4 Major Things To Do In Clemson - A Getaway Guide
Fronting the easternmost crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson, South Carolina, is an endearing little college town agog with history and activities visiting the area, especially during the cooler winter months. From trying out the local cuisine to soaking up nature, we set out to give you an insider's peak at fifteen of the fun and memorable things to do in Clemson when the weather finally takes a turn.
1. Take in the Sights
Wander the Clemson University Campus
Clemson University is the beating heart of this college town, so you can't come to Clemson without visiting its campus. Walking leisurely under the oak trees shyly presenting their Spanish moss is already a great way to take in views of historic architecture--from the iconic clocktower atop Tillman Hall to the majestic columns of Fort Hill, home to university founder John C. Calhoun. Do be sure to wander past Memorial Stadium, better known as "Death Valley," where you might catch the football team practicing for an iconic rivalry game. Make a point to make your way to the Campus Green, which is a grassy commons area students use to play frisbee and lounge around when there is not class.
Relive History at Fort Hill and Hanover House
For a peep into Clemson's past, follow Fort Hill, the former home of Calhoun's nearby Thomas Green Clemson, and enter the finer-style cottage along the southwest corner of the campus. This plantation-house-turned-museum, which dates back to the early 1800s, now holds exhibitions both related to the lives of former residents and the role slavery played on the plantation. Guided tours will provide further insights. Next door lies Hanover House, a structure erected in 1716 by French Huguenots, relocated from the South Carolina Lowcountry, showcasing 18th-century furniture and architecture. Walk through the house to see artifacts from its long and varied ownership history.
Wrecking for Clemson's Spirit at Howard's Rock
Clemson Tigers football is woven into the town's very fabric, and nowhere is its unbridled school spirit more represented than at Howard's Rock. Situated at the top of the iconic Hill just beyond the east end zone of Memorial Stadium, for the last 50-plus years, touching this famed white flint rock has been the tradition of the football team. Try to go on a non-game day, as Howard's Rock is quite busy before games, while the view of the stadium below is breathtaking. And don't forget to rub that rock for luck!
Be Amazed by Artworks at Lee Gallery
On the campus along Highway 93, Lee Gallery's strikingly modern architecture hosts rotating exhibits of contemporary art, photography, ceramics, and more, featuring work by students, faculty, and guest artists. Don't miss their annual spring showcase of MFA thesis projects, where you can see the capstone project of graduate student works. Check out the open reception and artist talks from their events calendar. Admission is free, so it's a great way to slip into Clemson's thriving arts scene.
Reflect at Woodland Cemetery
Resting on a high hill within the view of campus, Woodland Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many influential figures of Clemson, founder Thomas Green Clemson and innumerable others. Walk windingly past the intricate headstones and statues capped with verdigris to pay the greatest homage, while enjoying scenic views of the university and the surrounding lake. Look for the grave markers of aging presidents and trustees, who stand out for their ornate details.
2. Savor the Local Flavors
Clemson boasts a small culinary scene, dishing out heavy Southern comfort, farm-to-table, and global cuisines. Here are some must-visit spots worth making your stop-by list:
Southern Fried Classics at Mac's Drive-In
Since the 50's, they serve the place for Southern comfort food from fried green tomatoes and okra to fresh sunny-side-up juicy burgers and hearty entries like meatloaf and pot roast. Inside a retro A-frame house, it's where the antique charm duel ends sky high. And don't forget their mouthwatering thick milkshakes that top the list in flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
Locally Artisan Sandwiches at EAT
For that fresh taste from farm to table, you have to go to EAT Local downtown. Their grilled signature sandwich boasts such local ingredients as smoked chicken from Hickory Nut Gap and Mutsu apples from Sky Top Orchard folded into griddled ciabatta bread. Sample soups, salads, and sides like the signature sweet potato fries to complete the seasonal menu. Be sure to check out their bakery case for fresh pastries and breads here too.
Classic Barbecue at Smokin' Pig
When in South Carolina, one must eat barbecue, and Smokin' Pig does it all: best smoked meat. You can dig into the staples like pulled pork, brisket, and smoked wings, or be adventurous and try the more unique smoked turkey or burnt ends. Their Piedmont-style sauce, which is tangy and vinegary, adds just the right touch to all that goodness. And don't forget that cornbread muffin, melt-in-your-mouth stuff!
