While Charleston may steal the spotlight with its historic charm and coastal allure, South Carolina’s lesser-known destinations like Aiken and Columbia are brimming with appeal for wellness enthusiasts looking for something off the beaten path. Aiken enchants visitors with its tranquil pace, equestrian culture, and wellness-focused offerings. Meanwhile, Columbia, the state’s vibrant capital, surprises with its burgeoning food scene, sprawling green spaces like Riverfront Park, and a commitment to community wellness. Whether you’re strolling through Aiken’s shady oak canopies or exploring Columbia’s thriving Main Street, these underrated gems offer a refreshing balance of relaxation and restoration, proving that South Carolina’s treasures extend beyond the cobblestones of Charleston.
Aiken, SC
What Not to Miss
- A visit to Aiken County Historical Museum
- Day trip to nearby Greenwood for a stroll around town and bite to eat at Fox & Hound Lounge
- Aiken Spring or Fall Steeplechase, a popular one-day event with multiple races, tailgating, vendors, live music, and more
Nestled among the stately oaks and vibrant gardens, Aiken radiates a timeless appeal, blending history, hospitality, and outdoor charm into an irresistible destination. With its quiet parks, downtown shops, and wellness-focused lifestyle, this charming town is the perfect place to reset, reconnect, and relish life’s finer moments.
In a recent visit to Aiken, I attended the highly anticipated Aiken Steeplechase Championship, a beloved tradition that celebrates the town’s equestrian history. The event, hosted by the Aiken Steeplechase Association, brought together family, friends, and first-time visitors, like myself, for an unforgettable day of camaraderie and competition. From the heart-pounding excitement of thoroughbreds thundering down the track to the playful charm of hobby horse races featuring both kids and adults to the crowd-pleasing antics of corgi and hound sprints, the day offered something for everyone. Another highlight involved attendees flaunting their creativity with bold hats and quirky pants.
Spanning 140 acres, the racetrack parade grounds provided ample space to roam, picnic, and soak in the lively atmosphere. In Aiken, the steeplechase isn’t just an event, it’s a celebration of the community’s enduring love affair with horses. But Aiken’s allure doesn’t stop at the steeplechase.
During my stay, I made myself at home at the 37-room Carriage House Inn, perfectly situated on Aiken’s main street. This historic inn, originally built in 1872, exudes a comfy, bygone-era charm with its vintage furnishings and eclectic paintings. Its warm and well-loved atmosphere gives the inn an authenticity that is rare in today’s cookie-cutter hotels—and speaking of cookies, complimentary treats are just one of the many thoughtful touches here. Outdoors, a veranda with a fireplace and cozy couches invites guests to relax in style. A self-serve continental breakfast and the inn’s attentive staff added to the overall ease of this sentimental Southern retreat.
Another popular choice for visitors is The Wilcox, a renowned hotel, restaurant, and spa that seamlessly blends history with upscale hospitality. A well-loved gathering spot, its lounge radiates timeless charm with cozy seating, intimate live music, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere to kick back and enjoy the company of those around you.
Healthy Eats
Aiken’s culinary offerings are as diverse and inviting as the town itself, with a focus on fresh, locally inspired dishes. For breakfast or lunch, The New Moon Café is a must-visit spot for its creative comfort food and socially conscious coffees. The bread and pastries are made in-house, and the soups are made from scratch. I also enjoyed the Polo Grounds Cafe, serving delicious crepes and berry smoothies. Meanwhile, What’s Cookin’ Downtown offers hearty diner-style portions served with a side of small-town charm.
When dinnertime rolled around, the dining options continued to impress. The Park Avenue Oyster Bar & Grille is a neighborhood favorite featuring bluefin tuna, diver scallops, and oysters, of course. Embracing the town’s rich equestrian heritage, The Feed Sack seamlessly pairs filling American cuisine with charming, horse-inspired ambiance.
Columbia, SC
What Not to Miss
- A hike through Congaree National Park, a 2.5-mile elevated boardwalk loop
- Breakfast or lunch at The Gourmet Shop, a Five Points institution since 1979
- The exhibits at Columbia Museum of Art and its community events, including meditation sessions and courtyard yoga
- Shvaas Spa for halotherapy, float therapy, infrared sauna, lymphatic compression, and more
After leaving Aiken, I headed to Columbia. My visit there confirmed this capital city is more than just a college town—it’s a hub of creativity and culture. I stayed at the charming Graduate by Hilton Columbia, a reimagined historic landmark located near the University of South Carolina’s picturesque Horseshoe, the heart of the campus. The hotel’s fun and quirky design captures the essence of the city, with vibrant colors, playful decor, and an inviting warmth. The lobby, with a host of seating areas—all with their own unique personality—served as the perfect setting to work or unwind at the end of the day.
Downtown, I found myself captivated at the Columbia Museum of Art. This world-class institution houses a stunning collection of masterful works from Monet, Matisse, Renoir, and Cezanne. My favorite discovery was the Our Story Matters Gallery, a partnership among the museum, the USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research, and Columbia SC 63: Our Story Matters. The exhibit, Intersections on Main Street: African American Life in Columbia, reveals stories of African American life in the city from Reconstruction through the 1970s. It reminded me how art has the unique ability to connect us, to heal, and to inspire resilience. Wellness is about more than just physical health. Spaces like this provide a sense of belonging and encourage reflection, fostering emotional and mental wellbeing.
Healthy Eats
Columbia’s dining scene is equally enticing, starting with Hampton Street Vineyard, a delightful French farm-to-table bistro. I especially enjoyed dining at The Gourmet Shop and could have spent hours browsing this foodie haven, brimming with gourmet items and kitchen treasures. Another culinary highlight was Motor Supply Company Bistro. Once an auto parts store, this now elegant eatery features a locally sourced menu that’s constantly evolving. It relies on sustainably farmed, house-butchered meats, farm-to-table produce, and South Carolina seafood. For something uniquely Southern, don’t miss The Spotted Salamander Café located in downtown Columbia’s Historic District. Opened first as a catering company relying on local farmers markets to serve inventive Southern cuisine, it eventually added the café to continue serving fresh, local food with a twist. Owner and chef Jessica Shillato was named one of South Carolina’s Chef Ambassadors.
Nature Fix
To round out my visit, I took an eye-opening trip to Congaree National Park, a natural wonder just a short drive from the city. Walking through the towering old-growth trees, it’s easy to marvel at the unique floodplain ecosystem that’s home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern U.S. The tranquil boardwalk trails offer the perfect opportunity to disconnect, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
From its colorful accommodations and awe-inspiring art to its farm-to-table dining and serene outdoor escapes, Columbia proved itself to be a destination that caters to both the senses and the spirit. It’s a Southern gem with a character all its own waiting to be discovered.
