3 SC towns were ranked among the most favorite in the US. Here they are

Three towns in South Carolina were listed as some of the favorites to visit nationwide, according to FamilyDestinationsGuide.com following a poll conducted on thousands of families across the country.

After determining the top 150 “best small towns in America,” three of them were found to be within the Palmetto State.

Small towns have become increasingly popular vacation destinations and travel sites for families as the quaintness can offer a sizable reduction of traveling stress, grant more time together and even be more budget-friendly.

“Visiting small towns has become increasingly popular as travelers seek authentic and personalized experiences that provide a break from the fast-paced, commercialized world. These hidden gems offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, connect with friendly communities, and escape the stress of everyday life.” said Rose Ackermann of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com.

As for South Carolina, Beaufort, Georgetown and Aiken all made the list and are no strangers to being crowned as some of the state’s favorite small towns.

Georgetown came in at 53rd overall and was described by the site as a place where families can enjoy the nearby beaches, which include Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island.

Sunrise at a creek dock in Pawleys Creek in Pawleys Island.
Sunrise at a creek dock in Pawleys Creek in Pawleys Island.

Downtown Historic Georgetown is reportedly the third oldest city in South Carolina and is described as a must visit destination for those who enjoy waterfront shopping, dining, boating, fishing, historic tours, and ghost tours, according to Historic Georgetown. The site also describes Georgetown as a “perfect place” for a destination wedding.

In 59th overall, Aiken was described to offer families a variety of dining and shopping options, which can allow for ample possibilities for spending some quality time together.

Historical Aiken Golf Club, on the edge of downtown Aiken, has greens likes Pinehurst #2, shaped like a turtle’s back and was the first course in the country to set up ladies tee boxes. Aiken also has a lot of history. Babe Zaharius played there, for instance. This is the first hole an practice green as seen from the upstairs balcony of the clubhouse.

Visitaikensc.com described the town as having numerous attractions, such as equine pursuits for those interested in horseback riding, arts, sporting facilities, an abundance of nature, a part played in the nation’s railroad birth and the fight in the Cold War era. A visit to Aiken allows guests to get outdoors, experience history, have ample shopping opportunities and walk through parks.

Historical re-enactors participate in a reenactment of the Battle of Aiken on Saturday (Todd Bennett/The Augusta Chronicle via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT
Historical re-enactors participate in a reenactment of the Battle of Aiken on Saturday (Todd Bennett/The Augusta Chronicle via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT

Beaufort came in 67th overall due to its rich history, beautiful beaches and abundance of outdoor activities, according to FamilyDestinationsGuide.com.

The 2021 Beaufort Shrimp Festival took place Oct. 1-2 in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
The 2021 Beaufort Shrimp Festival took place Oct. 1-2 in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

“Families can explore the historic downtown area, take a boat tour of the harbor, or spend the day at one of the many nearby beaches. There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and biking. With its unique culture, stunning scenery, and variety of activities, Beaufort is the perfect place for a family vacation,” the site continued.

Beaufort is known for winning many accolades and for its breathtaking Lowcountry scenery. In addition, Beaufort has been seen in big-name movies and has racked up some impressive statistics.

Southern Living Magazine, which named Beaufort the South’s Best Small Town 2022, loves Waterfront Park.
Southern Living Magazine, which named Beaufort the South’s Best Small Town 2022, loves Waterfront Park.

According to Beaufort.com, several famous movies have been filmed in Beaufort, such as Forrest Gump, The Prince of Tides and The Big Chill. The site also states that Beaufort contains about 25% of the marshlands on the country’s entire coast.

Although none of the SC towns made it into the top 10, the 10 selected “best small towns” following the poll included:

  1. Holualoa, Hawaii

  2. Ely, Nevada

  3. Anna Maria Island, Florida

  4. Old Koloa Town, Hawaii

  5. West Yellowstone, Montana

  6. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

  7. Chincoteague, Virginia

  8. Sitka, Alaska

  9. Sedona, Arizona

  10. Ketchikan, Alaska

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