Cool and Nice Comfort Food at Jalapeno's
Grab a reservation for a table at Jalapeno's, where these amazing local ingredients got their beautifully gourmet treatment. To summarize the menu: shrimp and grits with andouille sausage, cast iron catfish, low country boil with head-on shrimp, smoked kielbasa, and potatoes. It does have a cocktail menu that features some unforgettable names like Palmetto Punch, a concoction of local peach vodka with muddled mint and citrus.
Late into the Night at TD's
Popular among students, TD's never fails to pull in crowds at late hours for its even longer list of bar food: quesadillas, calzones, hamburgers, wings, and pizzas baked in a stone oven. The perfect end to a night on the town, full of favorite items such as cheesy bacon fries and a slice of peanut butter pie. The occasion deserves a cheerful and buzzing setting to fully appreciate the experience.
Coffee and Pastries at All About Coffee
Get a jump start to your morning by ordering locally roasted caffeine fix from All About Coffee downtown. Served alongside piping hot cups of coffee, espresso, and tea, visitors can delight fresh pastries, yogurts, and bagel sandwiches, among much more. Relish the cozy ambiance at one of their cafe tables or take it to go.
Craft Beer at Clemson Downs Brewpub
Test the creations of Clemson's very own brewers at Clemson Downs Brewpub - like their flagship IPA "Solid Orange" or smooth "Lake Hartwell Lager." Open-air experience on their spacious patio with an antique view of the old horse racing track turned mixed-use complex as you nibble on soft pretzels or pimento cheese dip.
Farm-to-Table Fare at Pendleton Cafe
Just down the road in historic Pendleton, Pendleton Cafe serves upscale Southern dishes in a charming converted bungalow. Feast on options like seared mountain trout, braised short ribs, shrimp and grits as well as enjoy a rustic chic ambiance with a full bar offering regional spirits and wines.
3. Get Still in Nature
Here is the outdoor beauty of Lake Hartwell along with the generous beckoning of the Blue Ridge foothills, all set for the countless outdoor recreations at your disposal in Clemson's backyard.
Hike Hartwell Lake Loop Trail
For sweeping vistas of Lake Hartwell's sparkling waters, take on the 7.4-mile Hartwell Lake Loop Trail in Oconee State Park. Pass through hardwood forests and cross several wooden footbridges as you circumnavigate the lakeshore, catching glimpses of the water through the bare winter trees. Stop at the observation decks for the best panoramic views.
Bike the South Carolina Botanical Garden
Just north of town, pedal through the tranquil scene of streams, bridges, and blooming camellia trees along the nearly four miles of paved trails that weave through the South Carolina Botanical Garden. Built on the former site of a blue granite quarry, it's a hidden gem to explore on two wheels. Don't miss the chance to visit its unique geological sites and demonstration gardens.
Fish for Striped Bass on Lake Hartwell
Cast your line into Lake Hartwell to reel in striped bass, crappie, trout, and more. For the best access, head to the Seneca Creek day use area and boat ramp. Don't have your own gear? Outfitters like Lake Hartwell Country Outfitters offer boat rentals and guided fishing trips to help you land a big catch.
Paddle Lake Issaqueena
For a peaceful paddle surrounded by nature less than 10 minutes from campus, launch your kayak or canoe at Lake Issaqueena. This small lake is tucked away in the mountains and features interesting sights along its shores like the ruins of an old textile mill and a now flooded colonial-era settlement. Look for local wildlife like deer and waterfowl.
Tee Off on PGA-Level Golf Courses
Golfers rejoice – Clemson lies in the shadow of some of South Carolina's most acclaimed golf courses, including The Cliffs Valley and Cliffs Mountain courses designed by Tiger Woods. With elevation changes, tricky doglegs, undulating greens, and picturesque views, these championship courses offer a world-class links experience. Tee times fill up early, so reserve yours ahead of time.
