Overview
Historic Georgetown
Journey 35 miles to historic Georgetown from Myrtle Beach to experience another lively South Carolina destination and enjoy a fun, educational day trip. Georgetown is the third-oldest city in South Carolina, known for its history and Southern charm, much like the old town Myrtle Beach. The seaport of Georgetown is historic because it served as home to many influential figures whose lives and achievements are now marked by historical attractions and plaques throughout downtown. Anyone who has visited even once has fond memories of the quaint waterfront and fascinating tours. Most vacationers make a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Georgetown a tradition, returning time and again.
If you can’t imagine parting with the fast-paced fun of Myrtle Beach, don’t worry. Georgetown, South Carolina has museums, dining, and shopping that are always worth your time. Explore it all on your own or join a tour and let a docent lead you around to plantation homes and culinary destinations. The small square footage and shaded, tree-lined streets make Georgetown an extremely walkable place; you could spend a full day here without ever needing your car. Though this town isn’t a coastal city with the usual long stretch of beaches, the Georgetown Harborwalk affords fantastic views and many places to stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. If the ocean is calling after your day exploring, Pawleys Island beaches are just 15 miles away and make a nice pit stop on your return trip to Myrtle Beach from Georgetown.
Consider booking your hotel in Myrtle Beach for a little longer to make time for a great day trip somewhere new. We’ve gathered some ideas for what to do in downtown Georgetown, South Carolina, to make planning your vacation adventures a breeze:
Carolina Food Tours
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Carolina Food Tours attracts foodies and history buffs with its fun combination of culinary and cultural discovery. Stroll historic Georgetown, South Carolina, and learn fun facts about the area. The tour stops at three or four restaurants where guests sample appetizers, entrées, and desserts. Not only will the rich history of this city fascinate you, but you’ll meet new friends along the way.
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Georgetown Harborwalk
Spanning the entirety of the historic district, this scenic boardwalk winds along the Sampit River, providing a beautiful and relaxing place to stretch your legs. There are plenty of shops and historic buildings to take in, and the boats coming and going on the river will also catch your attention.
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Hopsewee Plantation
Old town Myrtle Beach has its own landmarks dating back the better part of a century. But for history buffs in search of something a little more historic, Georgetown’s Hopsewee Plantation is worth the hour’s drive south. Hopsewee Plantation was built in 1740 and was the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. A variety of tours and weekly presentations are available on the grounds. The home tours let visitors explore the home from room to room and view two original slave cabins.
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Shopping
Stroll down Front Street in historic Georgetown, South Carolina, and enjoy a new shopping experience. You won’t find any big-box stores or chains here. Instead, the shops include locally owned and operated boutiques, gourmet markets, antique shops, art galleries, and mom-and-pop shops purveying books, toys, clothing, and more. The shopkeepers are happy to share their curated and handmade artisan items with new visitors.
Dining
The restaurants in downtown Georgetown, South Carolina offer Southern hospitality and great food. The outdoor patios and waterfront decks make dining a special experience. Popular eateries include The River Room, Root, The Big Tuna, and Rollin Local, one of the newest favorites. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Old Georgetown Creamery or Sweeties Chocolates.
Historic Tours
If you want to take your Georgetown sightseeing to the next level, select one of many area tours. Nature lovers give the Lowcountry Boat Tours high marks for the shelling and lighthouse tours. Or, opt for a walking tour if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land. Those who fancy spooky experiences will appreciate the array of ghost tours and haunted sights in this Southern city. If you aren’t sure where to start, head to the Georgetown Visitor Center on Front Street for maps and suggestions.
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The Rice Museum
Here’s a little-known fact—in 1840, Georgetown produced almost half of the American rice crop. This region’s production was vital to the rest of the colonies and other countries as well. The Rice Museum explores the history of rice agriculture in the county through various permanent and rotating exhibits. The museum is also home to the Browns Ferry Vessel, the oldest colonial vessel on display in the nation.
S.C. Maritime Museum
As the state’s second-largest port, Georgetown has a rich history in the transportation, trade, and naval industries. The S.C. Maritime Museum in downtown Georgetown, South Carolina, celebrates the nautical history of the area. Visitors here can explore interactive exhibits, and see maritime artifacts, photographs, documents, and model ships. The museum also hosts youth sailing camps each summer.
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