We’re all excited for the new year and all the new experiences it can bring! As we lay out our New Year’s resolutions and design our “bucket lists” for 2022, we wanted to share some of the fantastic experiences awaiting in South Carolina’s Old 96 District. Featuring the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick, this region is largely known for its small-town charm and a lush, uncrowded nature scene. With so many unexpected wonders to discover, narrowing down a list was hard, so we’ve chosen some of our favorite experiences to consider for your road trip. Here are 22 things to do in 2022 in the Old 96 District!
- Pet Goats at Emerald Farm
Who doesn’t love friendly animals? Emerald Farm is only a short drive from the heart of Greenwood, SC, but feels tucked away in a vast forest far from any hustle and bustle. Meet a family of dairy goats as well as free-roaming peacocks and chickens. Take a peek inside the antique store or visit the large room dedicated to model train tracks. Don’t forget to get to pick up some goat’s milk soap made right there on the farm!
- Take a Historic Hike at the Musgrove Mill State Historic Site
Nothing gets the blood flowing like a good hike! The Old 96 District has two Revolutionary War battlegrounds. Scenic, beginner-friendly trails run through each, winding their way across battlefields and historic markers. It’s a great way to get outside in South Carolina’s temperate weather and learn something new along the way.
- See a Show at the Abbeville Opera House
The historic opera house in Abbeville, SC, has been in operation for over 115 years! From stage productions to touring bands and comedians, variety shows and solo musicians, there’s something on the entertainment schedule for everyone. It’s even nestled in the heart of Abbeville, with plenty of local shops to explore and a historic inn next door to cozy up in when the evening is finished. (You can even save on food, lodging, shopping and tickets with the Abbeville #JustRight Travel Package.)
- Learn Archery at Hickory Knob State Resort Park
Who doesn’t love learning a new skill? Hickory Knob State Resort Park is the only South Carolina State Park that is also a resort, meaning it has a plethora of outdoorsy activities you just can’t find anywhere else. Book a session and learn to shoot arrows hands-on with a State Park Ranger, or brush up on your skills if you’re already an expert.
- Shoot Skeet at the Palmetto Shooting Complex
If you’ve never tried skeet before, successfully hitting sporting clays as they whiz through the air is as exhilarating as it is satisfying! The Palmetto Shooting Complex in Edgefield, SC, is considered one of the premier shooting complexes in the Southeast, and instructors are there to show newcomers the ropes.
- See Historic Pottery at Phoenix Factory Old Edgefield Pottery
Edgefield Pottery in downtown Edgefield is a centuries-old American craft with pieces displayed in the Smithsonian. One influential artist, Dave the Potter, hails from the area with pieces that offer us a window into the past. Today, Phoenix Factory Old Edgefield Pottery continues the legacy with new creations and shelves of pieces forged throughout history.
- Treat Yourself to an At-Home Spa with Breezy Quarters
Breezy Quarters in Abbeville is one of many locally-owned shops in the district. Specializing in smells, all of these candles, bath bombs, lotions, soaps and more are all handmade in-house! Some highlights include no-melt lip balm (a lifesaver during the summer months,) bath bombs that look just like cupcakes, and a plethora of unique scents like “Handpicked Wildflowers” and “Grandpa’s Pipe & Honey.”
- Visit the Star Fort at the Ninety Six National Historic Site
The Siege of Ninety Six was the first Southern land battle of the Revolutionary War. Today, hiking and walking trails wind through this hallowed ground circling the Star Fort. This earthen fort as you see it today is how it looked in 1781 and no major reconstruction has been done to it. It’s the last remaining of its kind! For history buffs, seeing this remnant of the revolution is an experience unique to this battlefield.
Want to see more? View the full list, get insider tips, and learn about travel deals & packages at the Old 96 District Tourism Website!
