Home Care In Landrum, SC

Perched on the border of North Carolina and South Carolina, Landrum is the stuff of small-town dreams. Venture on a drive through the area’s rolling hills and pastureland, while taking in views of the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains. When you’re ready to get to know the community of just over 2,500 people, a quaint downtown awaits with a healthy collection of antique shops, boutiques, and welcoming local restaurants. Surrounding downtown, you’ll find outdoor attractions like a you-pick lavender farm, a nature preserve, and historic covered bridges. Here’s how to spend an idyllic weekend in Landrum, South Carolina.

The Best Things To Do In Landrum, South Carolina

Landrum is known for its gorgeous landscapes, so you won’t want to waste a second indoors. Start with a drive to see Campbell’s Covered Bridge, which is the state’s only remaining covered bridge. Constructed between 1909 and 1911, snag some photos with the iconic red pine covering that spans across Beaverdam Creek. A short drive away, you’ll find Poinsett Bridge, the oldest remaining stone bridge in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the South. Some say the bridge is haunted, but regardless of if you’re not a fan of the paranormal, you’ll want to see 16-foot Gothic archway for yourself.

After a short driving tour, get out and stretch your legs at the Blue Wall Preserve, a 575-acre preserve where hiking trails crisscross all around the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A favorite hike to check out is the Palmetto Trail at Blue Wall, an easy 2.7-mile route along the Blue Wall Passage of the Palmetto Trail. The extended hike runs through downtown Landrum and Lake Lanier for 14 miles. If you visit Landrum in the late spring or early summer, be sure to make a stop at Elf Leaf Farm, a family-owned operation offering you-pick lavender. Harvest season falls between April and July, with mid-June as the peak. For more seasonal bounty, pay a visit to the Landrum Farmers Market, which is located downtown from April through December.

Rows of brick buildings and colorful awnings span downtown Landrum, which is not only a great place to window shop but an absolute paradise for antique lovers. Start at The Shops at Landrum Antique Mall, where you’ll find everything from vintage furniture, treasures, and collectibles to teas, soaps, scarves, and new clothing. Find fine arts and crafts at The Millstone Gallery. The best thing about shopping downtown? Everything's a stone's throw away. In fact, Foothills Amish Furniture, P3 Retail for Rescue, and Carriage House Consignments and Estates Sale are all located on the same block.

The Best Places To Eat In Landrum, South Carolina

Local eateries are a big part of the culture and the community in Landrum, so take time to visit a few favorites for lunch or dinner. Harvest House trends casual during the day with a large menu of homemade sandwiches, salads, and soups. At dinner, you’ll find everything from filet mignon to vegetable risotto to pecan-crusted trout. Just be sure to start your meal with the Fried Green Tomato Tower (layers of tomatoes, pimento cheese, and bacon drizzled with balsamic glaze) and end with Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie or Great Granny Smith’s Southern Banana Pudding.

Another beloved neighborhood haunt is The Hare & Hound Pub, a former mercantile that has served as a classic pub and restaurant since 2002. On the menu you’ll find traditional pub fare like Fish & Chips and Guinness Beef Pie, along with Southern delicacies like the Friday and Saturday special Rick’s Famous BBQ Ribs.

Stone Soup Market & Café does a bit of everything. Visit the market for specialty food products like local and imported cheeses and meats, sauces, house-made baked goods, gourmet crackers, and dips, as well as grab-and-go meals and take-home casseroles. Sit down in the café for fresh salads, sandwiches, burgers, and wood-fired pizza, plus wine, beer, and craft cocktails. You can even bring your furry friend along and watch them frolic in the dog park located directly behind the building.

At Southside Smokehouse, Chef Sarah McClure dabbles in cuisine from across the South with dishes ranging from traditional Carolina-style barbecue to Shrimp Creole and Fried Oyster Po’Boys. If you order a smoked meat platter, you’ll have a choice between Lexington pulled pork, sliced pork, chopped chicken thighs, Cajun sausage, and Newberry hash, a South Carolina staple of barbecue pork and sauce mixed with potatoes.

