Dawn's Experience SC Guidebook
Outdoor Excursions
The National Park is one of South Carolina's best kept secrets. Located in Richland County, the Congaree National Park contains over 20,000 acres of federally designated wilderness that visitors can explore by either foot, kayak or canoe.
Make sure you purchase your lottery tickets at CNP for the Synchronous fireflies for MAY 2023! Lottery is up and available now!
110 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque Nacional Congaree
100 National Park RdThe National Park is one of South Carolina's best kept secrets. Located in Richland County, the Congaree National Park contains over 20,000 acres of federally designated wilderness that visitors can explore by either foot, kayak or canoe.
Make sure you purchase your lottery tickets at CNP for the Synchronous fireflies for MAY 2023! Lottery is up and available now!
This place is close to my heart, as my Great-grandfather built the waterwheel to supply the entire city with power.
Roses and azaleas add to the man-made beauty of the Gardens but the Horne Wetland Park gives visitors the natural beauty of the Edisto River. Added in 1992, the 2,600-foot boardwalk takes visitors into a typical Tupelo- Cypress wetland that lies between the Display Garden and the North Fork of the Edisto River. A cypress display case within the boardwalk tells and shows visitors a little bit about life on and near the river. Boaters on the river can pull up to the boat dock and enjoy the gazebo. The boardwalk is fully accessible.
The Edisto Memorial Gardens also feature a butterfly garden, a serenity garden and a sensory garden. Also, a beautiful terrace garden is located on the back of the Arts Center. Over 600,000 visitors experience all the Gardens has to offer each year. All fifty states and some foreign countries are counted in the visitors' count. The Edisto Memorial Gardens are open seven days a week from dawn to dusk.
The Gardens are located within the City of Orangeburg's limits on US Highway 301 just four blocks from the heart of the City. The average peak spring bloom of cherry trees, azaleas, dogwoods, and other flora is from March 15 to April 15. Roses begin blooming soon after the middle of April and continue until the first killing frost in November. These dates are subject to change from year to year due to weather conditions. For up-to-date bloom information, call the City of Orangeburg Parks and Recreation Department at (803) 533-6020 or the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-545-6153.
10 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Edisto Memorial Gardens
200 Riverside Dr SWThis place is close to my heart, as my Great-grandfather built the waterwheel to supply the entire city with power.
Roses and azaleas add to the man-made beauty of the Gardens but the Horne Wetland Park gives visitors the natural beauty of the Edisto River. Added in 1992, the 2,600-foot boardwalk takes visitors into a typical Tupelo- Cypress wetland that lies between the Display Garden and the North Fork of the Edisto River. A cypress display case within the boardwalk tells and shows visitors a little bit about life on and near the river. Boaters on the river can pull up to the boat dock and enjoy the gazebo. The boardwalk is fully accessible.
The Edisto Memorial Gardens also feature a butterfly garden, a serenity garden and a sensory garden. Also, a beautiful terrace garden is located on the back of the Arts Center. Over 600,000 visitors experience all the Gardens has to offer each year. All fifty states and some foreign countries are counted in the visitors' count. The Edisto Memorial Gardens are open seven days a week from dawn to dusk.
The Gardens are located within the City of Orangeburg's limits on US Highway 301 just four blocks from the heart of the City. The average peak spring bloom of cherry trees, azaleas, dogwoods, and other flora is from March 15 to April 15. Roses begin blooming soon after the middle of April and continue until the first killing frost in November. These dates are subject to change from year to year due to weather conditions. For up-to-date bloom information, call the City of Orangeburg Parks and Recreation Department at (803) 533-6020 or the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-545-6153.
The Timmerman Trail portion of the Cayce Riverwalk is 3.5 miles of paved hiking trail that runs through the woods in the outskirts of Cayce, near the intersection of I-77 and 12th Street Extension, just across from Dominion Energy headquarters. It begins just west of the 12th Street Extension, then runs under the road and continues eastward. At several points along the way, there are beautiful views of the Congaree Creek and you may see snakes, alligators, and other wildlife. Learn more at https://scgreatoutdoors.com/park-timmermantrail.html.
