Explore the Best Things to Do
in the Olde English District
The Olde English District offers a unique blend of Southern charm, rich history, outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the region has something for everyone. From historical sites to scenic parks and delicious local food, dive into the many experiences this South Carolina area offers.
For the History Buffs
History comes alive in the Olde English District, where you can explore pivotal moments in America’s past. Visit Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site, which offers a compelling thread in the tapestry of the Civil War in South Carolina, or stroll through historic districts showcasing well-preserved colonial architecture. The region is also home to several South Carolina museums that offer a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural heritage. In Camden, you can walk the grounds of key Revolutionary War battles that helped shape the nation’s independence, while smaller museums showcase niche aspects of Southern history.
Historical Landmarks
- Dizzy Gillespie Homesite Park: Celebrate the life of Cheraw’s jazz king, John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie, a pioneering music icon who used a bent trumpet and introduced the world to bebop.
- Brattonsville Historic District: Step into the 18th and 19th centuries as you explore a Revolutionary War battlefield and living history museum.
For the Sports & Adventure Seekers
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of thrills in the Olde English District when they hike and bike through some of South Carolina’s most scenic trails. Whether you’re trekking along the Carolina Thread Trail or exploring the winding paths of the Anne Springs Close Greenway, adventure awaits at every turn. For cyclists, the region offers several well-maintained bike trails in South Carolina suitable for all levels and picturesque biking routes along the Palmetto Trail.
Top Hiking Trails
- The Carolina Thread Trail: An iconic route stretching across multiple counties in North and South Carolina, the Carolina Thread Trail offers adventure to hikers through an extensive network of trails. As a bonus, this trail offers wonderful blueways, so it’s great for padders, too.
- Cheraw State Park: Cheraw Nature Trail is an easy 2-mile walk, which is the inner loop of the larger 4.5-mile Turkey Oak Trail. Meanwhile, the Boardwalk Trail is an easy out-and-back trail to Lake Juniper Dam.
Best Bike Trails
- Palmetto Trail: This cross-state trail offers excellent biking through diverse terrains, making it one of the most popular bike trails in South Carolina.
- Anne Springs Close Greenway: Choose between various trails; some unpaved for a more rugged experience and others paved for a smoother journey. After your excursion, recharge at the Gateway Canteen.
For the Nature Lovers
The Olde English District is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring sprawling South Carolina state parks, lakes, and outdoor recreation. Parks such as Kings Mountain National Military Park provide opportunities to enjoy nature while learning about history. Bird-watching enthusiasts can explore state parks while hiking, fishing or simply enjoying the outdoors. The parks are ideal spots for picnicking, family outings and wildlife observation.
Scenic Parks
- Goodale State Park: In Kershaw County, cypress trees line this park‘s spring-fed lake, creating gorgeous boating and fishing opportunities. Enjoy the park’s nature and canoe trails, bringing you up close to the native flora and fauna. Picnic shelters, tables, playground equipment and a meeting facility are on-site so that you can create an entire day out of your visit.
- Landsford Canal State Park: This area offers a glimpse into South Carolina’s early 19th-century transportation history, with well-preserved canal structures along the Catawba River. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy picnicking, and view the park’s famous rocky shoals spider lilies, which bloom each spring and create a stunning display of white blossoms across the river.
For Fans of Small-Town Americana
The Olde English District captures the essence of small-town Southern charm. Stroll through quaint streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and locally owned businesses in towns such as Rock Hill and York. These communities host annual festivals that celebrate local culture, from arts and crafts fairs to food and music festivals, giving visitors a true taste of Southern living.
Small-Town Highlights
- Ridgeway: The charming local hub of Ridgway offers a variety of unique shops, artisan goods, and community events including amazing antiques and vintage finds at Ridgeway Marketplace
- Camden’s Downtown: Camden’s Antique Street offers a delightful mix of antique stores, including the Camden Antiques Market with around 100 dealers, and Sterling Fox Antiques, featuring high-end furniture and decor. Discover cozy coffee shops and charming eateries, too.
For Family Fun
Families will love the variety of attractions in the Olde English District. One of the biggest draws is Carowinds, an amusement park offering thrilling rides, a water park, and seasonal events. The Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm at Anne Springs Close Greenway is an 18-acre flagship destination for families. You’ll see an array of animals while learning about farming in South Carolina.
Kid-Friendly Attractions
- Carowinds: This amusement park is a top destination for families, with roller coasters, water slides, and seasonal events.
- Cotton Hills Farm: This family-owned farm in Chester offers fresh produce, homemade goods, and fun seasonal activities for visitors of all ages. With its rich history and hands-on farm experiences, it’s a local favorite for enjoying the charm of rural life.
For Food & Drink Enthusiasts
No trip to the Olde English District is complete without sampling its culinary scene. Whether you’re seeking Southern comfort food or signature local dishes, the region offers many outstanding places to eat in South Carolina. There’s no shortage of meat-and-threes, plus local barbecue joints serve up smoked meats and savory sauces that highlight the region’s flavors.
Southern Comfort Foods
- Meat-and-Threes: A Southern classic—these restaurants dotting the OED serve a variety of meats and veggies (one meat and three sides) and typically have slam-packed parking lots during lunch and supper times. Plates traditionally come with a biscuit or cornbread and are washed down with an ice-cold glass of sweet tea.
- Barbecue Joints: Discover local barbecue restaurants serving mouth-watering pulled pork and ribs, perfect for an authentic Southern feast.