While Landrum offers a fair share of excellent Southern and homestyle cooking, that’s not the only cuisine the tiny town excels in. Head to Soulisa’s Fine Thai Dining for a creative menu of Thai, Japanese, and fusion eats. Order the Pad Karee Roast Duck and decide how hot you want your curry on a scale of 1 to 10. Sushi lovers will also be pleased to find an extensive selection. A platter for two includes two specialty rolls, two orders of nigiri, and two orders of sashimi for just $55.

The Best Places To Stay In Landrum, South Carolina

Traditional hotels are decidedly not the way to go when visiting Landrum. Instead, let your stay be part of your escape by booking a room or a cottage on a sprawling horse farm or in the rolling countryside. The Red Horse Inn gives a wonderful glimpse into quiet Upstate life, where you’re encouraged to unwind, unplug, and breathe in the fresh air. The 200-acre property features six private cottages as well six inn rooms, plus a wine bar and a flower-filled courtyard. On Saturdays you can take part in an Alpaca Wine Experience, where you'll sip on Chardonnay while getting up close and personal with fuzzy and friendly alpacas.

For another pastoral hideaway, stay overnight at Barking Fox Farm, a 43-acre horse farm tucked into the Blue Ridge foothills. The rambling property is home to only two guest cottages, so you’ll want to book early for a chance to experience the peace and tranquility of this very special place. Each cottage is equipped with a full kitchen, elegant chandeliers, 11-foot ceilings, and a whirlpool tub. Your refrigerator is stocked with eggs and milk for breakfast, and there’s also a daily delivery of pastries from a local bakery. Home away from home has never been sweeter.

LANDRUM — Downtown Landrum will soon have more food options with the addition of a new coffee and bistro concept opening this summer.

Amanda and Victoria Bridgeman are planning to open Cardinal Coffee & Bistro in June. It will be in the former location of The Red Horse Cafe and Southern Delights & More on East Rutherford Street.

The mother-daughter duo’s love for coffee began when they were living at Drayton Mills in Spartanburg while their new home in Landrum was being built. Inside of the Drayton Mills community is a Bella Latte location that the two would often visit. They plan to use Spartanburg-based Mozza Roasters. The roasting company supplies coffee beans to Bella Latte’s three Spartanburg locations.

“We’re going to basically have every kind of espresso drink,” said Victoria Bridgeman. “If someone asks for something and we don’t know, we’ll figure out how to make it.”

Victoria Bridgeman said there won’t be any major renovations but she does plan to redecorate. She’s planning to create a modern aesthetic with neutral tones and lots of plants. Some of her artwork will also be on display throughout the space.

Amanda Bridgeman said when she had planned to open the business, she wanted the name of it to have a connection to the Landrum community and reflect some of their interests. Both Landrum Middle School and Landrum High School have cardinals as mascots, and both mother and daughter enjoy birdwatching. She wanted to incorporate bistro into her business as a nod to the French students that she’s hosted in her home for eight summers.

Over the years, the Bridgemans have learned how to make some popular French cuisine. She plans to feature some French pastries as specialty menu items from time to time.

In addition to coffee and French pastries, Cardinal Coffee & Bistro will also serve sandwiches, slices of cake, cookies, breakfast pastries and a variety of flavors of ice cream.

SPARTANBURG — When Olivia Skelton opened Purple Sunrise Spa, she didn’t know what to expect being a first-time business owner.

The Cowpens resident had worked for a spa in Greenville and in retail. By the time she turned 24, she decided to pursue her dreams and open her own business catering to women’s health and wellbeing. In July 2021, Purple Sunrise Spa opened at 210 Westgate Mall Drive.

“I just didn’t want to work any corporate jobs anymore,” she said. “I just wanted to do something more. I started with no clients and now have over 1,000. I love the people we get here. We created a place where women feel safe, confident and beautiful here.”

Skelton’s family relocated to South Carolina from Michigan when she was 12 after her dad got a job in the state. She’s grown to love the city but still misses the snowy winters in Michigan.

