Historic Georgetown

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.