Businesses on Bay Street in Beaufort, South Carolina. Image credit: Stephen B. Goodwin / Shutterstock.com

This Small South Carolina Town Has The Best Downtown

South Carolina is a storied part of the United States. One of the 13 original colonies, the state has a history dating back to some of the earliest years of the country. The state is also a beautiful one, bordered to the east by the Atlantic Ocean and dotted by the Blue Ridge Mountains, a part of the larger Appalachian Mountains. One small town in the state combines the best of all these features, including a rich history and some of the state's most stunning natural views. If you are visiting South Carolina, consider visiting Beaufort to find the best downtown area in the state.

Overlooked Towns In South CarolinaFrom coastal fishing villages to mountain foothill towns, each of these towns tell a different story about South Carolina’s past and present.

History

Beautiful house in Beaufort, South Carolina. Image credit: Cqw via Wikimedia Commons.

Downtown Beaufort is a historic destination listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is not difficult to see why. Many of the homes in the surrounding Historic District date back to before the Civil War. Guests to town can see buildings that boast a blend of the Federal, Neoclassical, and Greek Revival architectural styles.

One of these is the Barnwell-Gough House, built in the Federal style and dating back to 1789 and the earliest days of the United States. History buffs will love exploring destinations such as this and the nearby Cobbler's Cottage, another 1700s-era home first erected in 1870. Guests to Beaufort can spend the entire day exploring these historic homes and buildings that have withstood the centuries.

Shopping

The historic nature of the downtown area sets the context for all there is to see and do. Visitors will find numerous places to shop, dine, and enjoy cultural highlights. Duffy's sells a wide range of antique merchandise, including furniture, tools, household items, and other collectibles.

Another popular spot is Sweet Bay, Inc., which specializes in a variety of products. Home accessories, bath products, and jewelry are all on display for anyone hoping to take something to decorate their home or give as a gift. And for animal lovers, The Rustic Pup Biscuits and Boutique sells specialty food for cats and dogs. The emphasis at Rustic Pup is on selling healthy biscuits for animals, but they also sell stylish accessories for animals.

Culture

The shoreline of Beaufort, South Carolina.

The Beaufort Art Association Gallery highlights the talents of local artists in a wide range of media. Oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings sit alongside photography, stained glass, and both wood and metalworking. The gallery also hosts events, such as the Spring Art Show, where artists not only compete for awards but also have the opportunity to sell their works.

Aerial view of Downtown Beaufort, South Carolina.

Another gallery in the area that has been a part of the town for decades is Rhett Gallery Inc., which has been a feature of Beaufort since 1981. As it grew, the owners moved to the current property, a building first constructed in 1884. Today, guests can view unique antique maps covering countries from all over the world. These maps date back to the 1700s. However, visitors will also find a wide range of antiques, including classic books and vintage rifles.

All this is in addition to the art created by the Rhetts, who own the gallery. Shifting toward live performance, the USCB Center for the Arts hosts diverse events ranging from doo wop Christmas shows to covers of popular 80s soundtracks and candlelight Celtic performances. Regardless of the style of music you enjoy, the USCB will have a show for you to enjoy.

Drinks

Downtown Beaufort, South Carolina. Image credit StacieStauffSmith via Shutterstock

After a day out in town, the Beaufort Wine Bar welcomes anyone hoping to relax over their favorite glass of red or white. While relaxing over a glass, you can also enjoy cheese plates and charcuterie. The wine flight is a popular option for anyone looking to sample wines from various regions and different grape varieties.

Those who prefer an afternoon coffee over wine can instead head to Lowcountry Cider Co., where they can enjoy specialty coffee that has been expertly sourced and boasts a higher-quality flavor. Visitors also have the option of buying jams to take home and bottles of non-alcoholic cider to drink that afternoon.

Nature

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort, South Carolina. Editorial credit: Stephen B. Goodwin / Shutterstock.com

Visitors to town can also simply enjoy the beauty of the downtown area. Beaufort sits along the Beaufort River, and the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a popular destination among both residents and visitors alike. An iconic feature of the downtown area, the park sits right along the river, and guests can walk the paved pathways that directly overlook the water or take a seat on the swin beaches while enjoying the sun reflecting off the river.

Boats can be seen traveling the waters from nearby Safe Harbor Beaufort, home to dozens of small privately owned vessels. Returning to the park, the waterfront is the cultural heart of the city. Festivals like the Beaufort Shrimp Festival, A Taste of Beaufort: Music, Arts & Seafood Festival, and the Beaufort Water Festival are just some of the popular events that bring residents out for food and live music.

Beaufort's reputation for having the best downtown in South Carolina is not unearned. Its location along the Beaufort River makes it a beautiful destination, and its many historic homes and buildings make it a delight to walk through. There is also something for everyone to enjoy downtown, from the shops along the waterfront to the many art galleries and the live music of the USCB Center for the Arts. If you are looking for the best downtown in South Carolina, then make Beaufort your next stop.

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