Home Care In Abbeville, SC

Looking to take a road trip to South Carolina but want to avoid the crowds in big cities like Charleston or Columbia? Check out South Carolina's smaller towns. While smaller towns may not have large concert venues, billboards, or shopping centers, they still have a lot to offer. From leisurely walks down peaceful streets lined with charming, historic buildings to cute local shops and cultural landmarks, South Carolina's small towns have something for everyone. They make an excellent destination for a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation. This article lists eight underrated towns in South Carolina to enjoy in 2025 without the traffic jams and long lines in big cities.

Abbeville

First on the list is Abbeville, a romantic town that will transport visitors back in time with its brick-paved square. The downtown looks as though it belongs in a painting with historic buildings and cute shops lining the town square. Stop and admire some of the historic buildings, such as the Abbeville Opera House and the Burt Stark Mansion. The Abbeville Opera House originally opened in the early 1900s, and the theatrical nights were formal, gala, white-tie, evening-gown affairs. Today, the Opera House continues to host shows and remains a great spot for evening entertainment. Burt Stark Mansion is a historic home known for its role in the Civil War. Today, the house has tours that explain the historic attributes of the home.

There are also several cute shops in Abbeville. A must-stop local shop for anyone who loves handmade soaps and bath products is Breezy Quarters. They sell everything you need to pamper yourself, from bath bombs to lip balm. Just a few minutes outside of Abbeville's downtown is Parsons Mountain. A beautiful recreation area managed by the US Forest Service, the site features a 28-acre lake that makes a great spot for kayaking. This is also the perfect place for a romantic morning watching the sunrise.

Beaufort

Enjoy stunning waterfront views and get lost in forests of lush pines in the small town of Beaufort. Enjoy some of the town's beautiful scenery at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Stroll along the paths along the waterfront, stop at a bench for a rest, or plan a picnic at the park with family and friends. Beyond the town's natural beauty, Beaufort also has some unique historic and literary attractions. The Beaufort History Museum will transport visitors to the town's past. The exhibits range from showing the town's history during the Civil War to the present day.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, there is so much history to explore! Book lovers will enjoy stopping at the Pat Conroy Literary Center, which celebrates the work of the writer Pat Conroy. The Literary Center houses memorabilia, manuscripts, and photographs of Conroy and features exhibits that offer visitors insight into the renowned author's writing process. The center even hosts workshops for aspiring writers.

Georgetown

Walking down the streets of Georgetown, it is easy to see how the town earned the nickname, "the little town you've been looking for." Located in the middle of South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, there is a lot to do and see in Georgetown. One of the best spots to experience the colorful atmosphere of the town is the Harborwalk. Walk down the 10-foot-wide, four-block-long boardwalk and stop in at local shops and restaurants. Waterfront Books is a beloved local spot, perfect for finding a new book to take on your travels. There are entrances to the boardwalk at the various parks throughout town, such as Francis Marion Park.

An often overlooked part of the area is the historical importance of the Lowcountry’s Gullah Geechee people. Explore the culture and history of these people at the Gullah Museum, which offers unique insights into the area's rich heritage. If you are visiting the town in October, consider planning to attend the town's annual Wooden Boat Show. Held annually in October, the boat show features 100 classic wooden boats on display. It is the perfect opportunity for boaters to connect or to enjoy a unique event.

Clover

Part of the greater Charlotte metropolitan area, Clover is a cute town with a unique blend of history, nature, and family-friendly activities. One of the local gems is an art gallery called Gallery 120. Admire the work of local artists as you walk around the gallery and see a variety of artworks, from paintings to sculptures. Afterwards, take in the town's fresh air at one of the local parks. Clover's Community Park is the perfect spot for some family fun. The park has a playground, horseshoe courts, and a beautiful picnic area, making it a delightful spot to spend an afternoon. On the town's Main Street, there are cute shops and restaurants. High Cotton Antiques is a paradise for vintage lovers. The store sells items from local vendors and has everything from rustic decorations to jewelry and furniture. If you stop by, you are sure to find something unique as a souvenir of your visit to Clover.

Bennettsville

While Bennettsville is a small town with a population under ten thousand in South Carolina, there is still a lot to explore and enjoy in the area. Head to the Marlboro County Historical Museum to learn about the area's history and imagine what it was like when the town was first developing. The museum has photographs, documents, and everyday items from the past. After learning about the town's past, take a stroll outside and enjoy the town's charming scenery with a downtown lined with historic, brick buildings. Head to Smith Park for an afternoon walk in an inviting green space with well-maintained paths. The park also features basketball courts and open areas ideal for games, making it a great spot to spend a nice, sunny day with the family. Throughout the year, various community events are hosted in the park, making it a festive location. Looking for some entertainment to end your day in Bennettsville? Head to the local gem, Marlboro Civic Theatre, to watch a musical or play.

