Welcome to your go-to guide for springtime fun in South Carolina! From blooming gardens to scenic hikes, charming picnic spots, and coastal escapes, I've rounded up the best attractions and activities to make your spring unforgettable. Let's dive into the top things to do in South Carolina in spring!
Flower Blooms In South Carolina
Check out SC's best places to see spring flowers – Swan Lake Iris Gardens, Hatcher Garden, Woodland Preserve, and Cypress Gardens. From bright irises to lush landscapes, these places are a floral mecca!
1. Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Location: Sumter, SC
Popularity: Very popular and busier on weekends.
Price: Entry to the gardens is free.
Situated in Sumter, Swan Lake Iris Gardens is a public park, standing out as the sole one in the United States with all eight swan species. Originally a private fishing retreat in 1927, the gardens unexpectedly bloomed with Japanese irises the following spring after failed attempts at landscaping.
While the gardens showcase year-round beauty, iris lovers should plan a visit from mid-May to early June for a spectacular display of thousands of Japanese irises. The annual Sumter Iris Festival during Memorial Day weekend is a must-visit - but even if you miss it, the 150-acre garden offers a diverse range of plant species throughout spring, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers.
2. Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve
Location: Spartanburg, SC
Popularity: Hidden gem that's busier on the weekends.
Price: Hatcher Garden welcomes you to delight in its beauty every day, from sunrise to sunset, all year round, and it's absolutely free.
One of the most beautiful gardens in Spartanburg is the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve. This garden spans 10 acres and is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers.
If you visit Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve during springtime, you will be greeted with an explosion of colorful blooms that cover the entire garden. Some of the flowers you can see during this time of the year include daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and dogwood trees, among many others.
One of the highlights of the garden is the pond, which is surrounded by stunning water lilies. You will also find an abundance of azaleas and rhododendrons that create a beautiful landscape during the spring season.
If you are a nature lover and enjoy being surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants, Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is worth a visit if you're looking for free things to do in South Carolina in spring.
3. Cypress Gardens
Cypress Gardens is a picturesque 170-acre preserve in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. The garden is famous for its stunning collection of cypress trees that grow in the blackwater swamp. The garden is the perfect spot for explorations, whether by walking tour or by boat tour. You'll feel like you've stepped into a scene from The Notebook, which was actually filmed at Cypress Gardens. It's an idyllic setting for lovebirds to enjoy.
As for the spring flowers, there are plenty to see at Cypress Gardens. Some popular spring flowers you can expect include azaleas, camellias, daffodils, dogwoods, and wisteria. The garden also has a butterfly house where you can see a variety of colorful butterflies fluttering around. If you are looking for romantic things to do in South Carolina in spring - Cypress Gardens is the place to be.
Botanical Gardens In South Carolina
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Discover the best botanical beauty at South Carolina Botanical Garden and Riverbanks Botanical Garden along the Saluda River. These gardens showcase diverse flora and family-friendly attractions, creating a vibrant tapestry of natural wonders in the state.
4. South Carolina Botanical Garden
Location: Clemson, SC
Popularity: The garden is a hidden gem, relatively quiet most days, though it can be busier on weekends and peak times.
Price: The premises are accessible and free every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset.
Nestled within the verdant expanse of Clemson University's campus, the South Carolina Botanical Garden sprawls across 295 acres, inviting visitors into a blooming paradise. This botanical haven features a tapestry of nature trails, sculptures, and historical gems.
During the enchanting spring season, the garden transforms into a vibrant canvas with captivating flowers. In March, the delicate beauty of Oconee Bells and the striking presence of Bloodroot adorn the Natural Heritage Garden. Moving into April, the state flower Carolina Jessamine graces the front entrance with its fragrant blossoms. Come May, the Snake-Mouth Orchid unfurls its petals in the Longleaf Pine Savannah area of the Natural Heritage Garden.
The harmonious blend of nature, history, and art makes the South Carolina Botanical Garden a serene and picturesque retreat for flower enthusiasts, where every step unveils a new facet of natural beauty.
5. Riverbanks Botanical Garden
Location: West Columbia, SC
Popularity: Very popular amongst families.
Price: $0-$24/per person
If you're looking for family things to do in South Carolina in spring, you might want to check out the Riverbanks Zoo. In addition to its impressive collection of animals, the place also boasts the sprawling 70-acre Riverbanks Botanical Garden. The garden features over 4,200 native and exotic plants and sculptures, making it an engaging and captivating landscape to explore. You and your family can check out themed areas, and there's even a kids' splash zone for added enjoyment.
Springtime is a treat for the senses, and the garden is at its most beautiful during this season. You'll be greeted with a colorful display of redbuds, forsythia, daffodils, tulips, roses, larkspur, allium bulbs, and bottlebrush flowers. If you're looking for a fun and picturesque location, the garden during springtime is worth a visit!
Parks To Visit In South Carolina This Spring
Experience the vibrant charm of southern landscapes by exploring the best parks in South Carolina this spring. A visit to James Island County Park, just minutes from downtown Charleston, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Meanwhile, Falls Park on the Reedy, nestled in downtown Greenville, showcases stunning waterfalls, lush gardens, and picturesque bridges, creating an urban oasis that captivates visitors.
6. James Island County Park
Location: Charleston, SC
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: $0-$2/per person. Certain facilities and rental services within the park may have additional fees.
James Island County Park is a fantastic place to visit during the spring season. This park is located just outside Charleston and is an excellent destination for sightseeing, family fun, and outdoor activities. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, and camping. It also has a water park, a dog park, and an extensive playground area for children.
