Abbeville Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Abbeville with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culturally important attractions, the natural beauty, the best food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.
- Introduction to Abbeville
- List of Places to Visit in Abbeville
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Abbeville
- Best Things to Do in Abbeville: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Abbeville
- Food and Drink Scene of Abbeville
- Where to Stay in Abbeville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Abbeville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Abbeville
- Best Time to Visit Abbeville
- Do’s and Don’ts of Abbeville
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Abbeville: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Abbeville
- Where to Go Next from Abbeville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Abbeville
Abbeville is a charming town located in the heart of Old 96 District, South Carolina. Known for its picturesque main street, Southern hospitality, and rich history, Abbeville should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or looking for a relaxing vacation, Abbeville has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Abbeville
Abbeville is a small town but has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here is a list of top places to visit in Abbeville:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Burt-Stark Mansion - This grand historic mansion houses a museum that showcases Abbeville’s rich history. Built in 1830, the mansion is a Greek Revival style home that features period furnishings.
- The McGowan-Barksdale-Bundy House - Built-in 1849, this historic house is known for its unique architecture and historical significance.
- Abbeville Opera House - The Abbeville Opera House is one of South Carolina’s oldest community theaters, which offers a variety of shows throughout the year.
Natural Attractions of Abbeville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Calhoun Falls State Park - With its natural beauty, Lake Russell, and many hiking trails, Calhoun Falls State Park is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
- Long Cane Scenic Area - Located on the edge of the Sumter National Forest, Long Cane Scenic Area is famous for its beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views.
- Anderson Memorial Park - Located in the heart of Abbeville, this park offers a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll around the lake.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Abbeville
Abbeville is a hiker’s/biker’s paradise, with many scenic trails that offer a glimpse into the town’s natural beauty. Here are three of the must-visit hiking/biking routes of Abbeville:
- Abbeville Historic Walking Tour - This walking tour of downtown Abbeville highlights historic buildings, such as the Opera House, the Courthouse, and the Burt-Stark Mansion.
- Sumter National Forest - The Sumter National Forest has many hiking trails that will take you to remote areas and reveal the natural beauty of Abbeville.
- Lake Russell WMA - Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area offers hiking and birdwatching opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Best Things to Do in Abbeville: Activities and Tours
Abbeville offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of our top picks:
- Thomson’s farm and market tour - A unique tour of an active farm where visitors can pick their fruits and vegetables.
- Wine tastings at Abbeville Vineyards - Abbeville’s local winery offers visitors the chance to sample and indulge in a variety of different wines made from locally grown grapes.
- Antique shopping on Abbeville’s Main Street - Abbeville has a thriving antique market, with antique stores lining Main Street, attracting collectors and bargain hunters.
Week-Long Itinerary for Abbeville
Abbeville has a lot to offer to visitors, and a week-long itinerary is a perfect way to explore this charming town’s many attractions. Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Abbeville:
Day 1: Arrive and explore Downtown Abbeville. Don’t forget to check out the historic Opera House.
Day 2: Head out to Calhoun Falls State Park and enjoy a day of hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.
Day 3: Take a tour of the Burt-Stark Mansion and learn about Abbeville’s rich history.
Day 4: Spend a relaxing day taking in Abbeville Vineyard with a wine tasting tour and vineyard tour.
Day 5: Take a day trip to the nearby town Greenwood and explore the many great shops and restaurants.
Day 6: Visit the McGowan-Barksdale-Bundy House to explore Abbeville’s unique Southern architecture.
Day 7: Head up to the Long Cane Scenic Area and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Food and Drink Scene of Abbeville
Abbeville is famous for its Southern hospitality, and that extends to the food and drink scene. With many locally owned restaurants, breweries, and vineyards, Abbeville offers a unique culinary experience.
Must-Try Dishes
- Southern Fried Chicken - For a classic Southern dish, head to the Village Grill in Abbeville and sample their Southern Fried Chicken.
- Shrimp and Grits - Try the shrimp and grits at Milford’s Family Restaurant, made with locally sourced shrimp and Abbeville’s signature grits.
- Barbecue - South Carolina has a deep-rooted BBQ culture, and Abbeville’s livermush barbecue donut at Mary’s Donuts is a must-try.
Local Beverages
- Wine - Abbeville Vineyards offers a unique wine tasting experience, allowing visitors to sample a range of locally-made wines.
- Beer - If you are in the mood for beer, make sure to head to Viva Villa Mexican Grill and choose from a range of locally brewed beers.
Where to Stay in Abbeville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Abbeville offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and travel styles. Here are three great options:
- The Belmont Inn - A historical hotel that has been providing accommodation to travelers since 1903.
- Rose Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast - Staying in a historic mansion turned B&B offers a unique experience that you will not find anywhere else.
- The Cottage at Lizzies - For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Cottage at Lizzies is a great option.
What to Buy in Abbeville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Abbeville is a small town, and you won’t find big-box stores here. However, you will find a range of locally owned shops offering unique items. Here are three unique items to bring back as souvenirs:
- Sweet Tea Syrup - Abbeville’s Sweet Tea Syrup from Burrell’s Family Markets is a must-try for tea lovers.
- Pottery and Ceramics - Mullikin Studio and Gallery offers handmade pottery and ceramics made by local artists.
- Crafts and Art - Abbeville’s Main Street is lined with art galleries and craft stores offering unique handmade items.
Local Culture and Customs of Abbeville
Abbeville is a town that values Southern culture and tradition. The town has a close-knit community that extends a warm welcome to visitors. Southerners are friendly and welcoming, so expect to be greeted with a smile and a warm greeting from everyone you meet.
Best Time to Visit Abbeville
The best time to visit Abbeville is in the fall, when the weather is mild, and the leaves are changing. Also, the Apple Festival is held in September, and it is a great time to visit Abbeville and experience all the town has to offer.
Do’s and Don’ts of Abbeville
Do:
- Do visit Abbeville in the fall and attend the Apple Festival.
- Do take a walk-through beautiful downtown Abbeville.
- Do try the local cuisine.
Don’t:
- Don’t litter. Keep Abbeville clean during your visit.
- Don’t disrespect the Southern culture and cultural norms.
- Don’t forget to tip well.
Safety and Health
Safety in Abbeville
Abbeville is a safe town with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take necessary precautions and keep your belongings secure in public areas.
Health in Abbeville
Abbeville is a healthy town, but it is always a good idea to carry medical insurance when traveling. In case of emergency, the nearest hospital is the Self Regional Healthcare in nearby Greenwood.
Getting to Abbeville: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Abbeville
The nearest airport to Abbeville is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, located 65 miles east of Abbeville.
Bus Stations Near Abbeville
Abbeville has no bus stations. However, the nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Greenwood, which is just 15 miles away.
Other Options
The best way to get around Abbeville is by renting a car. Abbeville is a small town and is easily accessible by car.
How to Get Around in Abbeville
Abbeville is a walkable town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Rental cars are also available for those who prefer to drive.
Where to Go Next from Abbeville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Historic Greenwood - A visit to historic Greenwood, located just 15 miles away, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Sumter National Forest - The Sumter National Forest has many scenic hiking trails and is located just a short drive away from Abbeville.
Conclusion
Abbeville is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality. Our comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Abbeville. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Abbeville is the perfect destination for you. We hope you enjoy exploring this Southern gem and create unforgettable memories.