Her focus is centered on expanding her business, which now has three employees. She spent six months prior to opening renovating the building when it had no power. She built a following during the process by promoting her endeavor on social media.

It paid off with her business fully booked with appointments during the first few months.

“The business is still growing, and I hope to have my own building eventually,” Skelton said. “We are looking to hire two more employees.”

When she opened, Skelton said she wasn’t sure about herself. However, her confidence has grown with support from her clients.

Kara Lee of Spartanburg is a Purple Sunrise Spa client and supports the owner’s business.

“Olivia is a huge inspiration to everyone around her and the environment she has created for her clients,” Lee said. “This spa is like no others. Olivia makes every single human feel welcomed, relaxed and it’s so different than any other spas I’ve been to.”

Nicole Gantz is among the massage therapists who work at the spa. She has been a massage therapist for two years. Each of the massage rooms are decorated with different themes.

SPARTANBURG — Robots are coming to BMW’s Spartanburg manufacturing plant, but not at the cost of any human jobs.

California-based AI robotics company Figure announced Jan. 18 that it signed a commercial agreement with BMW Manufacturing to “deploy general purpose robots in automotive manufacturing environments.”

BMW spokesman Steve Wilson said in an email Friday that there is no timetable for when the robots will be deployed. He added that no job losses will occur because of the robots and that there will be no changes for BMW’s associates.

“Companies that invest in innovation such as this are more sustainable, become more productive, and have a competitive advantage,” Wilson said. “Innovation, digitalization, and sustainability are key success factors for our future.

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BMW and Figure will pursue a “milestone-based approach.” After the initial phase where Figure will identify use cases to apply the robots in automotive production, the robots will begin staged deployment at the BMW manufacturing site in Greer.

At its 8-million-square-foot Spartanburg County campus, BMW Manufacturing employs 11,000 workers. It is the largest U.S. automotive exporter by value with a total export value of almost $9.6 billion, and more than 1,500 vehicles are assembled at the plant daily.

Figure founder and CEO Brett Adcock said the potential of general purpose robotics is untapped.

“Figure’s robots will enable companies to increase productivity, reduce costs, and create a safer and more consistent environment,” Adcock said.

The companies will also jointly explore other topics in advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, robot integration, robot control and manufacturing virtualization.

BMW CEO Robert Engelhorn said the use of “general purpose robot solutions” has the potential to make productivity more efficient.

Wilson said that the carmaker is investigating several tasks across the plant to help improve safety and ergonomics.

LANDRUM — A new recreational park with trails and ballfields could be built east of downtown.

Landrum City Council has hired a firm to help design a conceptual park master plan for a 119-acre site off Fairwinds Road near state Highway 14. The project would be funded by the issuance of general obligation bonds not to exceed $3.3 million, which would require approval from city voters on a referendum to be held possibly in November.

On March 13, Landrum City Council was scheduled to consider holding a referendum on May 30. Instead, the council members opted to delay that decision. Mayor Bob Briggs said November’s general election would likely be when a referendum could be held, but no action was taken by council.

The bonds would be paid back through city taxes. Briggs said the city has consulted with First Tryon Advisors on the project. At the current rate, taxes would increase by about $80 for every $100,000 of assessed value, according to Amy Vinter of First Tryon Advisors. Vinter discussed funding options for the project with City Council during a work session held Feb. 7.

“Council thought May 30 might be too short of a time to promote the idea and plan to the public and was leaning towards the November general election,” Briggs told The Post and Courier. “Council did decide to proceed with hiring a firm, Main Studio, to produce some conceptual plans.”

Briggs said if a referendum was approved, the city would issue general obligation bonds and purchase the 119 acres for the project. The new park would include baseball and soccer fields. It would take about four months to issue the bond and finalize the purchase of the property.

The new park could be used for regional tournaments.

“We don’t have enough facilities to host tournaments,” Briggs said. “The park would open up a lot of possibilities and it would be good for the town.”

SPARTANBURG — Morgan Square’s proposed redesign aims to accentuate the city’s evolving downtown business district while making the space more attractive for programs and events.

