One of my favorite things about spending time at Lake Hartwell is visiting all the quaint nearby towns. There is nothing better after a day on the water than getting a sample of how locals live.
One particularly fun area is Anderson, SC – one of the larger cities near the lake. Whether you’re in the mood to spend a day touring a working goat dairy farm or sampling local food and brews, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in Anderson.
The Best Things to do in Anderson, SC
Fun fact:
Anderson is also known as the Electric City because it was the first city in the area to use cables to carry electricity. In 1897, Anderson was revolutionary having electric streetcars, lamps, and an electricity powered cotton gin.
While Anderson has the usual attractions like movie theaters and bowling, there’s also a lot of culture going on in this southern town. Here are some of the most fun attractions in the town.
Feed some friendly goats at Split Creek.
Tour a Working Goat Dairy Farm
If you love goats, or even just have a fondness for good dairy, this is the place to head to. Split Creek Farm is a Grade A goat dairy farm that produces award-winning cheese, fudge, and milk—all made from the goats on the farm. The farm is open for tours, but you must schedule them in advance. Spend two hours touring the farm and learning about different breeds of dairy goats and how they are managed at Split Creek. The tour includes a tasting of cheese, fudge, and milk—all produced on-site. Make sure you spend some time perusing the farm shop as well to take your favorite items home with you.
The Lake Hartwell area has many art galleries.
Take in an Art Exhibition
Looking for a fun date night spot? Look no further than the Art Center. The gallery features exhibitions with regional, national, and international artists whose paintings you can explore.
Get your timing right and you can make it to one of the signature events at the gallery, such as the craft beer and wine series where you can sample food and drink while you enjoy unique art. Additionally, the center often hosts classes and workshops for kids, teens, and adults. These range from ceramics to painting and mixed media. If art exhibits are your thing, there really is a lot of art to view in the Lake Hartwell area. Plan to spend a day or two visiting all the local art galleries.
Enjoy music by the Accidental String Band while shopping at the farmer’s market.
Enjoy Music and Fresh Food
Located in downtown Anderson, the farmer’s market is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Everything sold is grown within Anderson county with a few exceptions that are marked. As we all know, nothing is better than fresh, local produce! Outside of farm grown fruits and vegetables, shoppers will find live music and tasty treats such as baked goods or local smoked cheeses. Additionally, fresh eggs, beef, poultry, and pork can be purchased, alongside local honey, handmade jewelry, lotions and more. There truly is something for everyone.
Shop for a deal at Anderson Jockey Lot
Spend an Afternoon Treasure Hunting
The Anderson Jockey Lot flea market was founded in 1972, inspired by the festive markets often found in Mexico. The market is one of the largest in the area—it spans 65 acres and more than 2,150 vendor spaces. This massive market certainly draws a crowd. It is estimated that between 30,000-60,000 people attend the market. Join the crowd to sift through antiques, homemade arts and crafts, art, pets, and even fresh produce.
Learn Local History
If you want to learn more about the county, region, state, and even nation, the museum is the place to be. This museum has been open for over 30 years with the singular goal of explaining and showcasing the area’s unique history. These galleries aren’t your standard variety, either. The Anderson County Museum aims to infuse the exhibits with dynamic, interactive exhibits that make learning fun.
Catch some local vibes at Carolina Bauernhause.
Grab a Local Beer
Finally, for those in the 21 and up crowd, cap the day off by enjoying an ice-cold beer or two. This local hotspot serves a wide variety of beers made with local ingredients. You can find everything here from a classic pale ale to something much more exotic, such as spicy or sour beer. Get a flight and try several to discover a new favorite!
Are you ready to head to Anderson, SC? Which experience will you try first? If you have any other suggestions, please leave them in the comments below to be added to our list.
