Anderson is a small city of approximately 28,000 people located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This charming place blends historic charm with modern trends, offering visitors upscale dining, local breweries, art galleries, and museums. There are also several antique shops, boutiques, and farmers markets to browse in the afternoon. You have to go in person to see it all and understand why it earned the nickname “South Carolina’s Friendliest City.”
Anderson is just a stone’s throw from picturesque Lake Hartwell, a man-made reservoir located on the Georgia-South Carolina state line that features marina dining and is known for its fishing. An angler’s paradise, this vast 56,000-acre lake is stocked with striped bass, bream, black bass and carp and is surrounded by public lands. The city is an ideal base for hiking on the many nearby trail systems. Alternatively, there are several state parks to explore in the surrounding area, including Devil’s Fork Lake State Park, which has clear waters perfect for swimming, rafting and kayaking.
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Things to see and do in Anderson, SC
Paddle boards on Lake Hartwell – L.King/Shutterstock
Anderson is a vibrant city with something for every interest, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, with a 16-block historic district downtown. If you’re looking for creative pursuits in Anderson, there are several art centers and galleries, such as the Bay 3 Artisan Gallery, a cooperative of local artists who work in different mediums such as watercolors, acrylics, and photography. There are several performing arts centers, such as the Electric City Theater or the Market Theater, where famous stage shows are staged.
Gourmet travelers will find many eclectic dining options, including casual bistros and cafes, sushi bars and seafood restaurants. Anderson is the place to go for mouth-watering South Carolina BBQ at classic “cue” restaurants like Smokin’ Pig or Creekside Bar-Be-Cue, Southern comfort food at Mama Penn’s, or juicy burgers at Arnold’s. For craft beer, head to Magnetic South Brewery, which is also home to events like trivia nights and live music.
Outside of the city center, one of the main attractions for visitors is spending a day at Lake Hartwell, where there are several marinas and a boat launch offering pontoon rentals. Non-motorized boats are another great way to explore the lake shoreline and inlets on kayak and paddleboard tours. The area is home to two state parks along the lake: Sadler’s Creek and Lake Hartwell State Park, both of which offer incredible hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing piers, and swimming pools.
Planning a trip to Anderson, SC
Falls Park in downtown Greenville, South Carolina – John Coletti/Getty Images
While there are several smaller general aviation airports nearby, including Anderson Regional Airport (which has charter flights), if you’re flying business, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is your best choice, located about 45 minutes from Anderson. Greenville is a great place to stay before or after visiting Anderson, with a flower-filled downtown park with rivers, waterfalls, and trails. You can also take a Greyhound bus to Anderson, or drive along Interstates 81 or 178.
If you want to stay overnight in downtown Anderson, the Bleckley Inn is a gorgeous boutique hotel and a popular venue for weddings and other events. If you prefer the comfort of a small hotel or inn, there are a number of independently owned bed and breakfasts in the nearby towns of Pendleton and Starr. Or, for a more traditional option, Anderson has several chain hotels, such as the Hilton Garden Inn or Country Inn and Suites by Radisson.
Those who prefer sleeping under the stars can reserve a campsite at Sadler’s Creek State Park, which has more than 50 tent or RV campsites. Many campgrounds are located right on the water, offering million-dollar views of the lake. Plus, Lake Hartwell State Park has more options, including campgrounds, cabins, cabins and cottages, perfect for families.
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