Bluffton

A mix of beautiful scenery, rich history, and fun activities, Bluffton is one of South Carolina's most underrated towns, but not for a lack of things to do around town! From tranquil marshlands to vibrant art scenes and elegant homes, Bluffton showcases the finest of South Carolina's southern charm. Head to Old Town Bluffton to see picturesque buildings and quaint shops. A couple must stop at shops such as The Storybook Shoppe and Markel’s Card & Gift Shop. Explore the outdoors and art scene in Bluffton at the Palmetto Oaks Sculpture Garden. The sculpture garden is a peaceful spot for an afternoon walk. Another unique attraction in Bluffton is the Heyward House. Built in 1841, the historic gem offers a glimpse into the town's past. There are even tours available that explain the history of the house and the families that lived there.

Clemson

Best known as the hometown of Clemson University, Clemson has more than a bustling student population. Clemson is a great town for nature enthusiasts. Located in the Blue Ridge foothills, there are lots of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Take advantage of the surrounding natural landscape with a hike to Waldrop Stone Falls. Just an eight-minute drive from the heart of the town, the short hike takes hikers along a stream through the forest to a small, but beautiful waterfall. Flower lovers should head to the town's South Carolina Botanical Gardens. The 295-acre gardens sing in the springtime, especially, and are home to a variety of plant life. For an iconic local landmark, take some shade under the Centennial Oak. This is the largest bur oak tree in the state of South Carolina. The tree, which is located on the college campus, is believed to be around 100 years old. Fuel up for your day of exploring Clemson by heading to Pot Belly Deli for a bagel, a local favorite spot.

Gaffney

Gaffney is a small town that looks like it is off the pages of a charming town in a storybook. The streets have brick buildings with lots of little shops. Shopaholics will love walking through Gaffney Outlet Marketplace. The marketplace has a range of shops from brand-name apparel to unique gifts, and you are sure to find something to take home. During the holidays, this area is lit up with festivities and is a great spot for a leisurely family stroll.

To really go back in time and explore the town's past, head to the Cherokee County History Museum. This little gem has engaging exhibits that showcase the town's unique past. Learn about the history dating back to the lives of early indigenous people in the area. Then explore exhibits about the settlers and development since. After all the walking, one can grab a bite at Harold’s Restaurant, offering delicious American meals.

Hidden Gems In South Carolina

From botanical gardens to a unique historical site, these are some of South Carolina's most unique but underrated towns in 2025. Being underrated means many of them do not have the bustling tourist crowds and commercialization that other, more popular tourist towns have, such as Myrtle Beach. This makes these towns a great destination for a peaceful family vacation or a romantic getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are looking to stop at quirky museums and learn more history or enjoy some southern comfort food and see some southern Carolina wildlife, these towns have you covered. So start packing for your next vacation. A trip to any of these underrated towns will leave you wondering why more people do not visit.

ABBEVILLE, S.C. —

WYFF News 4 has reported on the number of code of ethics complaints made against Abbeville Mayor Trey Edwards. Just last week, the Abbeville City Council voted to censure the mayor. One of the complaints came from the city's utilities director, who says the mayor never paid his utility deposit back in 2023. However, the mayor's utility services were never interrupted.

Abbeville Utilities Director Tim Hall says when a deposit is owed, it must be paid. In this case, Edwards's deposit went unpaid for nearly two years, according to Hall.

"In two years, there was never a message sent stating that a deposit was owed," Edwards said.

The mayor says he does not own Soggy Bottom Grill House, but the utility bill is in his name.

Hall points to a document and says the mayor was supposed to pay a $1,000 deposit before opening back in 2023, but again, for nearly two years, it went unpaid. WYFF News 4 asked how this happened.

"A lot of things happened," Hall said. "We lost a lot of staff in our office due to turnover. We went through Hurricane Helene, and then you know it, two years goes by."

WYFF 4 asked if the mayor received special treatment by being given more time to pay the deposit.

"Him being the mayor ... I think we took a little bit of a good-faith effort for him to get started, get rolling, and then square it with the house, and time just wasn't our friend on this one, if that makes sense," Hall said. "I don't want any of the citizens of Abbeville to think we give preferential treatment. That's not the case. We treat everybody equally."

WYFF News 4 also spoke to City Manager Blake Stone about the situation.

"The city of Abbeville wants to make it clear to all residents, that everybody's treated equitably," Hall said.

