Sometimes, it may seem that the big college towns and cities in South Carolina get all of the attention. And while those schools and cities and towns are amazing places to visit, we thought we'd take a look at a town that's not widely known for the huge university or college it supports - yet, it still has an amazing small university!

The City of Anderson, 2016 population estimate 27,880, is also called the Electric City because it was the first city to use long-distance cables from a power plant to light up the town.

That was in the late 1800s and Anderson has come a long way since then and is commonly referred to as the Friendliest City in South Carolina.

But most people don't realize Anderson is home to a comprehensive university that offers bachelors, master's and doctoral degrees.

Founded in 1911 as Anderson College, the university was initially an all girl's school until 1931 when young men were accepted into the Christian School.

The little-known university has an intimate undergraduate population, as well as quite an extensive enrollment into graduate and doctoral programs.

The campus is a beautiful and historic step back in time as you wander past perfectly manicured lawns that sprawl out in front of historic old building throughout the 270 acres of this NCAA Division II – SAC school.

As you can imagine, the population in Anderson spikes a bit during the school year.

You can often see students engaged in all sorts of fun activities. Above is a photo of last year's commencement parade, led by a "Grand Marshall" on a white horse. What a way to end a college career!But there are many more things to admire about this little-known college town (city?)... Take a look at some of the things you can get into when you visit Anderson, The Electric City:

Sadlers Creek State Park

Want to get away for the day or weekend? Head to Sadlers Creek State Park where you'll find 52 RV and tent sites ideal for bunking down for the duration. Additionally, the state park has a 100-foot pier that extends into a protected cove. Catch dinner and then go cook it over an open campfire as you watch the sun go down.

Split Creek Farm

Known nationally for their award-winning goat milk cheese, goat milk fudge, and goat milk yogurt, this fun dairy farm features a store, plus tours of the adorable kid nursery shown above.

Carolina Wren Park

Anderson is filled with even more ways to enjoy the outdoors. Carolina Wren Park is a multi-use venue that's often filled with festivals, music and two seasonal events that bring out the locals on a regular basis: movie night and Holiday Ice.

Anderson County Museum

More than just your typical museum, ACM has made a mission of collecting and preserving artifacts from the local community that preserve the history of the area and the culture of Anderson County. You'll find everything from a rescued old box car to cannons and a replica old general store here. No visit to Anderson would be complete without sitting down for a flavorful memory from one of the many restaurants. Here are a few delicious choices:

Summa Joe's

Located right on Main Street, this local eatery delivers a casual and comfortable atmosphere that is as beautiful as the items on the menu. Head here for lunch, dinner, or just drinks in downtown Anderson.

Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill

Step up your game with a bit of fine dining in the old Sullivan Building on Main Street. Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill delivers exciting big city cuisine in a semi-formal atmosphere with service that is second to none.

Pompous Pig

And for a taste of local cuisine in an equally casual atmosphere, try the Pompous Pig, located on North Main Street. One taste and you'll see why it's been voted time and again Anderson's most favorite BBQ joint. (Just look at that plate of BBQ nachos!)

Anderson is conveniently located within the Greenville, SC statistical area, and nearby to a variety of other Upstate activities. When visiting Anderson, don't leave without stopping at this amazing 5-room bookstore.