10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Florence, South Carolina
Planning a trip through South Carolina and looking for a relaxed stop between the beach and the big cities?
Florence, SC in
Florence County is a great little hub with history, food, art, and easy day trips.
Whether you’re road-tripping on I‑95, visiting family, or just curious about small Southern cities, this guide covers
10 things to do in and around Florence, South Carolina that are well worth your time.
1. Stroll Through Downtown Florence
If you want to get a feel for the real Florence, start downtown.
Over the last few years,
Downtown Florence has turned into a walkable district packed with:
- Locally owned restaurants and coffee shops
- Colorful murals and public art
- Boutiques and antique stores
- Seasonal festivals and farmers markets
You can easily park once and spend a few hours wandering around. Grab a coffee, window shop, then circle back for lunch or dinner.
I like to walk downtown right before sunset. The old brick buildings start to glow, people are coming out for dinner, and you really feel that small‑city Southern vibe.
2. Explore the Florence County Museum
If you only have time for one cultural stop in Florence, make it the
Florence County Museum.
You’ll find:
- Local history exhibits – Civil War artifacts, railroad history, and stories from early settlers.
- Art galleries – including works by South Carolina artists and rotating exhibits.
- Hands-on activities for kids on certain days.
It’s not a massive museum, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. You can see most of it in an hour or two, which makes it a perfect stop on a busy travel day.
If you like to understand the “why” behind a place, the museum brings Florence’s past to life in a simple, clear way.
3. Relax at Timrod Park
Need a break from the road or looking for a place to let kids run around?
Timrod Park is a peaceful green space right in Florence.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Walking paths under tall trees
- Playground areas for kids
- Tennis courts
- Picnic tables and open grassy areas
On a warm day, it’s a nice spot to bring takeout from a local restaurant and enjoy lunch outside. If you’re traveling with a dog, this is also a good place for a quick walk and some fresh air.
4. Catch a Show at the Florence Center
For live events, the
Florence Center is the place to be.
This multi‑purpose arena and convention center hosts:
- Concerts and comedy shows
- Family events and expos
- Sporting events and tournaments
- Trade shows and festivals
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking their event calendar ahead of time. You might line up your visit with a big show or a fun regional event.
The Florence Center is right off the interstate, close to several hotels and chain restaurants, so it’s also convenient if you’re just passing through and want an easy evening activity.
5. Discover the Florence Rail Trail & Local Greenways
If you like to stretch your legs, the
Florence Rail Trail and surrounding greenways offer an easy way to get outside.
These trails are great for:
- Walking or jogging
- Biking
- Stroller‑friendly family walks
The paths are mostly flat and simple to follow, which makes them ideal if you’re not looking for anything too intense. Think of it as a gentle way to balance out all the road-trip snacks.
If you travel with bikes on your car, this is an easy spot to hop on and ride for a few miles without dealing with traffic.
6. Visit the War Between the States Museum
History fans will appreciate this small but detailed stop: the
War Between the States Museum in Florence.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Civil War artifacts and uniforms
- Displays about local battles and military life
- Information on Florence’s role during the war
It’s not a flashy, high‑tech museum. Instead, it has the feel of a carefully curated local collection. If you like diving deep into regional history, you’ll probably end up chatting with the staff and learning a few stories you’d never see in a textbook.
7. Take a Day Trip to Woods Bay State Park
About 30–40 minutes from Florence, in the greater Florence County area, you’ll find
Woods Bay State Park. It’s a unique natural area known for its “Carolina bay” wetlands.
What can you do there?
- Walk short nature trails
- Paddle a canoe through quiet waters (seasonal and weather‑dependent)
- Look for wildlife like birds and turtles
- Enjoy a peaceful picnic away from the city
If you’ve never heard of a “Carolina bay,” think of a shallow, oval-shaped wetland surrounded by forest. It’s a simple place, but it feels different from most parks you’ve probably visited.
It’s an easy half‑day trip from Florence and a good way to experience the natural side of the Pee Dee region.
8. Sample Southern Food at Local Florence Restaurants
You can’t talk about things to do in Florence, SC without talking about
Southern food
Barbecue joints serving pulled pork, ribs, and classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans
Meat‑and‑three spots where you choose a main dish and a few homemade sides
Seafood restaurants with fried shrimp, catfish, and hush puppies
Cafés and bakeries offering sweet tea, biscuits, and desserts
If you’re not sure where to go, a simple trick is to ask, “Where do you eat on Sunday after church?” Locals will usually point you to the places that feel like home.
A plate of barbecue or a big Southern lunch is also a nice reward after a morning of driving or sightseeing.
9. Shop and Dine at Magnolia Mall & Surrounding Plazas
Sometimes, especially on a road trip, you just want something simple: a place to walk around indoors, maybe shop a little, and grab an easy meal.
Magnolia Mall and the nearby shopping centers in Florence give you:
- National-brand clothing and shoe stores
- Chain restaurants and fast‑casual spots
- Big-box stores for things you forgot to pack
Is it an “only in Florence” experience? Not really. But it’s practical and comfortable, especially if you hit a rainy day or just need an air‑conditioned break.
For families, this area also makes a convenient base since many hotels sit within a short drive.
10. Enjoy Local Events, Festivals, and Farmers Markets
Throughout the year, Florence and Florence County host a mix of events and festivals that bring the community together.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Outdoor concerts downtown
- Holiday parades and seasonal celebrations
- Farmers markets with local produce and crafts
- Food festivals highlighting local flavors
If you like to travel “like a local,” these are some of the best things to do in Florence, SC. You’ll see families out together, hear local music, and probably end up talking with a few friendly strangers.
Before your trip, check the city or county tourism website or social pages to see what’s happening when you’ll be in town.
Planning Your Visit to Florence, South Carolina
Here are a few quick tips to make your stay smoother:
- Getting there: Florence sits right along I‑95 and I‑20, making it an easy stop on major East Coast road trips.
- How long to stay: You can see the main sights in a day, but 1–2 nights lets you explore at a relaxed pace.
- Best for: Road‑trippers, history fans, families, and anyone who enjoys small‑city Southern charm.
Florence isn’t trying to be a huge tourist destination—and that’s part of its appeal. It feels like a real town where people live, work, and gather, with just enough to keep visitors happy and well fed.
What Will You Do First in Florence?
Now that you’ve seen these 10 things to do in and around Florence, SC, what’s at the top of your list?
Are you more excited about:
- Walking through downtown and checking out local art?
- Digging into Southern barbecue?
- Exploring trails and nearby state parks?
I’d love to hear how you’d spend a day in Florence.
Have you visited Florence, South Carolina or Florence County before?
Share your favorite spot or hidden gem in the comments so other travelers can discover it too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a Southern road trip or passing through South Carolina on I‑95. It might inspire them to turn a quick stop into a memorable little detour.
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