Anderson Travel Guide

Get ready for an adventure in Anderson with this comprehensive travel guide that includes the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, and more!


Introduction to Anderson

Anderson, a city located in Upcountry South Carolina, is a perfect destination for tourists who crave natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. With a vibrant local culture and warm hospitality, Anderson is a place that you wouldn’t want to miss. Explore its history at the various museums, soak in the great outdoors through hiking/biking or enjoy the food scene that Anderson has to offer. We present a comprehensive tour guide of Anderson to help you plan an exciting trip to this beautiful city.

List of Places to Visit in Anderson

Anderson is an exciting destination for tourists, with several places to visit and things to do. Here are some of the highlights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anderson County Museum - Offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of Anderson and its surrounding areas. The museum’s primary focus is on the history of upcountry South Carolina with exhibits documenting the past of the region, such as Native American and European settlement, farming, textiles, and sports.
  • South Carolina State Farmers Market - A bustling market that showcases a range of products from local farmers and artisans. You can buy fresh produce, candies, cheeses, jams, jellies, and wine at this market.
  • Anderson County Courthouse - Built-in 1898, the Anderson County Courthouse is one of the city’s historical landmarks and is regarded to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the state.

Natural Attractions of Anderson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sadlers Creek State Park - This park is located on the shore of Lake Hartwell and provides a great view of the lake, with hiking/biking opportunities, picnicking facilities, fishing, and boating access.
  • Lake Hartwell - A man-made reservoir on the Savannah River, located just west of Anderson. It provides a stunning view of the water and facilitates various water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.
  • Carolina Wren Park - A community park in downtown Anderson, Carolina Wren offers visitors a place to relax. With amphitheater-style seating providing great views of the downtown stage, it provides a location for musical and artistic performances.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Anderson

Anderson has several hiking/biking trails that one can explore, from easy to advanced trails. Here are some of the best routes that will keep you engaged in Anderson’s natural beauty:

  • The Doodle Trail - a 7.5 miles stretch, is a popular trail for cyclists and walkers. This trail was formerly a railway line, and it winds through the heart of Anderson’s farmland. Enjoy the serene environment, farm views, creeks, and a few small parks along the way.
  • Sadlers Creek State Park - providing about 7 miles of moderate hiking, this trail loops through a forest of hardwoods and pines, passing through several coves on Lake Hartwell. Walkers and hikers can easily enjoy some of the beautiful views of Lake Hartwell.

Best Things to Do in Anderson: Activities and Tours

Anderson has a range of activities, tours, and entertainment for all age groups. Here are some of the must-try to get the best Anderson experience.

  • Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center - hosts several events and sporting activities. Find live concerts and festivals that are organized here throughout the year.
  • Jockey Lot / Farmers Market - A flea market that operates on the weekends, with local traders selling a wide variety of goods, including jewelry, antiques, handicrafts, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
  • Electric City Playhouse - Enjoy quality theatre productions at this local community theatre, showcasing Broadway-style productions and world premiere events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Anderson

Anderson’s charm, natural beauty, history, and culture will make you want to stay a little longer. Here’s a week-long itinerary for a fulfilling experience in Anderson.

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Anderson County Museum – explore the museum and the exhibits. Enjoy a farm-fresh meal at the Palmetto Distillery
Day 2 Bicycle the Doodle Trail and explore the city’s landmarks, such as the Anderson County Courthouse
Day 3 Visit art galleries and shops around downtown Anderson, followed by a production at the Electric City Playhouse
Day 4 Explore the Great outdoors at Sadlers Creek State Park and enjoy kayaking.
Day 5 Relax by Lake Hartwell
Day 6 Visit local farms and enjoy fresh produce, then have fun shopping at the Anderson Farmer’s Market
Day 7 Hike at Lake Hartwell, and find the perfect spot for a picnic with beautiful scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Anderson

Anderson is known for its delicious and diverse culinary scene, with variations of Southern comfort food and local dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in Anderson.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue - Famous in Anderson, every restaurant you visit serves pulled pork, ribs, and distinctive barbecue sauces.
  • Shrimp and Grits - A Southern classic and a must-try dish when in Anderson.
  • Pimento Cheese - A unique creamy cheese made from cheddar cheese mixed with pimentos and other seasonings, great for every cracker and sandwich.

