16 Things To Do In Orangeburg That Everyone Is Talking About

Orangeburg feels like one of those towns you only really get if you spend a little time in it. At first glance, it might seem quiet. But take a walk, talk to a few locals, and it starts to open up. You’ll hear stories, some heavy, some heartwarming, that stick with you long after you leave.

This isn’t a town packed with big-ticket tourist attractions. What it has instead is depth. A museum built by someone who lived the history it tells. A stadium that pulses with community pride on game days. A river you can actually float down for hours, surrounded by nothing but trees and stillness. The kind of stuff that doesn’t show up in search results unless you’re really looking.

If you're someone who prefers real over polished, and stories over selfies, Orangeburg might surprise you. Let’s get into some of the most interesting, down-to-earth things to do in Orangeburg.

1. Cecil Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum

The Cecil Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum tells a story that many people outside the state haven’t heard - but absolutely should. Cecil Williams, a photojournalist born and raised in Orangeburg, spent years capturing the real faces and moments behind South Carolina’s civil rights movement. His camera didn’t just document marches and speeches; it caught the quiet strength of students, teachers, and everyday people who stood up against injustice in their own backyards.

The museum is filled with powerful black-and-white photographs that take you back to the 1950s through the 1970s. These aren’t just pictures; they’re windows into a time when change came slowly, but people pushed forward anyway. From school integration to grassroots protests, the exhibits don’t just show history, they make you feel it.

You won’t find any flashy displays here, and honestly, that’s what makes it special. It’s honest, intimate, and personal. There’s no admission fee, but calling ahead is recommended so someone can guide you through the experience. Located right in Orangeburg, this is the only museum of its kind in the state, and it’s something everyone should take time to see.

2. Edisto Memorial Gardens

Edisto Memorial Gardens isn't just a pretty place to walk among roses, it’s a meaningful slice of Orangeburg’s story. Back in 1865, this spot was the site where around 600 Confederate soldiers stood their ground against Union forces in the final months of the Civil War. While that bit of history isn’t front and center in today’s signage, it adds a layer of weight to what’s now one of the most peaceful and photogenic areas in town.

These days, the gardens are more about beauty and community than battle. People come here to stroll under shady trees, admire beds of vibrant flowers, or just sit by the river and let time slow down. The rose garden, in particular, is something to see when it’s in full bloom. And if you’ve got kids, the splash pad in the summer is a favorite local hangout.

3. The I.P. Stanback Museum & Planetarium

At first glance, a museum and a planetarium sharing the same building might sound unusual, but that’s exactly what makes the I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium so memorable. Inside the campus of South Carolina State University, this spot blends creativity and curiosity in a way that feels both welcoming and thought-provoking.

The museum highlights African American culture and history through rotating exhibits filled with paintings, sculptures, photography, and historical artifacts. Some pieces focus on national figures, while others shine a light on local artists and stories that rarely get the attention they deserve. You never quite know what you'll find on display, and that keeps things interesting for return visits.

Then there’s the planetarium. It offers an entirely different kind of wonder, with shows that explore stars, planets, and the universe in a dome theater setting.

4. Orangeburg County Aquatic Park

When summer hits in Orangeburg, the Orangeburg County Aquatic Park turns into the go-to spot for cooling off and having some fun. It’s not a massive theme park with towering slides, but that’s part of its charm. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and big enough to keep kids happy for hours while parents kick back and relax.

There are pools for all ages, from splash zones with fountains and gentle water features for little ones, to deeper areas where older kids and adults can swim or zip down a few slides. One of the best things about the park is how well it’s run. Lifeguards are everywhere, keeping a close eye on things so families can focus more on enjoying themselves than worrying about safety.

Prices are based on height, with kids and adults under 48 inches paying a lower fee, and those taller paying just a bit more. It’s one of the most budget-friendly water parks around, especially for what you get. There are changing rooms, picnic spots, and shaded areas too, which makes it easy to spend the whole afternoon here.

5. Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center

The Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center isn’t flashy, but that’s what makes it feel so genuine. It’s the kind of place where creativity isn’t just displayed, it’s shared, taught, and encouraged. Located right along the river, the center is a quiet retreat for anyone who loves art or simply wants to experience something local and heartfelt.

Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibits that often feature regional artists, some well-known and others just getting started. Paintings, pottery, photography, and mixed media pieces line the walls, telling stories of Southern life, personal expression, and everything in between. It’s not about big crowds or big names. Rather, it’s about connecting with the art and the people who make it.

6. Hillcrest Golf Course

Hillcrest Golf Course is one of those local gems that golfers talk about with a smile. It’s not the flashiest course in the world, but it doesn’t need to be. What it offers is a solid round of golf, good conditions, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes both seasoned players and casual weekenders feel right at home.

The layout is friendly without being too easy. Fairways are open but not boring, and the greens are kept in great shape. There aren’t a lot of traps to get into trouble with, so it’s a great place for improving your game or just enjoying a relaxed round with friends. You can usually get through 18 holes without feeling rushed, which is a huge plus for golfers who don’t want to be pushed along by a crowd.

