15 Things To Do In Georgetown That Will Change Your Life Forever

Nestled along South Carolina’s scenic Hammock Coast, Georgetown is a charming waterfront town that blends Southern history, coastal beauty, and small-town charm. As the third-oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown is rich in historic landmarks, beautiful antebellum homes, and maritime heritage, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike.

Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Charleston and Myrtle Beach, Georgetown remains a hidden gem with uncrowded waterfront views, quaint streets, and a vibrant arts and dining scene. Visitors can stroll along the Harborwalk, tour historic rice plantations, explore fascinating museums, or take a boat tour through scenic marshlands. The town’s waterfront restaurants serve up some of the freshest seafood in the Lowcountry, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Here are the best things to do in Georgetown that will leave a lasting impression on your life!

1. Georgetown Harborwalk

The Georgetown Harborwalk is the heart of the town, offering a picturesque boardwalk that stretches along the Sampit River, lined with charming boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and historic landmarks.

As you wander along the boardwalk, you’ll see boats docked at the marina, local fishermen at work, and maybe even dolphins swimming in the river. Stop by one of the quaint shops and art galleries, or grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant like Big Tuna Raw Bar for fresh seafood with a view. The Harborwalk also connects to several museums and historic sites, making it a great starting point for exploring Georgetown’s rich history.

2. Hopsewee Plantation

Step back in time at Hopsewee Plantation, a beautifully preserved pre-Revolutionary War rice plantation that offers a fascinating glimpse into South Carolina’s colonial past. Built in the early 1700s, this National Historic Landmark was once a thriving Lowcountry rice plantation and the birthplace of Thomas Lynch Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the main house, which still retains its original architecture and furnishings, providing a rare look at early Southern plantation life. The tour also delves into the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the plantation, offering a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of its history. After your tour, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the River Oak Cottage Tea Room, where you can savor Southern-style afternoon tea, fresh-made scones, and Lowcountry specialties in a charming garden setting.

3. Georgetown County Museum

For a fascinating deep dive into Georgetown’s rich history, head to the Georgetown County Museum, where centuries of Lowcountry heritage come to life. This small but artifact-packed museum tells the story of Georgetown’s colonial beginnings, its role in the rice industry, pirate lore, and more.

Explore exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, Civil War relics, and maritime treasures, including displays on legendary pirates like Blackbeard, who once sailed these waters. The museum also highlights the enslaved people who shaped the region’s rice plantations, offering an in-depth look at how Georgetown became a leading rice producer in the 18th and 19th centuries.

4. Brookgreen Gardens

Just a short drive from Georgetown, Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning blend of art, history, and nature, making it a perfect day trip for families, nature lovers, and art enthusiasts. Spanning over 9,000 acres, this National Historic Landmark is home to one of the largest collections of American figurative sculptures set among beautifully manicured gardens, ancient oak trees, and serene reflecting pools.

Beyond its breathtaking sculptures and botanical beauty, Brookgreen Gardens also features a Lowcountry Zoo, where visitors can see native animals like alligators, river otters, red foxes, and bald eagles. Families can take a boat tour through the historic rice fields, learning about the region’s plantation past and the enslaved people who worked the land. The gardens also host seasonal events, including a magical holiday lights display, making it a must-visit year-round.

5. Ghost Tour of Historic Georgetown

If you love a good ghost story, a ghost tour through historic Georgetown is a must-do experience! As the third-oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown has no shortage of haunted tales, eerie legends, and mysterious happenings. Many of the town’s centuries-old homes, cemeteries, and waterfront buildings are said to be haunted by spirits from the past, making it one of the most haunted destinations in the Lowcountry.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, these after-dark walking tours take you through the town’s most notorious haunted sites, including the famous Rice Museum, the Kaminski House, and the Old Georgetown Jail. Hear spine-chilling tales of ghostly apparitions, pirate curses, and restless spirits that have been reported for generations.

6. Kaminski House Museum

Perched along the Sampit River, the Kaminski House Museum is one of Georgetown’s most beautifully preserved historic homes, offering visitors a glimpse into 18th-century Southern life. Built in the mid-1700s, this Georgian-style mansion is filled with antique furniture, fine china, and period décor, reflecting the wealth and elegance of Georgetown’s early settlers.

Guided tours take visitors through the home’s ornate rooms, sharing stories of the Kaminski family and other prominent residents who once lived here. You’ll learn about Georgetown’s role in the rice trade, the hardships of the Civil War, and the unique architecture of the Lowcountry. The waterfront gardens offer a peaceful place to relax, making it a perfect stop for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

7. Winyah Bay

For a true Lowcountry outdoor adventure, head to Winyah Bay, a vast estuary where four rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean, creating a prime fishing and boating destination. Known for its abundant wildlife and scenic marshlands, Winyah Bay is a paradise for anglers looking to catch redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and even tarpon. For shore fishing, kayak fishing, or booking a guided charter, this area offers some of the best fishing in South Carolina year-round.

If fishing isn’t your thing, Winyah Bay is also perfect for a peaceful boat ride, where you can cruise through lush salt marshes, spot dolphins, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Nature lovers can explore the remote barrier islands or take a guided eco-tour to learn about the bay’s diverse ecosystem. With its calm waters and rich marine life, Winyah Bay is the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax, explore, or reel in the catch of the day!