Timmerman Trail can be accessed from two trailheads. One is off of 12th Street Extension at Otarre Parkway, where there is a small, free parking lot for public use. The other trailhead starts just east of the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center at the 12,000 Year History Trailhead where street parking and Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center parking are free. The address for the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center is 1120 Fort Congaree Trail, Cayce, SC 29033. View location on Google Maps.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Timmerman Trail
The Timmerman Trail portion of the Cayce Riverwalk is 3.5 miles of paved hiking trail that runs through the woods in the outskirts of Cayce, near the intersection of I-77 and 12th Street Extension, just across from Dominion Energy headquarters. It begins just west of the 12th Street Extension, then runs under the road and continues eastward. At several points along the way, there are beautiful views of the Congaree Creek and you may see snakes, alligators, and other wildlife. Learn more at https://scgreatoutdoors.com/park-timmermantrail.html.
Timmerman Trail can be accessed from two trailheads. One is off of 12th Street Extension at Otarre Parkway, where there is a small, free parking lot for public use. The other trailhead starts just east of the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center at the 12,000 Year History Trailhead where street parking and Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center parking are free. The address for the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center is 1120 Fort Congaree Trail, Cayce, SC 29033. View location on Google Maps.
One of our FAVORITE places!!!
Starting from either parking area, you will enter a 306-acre refuge dedicated to the protection of some unique sandstone formations. The most famous, Peachtree Rock, looks like a precariously balanced overturned pyramid. Some 20 feet high, it is a remnant from millions of years ago when the Sandhills were the continent’s eastern coastline, which accounts for the largest collection of marine fossils found in the state. Just north of Peachtree Rock and you will see the only naturally occurring waterfall in the Midlands, a 20-foot drop into Hunt Creek that’s cool and refreshing during hotter weather. From the waterfall continue in an easterly direction to the highest point in the preserve where you will see another feature, the Tall Rock (or Little Peachtree Rock).
This area is hiking only, and leave only your footprints. Insect repellent is recommended during warm months.
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Directions:
From I 26, Exit 113 (Airport Exit) in Columbia: Drive southwest on SC 302 (Edmund Road) past the airport. Drive approximately 11 miles and fork left (southeast) on SC 6. Drive for 1.0 mile and you will see the parking area on the left at Peachtree Rock Road, or you can continue 0.4 mile to a second parking area.
8 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve
883 Peachtree Rock RdOne of our FAVORITE places!!!
Starting from either parking area, you will enter a 306-acre refuge dedicated to the protection of some unique sandstone formations. The most famous, Peachtree Rock, looks like a precariously balanced overturned pyramid. Some 20 feet high, it is a remnant from millions of years ago when the Sandhills were the continent’s eastern coastline, which accounts for the largest collection of marine fossils found in the state. Just north of Peachtree Rock and you will see the only naturally occurring waterfall in the Midlands, a 20-foot drop into Hunt Creek that’s cool and refreshing during hotter weather. From the waterfall continue in an easterly direction to the highest point in the preserve where you will see another feature, the Tall Rock (or Little Peachtree Rock).
This area is hiking only, and leave only your footprints. Insect repellent is recommended during warm months.
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Directions:
From I 26, Exit 113 (Airport Exit) in Columbia: Drive southwest on SC 302 (Edmund Road) past the airport. Drive approximately 11 miles and fork left (southeast) on SC 6. Drive for 1.0 mile and you will see the parking area on the left at Peachtree Rock Road, or you can continue 0.4 mile to a second parking area.
From the parking area, follow red and green trail markers on this winding, occasionally steep, and challenging loop trail through a dense wetland area. You will pass through mixed woods beneath dangling Spanish moss, make your way through tall, swampy grass, and balance atop dikes between murky backwaters. Benches at several points along the trail provide an opportunity to stop for a minute, and possibly observe wildlife including a variety of birds, alligators, large turtles, iridescent-indigo dragonflies, great blue heron, and snakes.
During wet weather the trail may be impassible in places. Insect repellent is recommended, especially in warm weather, as well as water and first-aid supplies. Although the trail is located near some of Columbia’s larger industries, the area is quite isolated.
No motorized vehicles or bicycles are allowed.
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Directions:
From I-77 Exit 2 (Saxe Gotha Dr.) south of Columbia: Drive north on 12th Street Extension and turn right onto Godley Street. At the stop sign, turn right onto New State Road. At the fork, turn right onto Old State Road (S-32-66) and the parking area is 1.4 miles on the right.
Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve
634 Old State RdFrom the parking area, follow red and green trail markers on this winding, occasionally steep, and challenging loop trail through a dense wetland area. You will pass through mixed woods beneath dangling Spanish moss, make your way through tall, swampy grass, and balance atop dikes between murky backwaters. Benches at several points along the trail provide an opportunity to stop for a minute, and possibly observe wildlife including a variety of birds, alligators, large turtles, iridescent-indigo dragonflies, great blue heron, and snakes.
