Plan A Unique Getaway to Thoroughbred Country South Carolina

Consisting of Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, and Barnwell counties, Thoroughbred Country South Carolina includes dozens of hidden gems. This region of South Carolina is known for its unique attractions and eclectic charm. 

Despite the wide array of world-class equestrian events in Thoroughbred Country, this tourist region has so much more to offer than just horses. The region holds four state parks, Aiken State Park, Barnwell State Park, Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, and Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site. Each park has unique excursions for travelers, from canoeing and kayaking to fishing and campsites. Historic Markers lining the Battlefield Trail at Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site provide insight into South Carolina’s involvement in the Civil War. Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site offers a guided tour through a former plantation, coupled with an accurate representation of the history of the enslaved in the state.

Beyond its parks, the region also boasts plenty of eclectic excursions. The Monetta Drive-In is one of three operating drive-in movie theaters in South Carolina. Racing fans can enjoy Paradise Motocross, a 70-acre motocross facility that is open to the public with training programs taught by a USMCA Top 100 Certified motocross coach. Those looking to learn about the local culture can head to the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta, home to a 2,300 square-foot interactive history exhibit as well as two galleries filled with a rotation of exhibits. 

Thoroughbred Country is filled with delicious, locally owned eateries to give visitors a taste of the south. McNeely’s Place in North Augusta offers fine, southern cuisine, while The Village Café in Aiken is the perfect spot to grab a specialty coffee and fresh baked goods. If you’re hungry for some classic barbeque, look no further than Bobby’s Bar-B-Q Buffet in Warrenville or Carolina Bar-B-Q in New Ellenton. Miller’s Bread Basket in Blackville offers Amish-Mennonite cooking and freshly baked bread. No matter what part of Thoroughbred Country you visit, a delectable meal is never far away.

Travelers can delight in the small-town charm of local boutiques and shops like High Cotton Downtown in North Augusta, The Caroline Collection, located in Denmark, is one of the largest privately owned antique stores in the Southeast, and Main Street Garden and Gifts in Bamberg. 

End your day of exploring at one of the areas unique hotels. The Willcox in Aiken has been voted one of the best hotels in the world, offering an old fashioned, southern feel. Magnolia Shadows in Ridge Spring is perfect for traveling horsemen, with lodging for visitors and boarding for horses. The Wisteria Cottage in Blackville is a rustic two-bedroom 1940’s cottage, ideal for a quiet getaway. 

Unique and charming, Thoroughbred Country is home to hundreds of fascinating attractions to create the perfect getaway.