Top Things to Do in Georgetown, SC: An Ultimate Travel Guide

We’ve visited Georgetown, South Carolina, three times and have fallen in love with this charming coastal town nestled along the beautiful Winyah Bay. Georgetown may be small, but it packs a big punch with its rich history, picturesque waterfront, and a surprising variety of things to see and do. In this guide, we’ll share the best local eats, where to stay, and the top things to do in Georgetown, SC—whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a day trip from Charleston or Myrtle Beach, or just passing through.

Georgetown is located just off the ICW and makes a great stop for boaters traveling north or south, so don’t miss our dedicated Boaters’ Guide to Georgetown at the end of the article for reprovisioning, anchorages, marinas, and more!

About Georgetown, SC

Founded in 1729, Georgetown is the third-oldest city in South Carolina. Once a booming port town known for rice and indigo (which we saw reflected in the names of local businesses), its cobblestone streets and well-preserved antebellum architecture transported us right back to the colonial era. Today, Georgetown blends its historic charm with modern amenities, offering everything from boutique shopping and world-class seafood restaurants to outdoor adventures like boating, fishing, and wildlife tours along its picturesque rivers and marshlands.

Things to Do in Georgetown, SC

In no particular order, here’s our curated list of the top things to do in Georgetown SC—a mix of activities we enjoyed firsthand and a few we’ve saved for our next visit! You’ll find a blend of both paid and free experiences, ensuring there’s something for every traveler and budget. Many of these spots are easily accessed in the downtown core by walking or a short bike ride. We love walking on the Georgetown Riverwalk or strolling the cute downtown Main Street.

Visit the Rice Museum

The Rice Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s pivotal role in the rice industry of the 18th and 19th centuries. Housed in a historic clocktower, the museum features engaging exhibits on rice cultivation, the enslaved labor that sustained it, and its impact on the region’s economy and culture. The Rice Musuem is located in the Old Market Buiding and adjacent to Lafayette Park and the Rice Museum Herb Garden.

One of the largest displays is the approximately 50′ long Browns Ferry Vessel in the Maritime Museum Gallery in the Kaminski Building’s third-floor gallery. The vessel was used in the 1700s as a general-purpose freighter on the rivers and coastal waterways. These remnants of America’s oldest vessel of colonial manufacture were found in 1974 at the bottom of the Black River. Thanks to the University of South Carolina, the vessel was reconstructed, stored, and treated until it was brought to the Rice Museum in 1992, where it has been on permanent display ever since.

The Rice Museum offers guided tours, available Tuesdays through Saturdays and starts on the quarter-hour. The gift shop in offers some unique local gifts like rice, low-country spice blends, books from local authors, handmade crafts, and local artwork.

Location: 633 Front St, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 11 am – 4 pm Tuesday – Saturday (Closed Sunday and Monday)
Price: $9 per adult

Picnic in Morgan Park

Morgan Park is a great local spot away from downtown to take a walk to the beach and enjoy a packed lunch. With a covered picnic area, sand beach, and fishing, it’s a lovely way to spend a few hours watching the boats pass by and picnic. Swimming isn’t allowed, but if you don’t have a car to make it to further-away hiking spots like Huntington Beach State Park (25 minutes away by car), this is your best local option that allows for a small stroll in nature.

Location: E Bay St, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 24/7
Price: Free

Tour the South Carolina Maritime Museum

The South Carolina Maritime Museum is located right on the Georgetown Riverwalk. This museum offers a captivating look into South Carolina’s coastal heritage, with exhibits on everything from historic shipwrecks to the state’s involvement in naval warfare and trade. Displays include detailed ship models, maritime artifacts, and interactive displays that bring to life the seafaring traditions that shaped the area. Georgetown is South Carolina’s second largest seaport, second to Charleston.

Location: 729 Front St, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Monday – Saturday (Closed Sunday)
Price: Free admission, donations accepted

Visit the Hopsewee Plantation

Visiting the Hopsewee Plantation is one of the most popular things to do for travelers visiting Georgetown. Hopsewee Plantation was the birthplace of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Lynch Jr., making it one of Georgetown’s most popular plantations.

This preserved rice plantation, located about 15 minutes outside of Georgetown by car, offers 50-minute guided tours of the main house, giving insights into the wealthy landowners and enslaved people who worked here. Beyond guided tours, they also organize workshops and special events throughout the year for visitors. More information on their events and pricing can be found on their Tickets Page.

Location: 494 Hopsewee Rd, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 10 am – 3 pm Tuesday – Saturday (Closed Sunday and Monday)
Price: Around $15 per adult

Stroll Down Georgetown’s Harborwalk

The Georgetown Harborwalk is a charming boardwalk that winds along Georgetown’s waterfront, offering scenic views and access to local shops and restaurants. One of the highlights for us was the series of informative signs that share fascinating insights into Georgetown’s rich past, including its indigo, rice, and shipping industries. Strolling along the waterfront, we enjoyed watching boats glide by while reading more about the town’s longstanding connection to the water. It’s a great free and relaxing way to explore the town.

Location: 525 Front St, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 8 am – 5:30 pm Everyday
Price: Free (public area)

Visit the Kaminski House Museum

During one of our visits to Georgetown, we strolled up to the Kaminski House Museum, a stunning Georgian-style mansion overlooking the harbor. The home, built in the mid-18th century, offers a glimpse into the region’s wealthy planter class and features an impressive collection of American and European furnishings from the 18th and 19th centuries. While the tour is highly recommended for those interested in historical interiors and artifacts, just walking the grounds and appreciating the house’s architecture was a worthwhile experience.

Location: 1003 Front St, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 10 am – 4:30 pm Monday – Saturday (Closed Sunday)
Price: Consult their website for updated pricing

Catch a Show at Strand Theater

The Strand Theater is a beautifully restored theater right on Front Street that showcases a variety of movies, plays, and musicals. With its vintage charm and welcoming staff, the Strand provides an enjoyable setting to catch a movie or a performance by the local “Swamp Fox Players.” Check their schedule for movie and show times and pricing.

During our three visits to Georgetown, we missed their showings and were left disappointed each time as we learned from some of the locals that the shows are super fun to watch.

Location: 710 Front St, Georgetown, SC
Hours & Price: More information on their website

Visit the Gullah Museum

The Gullah Museum is a one-room museum that offers a unique glimpse into the history and traditions of the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in this area. One of the highlights of this museum is the collection of handmade quilts created by the museum owner’s late wife, which beautifully illustrate the Gullah tradition of storytelling through fabric. Among these is the famous quilt that tells the story of Michelle Obama’s connection to Gullah heritage through her great-great-grandfather. This museum is a must-visit for those looking to understand the deep roots of the African American experience in Georgetown.

Location: 3583, 123 King St Unit 6, Georgetown, SC
Hours: 11 am – 4 pm Monday – Saturday (Closed Sunday)
Price: Free admission, donations accepted

Where to Eat in Georgetown, SC

Georgetown has a broad mix of restaurants and cafes, giving visitors many options to fuel their appetite.

Food

• River Room Restaurant serves up Southern seafood dishes with a dining room looking out at the water. Open for Lunch and Dinner. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
• Taqueria el Mariachi is a Mexican restaurant right on Front Street for when you’re craving some Mexican classics like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas!
• Aunny’s Country Kitchen is a cozy, soul food restaurant serving up hearty home-cooked Southern dishes, sides, and desserts. Open daily for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Buzz’s Roost is a waterfront seafood restaurant and pub serving classic seafood dishes like crab balls, fried flounder sandwiches, and fish tacos. Open daily for Lunch and Dinner.
• Rollin Local is a sushi restaurant and bar located in an old bank on Front Street serving up wines, mixed drinks, and beer. Cozy up to the bar or grab a table outside by the water. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.We loved sitting in their outdoor seating so we could enjoy the cute Main Street downtown.

Drinks + Breweries

• Georgetown Corner Tavern is a waterside restaurant and bar serving up everything from margaritas to IPAs. Open daily until midnight.

Coffee + Breakfast

• Indigo Bakery is a local bakery located on Front Street, serving freshly made baked treats. We couldn’t resist their Cinnamon Roll and Raspberry Cheese Danish. Sit in the back to grab a table looking out at the marina or take them to go like we did! Keep in mind they close on Sundays, Mondays, and Wednesdays.
• Urban Brew is a coffee shop in downtown Georgetown with espresso drinks, baked treats, and ample indoor seating. Open daily.
• Sweeties Homemade Ice Cream & Sweets is a local ice cream and sweets shop right on Front Street!
• Brewed Awakening is a local breakfast joint with good food, a great atmosphere, and friendly service. Order a breakfast sandwich to go or dine in for their Traditional American Breakfast. Closed on Tuesdays.

Map of Georgetown, SC

How to use this map: We have saved the locations from this guide on this map. You can save this map to your Google Maps by pressing the star icon. In your Google Maps, click the menu icon and then Saved Maps, where this map will appear.

Festivals + Events in Georgetown, SC

Farmers Markets

• Georgetown Farmers Market – Open-air market with local produce, thrifted items, and more in downtown Georgetown on Saturdays from 8 – 1, May to October. We visited during mid May and picked up a book about Florida water birds as well as tons of fresh produce.

Festivals

• Georgetown Wooden Boat Show (October) – The Festival takes place every 3rd Weekend in October. Features boat exhibits, boat races, knot-tying workshops, food, and more activities right by the waterfront!
• Taste of Georgetown (November) – A popular culinary festival showcasing local restaurants and live entertainment, offering visitors a taste of the area’s best cuisine.
• Prince George Episcopal Plantation Tours (Spring) – Hosted by the Prince George Winyah Church, this event provides guided tours of private historic homes and plantations, giving visitors a rare glimpse into Georgetown’s grand estates and their rich histories.
• Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – A festive celebration in downtown Georgetown with a lively parade, holiday music, and the official tree lighting ceremony.

Is Georgetown, SC, Worth Visiting?

Yes! Georgetown, SC, is a small town that makes for a great day trip from Myrtle Beach or Charleston, as they’re between an hour and an hour and a half away. Downtown Georgetown’s original four-by-eight city grid is located on the National Register of Historic Places. During our three visits to Georgetown, SC, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed the laid-back, small-town vibes while learning about the local history.

When to Visit Georgetown, SC

For us, the best time to visit Georgetown, SC is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather even in the afternoons, making it ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring historic sites. Spring features blooming flowers and events like the Georgetown Wooden Boat Show, while fall showcases beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter is mild but may have occasional cold spells.

Getting To + Around Georgetown, SC

The nearest major airport to Georgetown, South Carolina, is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about 40 minutes away by car. The closest Amtrak station is in Florence, SC, approximately an hour’s drive away. Florence also has a regional airport, Florence Regional Airport (FLO).

From there, your main options are either a bus or a rental car to get to Georgetown. There is a bus service connecting Myrtle Beach with Georgetown, which sells bus tickets for just $1! If you prefer renting a car, rental cars are available from Myrtle Beach’s airport.

Once you’re in downtown Georgetown, you don’t have to worry too much about getting around. This town boasts a walkability score of 70, making it a pleasant town to explore on foot. Although we had some limitations coming in on the boat when it came to visiting plantations and sites outside of the downtown, there’s enough for a full day of sightseeing just in the downtown area.

Parking in Georgetown is mostly free in the town center, just head over to Front Street to look for spots. We also noticed this free public parking lot on Screven Street.

How much time do you need in Georgetown, SC?

When we visited, we felt that spending two to three days was just the right amount of time to soak in all the things to do in Georgetown, SC. Whether you’re interested in touring the local plantations, going on hikes in neighboring areas, or just relaxing by the downtown waterfront, we found that a couple of days allowed us to experience the small-town charm of Georgetown without feeling rushed. That being said, the size of Georgetown is also small enough to make a good day trip down from Myrtle Beach.

Where to Stay in Georgetown, SC

We recommend staying in the downtown area if possible, as Georgetown is so small to begin with. If you have a car or bike, you will have a bit more location freedom.

• Econo Lodge (Budget)
• Hampton Inn Georgetown-Marina (Mid-Range)
• Magnolia House (Mid-Range, Apartments)
• The George Hotel (Luxury)

You can also check for vacation rentals through VRBO or Airbnb.

Several campgrounds are within comfortable driving distance from Georgetown such as Huntington Beach State Park 25 minutes away and Hidden Marina & Campground just a 12-minute drive away.

Boaters Guide to Georgetown, SC

We visited Georgetown, South Carolina three times while we lived on our boat and traveled around America’s Great Loop and thoroughly enjoyed our stay each time. Georgetown, South Carolina, is located at the meeting point of four rivers: Black, Pee Dee, Waccamaw, and Sampit Rivers, which all flow into Winyah Bay. It is right on the ICW and makes a great stop for boaters. We’ve compiled a ton of resources that are helpful for those traveling to Georgetown by boat.

How to Approach Georgetown, South Carolina

Georgetown is situated just off the beautiful Winyah Bay, which provides boaters with a scenic and navigable route. When approaching Georgetown, we entered through the Sampit River, which flows into the bay.

As you approach the harbor, keep an eye out for local fishing boats and recreational vessels, as the area is popular for both commercial and leisure activities. Be sure to go slow and respect a slow speed near the marinas and anchorages.

Download the free Waterway Guide App to locate marinas, services, anchorages, free docks, navigation alerts, bridges, locks, and more!

Where to Dock in Georgetown, South Carolina

Georgetown, South Carolina, has several marinas that cater to boaters looking for transient dockage:

• Harborwalk Marina: Located right in the heart of Georgetown, Harborwalk Marina offers a convenient dockage experience with easy access to the historic district, shops, and restaurants. It has 50 slips and provides amenities such as fuel, restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• Georgetown Dry Stack Marina: located just on the edge of the downtown core, this marina offers full amenities.
• Hazzard Marine: This marina is just outside of downtown and has reported a few transient slips available.
• Georgetown Landing Marina: This is the largest full-service marina in the area and is situated on the Intracoastal Waterway. It features deep-water docks and offers comprehensive services, including fuel, free Wi-Fi, and a ship store with essentials for boaters. This marina isn’t close to downtown if you’re looking for a convenient way to explore Georgetown.

Use our Referral Code 450ZMS3 for a $15 discount on your Dockwa reservation!

Free Docks

Georgetown has a few free docks that make a great place to stop for a few hours or as a place to land and tie up your dinghy while exploring the town. We chose to anchor during our stay and take our dinghy to the free docks.

• Georgetown 1 (free day dock)
• Georgetown 2 (free dock)

Where to Anchor in Georgetown, SC

Popular anchoring spots include the Sampit River Anchorage, located just under a mile from the city center, and the Steelmill Channel Anchorage nearby. These spots are convenient for accessing the town, allowing you to explore the Harborwalk and historic downtown while keeping your vessel safe from a lot of the chop that can develop on Waccamaw Bay.

As you approach Georgetown, you’ll want to make sure you slow your speed and maintain a minimal wake to respect the boaters in the marinas and anchorages. As you approach, you’ll find several derelict or abandoned boats, but as you continue further up the Sampit River near downtown Georgetown, the anchorage opens up near the Steelmill. We’ve anchored here three times and have found that depending upon the wind direction, you might get a whiff of the paper mill. It’s not the most pleasant smell, but as the wind changes direction, you’ll smell it less.

We had some trouble anchoring in Georgetown’s Steelmill anchorage before we learned how to properly anchor our boat and before we upgraded our anchoring gear. Our anchor-dragging alarm went off four times in one night, but other boaters we met said that they’d also dragged anchor in this anchorage.

Check out our Great Loop Anchorages and Free Docks Spreadsheet with 600+ anchorages!

Wifi

The only place we’re certain you can comfortably work with some Wi-Fi is at the Georgetown County Library. We looked at a few coffee shops downtown, but they predominantly had a no-laptop policy. Libraries are always a safe bet—plus, they don’t require you to order anything.

Check out our blog post on Boat Internet!

Provisioning

There are several grocery store options in Georgetown, from smaller markets to large chain grocery stores. Here are a few that are in walking and biking distance of the water:

• Indigo Mercantile – Gourmet grocery store right by the water
• Piggly Wiggly – Large, chain grocery store with everything you might need, 9-minute bike ride from the water
• Dollar General – Discount store just 5 blocks from the water
• Walmart – 10-minute bike ride away, handy for when you’re looking for a bit of everything
• Lowcountry Butcher Shop – 18 minute walk (0.8 miles) away that offers great cuts of meat, sausages, bbq sauces and more!

Hardware + Marine Supplies

We found two hardware and marine supplies stores in downtown Georgetown. Other than these, if you’re looking for something not as specific, it’s possible that you also find it at the Walmart, linked above.

• The Boat Shed Inc
• Marshall’s Marine

Watch Our Trip to Georgetown on YouTube

Maybe you’re also interested in:

• Top Things to Do in Beaufort SC: Our Guide to the Best of the Lowcountry

Ready to Explore Georgetown, SC?

Pin this guide with the best things to do in Georgetown, South Carolina, to help plan your trip!