8. Rice Museum

Georgetown’s history is deeply intertwined with rice production, and the Rice Museum offers a fascinating look at how this industry shaped the town and the entire Lowcountry region. Housed in the historic Town Clock building, the museum features artifacts, maps, and exhibits that detail the rise of rice cultivation in the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as the labor and expertise of the enslaved West Africans who made it possible.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Browns Ferry Vessel, a 300-year-old colonial-era shipwreck discovered in the nearby Black River. Visitors can also see historic rice-growing tools, photographs, and detailed accounts of plantation life. The museum’s guided tours provide deep insight into the economic, cultural, and social impacts of rice production, making it a must-visit for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

9. Pawleys Island Beach

For a peaceful beach escape, take a short drive from Georgetown to Pawleys Island, one of the most unspoiled and laid-back beaches in South Carolina. Known for its pristine shoreline, soft sands, and lack of high-rise development, Pawleys Island Beach offers a serene retreat away from the tourist crowds.

The waters are calm and inviting, making it a great spot for families with kids, while anglers can cast a line from the Pawleys Island Pier or the inlets. Don’t forget to bring a hammock—Pawleys Island is famous for its handwoven rope hammocks, the perfect way to relax under the shade of an oak tree.

10. Hobcaw Barony

For a fascinating mix of history, nature, and conservation, take a guided tour of Hobcaw Barony, a 17,500-acre nature and research reserve just outside Georgetown. Once the private hunting retreat of wealthy financier Bernard Baruch, this massive estate is now dedicated to preserving the Lowcountry’s natural habitats and historical landmarks.

Visitors can explore undisturbed maritime forests, salt marshes, and former rice fields, as well as historic sites like Friendfield Village, a preserved 19th-century community of former slave cabins. The tour also includes a visit to Baruch’s grand hunting lodge, where notable guests like Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt once stayed. Along the way, you might spot alligators, deer, and countless bird species that call the reserve home.

11. Dolphin-Watching Cruise

For an unforgettable wildlife experience, hop on a dolphin-watching cruise in the waters around Georgetown and Winyah Bay. These guided boat tours give you a chance to see bottlenose dolphins swimming, playing, and jumping in their natural habitat. Along the way, you might also spot sea turtles, bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional manatee!

Most cruises take you through scenic marshlands, tidal creeks, and barrier islands, offering a peaceful and immersive way to explore the Lowcountry’s coastal ecosystem. Knowledgeable guides share fun facts about marine life, local history, and conservation efforts, making it both an educational and exciting experience for visitors of all ages.

12. Gullah Museum

For a meaningful and eye-opening experience, visit the Gullah Museum in Georgetown, where you’ll learn about the rich heritage, traditions, and contributions of the Gullah people. Descended from enslaved Africans who worked on South Carolina’s rice plantations, the Gullah people developed a distinct culture, blending African traditions with the influences of the Lowcountry.

The museum offers an intimate look at Gullah history, featuring artifacts, handcrafted sweetgrass baskets, traditional clothing, and exhibits on Gullah language, music, and spirituality. Visitors can also hear stories about Gullah Geechee food, folklore, and their fight to preserve their unique way of life. Guided tours often include personal storytelling from Gullah descendants, making this a deeply personal and immersive cultural experience.

13. Aunny’s Country Kitchen

No visit to Georgetown is complete without indulging in authentic Southern comfort food, and Aunny’s Country Kitchen is the place to do it. This beloved, family-owned restaurant serves up soul-warming Lowcountry classics, from crispy fried chicken and catfish to rich and creamy shrimp and grits.

The menu is packed with homemade favorites, including collard greens, mac and cheese, cornbread, and sweet potato pie, all made with love and tradition. Locals and visitors alike rave about the friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and flavors that taste like home cooking. If you’re looking for a true taste of the South, Aunny’s is a must-visit for an unforgettable seafood and soul food feast.

14. Black River

For a peaceful and scenic outdoor adventure, grab a kayak or canoe and explore the Black River, one of the most breathtaking waterways in the Lowcountry. This winding, blackwater river is lined with towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, creating a serene and picture-perfect setting that feels untouched by time.

As you paddle through the calm waters, keep an eye out for wildlife, including great blue herons, otters, turtles, and even the occasional alligator. The Black River is also a haven for birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot egrets, ospreys, and bald eagles soaring overhead.

15. Huntington Beach State Park

Just a short drive from Georgetown, Huntington Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, beachgoers, and wildlife enthusiasts. This 2,500-acre coastal preserve features pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, salt marshes, and diverse wildlife, making it the perfect spot for a family-friendly day trip.

Spend the morning walking along the beach, searching for seashells, or spotting dolphins in the waves. Then, explore the marsh boardwalk, where you can see alligators, egrets, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle. The park is also home to Atalaya Castle, the former winter home of sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's history.

Conclusion

Georgetown, South Carolina may not always make the top of every travel list—but that’s exactly what makes it so special. With its quaint historic district, riverfront boardwalk, moss-draped oaks, and rich cultural heritage, this charming coastal town offers a refreshing blend of Southern hospitality, natural beauty, and timeless appeal

It's the kind of place where you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and reconnect with the simpler joys of travel. So if you're looking for a destination that feels like a hidden treasure—without the crowds—Georgetown, SC is ready to surprise you in all the best ways.

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FAQs

1. How far is Georgetown from Charleston?

Georgetown is about 60 miles north of Charleston, which takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes by car via U.S. Highway 17.

2. What is Georgetown, SC, known for?

Georgetown is famous for its historic charm, waterfront views, and rich rice plantation history. It’s also known as one of the oldest cities in South Carolina.

3. When is the best time to visit Georgetown?

Spring and fall offer the best weather—mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot but are great for beach trips and water activities.

4. Is Georgetown, SC, worth visiting?

Absolutely! If you love history, nature, and Southern charm, Georgetown is a hidden gem with fewer crowds than Charleston but just as much character.