Well it took me years of living in Charleston to take a trip to the charming little coastal town just 60 miles north, and now I’m shouting it from the rooftops – plan a weekend trip to Georgetown, SC! I spent a weekend exploring this small, historic port city and am now convinced that Georgetown is a southern coastal Stars Hollow – it oozes small town charm and I met fun, friendly characters everywhere I went. Georgetown, SC is worth a visit.
I now like to think of Georgetown as Charleston’s quieter little sister. As South Carolina’s third oldest city, nestled in the middle of the state’s Hammock Coast, Georgetown boasts a rich history that is palpable as you walk along the historic houses and oak lined streets. I think Georgetown’s appeal lies in its ability to offer a peaceful escape without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations and a glimpse into the past.The city’s relaxed pace, scenic river views, and friendly locals make it an great destination for a weekend retreat or easy little day trip.
Here’s a detailed guide you can use to plan a visit to Georgetown, South Carolina:
What to See & Do in Georgetown
Stroll along the historic Harborwalk
The Georgetown Harborwalk runs parallel to Front Street, the main drag of downtown Georgetown. This picturesque boardwalk runs along the Sampit River, offering stunning views of the water and historic buildings. The Harborwalk is perfect for a morning or evening walk, where you can enjoy beautiful sunrises, fresh sea breeze, and watch boats gently bobbing in the marina, and even say hi to a couple local cats who live on houseboats in the Marina. I am a bit jealous of their lifestyle!
Learn About Gullah Culture
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Gullah Museum of Georgetown. Here, I had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Rodriguez share the oral history of the local Gullah community, language and rice culture. His storytelling brought the history and culture of the Gullah people to life, providing a deeper understanding of this significant part of South Carolina’s heritage and life in the Lowcountry that is often overlooked by tourists. Make sure you don’t leave without Bunny’s red rice recipe!
Catch a Show at the Strand Theater
The historic Strand Theater is another gem in Georgetown in the heart of downtown. Once the local movie theater, it is now home to the Swamp Fox Players and hosts a variety of performances, from community theater to musical concerts. Check the schedule in advance and see if you can catch a show during your visit to add a touch of local culture and history to your weekend.
Shop Local
For a dose of retail therapy and local souvenirs, head to some of Georgetown’s unique boutiques and antique stores. Ricebirds is a local, family owned boutique in the center of town, perfect for buying local home goods and souvenirs and Emma Marie’s Antique Shoppe offers a treasure trove of vintage finds. These stores are perfect for picking up a piece of Georgetown to take home with you – ask either shop owners to tell you about surviving the town’s downtown fire of 2013.
Georgetown Farmers Market
If you’re visiting on a Saturday, the Georgetown Farmers Market is a must. Located downtown on Screven Street from 8-1, this market offers a delightful array of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s a wonderful way to support local vendors and get a taste of the community spirit – everyone was out about, as vendors were greeting buyers by name and vice versa.
Where to Eat & Drink in Georgetown
Breakfast at Thomas Cafe
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at Thomas Cafe. This has been a local favorite for 75+ years – you’ll likely see some of them sitting at the counter in Thomas Cafe t-shirts. The joint serves up delicious Southern breakfast classics in a cozy diner atmosphere. Their homemade biscuits and gravy are a must-try!
Coffee from Grit & Grind
Need a caffeine fix after all those biscuits ? Stop by the nearby Grit & Grind coffee shop for an espresso drink. The staff is super friendly, bathrooms are clean, and you can take it to go and walk along the marina.
Lunch at Between the Antlers
For lunch, head to Between the Antlers where you can enjoy an eclectic menu with a water view. The restaurant is named after this book by James Dickey, and their menu features a variety of fresh, locally sourced dishes that highlight the flavors of the Lowcountry coastal region. Don’t miss their seafood options, which are a true testament to Georgetown’s coastal roots. I was there during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, and they were running some great Irish specials, which I paired with a Guinness on tap.
Ice Cream at Sweeties or Old Georgetown Creamery
No trip to Georgetown is complete without indulging in some ice cream while strolling along the water on a hot day. Both Sweeties and Old Georgetown Creamery offers homemade ice cream and sweet treats that are perfect for a midday snack or dessert. Why not try both and decide for yourself which one you prefer? There seems to be a bit of a divide between the locals…
Dinner at Root or The River Room
When it comes to dinner, you have two fantastic options, both of which I swear every local asked me if we had eaten at yet. Root offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that changes seasonally. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented, making for a memorable dining experience, and the more upscale option of these two. Alternatively, The River Room provides a cozy, riverside setting where you can order fresh seafood and other local favorites. It very much felt like the spot folks went to celebrate a family birthday or other special occasion.
Cocktails at The Independent
End your evening with a cocktail at the bar of The Independent, which has all of Georgetown abuzz. This stylish restaurant and bar is the newest project of Indigo Road Hospitality and sits within The George Hotel. They offer a range of expertly crafted cocktails in a warm yet sophisticated setting. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your day of exploring Georgetown, and makes for great people watching if you are curious about locals with old southern money.
Where to Stay in Georgetown
620 Prince
For accommodations when you plan a weekend in Georgetown, look no further than 620 Prince. This luxury bed and breakfast is owned and run by a local husband and wife duo (both College of Charleston grads), who bought and restored a beautiful historic home that now offers a delightful blend of comfort and character. The restored historic home is within walking distance of everything in downtown Georgetown, making it a convenient and cozy base for your stay.
620 Prince hosted me for my Georgetown weekend getaway, and I cannot sing their praises enough. Every morning, you’ll be treated to fresh coffee and amazing breakfasts in the galley kitchen that will have you ready for a walk about town (or bike ride! They provide them). Each room is thoughtfully and locally decorated, and there is a lovely pool out back where you can cool off from the coastal heat or unwind with a drink during cocktail hour.
Conclusion
Georgetown, SC, is a relaxed, hidden gem that offers a nice blend of history, culture, and southern hospitality. A weekend in Georgetown is more than just a getaway—it’s an opportunity to slow down, soak in the small-town charm, and create lasting memories. Don’t be like me and live in South Carolina for 8+ years before stopping off to visit. Plan your weekend trip to Georgetown, SC, and experience the magic of this southern coastal Stars Hollow for yourself.
This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me, Emma Cregg. All opinions and reviews are my own. As the owner of this blog, I may accept forms of cash advertising, or sponsorship.
