Garden City Travel Guide

Explore the best of Garden City with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, find everything you need to plan the perfect trip.


Introduction to Garden City

Located in the heart of Grand Strand, Garden City is a charming seaside town in South Carolina. Known for its pristine beaches, natural beauty, and rich history, Garden City draws travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure in the great outdoors, Garden City has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Garden City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Garden City Pier: A historic landmark, the Garden City Pier offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for fishing and strolling.
  • Atalaya Castle: Explore the historic Atalaya Castle, once home to the famous sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington and her husband, Archer Milton Huntington.
  • Georgetown Rice Museum: Learn about the rich history of rice cultivation in the Lowcountry at the Georgetown Rice Museum.

Natural Attractions of Garden City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brookgreen Gardens: Explore the breathtaking sculpture gardens and natural areas of Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark.
  • Huntington Beach State Park: With 2,500 acres of natural beauty and five miles of pristine beach, Huntington Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Murrells Inlet Marshwalk: Stroll along the boardwalk and take in the stunning views of the marshes and waterways of Murrells Inlet.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Garden City

  • Waccamaw Neck Bikeway: This 10-mile trail winds through the beautiful countryside and offers stunning views of the river and marsh.
  • Myrtle Beach State Park Trail: Hike or bike this scenic trail, which takes you through beautiful forest areas and along the beach.

Best Things to Do in Garden City: Activities and Tours

  • Beachcombing: Take a relaxing walk along the beach and search for seashells, sand dollars, and other treasures.
  • Surfing: Experience the thrill of catching a wave with a surfing lesson from a local outfitter.
  • Fishing: Head to the Garden City Pier or book a fishing charter to catch some of the best fish in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Garden City

| Day | Activity | | — | — | | Day 1 | Explore Brookgreen Gardens | | Day 2 | Visit Atalaya Castle and tour Huntington Beach State Park | | Day 3 | Take a fishing charter or go on a sunset cruise | | Day 4 | Learn about the history of rice cultivation at the Georgetown Rice Museum | | Day 5 | Go on a bike tour of Waccamaw Neck Bikeway | | Day 6 | Spend the day at Garden City Beach | | Day 7 | Take a stroll along the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk |

Food and Drink Scene of Garden City

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shrimp and Grits: A classic Lowcountry dish with sauteed shrimp and creamy grits.
  • She-Crab Soup: A rich and creamy soup made with crab meat, cream, and sherry.
  • Fried Chicken: Indulge in crispy fried chicken, a Southern staple.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: Sip on a glass of sweet tea, a refreshing Southern favorite.
  • Craft Beer: Explore the local craft beer scene with brews from New South Brewing Company or Coastal Carolina Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Garden City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inlet Sports Lodge: This luxurious lodge offers upscale rooms and suites, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
  • Sea Mystique: A cozy beachfront resort with spacious condos and breathtaking ocean views.
  • Garden City Beach Inn: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and easy access to the beach.

What to Buy in Garden City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Carolina Moon Gallery: Shop for handmade crafts, pottery, and jewelry by local artists.
  • Indigo Mercantile: Browse through a collection of unique home decor items, artisanal foods, and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Garden City

  • Southern Hospitality: Visitors to Garden City can expect a warm and welcoming reception from the locals, who are known for their Southern hospitality.
  • Beach Culture: With miles of pristine beaches, Garden City has a laid-back beach culture, where flip-flops and board shorts are the norm.

Best Time to Visit Garden City

The best time to visit Garden City is during the spring and fall seasons, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is peak season, with hot temperatures and crowded beaches.

Do’s and Don’ts of Garden City

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the natural beauty of Garden City and participate in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits and fried chicken.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray, as the coastal area can be hot and humid.
  • Don’t litter or pollute the natural environment of Garden City.

Safety and Health

Safety in Garden City

Garden City is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions like locking car doors, not leaving valuables unattended, and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Garden City

The tap water in Garden City is safe to drink, and there are several hospitals and medical facilities in the area in case of emergencies.

Getting to Garden City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Garden City

  • Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
  • Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Bus Stations Near Garden City

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Southeastern Stages

Other Options

  • Private car services like Uber and Lyft are available in Garden City.
  • Rental cars are available at the airport and in downtown Myrtle Beach.

How to Get Around in Garden City

The easiest way to get around Garden City is by car, but there are also bike rentals and public transportation options available.

Where to Go Next from Garden City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Myrtle Beach: Just a short drive from Garden City, Myrtle Beach is a bustling seaside town known for its vibrant nightlife, family-friendly attractions, and beautiful beaches.
  • Charleston: A historic Southern city with stunning architecture, a vibrant food scene, and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure in the great outdoors, Garden City has something for everyone. From natural beauty to rich history and culture, this charming seaside town is a must-visit destination in South Carolina.