5 Things To Do In Chester County
With various water access points, agri-tourism destinations and scenic state parks, Chester County offers both outdoor adventure and relaxation opportunities. To help you plan your visit, we rounded up five must-do activities when visiting.
1. Visit a South Carolina State Park
Of the nine state parks in the Olde English District, two are in Chester County. Chester State Park is 523 acres full of adventure, including the 160-acre lake. With great fishing opportunities by land, boat or piers, it’s a haven anglers of various skill levels. The park also sports a boat ramp, boat rentals, picnic shelters, playgrounds, traditional campsites, two camper cabins, two disc golf courses and nature trails.
On the other side of the county is Landsford Canal State Park. Though the park is most commonly known for being the destination to see the largest colony of the rare Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies, there is plenty to see and do even when the lilies aren’t in bloom. Visitors can enjoy picnic shelters along the Catawba River and three trails all year round.
2. Spend the Night in a Living Blues Museum
In Chester’s historic downtown, you can enjoy a weekend stay that is good for the mind, body, and soul. The Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues Bed & Breakfast weaves blues, jazz, and gospel into each guest’s experience.
As a living blues museum, art and collectibles from the innkeepers’ passion and history in the blues line the walls, creating a unique and charming destination. Relax with a book or enjoy high tea in the Louis Armstrong Music Room in the afternoon and wine tastings and other events in the evening.
3. Pick Fresh Produce at Cotton Hills Farm
Cotton Hills Farm in the town of Lowrys is a family-owned and operated farm that takes pride in growing fresh produce, some of which visitors can pick themselves. U-pick strawberry season typically begins in April and continues into June. Peaches, tomatoes, flowers, and other garden produce can typically be found from June through the end of summer. (Pro tip: Grab a scoop or two of peach ice cream from the market.) And once the temperatures begin to drop, u-pick pumpkins start in September and continue through October.
4. Peruse Historic Downtown Chester
Built on a hill, Historic Downtown Chester presents a unique mix of architectural styles, with many original Victorian-era facades. Stop at Broad River Mercantile, a high-quality outdoor apparel and gear shop, or Rainbow Rooster, a small vendor mall, before heading for a bite at Hillside Restaurant & Bar. Though this spot is known for pizza, its menu consists of specialty sandwiches and other dishes.
Top off your visit with a stop at Wild Bees Bottle Shop for a glass of wine or a pint. Here you will also find unique local goods, along with bottled wine and beer to take home with you.
5. Check Off a Bucket List Item at Skydive! Carolina
Calling all adrenaline junkies: this one’s for you. Tick off an item from your bucket list at Skydive! Carolina with the thrill of a lifetime. Soar to around 14,000 feet and dive, in tandem with a professional instructor.
