Places to visit in Sumter, SC.
If you’re looking to get out and explore, there are plenty of things to do in Sumter, South Carolina. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s history or taking a tour of the local museums, you’ll find it all here.
The city of Sumter is home to various attractions and activities, making it an ideal place to visit. You will find many places in Sumter, from beautiful parks and trails to historic buildings.
The city’s location on the Congaree River makes it an excellent place for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Several parks are also within the city limits, including the famous Manchester State Forest. This park offers hiking trails through scenic wooded areas and picnic areas where you can enjoy your lunch outdoors in peace.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, South Carolina
Swan Lake Iris Gardens is a beautiful and unique South Carolina attraction. It is also one of the most popular tourist spots in the state, drawing thousands of visitors annually. These gardens contain over eight hundred species of plants.
The gardens are located on thirty acres in Sumter. The park was initially built as a private fishing lake by wealthy businessman Hamilton Carr Bland. He planned to turn the place into a garden. However, he was unsuccessful in his endeavors. So, he decided to throw a bulb into the lake, hoping it would bloom.
As a result, a swamp appeared in the garden. Hamilton decided to plant Japanese iris there. This species burst into bloom in spring.
In addition to the Japanese iris, several other trees and flowers can be found in the garden. These include azaleas, daylilies, and muscovies.
Sumter County Museum
The Sumter County Museum in Sumter, South Carolina, offers a lot. Its two main sites, the Heritage Education Center and the Carolina Backcountry Homestead, are home to some exhibits that help tell the story of how people lived in the Old Sumter District in the past.
The museum has a collection of documents and manuscripts tracing the area’s history. There are also replica buildings from the late 1700s through the 1850s. These include a re-creation of a pioneer homestead and an 1800s house. In addition, the museum has a kitchen garden that overflows with herbs.
The museum also features many events and educational programs that the whole family can enjoy. In addition to the leading site, several smaller exhibits are on the property.
One of the best features of the Sumter County Museum is the interactive learning experiences it provides. The museum’s displays will engage you from the Carolina Backcountry Homestead to the modern Heritage Education Center.
Sumter County Gallery of Art
If you are looking for a new, exciting, and unique way to spend an afternoon, the Sumter County Gallery of Art is a great place to visit. This museum in South Carolina is home to exquisite contemporary art and has a range of events to help you enjoy your visit.
The Modern Art Gallery features works by local artists and national and international figures. It also has an education center and a gift shop. You can even take classes in all kinds of art mediums.
General Thomas Sumter Memorial Park
General Thomas Sumter Memorial Park, located near Stateburg in Sumter County, South Carolina, was established to honor the American Revolutionary War general, General Thomas Sumter. He was a hero of the Revolutionary War and was known as the Fighting Gamecock.
As a patriot, Sumter served in the United States Senate, Congress, and House of Representatives. He was also involved in several early battles, including the Battle of Hanging Rock. In addition to his military career, he was a successful planter. His family still owns the land where the cemetery is situated.
Sumter was born in Virginia. He moved to South Carolina in 1760. Eventually, he opened a store in Eutaw Springs. He quickly accumulated wealth and earned respect in the community. After the war, Sumter returned home to restore his plantation. He later became a colonel. From 1782 to 1810, he was active in politics.
Aside from its historical significance, the park is peaceful and well-maintained. It is a beautiful way to spend a relaxing day in a scenic setting.
Church of the Holy Cross
The Church of the Holy Cross in Stateburg, South Carolina, is a Gothic Revival building that dates back to the 1850s. This church was built on land donated by General Thomas Sumter. It has become one of the most beautiful churches in South Carolina.
The church was designed by noted South Carolina architect Edward C. Jones, who also designed the state capitol in Columbia. In addition to being an architectural gem, the Church of the Holy Cross is a National Historic Landmark.
During its long history, the church has suffered some damage. A 1903 storm toppled the 110-foot steeple. In the 2000s, termites infiltrated the interior. However, the church was repaired and reopened in 2010.
Despite being damaged, the Church of the Holy Cross in Stateburg, SC, has continued to stand as one of the most beautiful Southern churches.