Aiken County’s history comes to life at places that tell very different stories. Redcliffe Plantation was completed in 1859; the drive-in theater The Big Mo was built in 1951. Also on offer are reminders of the area’s equestrian tradition, art and history exhibits, and protected river landscapes. This mix provides plenty of ways for travelers to discover nature, culture and local experiences according to their own interests.
History and Equestrian Sports
Redcliffe Plantation is home to the only surviving cabin for enslaved people in South Carolina’s state park system. The mansion is accessible only as part of a guided tour. Tours share the history of the Hammond mansion and the historic stables. As the tour schedule is temporarily limited, check availability before your trip. The cabin adds a tangible testament to the history of enslaved people to this historic site.
The region’s equestrian history can also be explored from different perspectives. The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum honors 40 champion thoroughbreds that trained at the Aiken Training Track. At Stable View, visitors can watch or take part in equestrian activities. The facility is set in 1,000 acres of rolling countryside. The Beech Island Historical Tour, meanwhile, includes historic Beech Island, the Beech Island Barn and Zubly Cemetery.
The Big Mo adds another chapter to local leisure history: it is one of the few drive-in theaters still operating in South Carolina. In spring, summer and fall, it typically shows three double features every weekend. As the program may change, it’s best to check the schedule before your visit.
Rivers, Nature Preserves and Trails
The Silver Bluff Audubon Sanctuary encompasses 3,410 acres of protected land and stretches along 2.6 miles of the Savannah River. More than 200 bird species have been recorded in the area, which also has eight miles of hiking trails. Hitchcock Woods offers a different experience: the nation’s largest privately owned urban forest is open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset.
There are also trails to suit different paces. Boyd Pond Park features a 30-acre pond and a two-mile hiking trail. Its 18-hole disc golf course was established in 2016. The paved North Augusta Greeneway is more than seven miles long and designed for walking, running and cycling. These details help distinguish a trail around a park pond from a longer multi-use path.
The waterways offer a variety of ways to explore, too. Aiken State Park is located on the South Edisto River; a 1.7-mile canoe and kayak trail runs along the river’s South Fork. The Horse Creek Water Trail is nine miles long and follows historic Horse Creek. Its sections run from Graniteville through Langley Pond to Harrison-Caver Park in Clearwater. Edisto Boat Landing provides access to the South Edisto River and ample parking. A boat landing with access to the Savannah River has extensive parking for trailers, cars and trucks, as well as a large dock, grills and picnic areas.
At Langley Pond Park, the focus shifts from river routes to a 2,000-meter rowing course with eight lanes fully marked by buoys. The venue hosts regattas, triathlons, and water-skiing and wakeboarding competitions. The differences between paddling trails, rowing courses and multi-use paths show just how many ways there are to spend time outdoors.
Arts, Markets and More Experiences
The Aiken County Farmers Market combines local food with a long market history: it is South Carolina’s oldest continuously operating county farmers market at the same location. Vendors offer fresh produce, baked goods, and locally sourced meats and cheeses. Art lovers can find regular gallery exhibitions featuring artists from the region and across South Carolina at the Aiken Center For The Arts. Classes in a variety of artistic mediums are also available there for all ages. The Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta focuses on regional art and history, with exhibitions that change every three months.
For a different kind of experience, Eudora Farms offers a petting zoo and a drive-through safari. Exotic animals include a giraffe, alpacas, camels, lemurs, zebras and baboons. As operating details may change, check before your trip. Aiken County offers historic sites, art, local produce, animal encounters, and a variety of trails and waterways as distinct experiences to discover.
Explore More Destinations
Explore more destinations: Aiken, North Augusta, Oconee County, Bamberg County, Saluda, Florence, Sumter County, Newberry County.
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