Plan Your Next Adventure: Things to Do in Anderson, SC.
Anderson, South Carolina, is a small, vibrant city in the state’s northwest region. With just over 28,000 residents, Anderson offers a small-town feel with various attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
The city is situated on the shores of Lake Hartwell, which provides ample opportunities for water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
One of the main attractions in Anderson is the Anderson County Museum, located in the heart of downtown. The museum houses exhibits and artifacts that showcase the area’s rich history, including exhibits on the Cherokee Indians, the Civil War, and the textile industry.
The downtown area is also home to various unique shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it an excellent destination for a stroll or an evening out.
Anderson is also known for its many parks and green spaces, which offer outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities. The city’s largest park, Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center, is home to numerous sporting events and concerts throughout the year.
Other notable parks include the Anderson County Veterans Memorial, which honors local veterans, and the Linley Park Recreation Area, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
Finally, Anderson is a hub for arts and culture in the region. The city is home to the Anderson Arts Center, which hosts exhibits and events showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
The Electric City Playhouse also offers a variety of live theater productions throughout the year, ranging from classic plays to modern dramas.
Anderson, South Carolina, is a charming destination with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
Anderson Downtown Historic District
The Anderson Downtown Historic District is in the center of Anderson, South Carolina. This area is full of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It is also an attractive area to walk and spend a relaxing afternoon.
The Anderson Downtown Historic District buildings date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of the structures are Victorian commercial buildings. Some are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The downtown area is the heart of the community and a hub for cultural activities. Today, the 16-block Historic District is bustling. You can enjoy a stroll while visiting the many shops and restaurants.
Many of the downtown buildings in Anderson were constructed in the 19th century during a period of prosperity. However, the city also experienced major construction after Reconstruction.
Denver Downs
Denver Downs is an agritourism farm in Anderson, South Carolina, owned and operated by the Garrison family since 1869. It produces oats, wheat, soybeans, corn, and beef. There are also 35 fun barnyard activities to enjoy.
The corn maze is an obvious attraction. But Denver Downs offers many other agritourism activities to make your trip to Anderson successful.
You can find various games, rides, and interests, such as the tractor-pulled hayride, the Kid Corral, and the Double D Gem Mine. And you can enjoy the best part of fall – the pumpkin patch!
Denver Downs is a fun, family-friendly farm that welcomes thousands of yearly visitors. During the harvest season, you can take a ride on the tractor-pulled hayrides and explore the numerous attractions on the property.
The farm’s more notable highlights include a 10-acre corn maze, a giant slingshot, and an Apollo 11 rocket.
Carolina Wren Park
Carolina Wren Park in downtown Anderson has several things to offer visitors. In addition to the usual picnicking and ballpark games, this park boasts an ice skating rink during the winter months.
There is also a splash park in the summer for the more athletic among us. Other notable features include an open-air pavilion.
Fortunately for Anderson locals, the city has several fun and exciting events to entertain everyone. The city’s calendar is filled with entertaining activities for all ages, from its famous annual Soiree to the more casual monthly and quarterly music and art concerts.
While the city is no stranger to festivals and events, the real action is on the streets, where visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars.
Then, as the sun sets, the town lights come on, and the city’s residents and visitors can indulge in a night out.
Those looking for a more formal evening may consider a dinner date at one of the area’s finest restaurants. In addition, this is an excellent time to explore the hidden treasures of Anderson County, from the parks to the local craft breweries.
Anderson County Museum
Anderson County Museum is a unique facility that offers educational opportunities to various people.
As a part of the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism division of Anderson County, the museum is a nexus for the scholarly and culturally minded. In addition, the museum catalyzes cultural tourism in Upstate South Carolina.
There are numerous attractions to be found in this 12,000-square-foot facility. In addition, the museum has an expansive reading and research room that features some books and documents showcasing the history of Anderson and its residents.
The museum boasts several special exhibits, including a traveling show, a model railroad, and several other permanent displays.
So if you’re looking for the best place to learn about the history of Anderson, you should check out the Anderson County Museum.
Anderson Arts Center
The Anderson Arts Center is located in historic downtown Anderson. It is a thriving center of culture and education for the community. This landmark building features exhibits, artist studios, classes, public art projects, and more.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Anderson Arts Center is home to a small collection of works that rotate throughout the year. As a result, there are about nine to eleven art shows annually. These events offer visitors an opportunity to experience local and regional art.
The arts center hosts educational programs, including classes, workshops, and a summer arts camp. They also support arts outreach to under-served populations, including children.
The warehouse is 33,000 square feet and offers artist studios, retail, and exhibit space. Additionally, the building serves as a convention and visitors bureau. Visitors can check out exhibits and attend classes in ADA-compliant classrooms.