5 Things To Do In Union County
Officially in South Carolina’s Upstate, Union County is where history, culture,and adventure come together. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to walk through the past, a foodie looking for authentic Southern flavors, or a thrill-seeker craving high-speed excitement, you’ll find something special here.
Enjoy legendary barbecue, explore a historic state park, learn the area’s history and experience outdoor adventures with these five must-do activities in Union County.
1. Grab Lunch at Midway BBQ
No trip to Union County is complete without a stop at Midway BBQ in Buffalo, SC. This local institution serves up hearty Southern comfort food, with a rotating menu of meats, sides, and desserts. For the full experience, try their famous beef hash and chicken stew, both beloved by regulars. Pair your meal with sweet potato soufflé, and don’t forget to save room for their banana pudding—a true crowd-pleaser.
2. Learn About the County’s History
Dive into Union County’s rich history at the Union County Museum. Whether you’re tracing your genealogy or admiring artifacts from centuries past, this museum offers fascinating insights into the area’s heritage. Housed in the beautifully restored Flynn Office Building on Historic Main Street, it’s a must-visit for anyone curious about the stories that shaped Union County.
Book lovers and history buffs alike will appreciate a visit to the Union Carnegie Library. Built in 1905 with funding from Andrew Carnegie, this beautifully preserved library is one of the few remaining original Carnegie libraries in South Carolina.
3. Tour the Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site
Originally home to Gov. William Henry Gist in the mid-1800s, Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site highlights key events throughout South Carolina history. The site tells the stories from a variety of perspectives of people who lived on the plantation, including the Gist family, enslaved people, freedpeople and tenant farmers. Their stories include the cotton boom and its collapse, secession and the Civil War, slavery and sharecropping, emancipation and the fight for civil rights, and Reconstruction and its overthrow.
4. Reserve a Visit at the Piedmont Physic Garden
For a peaceful and educational experience, Piedmont Physic Garden offers a unique collection of plants with medicinal significance, many of which originate from the Piedmont and Southern Appalachian regions. Insider tip: Spring and summer are the best times to visit, but reservations are required, so be sure to book ahead!
5. Get Your Heart Racing at the Union County Dragway
Craving some high-speed excitement? The Union County Dragway delivers heart-pounding action as cars race down the track at breathtaking speeds. Whether you’re a motorsports fan or just looking for an adrenaline rush, this attraction is sure to impress. Check the racing schedule online before you go to catch the best events.
