Nestled halfway between Charleston and Myrtle Beach lies an unassuming, quaint coastal town absolutely brimming with all of the charm of the South. Though it’s not as flashy as some of its counterparts, historic Georgetown was one of the first cities settled on the Carolina coast, and it has become a must-visit spot for both vacationers and locals, thanks to abundant waterfront shopping, dining and outdoor activities. A town founded on industry, you’ll discover that Georgetown is deeply rooted in our proud American history. It’s worthy of respect and love — and should right away be added to your own list of destinations for 2020.

Experience the Town’s History

Georgetown was initially settled in 1526, becoming the third-oldest city in South Carolina. By the 1700s, the town became a primary exporter of local cash crops, such as rice and indigo. It was even visited by President George Washington during the American Revolution.

If you're a history buff, you will no doubt be excited to see the many well-preserved plantation homes throughout the county. Guided tours are available at two of the more popular historic sites: Hopsewee Plantation and the Hampton Plantation State Historic Site. Take the tour at Hopsewee Plantation, and then enjoy a bite to eat at The River Oak Cottage Tearoom, which boasts amazing Southern dining options as well as a tea service.

If you're looking for an option to learn local history and enjoy the surrounding water, a boat tour to the Georgetown Lighthouse is surely the way to spend an ideal afternoon. The lighthouse off of Winyah Bay is now federally owned and does not allow foot traffic. Still, there are a few boat tour options that will allow you to view the lighthouse from the water, while also providing breathtakingly close encounters with local wildlife.

One of my personal favorite options for seeing Georgetown is taking a walking tour. Strollin' along the Sampit is one great option, colorfully hosted by town local, Debby Summey. The 12-block tour of the city's historic district is a fabulous way to take in the sights to learn its story in just a little over an hour.

Stay in Southern Comfort

If you’re searching for a cozy spot to spend the night in Georgetown, there are several options at all price ranges, whether you’ve got a bed and breakfast or a no-frills national chain in mind.

The Shaw House Bed and Breakfast is one popular option and is located within walking distance to the heart of Georgetown, including many historic attractions. The bed and breakfast itself is a perfect place to find repose after a busy day of sightseeing; it’s furnished with beautiful antiques and has an idyllic Southern porch offering views of the marsh.

Or, if you're looking for an option a little more “outside of the box,” I urge you to consider Baxter's Brewhouse Inn. As the first “bed and brew” in South Carolina, it offers a generous selection of local beers to sample and is located right around the corner from historic Front Street.

Of course, the Hampton Inn Georgetown-Marina is located right off of Highway 17, also boasting waterfront views. It's a great option if you prefer the familiarity of a national chain but also want to stay somewhere with convenient proximity to all that Georgetown has to offer—as well as easy access to Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet or Myrtle Beach to the North and Charleston to the South.

Eat Your Heart Out

There is no shortage of delicious local cuisine in Georgetown. A favorite since 1984, The River Room on Front Street is the perfect spot for luscious sustainable seafood and your favorite waterfront views. Another seafood option (because you can’t have too many!) is Big Tuna Restaurant and Raw Bar. Also located on Front Street, Big Tuna is known for their amazing fried shrimp, in addition to offering a full-service raw bar with tuna tartar, fresh oysters and more.

One of my personal favorite restaurants is The Humble Crumb. If you love Italian food as much as I do, you will not be disappointed with their menu selection. It’s has all the classics—spaghetti, stuffed shells, baked ziti—but it’s hard to beat their artisan pizza. There’s even a steak on the menu for that hard to please person in your travel group!

After dinner, get ready to indulge your sweet tooth as you make a beeline for Harvest Moon Ice Cream Shop. Not only is there a number of tantalizing flavors to choose from, you can pile on the toppings and the cones are all handmade on-site—talk about perfection. Pastry fanatics will want to hit up Indigo Bakery, a locally owned spot with daily specials and a heavenly selection of cookies, brownies and cupcakes. I suggest one of their cinnamon rolls—you won’t regret it!

Get Hitched

Perhaps you’re on the hunt for a picturesque wedding venue that boasts all the charm of the Lowcountry, without the sticker shock of a Charleston wedding. Consider Georgetown your answer. From waterfront to gardens to historic museums to parks, you can find a venue for any season or theme your heart desires. Need help putting all the details together? Suzanne Doyle of SC Destination Weddings has taken the legwork out of planning your dream wedding. Visit www.scdestinationweddings.com to find experienced photographers, party-starting DJs and bands, breathtaking venues, and more!

Whether you're on a day trip, staying for a few leisurely nights, or planning to say ‘I do!’, Georgetown has so much to offer and is truly a Southern town rich in history and culture. Visit this season, tour the plantations, enjoy a meal or two and take in the scenery — you’ll fit right into this storybook fairy tale, we promise.

by Miriam Pitts

A Southern Storybook Town: Georgetown, South Carolina