During wet weather the trail may be impassible in places. Insect repellent is recommended, especially in warm weather, as well as water and first-aid supplies. Although the trail is located near some of Columbia’s larger industries, the area is quite isolated.
No motorized vehicles or bicycles are allowed.
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Directions:
From I-77 Exit 2 (Saxe Gotha Dr.) south of Columbia: Drive north on 12th Street Extension and turn right onto Godley Street. At the stop sign, turn right onto New State Road. At the fork, turn right onto Old State Road (S-32-66) and the parking area is 1.4 miles on the right.
Lake Murray, the Jewel of South Carolina, offers official visitor information for vacation planning, world-class fishing, boating, golf packages with fun and free things to do for the entire family. Visitors love exploring our great outdoors and three rivers while being close to downtown Columbia. Lake Murray is a boating paradise for all types of boaters. Whether its canoeing or kayaking in calm waters,navigating sails through cutting winds or leisurely cruising in a power or fishing boat, Lake Murray is the place to be! Lake Murray attracts thousands each year with its countless boating and other water sport offerings to sports enthusiasts and leisure travelers. The lake hosts nationally sponsored fishing tournaments best known for its four types of fish including striped bass, largemouth bass, bream and crappie.
20 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Lake Murray
Lake Murray, the Jewel of South Carolina, offers official visitor information for vacation planning, world-class fishing, boating, golf packages with fun and free things to do for the entire family. Visitors love exploring our great outdoors and three rivers while being close to downtown Columbia. Lake Murray is a boating paradise for all types of boaters. Whether its canoeing or kayaking in calm waters,navigating sails through cutting winds or leisurely cruising in a power or fishing boat, Lake Murray is the place to be! Lake Murray attracts thousands each year with its countless boating and other water sport offerings to sports enthusiasts and leisure travelers. The lake hosts nationally sponsored fishing tournaments best known for its four types of fish including striped bass, largemouth bass, bream and crappie.
You will find a bit of everything during your hike or ride on this easy to moderate trail. Follow the yellow blazes for a walk through a diverse area of swamp and almost mountainous terrain. Although, the ascent is only to approximately 230 feet, it’s the highest point in the area and provides a spectacular view. When you cross each of the eight trestles, stop and take in the view. As you pass under towering hardwoods and cypress trees you may be treated to a large variety of animals and birds. Some flowering plants normally only found in the mountains may also be seen here. The High Hills of Santee Passage and the Wateree Passage link-up at Poinsett State Park.
Address:
West Lake Dam D-2054, Wedgefield, SC 29168
Palmetto Trail: Wateree Passage
WedgefieldYou will find a bit of everything during your hike or ride on this easy to moderate trail. Follow the yellow blazes for a walk through a diverse area of swamp and almost mountainous terrain. Although, the ascent is only to approximately 230 feet, it’s the highest point in the area and provides a spectacular view. When you cross each of the eight trestles, stop and take in the view. As you pass under towering hardwoods and cypress trees you may be treated to a large variety of animals and birds. Some flowering plants normally only found in the mountains may also be seen here. The High Hills of Santee Passage and the Wateree Passage link-up at Poinsett State Park.
Address:
West Lake Dam D-2054, Wedgefield, SC 29168
Retail Shopping
If you love crystals, bohemian clothing, books or incense, you'll love our little hippie store located in the heart of West Columbia. Woman-owned and operated since 2014.
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday-Saturday 11am-6pm
Sundays 11-4pm
Palms to Palmettos
721 Saluda AvenueIf you love crystals, bohemian clothing, books or incense, you'll love our little hippie store located in the heart of West Columbia. Woman-owned and operated since 2014.
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday-Saturday 11am-6pm
Sundays 11-4pm
Self Care
Would you like to really treat yourself while on vacation? Well, now you can. We offer Massage Therapy and Reiki appointments. Simply call your host, and she will set an appointment up for you.
Woman-owned and operated since 2009.
www.dawnofyourwellness.abmp.com
Dawn of your Wellness
3357 Leaphart RoadWould you like to really treat yourself while on vacation? Well, now you can. We offer Massage Therapy and Reiki appointments. Simply call your host, and she will set an appointment up for you.
