experiences in our five counties to share with your favorite someone! DAY ONE Depending on the season,…
For history buffs, South Carolina’s Old 96 District has plenty to offer! From Revolutionary War battlegrounds to historic inns, churches, buildings and the birthplace of a Civil Rights leader, here’s a three-day itinerary for touring the most historic sites in our five counties. Day 1 We start off our journey with the Culbertson Back County…
Making plans and goals for the new year? South Carolina’s Old 96 District has so many unexpected wonders awaiting you! Featuring the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick, this region is largely known for its small-town charm and outdoor adventures. Here are 25 things we are excited about in 2025—and we think you…
We love food! For many travelers, finding the best places to eat on their road trip is a must. It can even be the main feature of the trip! Here is a three-day itinerary through our five counties to taste the best our region has to offer (and enjoy some other great places as well.)…
by Clayton Hensley South Carolina may be known for its peaches, producing more than the “Peach State” next door, but its pecans also rival those of states like Georgia that are also known for their pecans. Whether you say “pea-CAN” or “pea-KAHN” chances are you’ll run across this tasty nut on your travels to the…
By Lori Blalock Fall in the South is sublime. With warm days and clear, crisp nights, it’s the ideal season for travel and road tripping. South Carolina’s Old 96 District is chock full of a variety of accommodations providing visitors the chance to unwind and take it easy after a full day of exploring. So,…
by Jason Barnette Leaving the interstate highway behind, I quickly found myself on a two-lane road trip adventure rolling through peach farms in the South Carolina countryside. The sun beamed through the sprawl of massive oak trees, playing a pattern of light and shadow across the windshield of my rental car. Soon enough I discovered…
by Jason Barnette An orange disc hurled through the air. Bang! A moment later another orange disc. Bang! I lowered the shotgun and looked at the shattered pieces of sporting clays across the ground. I looked over at Tom who had a big smile on his face. “Got ‘em both. You’re a natural, Jason!” I…
By Martha Steger The South Carolina welcome-center counselor’s face showed surprise when I said why I was traveling to the Old 96 District. “I’m just a sightseer,” I told her when she asked if I were visiting friends or family there. Her facial expression reinforced that most people travel – whether to cities or rural areas – to…
In central western South Carolina, just east of the Savannah River, Highways 81 and 72 intersect forming a triangle of backroad sites, sips, and stories bringing character and color to the Old 96 District. Explore & More: SC Backroads Old 96 District By Michael J. Solender SC Highway 81 Those taking their time along the…
Alive with Adventure: 25 Discoveries on SC Highway 25 Advertisement By Michael J. Solender Traversing South Carolina’s Old 96 District from north to south, the ribbon of roadway known as Highway 25 delights travelers with surprising finds at nearly every stop. Intrepid travelers know the journey is indeed the destination, especially when it comes to…
Who doesn’t love spending summer and enjoying vacations in beautiful South Carolina? If you want a break from the beach and still need to cool off, then the Old 96 District is just the place for you! The region has so many fun and adventurous things to do in the five county area. You are…
OLD 96 DISTRICT MURAL TRAIL by Clayton Hensley A couple of decades ago, people were sending postcards to family and friends the old fashioned way, by snail mail. Now in this age of Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook our selfies let everyone know where we’ve been and if there’s a mural nearby you can bet it’s …
South Carolina is the site of many Revolutionary War battles and skirmishes, but the Battle of Musgrove Mill always struck us as a particularly interesting one. Today, the battlefield stands as the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, where visitors can hike through history and learn about the battle hands-on. Like many State Parks,…
Take advantage of our suggestions for the top 10 things to do this Spring. The Old 96 District of South Carolina blossoms this spring with road trips and excursions across the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick. 1. Splash Around at Calhoun Falls State Park, Calhoun Falls, SC The Spring temperatures are just…
Greenwood’s 54th annual Festival of Flowers showcases restorative natural beauty as a cause for celebration, inspiration, and promise. By Michael J. Solender Though no record exists of French Impressionist painter Claude Monet ever visiting Greenwood, S.C., there’s no doubt he would have found great inspiration here especially during the community’s annual Festival of Flowers. Monet’s…
Guest blog by Gaines Huguley partner in Shafer& Huguley Communications Check out our News Break video where Gaines shares his experience at Sharon Manor with us! Just before Christmas my wife, Kendall, and I made the short drive to Abbeville County in South Carolina. I was working on a special project requiring overnight accommodations…
If there’s one thing we all love, it’s delicious food! Our five counties have a lot to offer for foodie-minded travelers, and we love showing off our bakeries, cakeries, holes-in-the-wall, and cafes. If there’s one type of food most people can unite over, it’s something sweet. We’ve gone ahead and prepared a trail-like crawl through…
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we are thinking of all things turkey! The National Wild Turkey Federation’s headquarters are in Edgefield, South Carolina, part of the Old 96 District. This organization primarly focuses on the preservation of the wild turkey, among the most popular game animals in the world. Did you know that the…
