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EXPLORE CLEMSON

 

 

 

So you’re interested in coming to South Carolina? Well, this page is designed to tell you more about what there is to see and explore while you’re here.


University and Community Information

South Carolina

SC FlagSC Map

To start you off, here are some interesting South Carolina facts!
State capital   Columbia 
Largest city   Columbia 
Area  32,007 square miles [South Carolina is the 40th biggest state in the USA] 
Population  4,147,152 (as of 2003) [South Carolina is the 26th most populous state in the USA] 
Major industries  farming (tobacco, soybeans), textiles, manufacturing chemicals, processed foods, machinery, electronics, paper products, tourism 
Major rivers  Santee River, Edisto River, Savannah River 
Major lakes   Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, Lake Murray, Hartwell Lake
Highest point  Sassafras Mountain - 3,560 feet (1,085 m) above sea level 
Bordering states Georgia, North Carolina
 
Bordering body of water Atlantic Ocean
 

Origin of the name South Carolina  

 South Carolina was named to honor King Charles I
(Carolus is Latin for Charles).
State nickname Palmetto State
State motto "Dum Spiro Spero" - While I breathe, I hope 
State song   Carolina 

For visitor information, see http://www.discoversouthcarolina.com/

We know that you will want to know what you can do once you are here, so we have taken the opportunity to break down many useful links that can help you explore more about the area.


Clemson-Home of the Tigers!
http://www.cityofclemson.org/
Clemson itself is a small town…and we won’t tell you any different! However, there is lots to do here. Not only is it a quaint college town, but if you like to get out and explore, you are likely to find all sorts of great things to do. Through this page, we encourage you too see what there is to offer in Clemson, South Carolina, as well as other regional locations that our staff visit quite often! As you will see, there are a vast amount of interesting things to see…and how coming to Clemson may not only be a great educational and work experience, but a chance for you to get out and see a beautiful part of the country! Since you’re already discovering Clemson, here are some helpful links for you learn more:


Seneca and Anderson
Both located 20 minutes away, these towns are Clemson's closest shopping and entertainment areas.


Greenville
http://www.greatergreenville.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 28 miles; 40 minutes

Greenville, South Carolina, is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area, commonly referred to as the Upstate, is South Carolina's most populous county with more than 370,000 residents. Approximately 59,000 live within Greenville city limits. Visitors will have no problem filling the days and evenings with every kind of leisure activity. Greenville's international community has created sophisticated dining and entertainment options that may surprise first-time visitors.

A few things to check out:


Columbia
http://www.columbiacvb.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 140 miles; 2 hours, 25 minutes

Columbia, South Carolina, is a proud Southern city, and its State House still shows scars from Sherman's attack during the Civil War. The building's war wounds are marked clearly with large stars on the west side of the capitol building. The first city, as well as the first-planned capital, in America named for Christopher Columbus was founded March 26, 1786, as the center of government, education and commerce in the Palmetto State. A few things to check out:

  • Columbia Museum of Art
  • Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
  • South Carolina Governor’s Mansion
  • South Carolina State Museum
  • Challenger Learning Center
  • Ghosts and Legends of Columbia walking ghost tour


Charleston
http://www.charleston.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 248 miles; 4 hours, 15 minutes

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city rich in history, tradition and Southern culture. Nearly four million visitors a year consider the greater Charleston area as their destination of choice, which is no surprise after taking into account its reputation for outstanding accommodations, entertainment, and cuisine.

A few things to check out:

  • Ft. Sumter National Monument, the original battle site of the Civil War
  • The Old Slave Mart
  • Carriage Tour
  • Rainbow Row
  • The Battery
  • Folly Beach / Isle of Palms


Myrtle Beach
http://www.myrtlebeach.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 282 miles; 5 hours

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one of the top domestic tourist destinations in the continental United States. With nearly 14 million visitors a year, it is no surprise that Myrtle Beach, with over 60 miles of warm, sandy beaches, is such a popular vacation choice for millions of Americans.

A few things to check out:

  • Barefoot Landing
  • Outlet malls
  • The Carolina Opry
  • The beach!


Hilton Head
http://www.hiltonhead.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 292 miles; 5 hours

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, combines breathtaking natural beauty, world-class golf, award-winning dining and quality shopping on a barrier island just 12 miles long and five miles wide. This enchanting island is widely considered to be one of the finest resort communities in the United States, welcoming millions of visitors from across the country and around the globe each year. With miles of white sand beaches, dozens of championship golf courses, more than 300 tennis courts and countless bicycle paths, Hilton Head Island offers a range of options for the active visitor. Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, playing a round of golf or exploring the area's lush maritime forests, you'll discover that Hilton Head Island is a true resort mecca, providing family-friendly fun all year round.

