Things to do & places to visit in Aiken, South Carolina, United States

Aiken city in South Carolina, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 12:41.

Top things to do (27)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Hitchcock Woods (208 reviews)
- Awesome
Forests

Wow, what a beautiful park. Lots of great trails and tall trees. I could’ve spent all day here but didn’t bring my best shoes. Wear your hiking shoes or cross trainers if you’re going to be in here for a while. But it is definitely a must do while you’re in Aiken. The foundation that takes care of this place does a fantastic job. It’s a 2100-acre forest with 70 miles of trails. Keep in mind the trails are sandy for people and horses, so wear good shoes. Thanks to the Hitchcock family for donating this land and preserving it for all of us to enjoy. See more..
5.0 Pedego Electric Bikes (48 reviews)
- Fun way to see Aiken - and learn along the way!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gear Rentals

To us, nothing is more exhilarating than feeling the wind rush past our ears while we’re behind the handlebars of a great bike, and we're here to make that type of experience accessible to everyone. Pedego is taking the hard work out of biking so you can enjoy the ride regardless of physical challenges. With 18 different models in a rainbow of colors, we’ll help you find the perfect set of wheels. With a pedal assist that allows you to go farther, faster, and higher, Pedego’s electric bikes help you enjoy scenery like never before. Plus, with over 100 dedicated Pedego stores around the world, you’re never far from friendly support. So come on by and join our community -- you’ll never look at biking the same again. See more..
5.0 Rebel Ranch Horse Tours (18 reviews)
- Awesome trai ride
Spent 1-2 hours Horseback Riding Tours

Horseback Riding Tours thru beautiful trails in the Aiken-Augusta area. We will ride to your skill level and I invite everyone to give us a try. Beginners as well as experienced riders will have a blast. Come Ride with Us!!!! Tours are mostly conducted Saturdays and Sundays but other dates can usually be accommodated. Call for availability. See more..
5.0 Savannah River Site Museum (8 reviews)
- savannah river site (SRS) and the cold war
Spent 2-3 hours History Museums

When the Soviet Union exploded the first nuclear weapon, the SRS went into action creating tritium and plutonium for the hydrogen bomb. We won the cold war and they had an unprecedented safety record. I really had no idea this place existed until we arrived. The lady working inside was so nice and had no problems answering the questions we asked of her. She also really seemed to love her job. She also made herself available for questions but never followed us around allowing us to move at our own speed. I really enjoyed the museum but there was a lot of reading to do. I'm more of a visual exhibit type of person but the information was so interesting I didn't mind all the reading. Highly recommended. See more..
5.0 St. Mary Help of Christians (8 reviews)
- Mass at St. Mary
Religious Sites

The new church can now hold all of the parishioners in just 2 or 3 services now. Modern design without feeling 'modern', if that makes sense. See more..
5.0 Aiken Community Playhouse (4 reviews)
- Aiken Community Theatre
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theaters

This place is amazing! They put on the greatest shows- way more than you’d expect from a community theatre. And they have FREE workshops for teens. Always get more than I bargained for. See more..
5.0 Art & Soul of Aiken (3 reviews)
- Must see
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries
Art and Soul of Aiken has the most beuaiful place to visit. She will enjoy going downtown and walking to this beauiful place. See more..
5.0 Battle of Aiken Reenactment (2 reviews)
- Historic Civil War Adventure
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Battlefields

While in Augusta this spring we found out that an annual event nearby in South Carolina is a reenactment of the Battle of Aiken. The participants were dressed in vintage costumes and reenacted two battles between the North and the South. It was very authentic with Cavalry, foot soldiers and artillery fire. It was a 3 day event that is held in February every year. There was live bluegrass music, food vendors, and plenty of tents selling souvenirs. We really enjoyed it. See more..
5.0 Millbrook Baptist Church (2 reviews)
- great church for going to see Christian concerts :)
Spent 1-2 hours Churches & Cathedrals
My wife and I have been to this church several times for some excellent Christian concerts. We have seen "MercyMe," "Casting Crowns," and just recently "Big Daddy Weave." We have had some nice memorable moments here as well, and the staff are always very friendly, parking is easy, and it is on a main road in easy drive of multiple restaurants. We look forward to going to many more concerts here in the future because they do such a GREAT job hosting these special shows. See more..
5.0 Aiken Antiques & Uniques (1 review)
- well organized antique shop
Antique Shops

This is a well organized, 7000 square foot antique shop. The lady working inside was very nice and instantly made us feel welcomed. You will find books, Dixie Belle products, refurbished furniture, painted furniture, china, glassware, lighting, rustic, pottery, art glass, as well as local art (I bought a piece). If you are in the area this is a place you really should consider checking out. See more..
5.0 Antiques And More (1 review)
- a very nice antique mall
Antique Shops

We were greeted with big smiles and hellos as soon as we walked in the door. They asked where we were visiting from and one of the ladies happened to be from the same area so we had a nice chat with her about all the changes in the city. The main aisles were wide and clear and almost all the booths were very well organized. The few that weren't we just passed right by because it isn't worth tripping or knocking something over when trying to get to a certain item in the back. They offer glass, furniture, vaseline glass (also called uranium glass), collectibles, vintage jewelry, lighting, art, kitchenware, tin toys, vinyl, salt/pepper shakers, some fine antiques, eclectic items, vintage, local artisan handmade items, and more. Be sure to check out they garden patio. See more..
4.5 Hopelands Gardens (436 reviews)
- Garden Peace
Gardens

I have been visiting Aiken for 47 years. I never considered visiting these lovely gardens. I was overwhelmed at the peaceful feeling flowing from the huge canopy of giant live oaks. July is not the Camelia time, but regardless, the huge variety of trees and shrubs is amazing. Many of the trees lining the brick pathways are identified by placards..with audio info available by calling a number. Most interesting was the stables with statues of famous horses and often more famous owners. Even one very fast white male has its story told. One disappointment was the carriage museum being closed. And the garden is free admission. See more..
4.5 Aiken County Historical Museum (181 reviews)
- I was surprised a small, county museum was this good!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 AM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Educational sites • History Museums

I thought I'd run in and out to see the building but I ended up reading a lot of the info about the displays. There was a cute little olde time soda shop and pharmacy display. I liked that it told a local story instead of all the Civil War history I already knew. And it's free. I wanted to go in the gift shop but they weren't wearing masks. The volunteers at the front were. See more..
4.5 Aiken Center for the Arts (100 reviews)
- Great place for local arts
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Aiken Center for the Arts hosts a rotating exhibitions of local artists. Additionally, the is a variety of unique, one of a kind, pieces available to purchase. Items range from artwork, photography, ceramics, woodworking, and jewelry. Great place to check out the local art scene. See more..
4.5 Cyndi's Sweet Shoppe (89 reviews)
- Great selection
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

We come here at least once a month. Great selection of candy including many old favorites from the 60s. Also a good selection of sugar free candies as well. Closed on Sundays See more..
4.5 Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum (74 reviews)
- Lots of history!
Tuesday: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the great tradition of racing and Aiken’s vital role in it. Forty Champion Thoroughbreds have trained at the famed Aiken Training Track. The Hall of Fame immortalizes each in the Iselin’s charming, old carriage house. The Hall of Fame features both flat racers and steeplechase horses, from 1942 through the present. Photos, trophies and other memorabilia highlight these outstanding horses. See more..
4.5 Aiken State Park (62 reviews)
- Weekend away!
State Parks • Parks

We really enjoyed this state park! Coronavirus had hit and we already had our reservations so we were allowed to stay in the park. Danny our camp host helped out so much. We stayed in campsite 24 it was very level We have rear living and the back did face the road which was a one way around the park I worked out ok since the park was relatively empty. However we walked around and noted the best sites in our view were 8 and 10 and 13. The hiking trail was great and there is a paved almost 3 mile loop or road around the park which is great for a walk or bike ride. We look forward to going to this one again!! See more..
4.5 Aiken Golf Club (54 reviews)
- Do not miss this course when in Aiken
Golf Courses

Aiken Golf Club is a must play, the most fun you can have on a short course, but don't let that fool you, this course is in great condition, a classic design and the green bunker complexes are amazing. I have played many courses in the World and this is golf as it is meant to be played. See more..
4.5 Dupont Planetarium- Aiken South Carolina (24 reviews)
- Aiken's Hidden Gem
Speciality Museums

The Dupont Planetarium is located at the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center at USCAiken. They do shows for the public every Saturday night with two showings. The planetarium has a vast array of shows and changes them every month. After your done if it is a clear night you can go up on the roof to the Observatory and use the magnificent telescope to view Saturn's rings and many other heavenly bodies. Inside the Ruth Patrick is a great Science store which is open during the public shows. See more..
4.5 Virginia Acres Park (9 reviews)
- Wonderful!
Spent < 1 hour Parks • Playgrounds • Jogging Paths & Tracks

I stay in hotels in this area 2-3 nights a week and weather permitting walk each night at this facility. It has a one mile paved walking track that is wide and well lit. In the summer and fall I also walk in the morning as there are multiple cross fit groups working out from about 5am on. In the evening its a very mixed group with runners, people walking dawgs and lots of families. Something to look forward to at the end of a work day! See more..
4.5 Aiken Steeplechase (7 reviews)
- It's All About the Hats
Spent More than 3 hours Arenas & Stadiums

Had a great time with friends, tailgating ringside. What an absolutely beautiful day. Even caught the Parade of Carriages. Be sure to account for traffic in your travel plans, however. See more..
4.0 Boyd Pond Park (19 reviews)
- Excellent Mountain Bike loop
Parks

Mountain Bike Trails, Nature Trails, Softball Fields, Picnic Area, Canoe Lake See more..
4.0 Carolina Bay Nature Preserve (17 reviews)
- A Little Hidden Gem
Nature & Wildlife Areas

On Price Avenue at the intersection of Price and Whiskey Road, all the hustle and bustle is evident. Cars crowd the streets and the noise of the city is apparent. On one side of Price Ave. sits the Odell Weeks Recreation Center, with its 1 mile long Virginia Acres Walking Track encircling the athletic building and the kids playground area. But, across Price Avenue from the North East side of the track, sits a quaint building, almost hidden from view from the road, that serves as an observation deck. As you walk toward that building, the feeling you get is that you have suddenly been transported to a place that is nature's own, even though you're still very much in the city. Wood ducks, mallards, and geese can be seen floating along as if they were in some far off lake, no where near the city. Walk the trail around the lake, and... solitude. And the only thing that spoils this is the background noise of Downtown Aiken City life. See more..
4.0 Citizens Park Sprayground (11 reviews)
- Sprayground at Citizens Park
Tuesday: 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Water Parks
We held our grandson's birthday party here and the kids and adults had so much fun. Plenty of water activities and tables to have cake, presents and other food. See more..
4.0 Aiken County Farmers Market (10 reviews)
- great old farmers market
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farmers Markets

Listed on the Aiken Historic Register, the Farmers Market sells fresh produce including corn, tomatoes, beans, fruit, baked goods, and local meats and cheeses. Goods are displayed on the tables built by farmers and families of Aiken County over 50 years ago. The Market, now as then, is a place where produce is sold and conversation and recipes are shared with friends, old and new. Tuesday & Thursday 8am-12pm Saturday Daylight to Noon What's at the Market - Summer 2016 Local beef, Pork, Chicken, Eggs, Raw Milk & Cheese Beets, Beans ( Snap, Italian, Variety), Blackberries, Blueberries, Butter Beans, Cantaloupes, Cucumbers, Green Onions, Mixed Leafy Greens ( Kale, Turnips) Okra, Peaches, Peanuts (Green), Peas, Peppers ( Variety), Radishes, Squash ( Yellow), Sweet Corn, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Zucchini Squash Local farming related crafts, including woodworking, soaps, and lotions. Home baked goods to include: Bavarian pretzels, cakes, cookies, muffins, and pound cakes. This is just a sample of what we've seen at the market so far. Things are always changing with the season. We look forward to seeing you at the market soon! See more..
3.5 Aiken Antique Mall (2 reviews)
- Nice Shop
Antique Shops

The store is very well organized, some things, in my opinion, are overpriced but if you look you can find good bargains. Make sure to check out upstairs, they have a Christmas area and some discounted items. This is a large store so allow time to browse. Well will be back. See more..
3.0 Antique Emporium (1 review)
- a small place
Antique Shops

This is a small place and would not be worth making a special trip for, but if you are in the area it might be worth a stop while checking out the other Aiken antique stores. The people at the front desk were not all that friendly and did not really make me feel welcomed. A few of the areas were cluttered and we just walked past those (not worth tripping or knocking something over just to see what's in the booth). I did not see anything unique or different. You will find vintage hats (In my opinion those were the best items in the place), vintage clothes, furniture, art, lighting, small collectibles, glassware, ceramics, holiday item, china, vintage clothes and more. See more..
Woodchuckers Axe Throwing (0 review)
Tuesday: 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM Sports Complexes

This 10 lane axe throwing venue is fun for all ages. Enjoy a beer at our six tap bar and learn to throw axes like a pro. Smack talking your opponents is highly encouraged! See more..
Etherredge Center Cultural Series (0 review)
Theaters
The Etherredge Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, annual Cultural Series. 6-9 performance events throughout the year, presenting the best international performing artists, including gospel, country music, jazz and more! See what event is going on now at our website! See more..
Joye in Aiken (0 review)
Spent 1-2 hours Music Festivals
Joye in Aiken is an annual festival of performances featuring world class artists, many are alumni from The Juilliard School, who come to Aiken, SC for a week of events in various venues in the town. For music lovers, there is something for everyone. Beginning March 6th, 2020 and continuing until March 13, 2020. See more..