South Carolina has 187 miles of breathtaking coastline. Yet, we tend to only think of real beach activities during the warmer months. Not any more. Nothing compares to this winter horseback riding trail in the Palmetto State.
From November 1st through February 28th they offer full-on horseback riding right on the beach! The rest of the year they'll take you on some beautiful trails out in the country - shown above.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Your Ultimate Guide To Fall Attractions And Activities In South Carolina
Ready to plan your perfect autumn season? Check out the 15 best things to do in South Carolina this fall, filled with pumpkin patches and fall foliage.
It can be overwhelming at times thinking and planning all the best things to do in South Carolina in the fall. There are so many options, it can be hard to find where to start! That's where we come in. We've created the ultimate guide to enjoying South Carolina in the fall, from the best fall activities to the most fulfilling pumpkin patches. When the weather cools down and the leaves start showing off their colors, South Carolina becomes a fall playground you won’t want to miss! From mountain views of South Carolina fall foliage to mouthwatering seasonal treats at your local farm, this guide will take you on a fun-filled tour of the best fall things to do in the Palmetto State. So, throw on your favorite sweater, and let’s dive into all the fall goodness that awaits.
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South Carolina Fall Foliage: Where To Go In South Carolina For Fall Foliage
Autumn colors at the Audubon Swamp in Charleston, SC.
One of the highlights of South Carolina's fall activities is viewing the fall foliage. As the leaves pop into jaw-dropping shades of red, orange, and gold, the Palmetto State offers some seriously stunning fall foliage spots. Mark your calendars, because peak viewing times in South Carolina vary by region from mid-October to mid-November. Take a look at this SC fall foliage map for more current information.
1. Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway
Location: Greenville County, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Some of the best views in the state.
Need To Know: Will take you from the Georgia/South Carolina border.
Ready to see South Carolina in all its autumn glory? Take a drive along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. This winding route takes you through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, which is prime fall foliage viewing. Plus, you’ll pass by orchards, waterfalls, and quaint small towns, giving you plenty of excuses to stop, snap some photos, and soak in the fall magic.
2. Fred W. Symmes Chapel, a.k.a. Pretty Place, Cleveland
Location: Cleveland, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Known as "Pretty Place" because of its amazing mountaintop views.
Need To Know: No charge to enter when open to the public. Check the visitation schedule before going.
Perched high atop the Blue Ridge Mountains, Fred W. Symmes Chapel is an open-air chapel that offers magical views of the sprawling valley below. Think this is beautiful during spring and summer? Just wait until you see it transform into a breathtaking sea of fall colors as the leaves change! You'll feel like you stepped into a hidden sanctuary surrounded by the most stunning autumn colors in the state.
3. Issaqueena Falls, Walhalla
Location: Walhalla, South Carolina
Wow Factor: A 100-foot high cascade waterfall.
Need To Know: Will take a 15-minute hike to get to.
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Issaqueena Falls in Walhalla is a must-visit during fall, offering the perfect pairing of cascading water and vibrant autumn foliage. As the leaves turn, the 100-foot waterfall stands out dramatically against the seasonal backdrop. The short, scenic hike to the falls is made even more magical by the crisp fall air and the surrounding forest bursting with color. This is an absolute fall must!
Are you on the hunt for the best pumpkin patches in South Carolina? You're in luck because South Carolina has some pretty phenomenal farms where you can pick your very own pumpkins. Maybe you have a local farm where you get your pumpkins every year, or perhaps you're ready to get out and explore something new. Regardless, we have you covered.
4. Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch, Mount Pleasant
Location: Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Wow Factor: It's been running for 28 years!
Need To Know: Admission for adults is $15, children under two are free. Pumpkins are available by the pound!
The Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch is one of the largest fall festivals in the state that just started as a small pumpkin patch in the 1990s. This annual tradition brings together guests of all ages for some memorable seasonal entertainment. Admission to the pumpkin patch varies for adults, with children under two entering for free. The event is held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday beginning towards the end of September and running through the weekend before Halloween.
5. Cotton Hills Farm, Chester
Location: Chester, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Cotton Hills Farm has been in the Wilson Family since 1882.
Need To Know: Fall fun takes place every Saturday in October.
Having been in the Wilson Family since 1882, Cotton Hills Farm offers a fall experience every year that people come from all over for. Why? Because Cotton Hills Farm is South Carolina’s biggest pumpkin grower! Celebrating the harvest every Saturday in October, you don't want to miss out on this. Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the largest pumpkin farm in the Palmetto State!
6. West Farm Corn Maze, Moncks Corner
Location: Moncks Corner, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Also includes a themed corn maze every year!
Need To Know: Runs October 2 through November 3, 2024. Weekday and weekend prices differ.
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The West Farm Corn Maze in Moncks Corner is a fall favorite for families every year. Open Wednesdays through Sundays from October 2 through November 3, 2024, guests can enjoy a whole variety of fall fun, from the sprawling pumpkin patch to the themed corn maze. At a new location this year for the 20th anniversary, mark your calendars for a unique autumn adventure.
7. Denver Downs, Anderson
Location: Anderson, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Owned by the Garrison family since 1869
Need To Know: More than 35+ fun-filled family activities for kids of all ages.
Denver Downs in Anderson, South Carolina is so much more than a pumpkin patch and corn maze. On select weekends from the end of September through mid-November, this farm transforms into the ultimate fall festival. Sure, the pumpkin patch is one of the major draws for visitors, but there are so many fun-filled farm activities, that it's easy to spend the entire day here.