As the city continues to grow with new housing, business and office space, the square will continue to be a popular destination. With the redesign expected for final review this spring by City Council, the square’s redesign could be completed by early 2025.

“For the most part, I like everything about the redesign,” Spartanburg Mayor Jerome Rice said. “We are waiting to see the final draft and get ready for it. People are looking for all this to finish up. The work will likely interrupt traffic and business flow. We will work through it to make sure businesses are still accessible to everyone.”

The project would be conducted in phases, city spokesman Christopher George said.

The first phase would include areas along West Main Street from North Church Street to Magnolia Street. The projected cost to complete the first phase is $15 million.

For the past 21 years, Delaney’s Irish Pub on West Main Street near the square has been a popular place to dine and enjoy live music.

Owner Brian Greene is hopeful the square’s redesign will draw more people downtown.

The outdoor dining area on the street closed to vehicle traffic since May 2020 will be moved to the sidewalk. Greene said he expects the outdoor dining area to be smaller with fewer tables. While he supports some of the redesign’s features, he would rather see the square maintain a larger green space for outdoor events.

“I don’t see a great spot out there for a band to play,” Greene said about the proposed redesign. “There is a natural stage there now, but it looks like that is going to be taken out.”

Greene also questioned the plan for public restrooms and how they might be staffed by the city. He expressed concern that restrooms could potentially be a gathering spot for the homeless if left unattended.

It’s been nearly 20 years since the last redesign was completed. City Councilman Jamie Fulmer said change is needed.

“We want to see the square active and vibrant,” Fulmer said. “I think we would miss an opportunity if we didn’t try and create a city center that would be more engaging and more complementary to all the development around it.”

Three redesign options were presented to the public in April. The latest redesign presented to the city in December combines some elements from all three options. Preparation has already started at the site.

“We have some preliminary sitework that will begin taking place on the square over the coming weeks,” George said. “That includes some basic surveying and ground-penetrating radar to assess conditions under the surface.”

The city is also working with New York-based Bierdman Redevelopment Ventures to develop a programming plan for the square to attract more visitors with new events and activities.

OneSpartanburg CEO and President Allen Smith said the square’s redesign should maximize space and work to benefit small businesses while creating a more welcoming place for community events.

“Whatever we do in the city of Spartanburg, we have to think about economic impact,” Smith said. “Small businesses rise and fall on activities at Morgan Square. Six years ago, we were having conversations that Morgan Square wasn’t what it could be for driving pedestrian traffic.”

Spartanburg City Councilwoman Erica Brown said she doesn’t want to see the clock tower moved. The plan calls for moving the clock tower near West Main and South Spring streets in the plan’s second phase.

“The clock tower had sentimental value to folks,” Brown said. “I am not sold on moving the clock tower.”

The redesign project’s first phase would be funded by the city’s hospitality tax revenue initially, with private funding used to complete additional phases.

Looking for antique stores in South Carolina? There are plenty scattered all over the state, but there’s one small town in the Palmetto State that has an unusual amount of antique stores. Even more alluring is the fact that they’re all in such close proximity to one another! You may want to rent a moving van before you head to this town in the Upstate, because if you’re a treasure hunter at heart, you may need it. Take a look at all the goodness there is to find in all the antique stores in Landrum, SC. If you’re an antique enthusiast, you’ll love how many small-town antique shops this place has!

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The Coolest Place To Shop In South Carolina, CT Summer Hardware & Antiques, Is A Vintage Hardware And Antique Store In An Historic Building And Warehouse

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What are your favorite vintage stores and small town antique shops in South Carolina? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

For more things to LOVE about Landrum, read on to learn why this tiny place is the perfect little fairy tale town.

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Elisa Regulski | February 05, 2020

What are the best antique stores in South Carolina?

There are so many great places to buy antiques in South Carolina. Trinkets & Treasurer, located in Walterboro, is one of the best. You’ll find all kinds of unique treasures here. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or something special for your home, you’ll never leave empty handed. For more shopping fun, visit Little Mountain Unlimited. This eclectic shop is one of the best vintage stores in South Carolina. Explore 25,000 square feet of amazing finds. This antique mall has over 70 dealers and 150 booths. You could really spend all day here!