Woman-owned and operated since 2009.
www.dawnofyourwellness.abmp.com
Sightseeing
Eudora Wildlife Safari Park is an adventurous family outing that the entire family can enjoy at an affordable cost. Ages 1 - 100 are guaranteed to learn new information and love the experience. Build memories to last a lifetime with our furry friends!
Address: 219 Salem Ln Salley, SC 29137
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Eudora Farms
219 Salem LnEudora Wildlife Safari Park is an adventurous family outing that the entire family can enjoy at an affordable cost. Ages 1 - 100 are guaranteed to learn new information and love the experience. Build memories to last a lifetime with our furry friends!
Address: 219 Salem Ln Salley, SC 29137
The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a 170-acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden located along the Saluda River in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. A small portion of the zoo extends into the nearby city of West Columbia.
268 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Zoológico y Jardín Riverbanks
500 Wildlife PkwyThe Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a 170-acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden located along the Saluda River in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. A small portion of the zoo extends into the nearby city of West Columbia.
The South Carolina State Museum, the state’s largest and most comprehensive museum, is located along the banks of the beautiful Congaree River in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. Founded in 1988, the State Museum is the primary storyteller of the history of South Carolina. Through rich and diverse collections displayed through interactive and engaging exhibitions, the State Museum strives to honor the groundbreaking nature of its setting, providing both residents and visitors an in-depth picture of the state’s past, present and future. There is much to see and do every day at the State Museum through a variety of exhibitions and educational programs both offered at the museum and through distance learning programs, as well as through entertaining community events of all kind.
Hours of Operation
Mon: Closed
Tues. – Sat: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sun: Noon – 5 p.m.
125 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
South Carolina Military Museum
1 National Guard RdThe South Carolina State Museum, the state’s largest and most comprehensive museum, is located along the banks of the beautiful Congaree River in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. Founded in 1988, the State Museum is the primary storyteller of the history of South Carolina. Through rich and diverse collections displayed through interactive and engaging exhibitions, the State Museum strives to honor the groundbreaking nature of its setting, providing both residents and visitors an in-depth picture of the state’s past, present and future. There is much to see and do every day at the State Museum through a variety of exhibitions and educational programs both offered at the museum and through distance learning programs, as well as through entertaining community events of all kind.
Hours of Operation
Mon: Closed
Tues. – Sat: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sun: Noon – 5 p.m.
Food Scene
Always amazing food!!! Step into your taste buds with these delicious dishes! Located in Five Points and you will need a reservation if you plan to go for dinner.
33 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Delaney's Music Pub and Eatery
741 Saluda AveAlways amazing food!!! Step into your taste buds with these delicious dishes! Located in Five Points and you will need a reservation if you plan to go for dinner.
If you like Thai food, you'lllove this street eats and noodle bar! It's just a 15 minute car rideinto Cayce. Make a pitstop here after you've hit the Timmerman Trail or the Riverwalk!
Address:
904 Knox Abbott Dr, Cayce, SC 29033
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Duke's Pad Thai
904 Knox Abbott DrIf you like Thai food, you'lllove this street eats and noodle bar! It's just a 15 minute car rideinto Cayce. Make a pitstop here after you've hit the Timmerman Trail or the Riverwalk!
Address:
904 Knox Abbott Dr, Cayce, SC 29033
For a fine dining experience, you'lllove Private Property. Approximately 35 minutes from here, you can have the most unique Cajun delicacies in town.
Menu favorite:
Blackened alligator tail
Address:
220 W Main St, Lexington, SC 29072
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Private Property
220 W Main StFor a fine dining experience, you'lllove Private Property. Approximately 35 minutes from here, you can have the most unique Cajun delicacies in town.
Menu favorite:
Blackened alligator tail
Address:
220 W Main St, Lexington, SC 29072
This restaurant offers New American Cuisine. Delicious food and great drinks.
Menu Favorite:
Roasted Shishito peppers
Address:
4840 Forest Dr #20, Columbia, SC 29206
27 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza
4840 Forest DrThis restaurant offers New American Cuisine. Delicious food and great drinks.
Menu Favorite:
Roasted Shishito peppers
Address:
4840 Forest Dr #20, Columbia, SC 29206
Excellent salads, wraps and wings.
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Henry's Restaurant & Bar
2865 Devine StExcellent salads, wraps and wings.
Piecewise Coffee Co.
2001 State StConvenientlylocated across from Henry's.
Curiosity Coffee Bar
2327 Main StLove the Mexicano!