Best Fall Festivals In South Carolina
Three quarter length of a mother with her two young daughters picking pumpkins for Halloween at a pumpkin patch field in Newcastle, England on a nice day in October. The kids are dressed up in Halloween outfits.
If you're searching for fall activities near me, you might only find the bigger events and festivals, and not get to those small town gems we all know and love. Sometimes the best fall festivals in South Carolina are the annual ones that happen locally, which is why we've come up with a few tried-and-true festivals to check out this fall.
8. Beaufort Shrimp Festival, Beaufort
Location: Beaufort, South Carolina
Wow Factor: This year is the 30th anniversary!
Need To Know: October 4-5, 2024
The Beaufort Shrimp Festival is the perfect way to kick off fall in coastal South Carolina! Held in charming downtown Beaufort, this two-day event celebrates the local shrimp harvest with delicious seafood dishes, live music, arts and crafts, and a whole lot of Lowcountry fun. If you're a seafood lover, the Beaufort Shrimp Festival serves up a taste of Southern hospitality you won’t want to miss!
9. Fall for Greenville, Greenville
Location: Greenville, South Carolina
Wow Factor: The largest food and music festival in the Upstate.
Need To Know: October 11-13, 2024
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Fall for Greenville is the ultimate celebration of food, music, and local flavor in the heart of downtown Greenville. Every October, this lively festival transforms the city into a foodie’s paradise with over 50 restaurants offering tasty bites, plus live entertainment on multiple stages, local craft brews, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the crisp fall weather while sampling some of the best eats Greenville has to offer.
10. The Harvest Festival, North Charleston
Location: North Charleston, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Admission and parking are free!
Need To Know: Saturday, October 19, 2024 – 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Ready to embrace the season’s festivities in North Charleston? The Harvest Festival is held annually and is a one-day festival filled with family fun. With hayrides, pumpkin carving, and games, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the cool Charleston autumn air and immerse yourself in the harvest spirit. Plus, you can't beat free admission AND parking!
11. South Carolina Pecan Festival, Florence
Location: Florence, South Carolina
Wow Factor: The area’s largest event, drawing over 50,000 attendees each year.
Need To Know: Saturday, November 2, 2024 - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The South Carolina Pecan Festival in Florence is a nutty celebration not to be missed. Held every year, this delightful event showcases everything pecan, from tasty treats and pies to pecan-themed crafts and activities. With live entertainment, a variety of food vendors, and family-friendly fun, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a day out while savoring the rich, buttery flavor of one of South Carolina's favorite nuts!
Free & Cheap South Carolina Fall Activities
Table Rock mountain tinged with pink at sunrise over misty lake
In my humble opinion, the best places to visit in South Carolina in the fall are the ones that won't leave you scrambling to recoup your spending. Fall doesn't have to be an expensive season, folks! There are tons of free and cheap things to do in the fall in South Carolina that won't break the bank. Check out some of our favorites.
12. Visit Table Rock State Park, Pickens
Location: Pickens, South Carolina
Wow Factor: A 3,083-acre park at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Need To Know: Admission prices vary depending on age.
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Nothing is cheaper in price but richer in experience than planning a visit to Table Rock State Park during the fall. As the leaves change to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the park's stunning mountain views and serene hiking trails come alive with autumn beauty. Hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramas or enjoy a peaceful stroll by the lakeside. You'll want to bring a camera for this one because these views will "rock" your world.
13. Explore history at the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, Clinton
Location: Clinton, South Carolina
Wow Factor: A historic site dating back to the 1700s.
Need To Know: Picnic tables are available, and pets are allowed.
Visiting the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site during autumn offers the perfect combo of history and seasonal charm. As you explore the site where a significant Revolutionary War battle took place, you’ll be surrounded by an extra layer of beauty to the historic landscape. The chill of the air paired with the colorful backdrop makes it a perfect time for a scenic and educational outing, where history and nature merge.
14. Hike Stumphouse Mountain Park, Walhalla
Location: Walhalla, South Carolina
Wow Factor: Explore the Stumphouse Tunnel, originally a railroad tunnel.
Need To Know: $5 per vehicle or annual passes available.
What could be more cost-cutting than hiking through nature?! Luckily for us, natural beauty doesn't cost much, which is why we recommend checking out Stumphouse Mountain Park in Walhalla, South Carolina. The chill of the fall air makes hiking through this park even more enjoyable, so make sure to pack for a cozy outing. The park’s diverse landscapes—from colorful forests to striking rock formations—offer plenty of photo-worthy moments, too.
15. Walk through Campbell's Covered Bridge, Landrum
Location: Landrum, South Carolina
Wow Factor: The oldest covered bridge in South Carolina.
Need To Know: The only remaining covered bridge in the State of South Carolina. Free to walk!
Easily one of the best photo opportunities in South Carolina during fall, Campbell's Covered Bridge is a true gem of the season. The signature pop of red paint paired with the backdrop of color from the leaves changing, creates a truly spectacular sight. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, a scenic photo op, or simply enjoying the peaceful fall ambiance.
What do you think of these incredible South Carolina fall activities? Did we miss any of your favorites? Drop them in the comments section! Also, before heading out into autumn exploration, check out The North Face shop and bundle up warmly!
