Discover Aiken South Carolina | South Carolina Tourism Official Site (2024)

Full of rich historical attractions and outdoor recreation activities, it’s easy to see why Aiken is one of South Carolina’s most popular destinations.

Downtown Aiken

“A place for a splendid time to be had,” Aiken hosts world-class equestrian events and festivals.

Home to many thoroughbred champions, Aiken’s unique equestrian culture has created its own kind of Southern charm.

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Aiken Welcomes Visitors with Classic Southern Hospitality

Named Best Small Town of the South by Southern Living, Aiken is a richly diverse destination, offering thoroughbred racing, a rich arts scene, a thriving downtown and more.

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Dining in Aiken

From locally brewed beer and fantastic handmade burgers to award-winning fine dining, Aiken’s culinary scene has something for every palate.

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Lodging in Aiken

Whether you want to stay at an award-winning inn or quaint B&B, Aiken’s accommodations will have you wanting to stay well past check-out time.

Shopping in Aiken

No vacation is complete without some time spent shopping for unique finds and souvenirs. Whether you want to browse farmers markets and antique shops or pick up some old-fashioned candy to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Aiken.

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Recreation in Aiken

With six challenging golf courses, miles of trails for pedestrian and equestrian users and one of the nation’s largest urban forests, Aiken is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Arts & Museums in Aiken

Aiken’s vibrant local arts scene and a rich and varied history can be attributed to the town’s plethora of museums covering everything from the town’s history with horse racing to its connection to the nuclear industry.

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Hidden Gems in Aiken

Spend an afternoon meandering through Aiken’s beautiful parks, enjoying a mobile phone-guided tour of the town’s arboretum or visiting the Aiken Training Track, where champions have trained.

Interactive Trail Is Highlight of Downtown Aiken’s Acclaimed Arboretum

At first glance, downtown Aiken looks like so many other small Southern towns with its beautiful historic buildings and charming gardens. But lining the quiet streets of this All American City is one of the most diverse collections of trees found in any municipal landscape.

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Head to Aiken for a Polo Match

Pacers and Polo is the third leg of the Triple Crown of Aiken, all of which happen in March and which undoubtedly lead to Aiken being the center of what's called Thoroughbred Country.

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Horse Culture in Aiken Grew Out of a Winter Retreat for Health

Aiken, situated in a slightly elevated plain just across the Savannah River from the railroad stop in Augusta, Georgia, was an ideal location for wealthy Northerners to bring their pastimes while they took in the "pine vapors" for their health.

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Paddle the South Fork of the Edisto at Aiken State Park

At Aiken State Park you can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle a remote section of the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing blackwater stream in North America.

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An Overnight Away in Aiken South Carolina

Whether you're with your family or on a couple's retreat, Aiken is full of hidden gems ready to be discovered. From historic bed & breakfasts to the gorgeous Hopeland Gardens, you'll wish you were staying longer in this charming small town.

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Thoroughbred Country

Thoroughbred Country is a place of natural beauty filled with quaint towns rich in history. A shopper’s paradise, you’ll find antiques, local crafts and unique gifts throughout the region. Here, you can hike an urban forest, paddle the Edisto River and discover a place like no other.

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City of Aiken

Aiken gained a reputation during the first hundred years as "a place for a splendid time to be had." Those words reign true today. Amidst the bustling downtown area is the envied model of land preservation at its finest.