Take a Wine Tour through the Foothills
The soil and climate of the Blue Ridge foothills create ideal conditions for growing grapes, giving rise to a burgeoning wine scene around Clemson. Sample vintages like Syrah, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc at wineries like Villa San Carlos, Mountain Ridge, and Clemson's own Hidden Vineyard during a picturesque day touring vineyards.
Hike Raven Cliff Falls
Stretch your legs on this scenic two-mile hike to a stunning waterfall in Caesar's Head State Park, about 30 minutes from Clemson. Along the way,one-hour you'll traverse gentle hills, pass wildflower meadows, and cross log bridges before reaching the grandeur of the 320-foot-wide Raven Cliff Falls.
Ski and Snowboard at Sapphire Valley
Make the one-hour drive to cash in on the powder at Sapphire Valley Ski Resort once the snow starts falling. Enjoy beginner-friendly runs and snow-making on most slopes. Plus, amenities like ski-in condos and chairlift with comfy "bubble" enclosures make for an easy mountain getaway.
4. Exciting Activities for Entertainment
Beyond its impressive sights, Clemson also delivers experiences for making memories to last a lifetime:
Catch a Show at Brooks Center
Housed in a state-of-the-art performance hall on campus, Brooks Center hosts musical acts, plays, dance performances, comedy shows, and more. Their annual holiday production of *The Nutcracker* is a must-see. With free parking and affordable tickets, it offers a high-caliber arts experience. Check their calendar for the full line-up of shows.
Bowl at Tri-County Lanes
For old-fashioned family fun, take to the lanes at Tri-County Lanes just over the Georgia border in Seneca. With duckpin bowling, weekly leagues, and late-night Cosmic Bowling with a radiant light show, it offers much more than your average bowling alley. The attached arcade will bring out your competitive side with air hockey, skeeball, and more.
Take in Hockey at Bon Secours Wellness Arena
The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, members of the ECHL, play fast-paced professional minor league hockey at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena downtown. Catch the action rink-side with lively fans cheering on their local team. Friday nights feature special promos like $2 beers and concession deals.
Tour the Farm at Clemson Bottling Company
See how one of South Carolina's pioneering craft breweries makes its signature beers and ciders on an in-depth tour of Clemson Bottling Company's picturesque farm and production facility. Look behind the scenes at the inner workings of the brew house and cider press before a guided tasting session of their full beverage lineup.
Tailgate at Esso Club
No trip to Clemson is complete without stopping by Esso Club, the spirited sports bar established in 1933 across the street from Memorial Stadium. Soak up the energetic atmosphere on game days when tents fill the parking lot with Tiger fans grilling burgers, playing cornhole, and socializing for hours before kickoff.
Explore the ArtsScene in Greenville
Venture 25 minutes down the road to downtown Greenville to experience the city's impressive arts offerings, like touring the expansive Museum and Gallery at Bob Jones University or catching a show at the renowned Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
Shop and Dine on Main Street Pendleton
Browse the indie boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores that line charming Main Street in nearby Pendleton, with a break for lunch at one of the town's acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants. Don't miss Black Dog Salvage for unique vintage and architectural finds.
Attend a Festival
Throughout the year, Clemson plays host to fun festivals like the Clemson Blues Festival showcasing soulful guitar licks, Artisphere celebrating local artists and performers, and the Clemson Baroque Chamber Music Festival with classical concerts held on campus.
Take a Lake Cruise
Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Hartwell's tree-lined shores on a two-hour narrated cruise, complete with cheese, fruit, and wine. Departs daily from the Clemson Marina and offers a chance to relax on the water while taking in the scenery.
Conclusion
Whether you're hungry for local flavors, eager to get active outdoors, or simply looking to soak up some quintessential college-town vibes, Clemson has something for every interest to make winter come alive. With historic and cultural attractions, an emerging food scene, and easy access to the natural splendor of the foothills, this South Carolina town is full of discoveries waiting to be made once the weather turns crisp.
Plan a visit during the holiday season to experience Clemson's charming yuletide spirit, from the annual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony on Bowman Field to festive concerts and exhibits at the Brooks Center. Stop by the live nativity scene hosted annually outside Sikes Hall depicting the Christmas story with people and animals.
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