You'll find this historic hotel in South Carolina in the charming city of Aiken. Even though Charleston is considered America’s most historic city and is well-loved by tourists, many other cities and towns within the state are deeply rich in history and the types of experiences awaiting those who visit. Aiken, located in the western part of the state, is one of those places, where the most famous historic hotel in South Carolina has been delighting guests with southern hospitality at its best since 1898. Let's discover The Willcox!

Legend has it that a young Native American Princess in poor health was told by her father to travel to "the land of the rising sun, where whispering pines stand tall…. through which a river of sand steadily flows."

It is here that she would regain her health. Aiken is this type of place, originally a winter colony resort, that has attracted and captivated people from all over the world for well over 100 years with its southern charm.

Located on Colleton Avenue, the Willcox, one of the best hotels in South Carolina, was built in the late 19th century for affluent Yankees seeking warmth, light, and high society during the winter season.

The area was even considered the Queen of the Winter Colonies because so many came each year.

It was a time of great entertainment, recreation, and relaxation, with dances held in ballrooms glittered with candlelight, old rivals settling differences with polite, staunch competition on the polo field, and picnics in Hitchcock Woods with silver, crystal, and linen.

Politicians, royalty, and industry leaders often visited one of the most historic hotels near me.

Some of the famous people who have stayed at this stately hotel include Winston Churchill, Harold Vanderbilt, and Elizabeth Arden.

It’s the perfect venue for a girlfriend getaway, with a luxurious salon and spa on-site.

For a more personalized experience, there are custom spa packages available for guests to choose a variety of ways to unwind that best suit their tastes and preferences.

One of the extras you can select when booking is the Bedtime Bliss Bath Butler, which includes a doTERRA Serenity oil bath in a soothing candlelit atmosphere, accompanied by chamomile tea to help your body unwind for the best night’s sleep.

If you opt for the Love Bath Butler, you and your sweetheart will enjoy a tub surrounded by rose petals, rose-scented face towels, and rose massage oil with champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Special experiences are available for the children also.

Pets are welcome and loved at The Willcox, too with the Family, Friends, and Pets package and other experience enhancements for your furry friends.

The Elf Tuck-In is one of the holiday surprises offered to make your family's Christmas extra special and memorable.

All of the extras bring people in droves to one of the best places to stay in South Carolina.

Get the Learn to Play Polo or Polo the Willcox Way package to experience the equestrian history of the area.

Other types of packages to choose from include The Par-fect Golf Getaway, Yoga Retreat, Babymoon, and the Southern Living Garden Package, just to name a few.

Delicious cuisine has always been just as much a draw for The Willcox as anything else.

You can enjoy a meal at the award-winning restaurant, a romantic dining package for a special occasion or just because, a drink from the lobby bar, or even get takeout or delivery or an event catered.

We like the hefty Berkshire Pork Chop with

spring cabbage, ginger, and mustard jus paired with our favorite Cabernet.

Called “The Home of the Tastiest Cocktail,” The Willcox Restaurant serves several cocktails.

The Parisian, made with 42 Below Vodka from New Zealand, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and an orange slice for garnish, is one of the local favorites.

For more information about this historic hotel in South Carolina, visit The Willcox website. With such history, charm, and thoughtful offerings, it’s no surprise that The Willcox has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best award. Find more reviews on Tripadvisor.

Have you ever stayed at The Willcox? Did you get any of the experience enhancements or packages? Share with us in the comments section below! Before you go, read up on why the city of Aiken is so perfectly Southern.