Aiken, South Carolina

A Place Like No Other

Gaining fame in the 19th century as a wintering spot for wealthy families from the northeast, Aiken in South Carolina is an anytime destination for a short getaway or longer vacation. Historic Aiken encompasses world-class polo extravagances, professional golf courses and close proximity to Augusta National, home of the Master’s Golf Tournament.

Downtown Aiken offers numerous opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors. From the beautiful landscapes throughout the area to the green parkways, you can find the perfect place to sit or stroll. The Carolina Bay Overlook, the Aiken County Farmers Market and the Citizens Park Spray Ground are all excellent prospects for some time out in nature. Regardless of your outdoor interest, the best way to begin your visit is at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum.

(Images:Ruksana Hussain)

Plentiful green spaces around Aiken invite some welcome time outdoors

Downtown Aiken

Enjoy exploring along Laurens Street. Some highlights you won’t want to miss include: Plum Pudding, an upscale kitchen and gourmet food store; Lionel Smith, a gentleman’s shop; Nandina Home and Design; Equine Divine, all-things equine—a true Aiken store; Downtown Dog, the downtown store for dogs and people who love them; New Moon Café and Roaster; Aiken Brewing Company and so much more!

Consider a Tour of Rose Hill Estate, one of Aiken’s treasured “Winter Colony” estates. It is the first property in Aiken listed on the National Register of Historic Places and where the Garden Club of SC began 85 years ago. The original buildings at Rose Hill have been repurposed to offer overnight accommodations, private event venues and an acclaimed restaurant in a breathtaking garden.

Lots of history and local lore to peruse at the Racing Hall of Fame

Aiken Ghost Tours takes you on a journey through Aiken’s past. The lead tour guide regales guests with stories of Aiken’s rich history. Hear about its legends, myths, lore and much more. This is a walking tour and lasts approximately 60 minutes, with several stops throughout the downtown area, including the graveyard at St. Thaddeus Church and the Old Post Office.

The Aiken Center for the Arts was founded in 1972 as a place for aspiring artists to create, teach and learn. Today it offers a multitude of outreach and awareness programs including opportunities for children and adults; juried shows and competitions, lectures and instruction, and a variety of concert events; music, dance, film, and other performing arts; and a Gallery Store where local artisans offer their original works for sale. Year-round exhibits feature artists from around the world, with an emphasis on local and regional talent of the South.

Outdoor Exploration

Culinary delights entice in the downtown area.

Located in the middle of Aiken’s historic downtown is Hitchcock Woods, 2,100 acres of land, likely the nation’s largest privatelyowned urban forest, where equestrians, hikers, dog walkers and joggers enjoy the 70 miles of sandy trails running throughout the woods. Not far from Hitchcock Woods is Hopelands Gardens, a 14-acre city park wrapped behind serpentine brick walls and under a canopy of ancient oaks. The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame is in here as also are ponds, a Labyrinth, benches for relaxing and pathways for exploring. The Aiken Arboretum Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to engage in an exploration using a cellular device. More than 100 labeled trees line Colleton Avenue. Each tree has a unique number to call to learn more about the variety. The interactive trail allows visitors to leave their feedback at the end of their journey.

Many choices for outdoor exploration including trails and hikes.

Historic homes and properties provide a glimpse into Aiken’s past as a wintering destination.

Culinary Venues

Head over to The Willcox for Sunday Brunch. Voted “Best Brunch in Aiken,” enjoy a casual, comfortable dining experience here. Their unpretentious, innovative and addictively delicious menu satisfies any palate, with dishes prepared using farm-fresh or organically grown foods from regional suppliers. Restore yourself at one of the world’s top hotels, according to Travel + Leisure magazine and a Best in the U.S. pick by Condé Nast Traveler.

For a premier fine-dining experience, dinner at Prime Steakhouse is recommended – indulge in only the finest of aged steaks, whole lobsters and fresh seafood. Located in the historic downtown area, Prime Steakhouse is set in an atmosphere that can only be described as elegant, historic and contemporary…all at once.

Let Aiken Speakeasy and Eats take you on a 1920s experience of the senses. From the music and prohibition-inspired décor to the signature craft cocktails and delicious food, Aiken Speakeasy and Eats is a completely unique and enjoyable dining experience. Just type the passcode (updated on website) into the front door and head in.

Opt for breakfast at New Moon Café. Since 1995, this spot has been serving up creative comfort food using fresh, local ingredients. They roast their own coffee in small batches, bake their breads and pastries in house, and make their soups from scratch every day. Their motto: Outstanding food doesn’t have to be complicated and expensive; it just requires a devotion to creating genuine food in an extraordinary way.

Watch out for these replicas of local equine champions. www.VisitAikenSC.com

Where to stay? While there are options aplenty in and around the city that can cater to your every need, TownePlace Suites Marriott on Whiskey Road is one of Aiken’s extended stay properties located in the heart of southern charm and hospitality. Other options include Banks Hall, Carriage House Inn, Inn at Houndslake and Rose Hill Estate. Vacation rentals are pretty popular in the area as well but remember to reserve in advance, especially during the warmer months when visitors tend to flock to this underrated east coast destination.

Proud of their equestrian heritage and history.

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