Local Beverages

  • Palmetto Moonshine - Locally distilled, Anderson’s moonshine comes in various flavors, making it a popular beverage among adults.
  • Carolina Bauernhaus Brewery & Winery - They have a wide range of craft beers and wines.

Where to Stay in Anderson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Anderson has several accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Anderson:

  • The Bleckley Inn - A 1895 boutique hotel that provides luxurious accommodation with fantastic guest services.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites - Conveniently situated on Clemson Blvd, with plenty of restaurants and shopping venues within walking distance.
  • Hampton Inn Anderson - Pet-friendly, and conveniently situated close to Anderson University.

What to Buy in Anderson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Anderson’s local shops and markets offer an exciting range of souvenirs and local products. Here’s what we suggest:

  • Anderson Jockey Lot Farmers Market - Shop for antiques, crafts, and more.
  • Celebrations Apparel & Accessories - Pick up souvenirs like t-shirts, hats, and other uniquely themed clothing items.
  • Palmetto Distillery - Get a bottle of locally distilled Palmetto Whiskey.

Local Culture and Customs of Anderson

Anderson is a friendly, hospitable city with warm Southern customs. Here are some local customs and behaviors to showcase respect while enjoying Anderson’s culture.

  • Greeting people with a smile and being polite is vital in Anderson.
  • Tipping 15-20% is standard in Anderson.
  • Grace before meals is recognized in Anderson.

Best Time to Visit Anderson

Anderson is an all-year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. However, the best time to visit Anderson is from March through November when the weather is mild and enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Anderson

Do:

  • Tip service providers 15-20%.
  • Greet people with a smile and be polite.
  • Respect Anderson’s community and company.

Don’t:

  • Litter the streets and other public places
  • Overstep social and cultural boundaries.

Safety and Health

Safety in Anderson

Anderson’s general safety level is probably as safe as you can expect anywhere in the US. Violent crime rates are relatively low. However, common sense precautions always apply.

Health in Anderson

Anderson has robust and secure medical facilities, such as the AnMed Health Medical Center, that provides all facilities. Most healthcare facilities will accept most insurance policies.

Getting to Anderson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Anderson is situated between Atlanta and Charlotte, making it easy to access. Here are the best ways to reach and get around in Anderson:

Airports Near Anderson

  • Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport - Greenville (GYH / KGMU)
  • Athens-Ben Epps Airport - Athens (AHN / KAHN)

Bus Stations Near Anderson

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - 4330 Clemson Blvd

Other Options

  • Amtrak - Located in Clemson, just a few miles away from Anderson

How to Get Around in Anderson

Popular and available transportation options around Anderson include rental cars, taxis, and Uber. Anderson also has a CAT bus system that provides services; users can learn about schedules and routes on the official CAT website.

Where to Go Next from Anderson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Anderson’s location, situated between Charlotte and Atlanta, provides adventure opportunities and nearby attractions for day trips. Here are some recommended places to visit near Anderson:

  • Greenville - Located only 30 minutes away from Anderson, Greenville is an attractive city known for its hip downtown, great art scene, and notable cultural venues. Travelers can enjoy the Greenville Falls, Center for the Arts, and a thriving restaurant scene.
  • Atlanta - Located approximately two hours drive from Anderson; it is an exciting day trip. Go to the CNN Center, The Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola, among its top attractions.

Conclusion

Anderson is a city that promises to provide a unique, unforgettable experience. With so much to see and explore, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your next trip to Anderson, South Carolina. Explore Anderson’s history and culture, hike, bike, and enjoy amazing food while experiencing the warm hospitality that Anderson has to offer.