Explore the historic buildings and museums of this delightful South Carolina city that’s also known for its nature trails and outdoor pursuits.
The city of Florence is an alluring holiday spot for its blend of cultural and natural attractions. Here you can journey through swamplands, learn about Native American heritage and study artefacts from the Civil War.
Familiarise yourself with the history of ”Flo-town” by exploring its old buildings. Visit the Queen Anne-style Levy House that was home to the city’s first black physician. Stop by Henry Timrod Schoolhouse, the one-room timber building constructed in 1859. Study the collections of Florence’s museums. See railroad memorabilia in the Florence Railroad Museum and examine weapons and uniforms from the Civil War at the War Between the States Museum.
Florence lies close to the Pee Dee River and is surrounded by farmland. Take advantage of this scenic setting for a range of outdoor pursuits. Canoe through cypress swamplands on the 66-mile (106.2-kilometre) SC Revolutionary Rivers Trail. The route starts at Lynches River County Park where you can take a canopy walk high up among the trees. Take the Clemson Outdoor Education Trail to a Native American village and butterfly garden. Look out for tree frog retreats on the nature trail at Wallace Woods.
If you play golf, hit a ball at Florence’s golf courses, including the Country Club of South Carolina and Crossings Golf Club. More sporting activities are on offer over at the Freedom Florence Recreational Complex.
You will find lots of restaurants in Florence, which serve everything from fast food to gourmet dishes. Satisfy your craving for Southern food with specialties such as fried chicken, fried okra and pecan pie.
Get to the city by bus, train or car, or by flying into the Florence Regional Airport. A rental car, taxi or public transport can get you around. The Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority operates buses throughout the region. Just an hour away from Florence is Myrtle Beach, a popular coastal city with watersports and miles of sandy beaches.