The price is another win. It’s affordable, especially compared to bigger courses in the region, and the staff is always in a good mood. There’s a pro shop on site and the usual amenities, but the real draw here is the laid-back vibe and the care put into the course.

7. Oliver C. Dawson Stadium

Oliver C. Dawson Stadium isn’t just a place for football; it’s a gathering spot full of energy, pride, and tradition. Located on the campus of South Carolina State University, the stadium comes alive on game days with fans dressed in school colors, the sound of the marching band echoing through the stands, and the scent of tailgate food filling the air.

The stadium has been around for decades and holds a special place in the hearts of Bulldog fans. It’s where students, alumni, and families come together to cheer on their team and celebrate community spirit. With seating for more than 20,000, it’s big enough to feel exciting but still small enough that you’re close to the action.

Beyond football, the stadium hosts events like high school championships and community gatherings. But its biggest moments always come in the fall, when rivalries heat up and the band takes the field for halftime shows that are worth the visit on their own.

8. T.J.Maxx

For anyone who enjoys the thrill of the hunt when shopping, the T.J.Maxx in Orangeburg is a fun little detour. It’s not a tourist attraction in the traditional sense, but sometimes finding the perfect deal feels just as exciting as snapping the perfect photo.

The store carries a bit of everything: clothes, shoes, home goods, beauty products, and even snacks. What keeps people coming back is the ever-changing inventory. You might walk in needing one thing and walk out with five, because there’s always something unexpected tucked into the shelves. Designer brands at lower prices make the shopping feel like a game, and when you win, it feels pretty great.

It’s clean, well-stocked, and not usually too crowded, which adds to the relaxed experience. The staff tends to be friendly and helpful, which always makes a difference when you’re browsing for deals.

9. Orangeburg County Historical Society

The Orangeburg County Historical Society is one of those places that quietly keeps the soul of a town alive. It doesn’t have flashy signs or high-tech exhibits, but what it does have is a deep connection to the area’s roots and a dedication to preserving the stories that shaped it. For anyone curious about Orangeburg’s past, this is where the real stuff lives.

Inside, you’ll find records, photographs, maps, and artifacts that trace the history of the county from its early days through more recent events. It’s a treasure trove for genealogists, researchers, and anyone who loves learning how communities come to be. There’s something really powerful about holding a document or seeing a photo that dates back over a hundred years, especially when it’s tied to the very streets you’ve walked on.

The volunteers here know their stuff and are happy to help guide you through the archives or point you toward interesting pieces of local history. It’s not a museum with labels and displays, it’s more like stepping into a well-kept memory bank, where every folder has a story waiting to be opened.

10. Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center

The Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center is more than just an arena; it stands as a powerful reminder of a painful chapter in Orangeburg’s history, while also serving as a space for community and celebration. Named in memory of three young men who lost their lives during the Orangeburg Massacre in 1968, the center holds deep significance for the people of South Carolina and especially for the students and faculty of South Carolina State University.

Today, it functions as a multi-use venue that hosts basketball games, concerts, graduations, and other large events throughout the year. When the university's team takes the court, the building fills with energy, cheers, and school spirit. But beneath the buzz of game night is a quiet acknowledgment of the history that echoes through its walls.

11. Belk

Belk in Orangeburg is a bit of a classic when it comes to department store shopping in the South. It’s the kind of place locals rely on for everything from back-to-school outfits to holiday gifts, and visitors often pop in for a last-minute dress shirt or that one thing they forgot to pack. It has the easy familiarity of a store you’ve probably shopped at before, even if it’s your first time walking through the doors.

What makes this location feel dependable is its wide range of products. You’ll find men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, beauty products, kitchenware, and plenty of seasonal home goods. It’s clean, well-organized, and usually not too busy, so browsing feels calm and unhurried. Sales are frequent, and if you’ve got time to dig a little, there are often great deals hidden in the racks.

The staff here are helpful without hovering, which makes shopping more relaxed. It may not be a destination on its own, but it’s a solid stop if you’re in town and need to pick something up or just want to look around.

12. Big Lots

Big Lots in Orangeburg is one of those places that surprises you every time you walk in. It’s part discount store, part hidden gem, and a bit of a local secret for scoring good deals on everything from snacks to sofas. It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly what gives it charm. It’s the kind of store where you never know what you’ll find, and that’s half the fun.

The layout is straightforward, with aisles of furniture, home décor, cleaning supplies, pantry items, seasonal goods, and random bits and pieces you didn’t know you needed until you saw them. Prices are affordable, and for budget-conscious shoppers or families trying to stretch a dollar, it’s one of the better options in town. The furniture section in particular is surprisingly solid, especially if you’re looking to furnish a room on a tight budget.

Staff are usually easy to find and willing to help, which makes navigating the store a little smoother.

13. Historic Downtown District

Walking through Orangeburg’s historic downtown feels a bit like stepping into a living storybook. The architecture, old courthouses, brick storefronts, and quaint cafés carry a sense of both elegance and familiarity. Behind each door is something worth a peek: local artisans at work, charming boutiques, and cafes where neighbors greet each other by name.

