A Midlands Weekend
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Sandwiched between the coast and the mountains, the Midlands are easily overlooked, but not for lack of attractions. This central section of the state is large and spread out. To fully experience the breadth of the area, bunk one night in Columbia and the next in Camden.
Day 1
Devote a full day to touring South Carolina’s capital, Columbia. Downtown sights include the South Carolina State Museum, the South Carolina State House, and the University of South Carolina. In addition, don’t miss the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Have dinner in the trendy Vista area and finish with a nightcap in boisterous Five Points. Spend the night at the venerable Inn at USC.
Day 2
Get up bright and early and drive outside town to Congaree National Park to walk along its primordial cypress swamp and old-growth forest. If you have time, go down to Orangeburg and see the Edisto Memorial Gardens. Head east and end the day in Camden. Explore the picturesque historic district with its many antique shops. Stay at a great B&B like the Bloomsbury Inn or the Greenleaf Inn.
Day 3
Drive up U.S. 1 to Cheraw to see its charming historic district and visit the nearby Dizzy Gillespie homesite and park. Then head down to Hartsville for lunch and a visit to Kalmia Gardens. Scoot over to Darlington and check out Darlington International Raceway, the grandfather of all stock car tracks. Spend the rest of the afternoon near Florence at Woods Bay State Natural Area, enjoying the well-preserved Carolina Bay.
© Jim Morekis from Moon South Carolina, 4th Edition
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