The park is particularly popular during spring break, with many families visiting the area to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the warm weather. Visitors can stroll along the park's trails, which wind through the Lowcountry landscape, including marshes, forests, and tidal creeks.
Many events and festivals are held at James Island County Park throughout the year, including concerts, craft fairs, and holiday celebrations. So, if you're looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your spring break and are looking for fun things to do in South Carolina in spring, James Island County Park is worth a visit.
7. Falls Park on the Reedy
Location: Greenville, SC
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Free.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Falls Park on the Reedy in Greenville! The park is an oasis in the heart of downtown Greenville, with lush gardens, cascading waterfalls, and scenic views of the Reedy River. The park is particularly beautiful in spring, with blooming flowers and trees creating a colorful and vibrant atmosphere.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Falls Park on the Reedy. You can take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Main Street to the park - and enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens. You can also explore the many walking trails throughout the park and take in the views of the waterfalls. Additionally, plenty of outdoor events, farmer's markets, live music, and festivals are held in the park during spring, such as the Artisphere Festival, which showcases the work of artists from around the world.
Overall, visiting Falls Park on the Reedy in spring is a wonderful way to enjoy nature in the heart of Greenville. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, this park has something for everyone.
Spring Hikes In South Carolina
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The Palmetto State's got some killer spring hikes. Hike Carrick Creek, enjoy wildflowers on Boardwalk Loop at Congaree, and chase waterfalls on Rainbow Falls Trail at Jones Gap. Springtime adventures await!
8. Table Rock State Park's Carrick Creek Trail
Location: Pickens County, SC
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: $0-$6/per person. It is a fantastic option for cheap things to do in South Carolina in spring.
Table Rock State Park is a beautiful park located in the upstate of South Carolina. It is known for its stunning views of Table Rock Mountain, the highest peak in the state's Blue Ridge Mountain range. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming.
The Carrick Creek Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park. It is a moderate trail that is approximately two miles long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The trail follows Carrick Creek and offers beautiful views of waterfalls, rock formations, and spring flowers.
In the spring, you can find a variety of wildflowers along the Carrick Creek Trail, including trilliums, violets, mountain laurels, and more. These colorful flowers bloom in abundance and create a stunning contrast against the greenery of the forest. The park also has a variety of other trails that offer great views of spring flowers, like Pinnacle Mountain Trail and Table Rock Trail.
9. Congaree National Park's Boardwalk Loop Trail
Location: Hopkins, SC
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Admission to Congaree National Park is complimentary; there is no charge for entry.
If you're looking for South Carolina spring activities, visiting Congaree National Park and hiking the Boardwalk Loop Trail to see wildflowers is a great option. Keep in mind that the best time of year to see wildflowers is typically in the spring, from March to May.
A day trip to Congaree National Park (home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States) is a great way to experience the beauty of South Carolina's natural scenery. In addition to the many hiking trails, including the Boardwalk Loop Trail, you can enjoy other activities such as canoeing and kayaking, camping, and attending ranger-led programs and guided tours.
10. Jones Gap State Park's Rainbow Falls Trail
Location: Marietta, SC
Popularity: A popular trail, but the state park is a hidden gem.
Price: $0-$6/per person
If you're looking for a perfect time to explore South Carolina, spring is the best season. There are plenty of cheap things to do in South Carolina in spring, and one of the best activities is hiking the Rainbow Falls Trail in Jones Gap State Park. The trail is a 2.5-mile long moderately difficult hike featuring several steep inclines but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Rainbow Falls. The falls are a 100-foot waterfall that cascades over a rocky cliff, creating a mesmerizing sight.
If you're a nature lover, you'll be delighted to know that several species of wildflowers can be seen along the trail, depending on the time of year. In the springtime, you may be lucky to spot trillium, wild geranium, and mountain laurel. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the wildflowers and the waterfall. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
Spring Picnic Spots In South Carolina
For a spring picnic, hit up Azalea Park in Summerville for some flower power, or head to Huntington Beach State Park near Murrells Inlet for coastal vibes. Both spots serve up prime picnic real estate with a side of South Carolina charm.
11. Azalea Park
Location: Summerville, SC
Popularity: Busier on the weekends.
Price: Free.
Azalea Park in Summerville is a great place to have a spring picnic! The park has plenty of picnic tables, benches, and open grassy areas perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket.
The park also features beautiful azalea gardens, walking paths, and a duck pond, providing a lovely backdrop for your outdoor meal. Summerville is a small town with plenty of charm, making it a great place to enjoy the quintessential small-town American experience. And since you're in the area, check out the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site.
12. Huntington Beach State Park
Location: Murrells Inlet, SC
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: $0-$8/per person.
If you're looking for a picturesque spot to enjoy a picnic, you should check out Huntington Beach State Park. This park is located just south of Myrtle Beach and offers a wide range of amenities, including picnic areas with tables and grills, a fishing pier, a nature center, and hiking trails.
In addition to all of its amenities, the park is also home to several miles of pristine beaches and a diverse range of wildlife. You can spend the day exploring the park's numerous historic landmarks, or simply relax and soak up the sun on the beach.
When it comes to picnicking in the park, you have plenty of options. There are several areas to choose from, including the park's picnic shelters, which have tables and grills that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Alternatively, you can choose one of the park's many picnic tables, some of which offer beautiful views of the ocean.
Do you think these spots are some of the best things to do in South Carolina in spring? Let me know your thoughts – I’d love to hear from you!
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities, these are The 17 Very Best Places To Go In South Carolina This Spring. Also, if you're hitting the road to visit any of these places, take a look at these comfy vacation rentals!
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