South Carolina

South Carolina

South Carolina is one of the most "southern" in regards to culture. Located in the "Deep South," South Carolina only recently removed the Confederate flag from its state court house. When you visit, don't be surprised to find many deep southern accents, large sectors of agriculture, and many souvenirs from South Carolina bearing the Confederacy's markings. All of that said, South Carolina still is home to some of the most beautiful cities in all of the United States. Most notably are Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island. On top of that, you're likely to find quite a bit of art and crafts as South Carolina is proud of its artistic culture.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is known as the "hottest" place to visit in South Carolina. The term "hottest" can of course refer to its rising temperatures in the summer months, but is perhaps more accurate when referring to the large number of people that visit this city every month of the year. The beaches are beautiful and the main strip of hotels and restaurants is full of activity with its own amusement park and plenty of shopping. Many of the souvenirs here will bear the name "Myrtle Beach" as many people like to purchase items that show they have visited. You can find Myrtle Beach charms, key chains, t-shirts, mugs, ornaments, and glassware all bearing the iconic palm trees and sailboats that this beach town is so well known for. You won't find anything with a unique flavor, but being the vacation hotbed of the South, I would definitely recommend picking up something to remember your visit.

Hilton Head Island

Do you like golf? If so, Hilton Head Island is a must! This affluent town in the southern portion of South Carolina is incredibly well-known for its golf. In fact, many of the nation's top golfers visit this town for tournaments each year. On Hilton Head Island, many of the souvenirs you find will be similar to the trinkets you can grab in Myrtle Beach, only these will most likely depict palm trees and golf. Being that golf is such a big attraction to the area, if you're a golfer, you should definitely pick up some attire, golf balls, clubs, or bags that will be embroidered with the Hilton Head Island name. However, Hilton Head Island is much more cultured than its northern counterpart in Myrtle Beach. Hilton Head Island is also known for its antiques and collectibles. There are numerous shops throughout the town where fine antiques, century furniture, fine paintings, oriental rugs, and priceless porcelains can be purchased.

Charleston and Fort Sumter

Finally, the last, and perhaps the most beautiful city in all of South Carolina is Charleston. This cultural beauty is not only home to a historic downtown, amazing food, and beautiful beaches, but it is also home to one of the most iconic Civil War sites in Fort Sumter. Fort Sumter is most notably recognized as the location where the very first shots were fired that initiated the Civil War. Named after the Revolutionary War hero, General Thomas Sumter, this Third System masonry sea fort was built following the War of 1812. Seventy thousand tons of granite was imported to build up a sand bar in which this five-sided, 190 feet tall structure was erected. Today, the site serves as a national monument that requires a 30 minute ferry ride from the Fort Sumter Education Center to visit. There are hundreds of Civil War collectables available for purchase at many shops around Charleston. Many of the items are books, pictures, or paintings for both educational purposes and glorification of this important piece in history. You can also purchase many small renditions of the Blakely Rifle which was an important type of cannon used by the Confederacy during the Civil war. Also available is Confederate currency, as well as figurines and medallions that remember the confederate soldiers of Fort Sumter. Newspapers, pewter sculptures and replica weapons are also available for the war collectors out there. Literally, anything you can think of with regards to the American Civil War and the Confederacy can be purchased at Fort Sumter. If the Civil War is an attraction of yours, you need look no further than Charleston, South Carolina.

Outside of these three main cities, the only other attraction would be the state capital, Columbia. However, with respect to the other three previously mentioned locations, Columbia doesn't have an extremely attractive appeal. If you only have a short time in South Carolina, be sure to visit these three unique cities.