South Carolina, September 22, 2025
News Summary
South Carolina is a hub of unique and whimsical attractions, perfect for locals and tourists alike. From the ancient Angel Oak on John’s Island to Hartsville’s eccentric Yogi Bear restaurant, discover eight peculiar towns that offer a delightful blend of history, adventure, and unusual sights. Whether you’re exploring topiary gardens in Bishopville or the iconic Gaffney Peachoid, there’s no shortage of fun and fascinating destinations to uncover in the Palmetto State.
Explore South Carolina’s Quirky Attractions: Eight Playfully Peculiar Towns
When it comes to discovering charming and quirky spots, South Carolina is a treasure trove! This Southern state is brimming with unique attractions that are both entertaining and educational. So whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a tourist on a mission to uncover hidden gems, South Carolina’s towns beckon with delightful surprises.
Start with the Majestic Angel Oak
Kick off your exploration on John’s Island, home to the magnificent Angel Oak. This remarkable living oak tree is estimated to be between 400–500 years old and towers at 65 feet tall with a trunk circumference of 28 feet. Talk about ancient! The Angel Oak provides a whopping 17,000 square feet of shade and has withstood the test of time through hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. If you’re after a peaceful picnic spot under a giant tree, look no further!
Hartsville—Where Fun Meets History
Moving on to Hartsville, this town packs a punch of quirky attractions. For starters, it’s home to the last remaining Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken Restaurant, where you’ll find tongue-in-cheek menu items inspired by everyone’s favorite cartoon bear. Also, check out the Kalmia Gardens, which decorate the former plantation property with stunning flowers and flora. And don’t miss the Hartsville Museum, nestled in a vintage post office, where local history comes alive through interesting exhibits.
But that’s not all! The Mars Bluff Crater in Hartsville marks an extraordinary moment in history—a misplaced nuclear warhead discharge that didn’t detonate, leaving behind a fascinating crater as a monument to days gone by. For those who love the outdoors, Veterans Park is perfect, featuring trails and a majestic bronze Bald Eagle statue.
Discover Bishopville’s Unique Collections
Next up is Bishopville, boasting two eccentric attractions that’ll tickle your fancy. The Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden was started by a local man who aspired to win a gardening award, resulting in over 300 whimsical topiaries that defy traditional gardening norms. And for those who love the unusual, head over to the Button Museum. Here, you’ll stumble upon an odd yet fascinating collection—including a suit made up of 16,333 buttons!
Leisure and Adventure in Little River
In Little River, adventure awaits at the Parson’s Table, a restaurant that calls a former church home, combining unique décor with delicious culinary offerings like she-crab and boiled seafood. If outdoor exploration is more your style, the Vereen Memorial Gardens offer scenic hiking trails—an absolute delight for nature lovers looking to soak in the beauty of the Intercoastal Waterway.
For some family fun, don’t miss Tribal Island, where you can enjoy the thrill of mini-golf surrounded by lush waterfalls and caverns.
Gaffney—The Peach Capital
Next stop, Gaffney, where you’ll find one of the most iconic sights—the Gaffney Peachoid. This giant peach shape—standing at a towering 135 feet—is a must-see for anyone claiming to be a true Peach lover! After marveling at this quirky landmark, visit the Cherokee County Museum that showcases local history, from revolutions to heroes.
For some history that echoes through time, check out Cowpens National Battlefield, which commemorates a significant Revolutionary War battle. It’s the ideal spot for both hiking and reining in some history.
Myrtle Beach Awaits
Lastly, no South Carolina adventure would be complete without mentioning the well-loved Myrtle Beach. This area is not just about the sun, sand, and surf; it also celebrates aviation and flight history with surroundings reminiscent of a soaring dream. After a day on the beach, why not take a ride on the famous SkyWheel? Standing a staggering 200 feet high, it offers breathtaking views that you won’t soon forget!
A Conclusion to Your Adventure
Whatever your interests, South Carolina’s quirky towns have something special waiting for you. Grab your family, friends, or travel companions, and set out on a light-hearted adventure through the unexpected delights of the Palmetto State. You’re sure to leave with a heart full of memories and a few stories to tell.
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Additional Resources
- Travel and Tour World: Colorado Joins in Skyrocketing US Tourism
- Wikipedia: Tourism in the United States
- WRAL: Best Attractions in Western NC
- Google Search: Attractions in Western North Carolina
- SFN Today: 2025 South Carolina State Fair
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina State Fair
- WPDE: Myrtle Beach Tourism Numbers
- Google News: Myrtle Beach tourism
- Only In Your State: Places to Avoid in North Carolina
- Google Scholar: Places to Avoid in North Carolina
- Charlotte Observer: Explore Charlotte Travel
- Google Search: Charlotte Travel
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
