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Things to See and Do

There are many things to see and do in Summerville and in the surrounding area – and Charleston is just 20 minutes away. We have listed some of the most popular attractions and activities for your enjoyment:
 

In Summervile

Summerville's downtown has some excellent shops, boutiques, and antique stores. There are many good restaurants that are highly regarded as being tops in the Lowcountry. The shopping is plentiful and varied. Azalea Park is only a block away from the Cottage and offers peaceful walking trails, reflecting ponds, tennis courts, and an amazing collection of public sculpture that you are sure to enjoy. For a complete list of antique shops, farmers' markets and events, check out the Summerville tourism website.
 
Guerin's Pharmacy (140 S. Main St.) is the oldest continually operating pharmacy in South Carolina, and has an old-fashioned soda fountain. The Summerville Dorchester Museum (100 E. Doty Ave.) offers a fascinating look at local history. The Timrod Library (217 Central Ave.) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
 


Near Summerville

Just a short drive down Highway 61 (aka Ashley River Road and named The Ashley River National Scenic Byway), you will be transported back to another time as you experience the beauty of the Ashley River and its famous plantations: Middleton Place, Magnolia Plantation, and Drayton Hall. Each one is unique and each offers guided tours; Middleton Place and Magnolia Plantation also offer self-guided garden tours so you can soak in the history and nature. If you are staying 3 or more nights at the Cottage, we provide complimentary one-day passes to one of these plantations for you to enjoy.
 


Golf, golf, and more golf

Summerville and the Lowcountry have some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the world. Pine Forest Country Club in Summerville is highly rated. Or you might opt to play the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, home of the Ryder Cup '91 and the PGA Championship '12. For more options, visit the Summerville tourism website or the Charleston tourism website.
 

Charleston

Historic Downtown Charleston is only a 30-minute drive from Summerville. You can find just about anything your heart desires in this historic and vibrant city. Be sure to check out the South Carolina Aquarium Complex. Catch a boat to Fort Sumter and explore where the Civil War began.
 
Wander the streets of Charleston's historic district and witness a living museum of American architecture. Or take a carriage ride for a more relaxing look.
 

There are lots of upscale retail stores along King Street, or stroll through the Public Market, and shop the many boutiques that flank the market. There are many guided walking tours or Ghost Walks available too.

 
Twice a year, two organizations in Charleston (Historic Charleston and the Preservation Society of Charleston) offer fascinating and enjoyable tours of some of Charleston's finest homes and gardens. This is a unique opportunity to visit rarely seen historic interiors and private gardens. The Festival of Houses & Gardens is held in early spring. The Tour of Homes is held in the fall. Both are wonderful events that draw hundreds of visitors to the area.
 

Historic Charleston Foundation—Festival of Houses & Gardens

Preservation Society of Charleston—Fall Tour of Homes
 

The Beaches

Take a day to play in the surf along the South Carolina Coast. The Charleston area is proud to offer three completely public beaches: Isle Of Palms, Sullivans Island, and Folly Beach. If you enjoy fishing, be sure to check out the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier at Folly Beach.
 

There is no end to the leisure possibilities in the Lowcountry. You will likely find yourself wanting to schedule another visit to Summerville and the surrounding area.