A few things to check out:

  • Outlet malls
  • Dozens of golf courses
  • The pier
  • The beach!

Georgia Flag

                                        Georgia Map

Georgia
http://www.georgia.org/
Being as close as we are to Georgia, it’s not infrequent to see folks heading there for day trips or long weekends away. Here are some details on popular Georgia destinations:

Atlanta
http://www.atlanta.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 129 miles; 2 hours, 15 minutes

Atlanta, Georgia, is the Southeast's premier tourism spot and one of the country's top moving destinations. Stroll the streets of Atlanta, and you can't miss the signs of progress: skyscrapers dot the landscape, premier museum and arts venues line city streets and new construction abounds. At the same time, the people maintain a pleasant Southern charm that makes Atlanta a refreshing vacation destination.

A few things to check out:

  • Atlanta Braves major-league baseball game
  • World of Coca-Cola
  • CNN Center
  • Six Flags over Georgia amusement park
  • Stone Mountain Park
  • Atlanta Cyclorama
  • Underground Atlanta
  • Centennial Park/ Olympic Village, home of 1996 Olympics


Savannah
http://www.savannahgeorgia.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 291 miles; 5 hours

Savannah, Georgia, is a city rich in history, Southern charm and old-fashioned hospitality. Savannah traces its roots back to 1733, when British General James Oglethorpe first founded the city on a bluff above River Street. Today, Savannah offers world-class restaurants, Civil War forts, dozens of art galleries, fine antique shops and much more. Savannah has one of the largest historic districts in the United States, with thousands of architecturally-significant buildings nestled under giant live oaks hung with Spanish moss. Known as The Hostess City of South, Savannah attracts visitors from across the country and around the world.

A few things to check out:

  • Trolley Tour or Ghost Walk
  • River Street
  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebration – 2nd largest in the country
  • Forsyth Park
  • One of many “historic squares”

NC Flag

                                        NC Map

North Carolina
http://www.visitnc.com/
In addition to South Carolina & Georgia, many of our staff and students go to neighboring North Carolina. The most frequent visits are to Asheville and Charlotte to name a few.

Asheville

http://www.exploreasheville.com/index.aspx

Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 89 miles; 2 hours

Asheville, North Carolina, incorporated in 1797, is nestled in the mountains where the Great Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains meet 2,340 feet above sea level. The Blue Ridge Parkway passes through Asheville, with five entrances in the immediate Asheville area. Anytime of the year, you can discover the region's rich art and craft heritage at the numerous art galleries and shops. Visit one of the area's historic attractions. Explore downtown Asheville's unique restaurants and eclectic shops. Delve into the mountains' endless opportunities for outdoor excursions. Or take a short, yet breathtaking, ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway. And throughout the year, there are events, festivals and entertainment to spice up your visit.

A few things to check out:

  • The Biltmore Estate
  • One of 32 bed & breakfasts
  • Trolley Tour
  • Historic Downtown


Charlotte
http://www.visitcharlotte.com/
Distance and drive time from Clemson University: 139 miles; 2 hours, 25 minutes

Charlotte, North Carolina, was incorporated in 1768 and named in honor of the wife of King George III, the reigning English monarch. Local citizens also honored Queen Charlotte when they named their new county Mecklenburg after her German homeland. The "Queen City" boasts a 2003 population of 579,176. Interstates 77 and 85, which intersect in Charlotte, link the city with the Great Lakes region, New England and Florida. Interstate 40, running coast-to-coast across the United States, is only an hour north of Charlotte. A two-hour journey to the west takes you to the Blue Ridge Mountains; a three-and-a-half hour trip to the east, to Atlantic beaches. Within an hour's drive east of the city are some of the world's best golf courses.

A few things to check out:

  • Paramount Carowinds Water and Theme Park
  • Lowe’s Motor Speedway (for you NASCAR fans!)
  • Charlotte Historic Trolley Museum
  • Loch Norman Highland Games Festival (close by in Huntersville)

Airports

Whether looking to visit or heading home for breaks, our staff have a variety of airports to choose from. It’s often prudent to check rates to save both time and money. Competitive rates can be found for many direct flights from Atlanta, but often times you can find them to be just as close in Greenville or Charlotte. Shuttle services are also available in the area at reasonable rates.


Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP): 1 hour (drive time)  http://www.gspairport.com/
Atlanta (ATL): 2.5 hours (drive time)
Charlotte (CLT): 2.5 hours (drive time)

Cultural Events and Live Entertainment

There is a lot of culture in our area, as well. Many big name productions and musical artists come to the area. Following are some links to local and regional sites that can be a great source of a night out: