South Carolina

Let’s Visit South Carolina

Join our virtual tour highlighting the top tourist attractions in South Carolina.
For an overview of the state, see: National Geographic Kids. South Carolina

Highlights

Let’s learn more about some fascinating places worth seeing in South Carolina.

Charleston Historic District (Charleston) is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history dating back to the 18th century. It offers a glimpse into the antebellum South and is one of the most charming cities in the U.S.
Myrtle Beach (Myrtle Beach) is renowned for its 60-mile stretch of sandy beaches, boardwalks, amusement parks, and vibrant nightlife, making it one of the top vacation destinations on the East Coast.
Fort Sumter National Monument (Charleston) is historically significant as the site where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired in 1861, marking the beginning of the conflict between the Union and Confederacy.
Hilton Head Island (Hilton Head) is famous for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor activities like cycling, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Congaree National Park (Hopkins) is known for its towering old-growth hardwood forest, the largest of its kind in the southeastern United States, offering hiking, canoeing, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet) is renowned for its expansive sculpture garden and wildlife preserve, combining art, history, and nature in one of the most beautiful public gardens in the country.
South Carolina State Museum (Columbia) is famous for being the largest museum in the state, offering four floors of exhibits on art, history, natural history, and science, including a planetarium and observatory.
Huntington Beach State Park (Murrells Inlet) is known for its stunning coastal scenery, abundant birdwatching opportunities, and the historical Atalaya Castle, a former winter home of industrialist Archer M. Huntington.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum (Mount Pleasant) is famous for housing the USS Yorktown, a World War II-era aircraft carrier, and offering interactive exhibits on naval history and military artifacts.
Caesars Head State Park (Cleveland) is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, and dramatic rock formations, including the iconic Caesar’s Head, offering outdoor adventures and stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Intriguing mysteries and weird facts

Discover these little-known facts about South Carolina.

South Carolina Was the First State to Secede from the Union
In 1860, South Carolina was the first state to secede from the United States, leading to the start of the Civil War. The first shots of the war were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston.
Home to America’s First Public College
The College of Charleston, founded in 1770, is the oldest municipal college in the United States, predating the American Revolution and offering a deep historical connection to the nation’s early education.
Myrtle Beach Has the World’s Largest Ferris Wheel Made of Sand
At Myrtle Beach, sand sculptors created the world’s largest Ferris wheel entirely out of sand during a sand sculpture contest, showcasing the beach’s quirky and creative vibe.
There’s a Town Called Ninety Six
Yes, there’s a small town in South Carolina named Ninety Six. The origins of the name remain a mystery, but one theory is that it refers to the distance from the town to the nearest Cherokee settlement.
It’s Illegal to Play Pinball if You’re Under 18
South Carolina has an odd law that makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to play pinball, though it’s rarely enforced today.
South Carolina Grows More Peaches Than Georgia
Despite Georgia being known as the “Peach State,” South Carolina actually produces more peaches than its neighbor, making it the real peach powerhouse of the Southeast.
The State Flag Features a Mysterious Crescent
The crescent shape on South Carolina’s state flag is often mistaken for a moon, but it’s actually a gorget—a piece of armor worn by soldiers during the Revolutionary War, symbolizing the state’s military history.
There’s a Town with a UFO Welcome Center
The town of Bowman, South Carolina, is home to a UFO Welcome Center, created by a local man who built a giant, saucer-shaped structure to greet extraterrestrial visitors, adding a quirky stop for alien enthusiasts.
Home to America’s Oldest Living Things
The Angel Oak tree in Charleston is one of the oldest living things in the United States, estimated to be over 400 years old, and is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
The Lizard Man Legend
South Carolina has its own cryptid: the Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp. Sightings of a large, scaly, humanoid creature began in the 1980s, sparking local legends and paranormal investigations.

Notable People

Here are 10 famous men and women from South Carolina.

Famous Men

Andrew Jackson (1767–1845) was born in the Waxhaws region, near the border of North and South Carolina. He became the seventh President of the United States and is known for his populist style of leadership and the controversial Indian Removal Act.
John C. Calhoun (1782–1850) was born in Abbeville, South Carolina, and served as U.S. Vice President, Secretary of War, and Senator. He was a major figure in advocating for states’ rights and the preservation of slavery.
Dizzy Gillespie (1917–1993) was born in Cheraw, South Carolina, and became one of the most influential jazz trumpeters. He was a founding figure of bebop and modern jazz, shaping the future of music with his unique style.
Chadwick Boseman (1976–2020) was born in Anderson, South Carolina, and gained worldwide fame as an actor. He was best known for his roles in Black Panther, 42, and Marshall, where he portrayed iconic figures like Jackie Robinson and Thurgood Marshall.
James Brown (1933–2006) was born in Barnwell, South Carolina, and became an iconic figure in music, known as the Godfather of Soul. His work in soul and funk, including hits like I Got You (I Feel Good), revolutionized modern music.

Famous Women

Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955) was born in Mayesville, South Carolina, and became an educator, civil rights leader, and advisor to U.S. presidents. She founded Bethune-Cookman University and was a champion of racial equality and women’s rights.
Eartha Kitt (1927–2008) was born in North, South Carolina, and became a legendary singer, actress, and dancer. Known for her sultry voice, she starred in roles like Catwoman in Batman and sang hits like Santa Baby.
Nikki Haley (1972– ) was born in Bamberg, South Carolina, and became the first female governor of South Carolina. She later served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, becoming a significant political figure on the international stage.
Angie Stone (1961– ) was born in Columbia, South Carolina, and became a Grammy-nominated R&B singer, songwriter, and actress. She is known for her soulful music, including hits like No More Rain (In This Cloud).
Viola Davis (1965– ) was born in St. Matthews, South Carolina, and is a highly acclaimed actress. She became the first African American to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting, winning an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony for her powerful performances.

Date of Ratification of the Articles of Confederation/
Admission to the Union

May 23, 1788 (8th)

State Capital and Government

South Carolina State House in Columbia (Florencebballer, Wikimedia Commons)

Columbia
Government of South Carolina

Area and Total Population

Area: 30,060 square miles

Total Population: 4,832,000

Major cities and their population

City	Population
Charleston	155,000
Columbia	142,000
North Charleston	121,000
Greenville	73,000
Sumter	43,000
Myrtle Beach	39,000
Spartanburg	39,000
Hilton Head Island	38,000
Clemson	18,000