In close proximity to major cities like Augusta, GA, and Columbia, SC, there’s a cluster of charming small towns in South Carolina’s Thoroughbred Country that are worthy of a spot on your travel list. While this area is primarily known for equestrian-focused activities and the anchor cities of Aiken and North Augusta, we’re breaking down a few of the lesser-known reasons to visit this charming pocket of South Carolina!
WHERE TO STAY
You’ll likely need a few days to experience everything Thoroughbred Country offers. Whether you prefer an idyllic bed and breakfast, a restored farmhouse, or a scenic campsite, there’s a lodging option for every type of traveler!
About 19 minutes from Downtown Aiken is Whisper Farm, a historic 1819 farmstead thoughtfully restored to accommodate up to 17 guests. Lodging options include cozy cottages, a historic farmhouse, and the newly built lodge.
Located in Ridge Spring, SC, Magnolia Shadows was built in 1895 and sits on 50 acres of beautiful pastures and gardens. Offering both a bed and breakfast and a cottage for guests to stay in, the property also boasts on-site stables, welcoming guests traveling with horses.
Another great bed and breakfast option, Wisteria Cottage is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom Mennonite-owned property perfect for those looking to unplug and relax. Don’t forget to visit the property’s herb and flower garden!
Located in Ehrhardt, Lazy Dog Acres offers three unique rooms for a weekend getaway: the Bunkhouse, Farmhand Room, and Wedding Suite. Be sure to also take advantage of the on-site spa during your stay, featuring products locally grown and handcrafted by the proprietor!
For those who prefer camping, Barnwell State Park is home to 25 campsites equipped with packed gravel, water and electrical hookups, and picnic tables. The park is also home to five cabins that offer linens, utensils, central air and heating, and fire rings.
Last but certainly not least, Broxton Bridge is a hunting reserve — but not the kind you’d expect. The property is home to 125 RV campsites and an 1850s plantation home, which offers five bedrooms with private bathrooms. During your stay, be sure to also take advantage of the 10-acre lake, trail riding opportunities, and sporting clays.
WHAT TO DO
After you’re unpacked and settled in, it’s time to start exploring! Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or an art aficionado, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Thoroughbred Country.
An area steeped in history, it’s no surprise that Thoroughbred Country is home to a variety of museums. Sitting in the former Kitchings Mill Library — the first library in Aiken County — the Wagener Museum offers a look inside the local political, social, economic, and military history. The Wagon House is just a short walk away and showcases the official 1976 South Carolina Bicentennial Conestoga Wagon.
Additional small-town museums include the Williston Museum, Blackville Heritage Museum, and Voorhees College Historical Museum.
The late Jim Harrison is one of South Carolina’s most well-known artists, as he often painted nostalgic Coca-Cola signs. You can experience his work in person at the Jim Harrison Gallery in Denmark, which is home to bronzes, original paintings, etchings, and limited-edition reproductions of some of Jim’s best work.
Dubbed “The Big Mo” by locals, the Monetta Drive-In is one of the last three operating drive-in movie theaters in South Carolina. Offering three screens — each showing double features — the theater is open every Friday through Sunday in the spring, summer, and fall.
For a unique outdoor experience, visit the 300+ exotic animals at Eudora Wildlife Safari Park. Whether you drive through the three-mile trail or stroll along the Walk Thru Safari, you’ll enjoy up-close views of everything from parrots to lemurs, kangaroos, and zebras.
Another outdoor, family-friendly attraction is Williston Town Park. Here, you’ll find a playground, picnic tables, basketball and tennis courts, and an 18-hole tournament-level disc golf course.
Traditional golfers will enjoy playing a round at River Birch Golf Club. Built by Russell Breeden, a well-known South Carolina architect, the 18-hole course offers a beautiful backdrop with plenty of greenery, lakes, and woods.
And finally, no trip to Thoroughbred Country is complete without a visit to God’s Acre Healing Springs. Since the 18th century, it has been said that the springs would help aid those who were wounded. Today, the springs remain intact, and many locals and tourists still visit and drink the water for its rumored healing properties.
WHERE TO SHOP
If you’re looking for something to remember your adventures in Thoroughbred Country, be sure to stop into some of its charming boutiques. Offering everything from apparel to sporting goods, candles, books, and antiques, here are some of our favorites!
As one of the Southeast’s largest privately owned antique stores, The Caroline Collection is a must-visit. Located in a historic building, it offers a chance to explore the three floors of the ever-changing collection, which includes furniture, decor, and more.
SB Tip: Looking for more antiques? There are three additional locations of The Caroline Collection located along the same street.
To take a step back in time, visit some of Thoroughbred Country’s old-school five-and-dime stores. Poole’s and Ehrhardt 5 & 10 are both popular options that offer a bit of everything. Similarly, Brooker’s True Value and Gifts is not only a hardware store. Instead, it is a family-owned-and-operated business that sells everything from clothing, jewelry, and shoes to rock candy.
If you want to elevate your home or garden, Main Street Garden & Gifts and Grandma’s House Treasure Barn will do the trick. From home decor to unique blooms and collectibles, you will surely find something amazing here!
An outdoor and sporting goods department store, Tyler Brothers has been a Wagener staple since 1904. Today, you’ll find products from well-known brands like Caterpillar, Ariat, Carhartt, Timberland, and HEYDUDE.
WHERE TO DINE
Before or after a full day of exploring, fuel up at one of the many local eateries. You’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings, as Thoroughbred Country restaurants offer barbecue, sweet treats, pizza, and fresh-baked bread.
For a light bite or lunch, there are a few beloved favorites in the area. Popular stops among both locals and tourists include The Little Bake Shoppe, Miller’s Bread Basket, and Meeting On Main.
If you’re craving something on the sweeter side — whether it be baked goods or ice cream — Nona & Pops, Wee Bake, and The Scoop House are all popular places to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Russell’s is a local pizzeria with locations in Wagener, Williston, and Blackville. In addition to its specialty pizzas, the restaurant offers a variety of sub sandwiches, hearty pasta dishes, and burgers.
Another locally owned and operated chain, Duke’s has locations in Blackville and Bamberg. Offering Southern homestyle cooking at its best, you’ll find a variety of barbecue staples, including chicken, pork, baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad.
If you’re craving even more authentic Southern cuisine, there are a few equally delicious options to choose from. Paula’s Family Restaurant, Country Paradise Diner, and Willie Strick’s Farmhouse Kitchen all offer delicious buffet-style country cooking — so come hungry!
Enjoy your time in Thoroughbred Country!
This article is sponsored by Thoroughbred Country. All photography provided.