What are the best small towns in South Carolina?

York is one of the most charming small towns in South Carolina. You’ll love strolling through their historic main street and visiting the unique shops. Bring your family and make it a day trip! This will soon become one of your favorite places to visit in the whole state. If you enjoyed this small town, you should also pay a visit to Bluffton. This delightful city is as beautiful as it is exciting. They’re known for their historic homes and vibrant arts community.

What are the best day trips in South Carolina?

There are so many great places to visit in South Carolina. Camden is a must-see. This old town was founded in 1712, and there are a number of fascinating historic sites to explore. When you go, be sure to visit the Kershaw-Cornwallis House and the Camden Clock Tower. You’ll want to soak up every last bit of history here. For some scenic views, visit Goodale State Park. There’s something for everyone in this lovely South Carolina town.

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Sarah McClure is the fourth generation in her family to work in the restaurant business.

It wasn’t always the life she wanted. She majored in art history at Wofford College, went on to graduate school at the University of Georgia thinking she wanted “a life of the mind in a big city,” she said.

Instead, she has a life of experimenting and massaging flavors for Southside Smokehouse, her family’s restaurant in Landrum, South Carolina, a town of 2,500 not far from the North Carolina border.

And she’s competed on the Food Network show Guy’s Grocery Games twice, the most recent show aired May 17. It will be broadcast again at 8 p.m. June 28.

She was runner up in the four-chef face-off the first time she was on the show hosted in 2020 by legendary chef and restaurateur Guy Fieri, who also hosts Diners, Drive-ins and Dives on Food Network.

On the most recent show, she and another chef tied and were both sent home after the first round.

McClure said she fell in love with cooking when she worked at The National, an upscale restaurant in Athens, Georgia. Her first time in the so-called “back of the house.”

Her dad kept asking whether she was ready to come home. That went on for two years.

Then she and her husband Robert Hall decided to give it a try. A year, tops.

That was 10 years ago.

He is the bar manager doing his version of experimenting and massaging with cocktails.

The meat and three items of a traditional BBQ restaurant remain on the menu, but Hall and McClure put their own spin on food and drink. Like blackened red drum in a Creole sauce. Or Blueberry Mint Mojito and Watermelon Cilantro Margarita.

Okra is fried but split down the middle to create spears or added to other dishes. Many of the specials come about based on what’s available at the Farmer’s Market.

McClure said she came to the attention of Guy’s Grocery Games — known as triple G — when she was a chef ambassador for the state of South Carolina, promoting both tourism and agriculture.

McClure said both episodes were filmed at a grocery store in Santa Rosa, California, that was built specifically for the show. It has everything you’d see in a regular grocery. Perishable food not used is donated to area food banks; scraps to a farm for animal feed.

The experience is very much like what you see on the show. When they say 30 minutes to shop and cook they mean 30 minutes. No stopping. No retakes.

They are told the parameters of what they are supposed to cook and decide on the fly. For the most recent show, called Redemption, all four chefs had been on the show previously and lost. They were tasked with using one ingredient that caused them to go home on the first show.

For McClure, it was ricotta cheese. Last time, her grits weren’t cheesy enough.

“Go big or go home” is her motto.

She made grilled lamb soaked in a ricotta solution (think buttermilk), morel mushrooms and fiddleheads. Lemon mint ricotta sauce. Mashed sweet potatoes with ricotta cheese.

She had 10 minutes to shop, 20 minutes to cook.

“It is stressful and a lot of fun,” McClure said.

Her customers wanted to try it so she’s making it in the restaurant.

She hopes to convince Triple G producers to come to Landrum for Diners Drive-ins and Dives (Triple D).

And she’d like to appear on other food shows, particularly Beat Bobby Flay.

Her mission is to show that Southern cooking is more than fried and full of butter.

This story was originally published May 27, 2023, 8:00 AM.