Travel with Annita Avid explorer and radio host Annita from Travel with Annita shares little-known facts, places to go, local cuisine and things to do for Black History Month. In this episode, she takes us on a journey to the Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Historic Preservation Site. Listen By Michael J. Solender Greenwood, S.C.’s Benjamin E.…
Ghost stories, haunted happenings and the sheer spookiness around the Old 96 District of South Carolina are not just a Halloween thing … it’s a year-round phenomenon. As South Carolinians, our love for a good ghost story might as well be genetic. Old 96 District has plenty of historic sites dating back to before even the Revolutionary…
By Brad King An historic parcel of upstate South Carolina dating back to the Revolutionary War is steadily carving out a modern-day reputation among golf connoisseurs for its eclectic offering of sporty layouts, clubs and communities. South Carolina’s Old 96 District has become renowned for its attractive and affordable golf offerings. Boasting an array of…
With everyone rushing to get outside and get some fresh air, many of mother nature’s biggest fans may find themselves looking back at their map for something new. Finding a new favorite place is a mix of trial, error, and pure luck. What’s the best hiking trail, easy to reach but not over-crowded? What lake…
By Carl Hedinger of Travel Through Life Hickory Knob State Park and Resort sits next to the Georgia border and hugs the shores of Lake Thurmond. It’s known by many as a wonderful golfing destination, thanks to the Tom Jackson-designed course inside the park. And while you could easily spend your entire time on those…
Lake Greenwood State Park: 7 Places to Play in and Around the Water By Carl Hedinger of Travel Through Life No matter your plans for an Old 96 District of South Carolina trip, you need to make at least one stop at Lake Greenwood State Park.This 914-acre series of peninsulas is ready and waiting for…
Old Edgefield Pottery: Legacy & Tradition Crafted by Hand By Michael J. Solender Local clay mixed with Southern history create earthen treasures at this storied pottery. Slabs of freshly mixed pewter-toned wet clay wait patiently inside Old Edgefield Pottery to achieve their calling atop Justin Guy’s well-worked wheel. Guy, Master Potter in residence and…
Let’s make one thing very clear: I love food. Food does not always love me back, but there’s little I wouldn’t do for something delicious. Sweets and desserts pose their own unique challenges in the kitchen, being as much a science as an art. Because sweets are everywhere and everyone craves them, it’s easy to…
This summer, a new attraction has moved into Old 96 District- the Smithsonian! In a cooperation between the McCormick County Chamber of Commerce and South Carolina Humanities, the Smithsonian travelling exhibition Water / Ways made its home for a few weeks in Hickory Knob State Resort Park. It is currently open for visitors from now…
The world is slowly waking up again, and many of us are feeling a little stir-crazy. We want new surroundings, fresh air, somewhere to go and do things. Many people aren’t looking to pile into crowded airports just yet, but a family road trip feels just right. When the time comes and you’re ready to…
By Lori Sorrentino of Travlinmad Isn’t your heart in need of some good feels right about now? Aren’t you just so ready to travel some place warm? Warm with friendly faces, freshwater lakes, comfort food eateries, and a cozy bed to welcome you. That’s Abbeville, South Carolina, for the small town in us all. Site…
South Carolina is perfect for hiking. On South Carolina’s Freshwater Coast, the weather isn’t the only plus: we’ve got trails that are steeped in history and heritage as well as natural wonder: Revolutionary War trails! BATTLE OF MUSGROVE MILL STATE HISTORIC SITE Battlefield Trail This trail begins on the ADA boardwalk leading to the overlook…
Warmer temps mean one thing to the outdoor adventurer: perfect camping weather. Of South Carolina’s 47 state parks, the Old 96 District has 6—you’ve got LOTS of options when it comes to pitching that tent. Plus, over 100,000 acres of water = lakeside views aplenty. So read on, because we’ve rounded up the top 5…
My first “camping” experience was at age fourteen. We set up a tent in my friend’s suburban backyard, spent the night under the clouds and telephone lines, and went back inside whenever we needed to use the restroom or a glass of ice water. Needless to say, my family isn’t very outdoors-y. It wasn’t until…
Happy July! For many of us it’s a month full of BBQ, family gatherings, and general summer fun. Still, South Carolina isn’t exactly known for its temperate warm season. Many days it’s hot and humid. We’re not letting that stop us! Here are some great ways to beat the heat and cool off in Old…
January is a magical time of year! As we enter a new decade, everyone rallies together to improve themselves and support each other in our goals. It’s famously difficult to stick to New Year’s Resolutions, but we hope to offer a little encouragement: slipping up or missing a day doesn’t mean failure, and you can…
Old 96 District is home to 6 of South Carolina’s State Parks. We’re proud of this for a lot of reasons, and each one has its own distinct experience. When visiting our State Parks for the first time (or even shaking things up on a return visit,) deciding where to start can be a tough…
There’s nothing like a perfect gift. The act of giving brings with it a unique joy, and when done right even something very simple can become powerful and deeply meaningful. Most people can remember a gift they received which spoke directly to their sense of taste, their needs, or even their heart. A good gift…
South Carolina’s hiking trails invite us to connect with nature. Many of us seek it out almost instinctively to ease our minds and escape the daily grind of urban life. Hiking, biking, and even walking– the art of simply travelling from one place to another– is one of the most simple and enjoyable ways to…