For all the things you think about doing in South Carolina there are just as many things you would never in a million years think that South Carolina has to offer. Well, it just so happens that you don't have to skip across state lines for that "wow" factor. South Carolina has it all right here for you!

1. Zip, Zip, Ziplining

You don't have to go far to experience this adrenaline-pumping activity. We have quite a few places you can do this. I did a whole article on it last week if you want all the details on the different locations.

2. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Did you think you had to go to Kansas to experience floating through the clouds? Oh, no...we have places right here. Try Skyscapes of America or Balloons Over Anderson.

3. Helicopter Rides

Want to see South Carolina in a different way? Or, perhaps you want to see the city from above? We can do that for you too! Look up: Helicopter rides in South Carolina and make plans today!

4. Parasailing

This might be a 'duh' for some people, but not everyone lives on the coast! All you have to do is look up: Parasailing South Carolina. There are too many results to list!

5. Aerial Yoga

Ever wanted to do this? I know I do! And, we can. That's the best part. Try the Pink Lotus Yoga Center in Lexington, SC or Aerial Fit in Charleston. If one of these are not close, look up aerial yoga in South Carolina for a class near you.

6. Free Falling/Parachuting

That is if you are not afraid of heights and free falling through the air... I don't know if it would be for me, but it sure does seem exhilerating. Call Flying Tigers Sport Parachute Center in Anderson, SC or look up: www.southcarolinaskydiving.com for a place near you!

7. Sushi Classes

Yes, you heard me correctly. South Carolina offers classes in how to make sushi the correct way. Get ready to wow your friends at your next dinner party. You can call Sakitumi in Columbia for more information on class schedules.

8. Roller Derby

Take in a roller derby show right here in the Palmetto State. Roller Derby has become quite the 'thing' and SC is not being left behind. Try looking up the schedules for the Columbia QuadSquad, Greenville Derby Dames, or Lowcountry Highrollers.

9. Gem Mining

You thought you were going to have to go to NC or elsewhere to do this didn't you? Well, you certainly don't. We have them right here in SC. You can do this at Greenville Gemstone Mine in Greenville, SC.

10. Ice Skating

I know. You definitely don't think of ice skating in South Carolina. That's like oil and water...kind of. But, yes, you can ice skate in SC and we have quite a few places to choose from such as Carolina Ice Palace in North Charleston or Pavilion in Greenville, SC.

11. Bull Riding

It's not for Texas anymore! You can take in a show right from your home state. To find one near you try: www.rodeoz.com

12. Glass Blowing

Ever wanted to do this? I have. You can try Conway Glass in Conway, SC.

13. Sweet Grass Basket Making

They will share their secrets with you and show you how to make your very own baskets in their traditional style at Hopsewee Plantation in Georgetown, SC.

14. Drive A Racecar

In Darlington, SC, you can drive a racecar and see what it feels like to fly on wheels in the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Contact the Raceway for more information.

15. Wilderness Survival Classes

Learn to survive in the wilderness. (We have plenty of it in SC.) Try Practical Backwoods Survival Training in Summerville, SC.

Are you just a little surprised that these are in your own back yard? Even to just the 'enth' degree? It is so amazing at all the activities that happen right here in South Carolina! Now, I know exactly what I'm going to do. I have to go round out those summer vacation plans.