Highlights

Columbus

One of the last towns you come to before hitting South Carolina, this historic North Carolina town meets all the needs of a visitor. Columbus sits right at the base of the Melrose and White Oak mountains, and wherever you stand within the city limits, you are bound to have a mountain view.

This small community is full of locally, family owned businesses from restaurants to barber shops. Though the iconic and very historic courthouse is one of the oldest buildings in Columbus, it still remains in use. During construction, the bricks that make up the courthouse were made from native clay and baked nearby. After its completion in 1857, this stately-looking building became one of the first schools in the area and later became what locals known as the courthouse.

Main Street in Columbus hosts plenty of events throughout the year, including the annual Fourth of July fireworks festival, complete with games, food, and rides. Columbus also hosts parades for Christmas, Veteran’s Day and Homecoming. In addition, the farmers’ market sets up year around.

Downtown Columbus includes the interesting Polk Country History Museum which features historic items and facts from all around the area. As well, Columbus offers the exciting hike up White Oak Mountain—what used to be called Skyuka after a historical event with an Indian battle on the grounds of Columbus.

Right in the center of surrounding communities that make up the Foothills, Columbus remains the scenic drive through the mountains, waterfalls, and smiling faces.

Landrum

This cozy town looks like a Thomas Kinkade painting in the winter and an old-fashioned main street in the summer.

Bordering the North Carolina/South Carolina state line, Landrum sits right at the base of Hog Back Mountain, so a constant mountainous backdrop is a guarantee.

Back in the 18th century, the railroad made frequent stops in this area, and in 1880, this town was founded as Landrum. Just up the tracks and over the border, Tryon and Saluda share these same railroad tracks. Now, the train depot in Landrum serves as a historic site and community gathering space.

Main Street offers locals and visitors that southern charm like no other town in the Foothills. Downtown Landrum surely deserves the title as one of the south’s “best small towns” thanks to its eclectic architecture, antique stores, clothing boutiques and family owned restaurants that serve locally grown produce every chance they get.

Throughout the year, Landrum hosts events such as car shows and family events in the summer, strolls and festivals in the fall, and parades and festivities in the winter. Springtime begins the Landrum farmers’ market.

Though Landrum doesn’t offer many hiking opportunities, residents often relax with a cup of coffee pastry, chatting with passersby; and visitors often book a few nights at this area’s lovely, eccentric inns.

After spending a weekend here, you may decide you want to be a resident instead of a visitor.

Saluda

Saluda is best known for its hiking experiences and waterfall adventures. So grab your boots, backpack and water bottle for these welcoming outdoor activities in this adorable town that’s carved right into the mountains.

Some of these activities include the extreme Gorge Zipline which is the steepest and fastest zipline in America. On your way down the Saluda Gorge, you’ll get to take in the unforgettable views of the Foothills from high in the sky.

While you’re visiting Saluda, take yourself, your friends or your family down the Green River on a tube, kayak or paddleboard. In addition to these exciting adventures, you can also hike down to Pearson Falls, a beautiful 90-foot waterfall in the center of a wild bird sanctuary. Streams, greenery and trails lead down a moderately easy path to the waterfall, so people of all ages may enjoy this pleasant walk.

Nearby lakes and ponds are open for fishing, but for those who desire the indoors, take a look inside the historical buildings on Main Street, and don’t forget to dine in at Saluda’s beloved restaurants where live music and local produce is offered. At the end of your trip, you’ll find yourself planning your next fishing trip to Saluda on the ride home.

Tryon

By day, Tryon bustles with horse-lovers, cupcake eaters and antique shoppers. By night, it glimmers with the lights from art galleries, theatres and bistros. This eccentric town highlights the fine arts and equestrian living in a way like that of no other community in the Foothills.

Overlooking Tryon, the train depot still stands and remains a spot for the community to host events, and the Tryon Fine Arts Center is just beyond. During your visit, dress up for the evening and gift yourself by watching a play, an orchestra, or exhibits. erhaps stop in at one of the most historical buildings on Main Street—the Tryon Theatre, a renovated movie theater made to reflect the classical era of old-fashioned theaters with its marque and vintage-looking advertisements on screen.

Along the way, you can find art galleries, restaurants and bookstores. Each shop is owned independently and features its own unique characteristics. Don’t be surprised if you run in to local artists, musicians or film makers. In fact, try not to miss out on the annual film festival in the fall to watch internationally made movies.

On the outskirts of Tryon, you can find acres upon acres of pastures and farmland where horses run free and are trained to participate in games at the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC). Whether you’re looking for entertainment or fine dining, Tryon is the place to be.