One standout building is the old Orangeburg County Courthouse, built in the 1800s. Its classic columns and dignified presence reflect moments when history unfolded, civil rights marches here, community gatherings there. Often, townsfolk linger on the steps, swapping stories or waiting for an event to begin.

As you stroll down the wide sidewalks, you’ll notice plaques marking historic moments, opportunities to pause, learn, and connect with the past. Mix in a stop at a bakery or gallery, and you’ve got a perfectly relaxed, authentic afternoon. If you enjoy architecture with personality and like discovering local flavor, downtown Orangeburg offers a walk-through experience that feels both grounded and uplifting.

14. All-Star Triangle Bowl

The All‑Star Triangle Bowl isn’t just a bowling alley; it’s a place where history and memory still linger. This 1960s-era alley, once known as All‑Star Bowling Lane, was at the heart of a tragic moment in 1968 during the Orangeburg Massacre. The alley closed, but the building remained. Now it’s being preserved as a civil rights memorial, thanks to restoration efforts led by the National Park Service.

Around here, folks remember the alley as more than sticky lanes and clattering pins. It’s a site where resistance took place, and learning happened. Grantees have funded restoration to turn it into a place for healing and education.

Visiting this spot gives you a chance to honor those who figured so prominently in Orangeburg’s past. There’s no arcade noise; instead, you’ll find a quiet, thought-provoking space where justice and community are remembered. It’s heavy in history, but full of purpose.

15. Moses Oil Co. Museum

The Moses Oil Co. Museum sits in a small, unassuming building, but its story runs deep in Orangeburg’s industrial past. It traces the rise of the local oil and gas business at a time when that industry was just beginning to shape towns across America. Inside, vintage pumps, old-time signage, and even early-era gas bottles give a sense of daily life back then.

What makes this place memorable isn’t just the objects, it’s the people who cared enough to save them. There’s a warmth to the displays, a pride in locals who saw something worth preserving. The staff or volunteers are eager to share stories about how the oil company supported the town, powered the boom of roadside cafes, and shaped Orangeburg’s development.

A visit here isn’t a high-tech museum moment; it’s stepping into someone’s memory, wandering narrow aisles, and imagining how it all connected. If you're in town for history beyond the Civil War or civil rights, this is a little gem that fills in a quieter chapter with surprising charm.

16. Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Rentals

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Orangeburg from a different viewpoint, grabbing a canoe or kayak on the Edisto River is a fantastic idea. At Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Rentals, you’re handed a paddle and a sense of adventure, with locals often sharing friendly advice on the best routes and where to stop for a picnic or a swim.

The Edisto River itself is a winding, lazy waterway that feels almost like a secret side street threading through moss-draped trees and quiet marshland. The ripple of your paddle, the chance of spotting turtles sunning on logs, and the gentle breeze overhead create a slow, peaceful escape. It’s the kind of outing where time stretches and the walls between your world and the natural one soften.

Conclusion

Orangeburg has a way of growing on you the longer you stay. At first, it might seem like a quiet town with a few parks and museums, but once you start exploring, you realize there’s more here than meets the eye. The best things to do in Orangeburg aren’t about rushing from place to place; they’re about slowing down and really getting to know where you are.

You might start your day at Edisto Memorial Gardens, watching the morning light hit the river and the roses, then wander through the Cecil Williams Civil Rights Museum and feel the weight of the stories told through powerful black-and-white images. Grab lunch downtown, stop by a local shop or gallery, and maybe head to the aquatic park if you’ve got kids, or the golf course if you just want some fresh air and quiet.

There’s no pressure here to be on a schedule. You can float down the Edisto River, stumble upon a community event, or just sit with a coffee and watch the day go by. That’s the heart of Orangeburg. The things to do aren’t flashy, but they’re real, grounded, and full of character.

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FAQ

1. How far is Orangeburg from Columbia, SC?

Orangeburg is about 40 miles south of Columbia, SC, which is roughly a 45-minute drive along I-26.

2. What is Orangeburg known for?

Orangeburg is known for its historical significance, especially during the Civil Rights Movement, its beautiful natural attractions like the Edisto Memorial Gardens, and its annual events like the Orangeburg Festival of Roses. The town also offers a rich blend of Southern culture, history, and hospitality.

3. Is Orangeburg worth visiting?

Absolutely! Orangeburg offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, historical sites, cultural events, and excellent dining experiences. From the beauty of the Edisto River to the charm of its downtown district, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy.

4. What is the best time to visit Orangeburg, SC?

The best time to visit Orangeburg is during the spring, particularly in May when the Orangeburg Festival of Roses takes place and the gardens are in full bloom. Fall is also a great time, with pleasant weather and events like the Orangeburg County Fair.

5. Are there outdoor activities in Orangeburg, SC?

Yes, Orangeburg offers plenty of outdoor activities! You can explore the Edisto Memorial Gardens, enjoy water sports on the Edisto River, hike in Santee State Park, or play a round of golf at the Orangeburg Country Club. The area is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.