Hall showed WYFF News 4 Edwards's account console document that highlights, even though the mayor still needed to pay a deposit and have a business license, his services were turned on 12/18/2023, per the city manager.

City Manager Stones says the mayor requested temporary power. Mayor Edwards told WYFF 4 that he wasn't aware of the deposit.

"In those two years, not one statement or letter from the city," Edwards said.

"We have 4,000 accounts. We don't keep up with every single one of them, nor do I. I get involved when I need to get involved," Hall said. "I let it be known to send him a reminder letter. Once I sent him that reminder letter, that's when I started getting personal attacks on me."

Hall is referring to an investigation into the utility department. WYFF 4 asked the city manager what prompted the investigation.

"The mayor requested the investigation," said Hall.

The mayor says the Hall is retaliating against him.

WYFF 4 asked Hall why the services remained active if the deposit was never paid. Hall says it's a complex situation because two residents are connected to the transformer system the mayor is on.

"They suffer an outage while we're making that swap," Hall said.

Hall says the mayor's deposit has now been paid.

ABBEVILLE, S.C. —

What was supposed to be a trip to celebrate multiple birthdays turned into frightening moments for one upstate family. A small group of people from the Upstate are in Jamaica waiting and hoping to return home. Communication with their families has been minimal due to signal disruptions from Hurricane Melissa.

Dominique Smith and Victoria Sutton and several of their family and friends landed in Jamaica and reached their hotel last Saturday, that's when they learned of what was ahead of them. Smith recalls his first thought after hearing about Hurricane Melissa.

"How are we going to get home?" Smith said.

Smith called his mother, Shamekial Gray, who was at home in Abbeville. Gray gave her son the only advice she knew.

"Everybody, get into the same room. Y'all get on your knees and pray," Gray said.

"Everybody was in shock and ran to the room, we been in the room ever since," Smith said.

When Hurricane Melissa hit, Smith and Victoria's mothers' phones went radio silent.

"Couldn't sleep," Gray said. "Sitting up waiting for a call and never got one until the next day."

"Instantly, I just started praying that God would spare them of this storm," said Victoria's mother, Tamara Sutton.

Now that the storm has passed, it leaves behind uncertainty.

"We really don't know when we're coming home, actually," Smith said.

"We're just ready to get home to our kids," Victoria said.

"I have to hear every day in the morning when I get up from my granddaughter, either can she call her mom or will her mom be home today?" said Tamara.

On Facebook, there has been an outpour of community concern and prayers.

"I love you and I thank you for praying for us, and believe it or not, you're keeping us going," Smith said.

Smith's mom doesn't know when she will get a call from him again and doesn't know when he will get home, but says there is one thing she is certain of.

"I don't ever want him to leave," she said.

Gray and Tamara said they want the community to continue to pray for not only their children but also for all those who want to return home and for those who live in Jamaica.

ABBEVILLE, S.C. —

In the City of Abbeville, questions are arising after council received code of ethics complaints about elected officials or city employees. This comes as the mayor of Abbeville says there is a lack of transparency within the town concerning documents.

Abbeville Mayor Trey Edwards says he is pushing for a fair review, and he believes he is being retaliated against.

"There were some questionable things that I've noticed in town," Edwards said.

Edwards told WYFF News 4, he cannot share the full details but says he handed documents over to S.C. Law Enforcement Division and S.C. Labor Licensing Regulation. SLED confirmed with WYFF 4 they are reviewing the matter; however, they could not elaborate.

"I can tell you that it involves public officials and contractors and some council members," Edwards said.

The mayor recused himself at the beginning of Wednesday's council meeting. He says what was discussed in executive session is a retaliation against him by some council members and city-hired contractors.

"I don't think council is retaliating against him," said Abbeville City Councilman Matt Gambrell.

Listed on the meeting agenda under executive session were the words "investigative proceeding or allegations of violation, and code of ethics complaint against elected official or city employee."

Gambrell also recused himself from one of the items voted on after executive session.

"One of the ethic complaints were about a business that my wife and I started a couple of months ago," Gambrell said.

There were three items voted on from executive session. For each item, council voted that there was enough evidence to proceed with a hearing. The hearings have to happen within 30 days, according to the city's hired attorney.

Mayor Pro Tem Annette Faye Thomas says while a lot isn't being shared right now, citizens should have trust.

"They can have confidence in their council persons because we are working diligently to do the right thing," Thomas said.

Meanwhile, the mayor says citizens should be asking elected officials questions.

"They should be interested in knowing what's happening with their tax dollars," Edwards said.

WYFF News 4 reached out to the Labor Licensing Regulation, and we are still waiting to hear back.