Florence, South Carolina is a beautiful historic city situated on a bend of the Great Pee Dee River. This charming city is known for its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Southeast and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From outdoor adventures to cultural exploration, Florence has something for everyone.
Florence is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, with the famous Pee Dee National Golf Course being a particular favorite. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, you can explore the nearby Francis Marion National Forest, home to some of the most beautiful hikes and trails in the area.
The downtown area of Florence is filled with unique and interesting shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the Florence County Museum, the Florence War Memorial, and the Florence Little Theatre.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of parks and gardens in the area, including the Florence County Park and the Florence Historical Society Park. There are also lots of great places to stay, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
No matter what your travel style, Florence has something for everyone. From outdoor recreation and cultural exploration to shopping and relaxation, this city is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown: Located in the heart of Florence, this area is home to the city’s main attractions including the Florence Museum of Art and Sciences, the Florence Civic Center, and the Florence Town Center. It is also close to many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
2. East Florence: This area is known for its outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and golfing. It is also home to many retail stores and restaurants.
3. West Florence: This area is home to the Florence Regional Airport and many parks and recreation areas. It is also close to the shopping and dining of downtown Florence.
4. North Florence: This neighborhood is located close to the University of South Carolina–Florence and the Florence Little Theater. It has many local restaurants and shops.
5. South Florence: This area is home to many parks and trails, as well as the Florence Country Club. It is also close to many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
1. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation and lush gardens located on the Ashley River. It is one of the oldest plantations in the South and is renowned for its spectacular gardens and landscapes.
2. Cypress Gardens: Cypress Gardens is a beautiful park located on the Cooper River and is well known for its stunning botanical gardens, azaleas, and cypress trees.
3. Old Santee Canal Park: Old Santee Canal Park is a historic park located on the Cooper River where visitors can explore the remains of an old canal built in the 1700s. It is also home to a variety of wildlife as well as a museum and gift shop.
4. Middleton Place: Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark located on the Ashley River and is renowned for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and the country’s oldest landscaped gardens.
5. The Charleston Museum: The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in the United States and offers a variety of interactive exhibits, educational programs, and historical artifacts from the area.
1. Shrimp & Grits: A Lowcountry classic, this dish consists of creamy grits topped with savory shrimp in a signature sauce.
2. Pimento Cheese Burger: A local favorite, this burger features a juicy patty topped with creamy pimento cheese and a house-made bun.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes: Slices of green tomatoes are coated in a light batter and fried to perfection.
4. BBQ: Whether it’s pulled pork or smoked brisket, Florence has some of the best BBQ in the Carolinas.
5. Boiled Peanuts: A local snack, boiled peanuts are boiled in salted water until they become soft and flavorful.