A Day Trip to Historic Georgetown, South Carolina

By Mark A Leon

Georgetown, South Carolina, the state’s third-oldest community, provides a charming and historic destination for a day trip. Incorporated in 1729, Georgetown flourished as a hub for indigo and rice cultivation. Today, the town’s economy thrives on heritage tourism, drawing visitors with its charm and history.

Exploring the Historic District

History enthusiasts will find delight in Georgetown, with over fifty sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including plantations, public buildings, and churches. As you explore the historic district, you’ll notice plaques detailing historic sites and buildings, recounting the town’s rich history spanning over three centuries. Stroll along oak-lined streets, providing shade and a glimpse into the town’s oldest neighborhoods.

Shopping in Georgetown

Georgetown offers fantastic local shopping opportunities. Front Street’s waterfront features various shops and boutiques, most of which are locally owned.

Shops to explore:
• Georgetown Art Gallery: A cooperative gallery featuring works by 20 local artists, including pastels, watercolors, sculptures, acrylics, and photography.
• Waterfront Books: Sells regional and used books, including first editions.
• Doodlebugs Children’s Finery & Gifts: Offers high-quality, unique children’s apparel.
• Muddy Bay Outfitters and Black Mingo Outfitters: Offer outdoor apparel and shoes for men and women.
• Tomlinson’s Department Store: A local department store with a wide selection of clothing for men, women, and children, along with gifts for the home.

Boat Tours and Water Activities
Enjoy Georgetown’s waterfront with various boat tours and water activities.

Boat tour options:
• Carolina Rover Boat Tours: Offers a Sea Shell & Lighthouse Cruise to a remote barrier island, passing the Georgetown Light and a Civil War wreck. They also have a Historic Hobcaw Barony Cruise & Hobcaw House Tour.
• Lowcountry Tours and Rover Boat Tours: Offer shelling tours and trips to the lighthouse on pontoon boats.
• Plantation River Tours: Provides scenic boat tours along historic plantations and airboat tours along the Waccamaw, Black, and Pee Dee Rivers.
• Sunset Eco Cruise (Lowcountry Tours): Watch the sunset over Winyah Bay while looking for local wildlife.

Dining and Drinks
Georgetown provides a broad mix of restaurants and cafes.

Where to eat:
• River Room Restaurant: Serves Southern seafood dishes with waterfront views.
• Taqueria el Mariachi: A Mexican restaurant on Front Street.
• Aunny’s Country Kitchen: Offers hearty, home-cooked Southern dishes.
• Buzz’s Roost: A waterfront seafood restaurant and pub.
• Rollin Local: A sushi restaurant and bar in an old bank on Front Street.

Drinks and coffee:
• Georgetown Corner Tavern: A waterside restaurant and bar.
• Indigo Bakery: A local bakery on Front Street known for its baked treats.
• Urban Brew: A coffee shop in downtown Georgetown.

Other Activities and Attractions
• Harborwalk: Stroll along the Georgetown Harborwalk, a charming boardwalk with scenic views and access to local shops and restaurants.
• Museums: Visit the South Carolina Maritime Museum, the Gullah Museum, and the Georgetown County History Museum.
• Ghost Tours: Explore Georgetown’s eerie side with a ghost walk at night.

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