Named after Revolutionary War hero General Robert Anderson, Anderson is a city located on the Piedmont Plateau, just in the northwest corner of the state of South Carolina.
The city of Anderson is also known by locals as the “Electric City,” with a population of just 28,226.
Anderson has several wonderful features, including tourist attractions, a good transportation system, plenty of recreational facilities, and infrastructure that make it an ideal vacation destination.
Filled with several historic sites, Anderson has several fun things to do, from museums to sports facilities, great places to eat, amazing nature parks, and so much more.
The city is also rich in agriculture, giving visitors plenty of areas to explore with a rich history of farm and plantation life.
For a fun vacation, here are the best fun things to do in Anderson (SC).
Fun Things to Do in Anderson (SC)
1. Check Out Grady’s Great Outdoors
Grady’s Great Outdoors was founded in 1961 and is a locally owned and operated cooperative dedicated to providing both locals and visitors as well, with an unforgettable adventure in all things outdoor.
Here at Grady’s Great Outdoors, they provide quality products and exceptional customer service too for outdoor enthusiasts in a family-friendly atmosphere, as well as inspiring visitors to explore the great outdoors.
Some of the products available to visitors include kayaks, grills, firearms, and shooting gear for the ultimate outdoor experience.
The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and ready to help in any way possible by offering on-site demonstrations as well as shoe fitting.
Finally, Grady’s Great Outdoors is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm and is closed on Sundays.
2. Don’Miss a Game at Anderson Sports & Entertainment Center
A visit to the Anderson Sports & Ent Center is worth adding to your list of fun things to do in Anderson (SC) if you’re a sports enthusiast.
With a land of about 64 acres, this interesting center offers amazing sports facilities for visitors to enjoy.
Facilities at this center include three soccer fields, seven softball/baseball fields, miles of paved walking paths, eight tennis courts, picnic areas, a nature trail, and a disc golf course.
The center is packed with several ongoing daily activities, including youth and adult softball/baseball leagues and associations.
During the weekends, various tournaments and events in various sports are held in the center.
However, dogs other than service animals are prohibited at the Anderson Sports Center solely for the safety of its patrons.
The Sports Center’s tennis courts are free for use by the general public unless reserved for tournaments or other reserved events.
Visit this center in Anderson, SC, for an amazing sports experience.
3. See a Movie at Amstar Cinema
For theater lovers, include a visit to AmStar Stadium on your list of things to do in Anderson (SC).
The ArmStar theater is one of the stadium theaters established and opened in Anderson, SC, at almost the same time.
The cinema, now part of Southern Theatres, was the venue for the premiere of the popular film ‘Radio.’
The cinema offers about 14 auditoriums, 3D films, and digital sound, and also offers first-run feature films.
The ArmStar Cinema also features several modern amenities, some of which include Dolby sound, comfortable high-back chairs, a game room, stadium seating, a food, and beverage concession area, as well as private party spaces.
This allows you to visit Armstar Cinemas in Anderson, SC, for movie time and enjoy a fun-filled theater time.
Things to Do in Anderson (SC) at Night
1. Visit Palmetto Distillery
This was the first distillery to produce the first legal moonshine and also the award-winning whiskey in the entire state of South Carolina.
Palmetto Distillery is owned by descendants of local moonshiners who use remarkable recipes from more than 100 years to maintain the tradition of their ancestors.
With several hand-crafted moonshine and craft whiskeys produced in a copper still, the distillery offers visitors a free tasting of its five flavors of moonshine and whiskey.
In addition, the distillery also demonstrates and educates visitors about the history of the local tradition of moon runners and how the process works.
2. Grab Some Bottles at Carolina Bauernhaus Ales
Carolina Bauernhaus Ales is a local brewery of note in Anderson, SC, that brews and serves beers made using local flavors inspired by Belgian tradition.
The brewery was founded by three local homebrewers with the intention of creating beers that perfectly honor and relate to South Carolina’s rich agricultural history.
Although the brewery is located outside of Anderson, its taproom, which is in downtown Anderson, always has freshly brewed beers to serve to patrons.
Carolina Bauernhaus doesn’t make a lot of different beers, just to change the beer lineup every season to keep visitors in suspense and make each beer a special release.
Additionally, the brewery and taproom host a variety of events throughout the year, some of which include tastings, music shows, and open mic events.
3. Hang Out With Friends at Growler Haus
Growler Haus is a unique brewery founded and opened in 2012 with the goal of improving the brewing community and providing visitors with the best craft beers.
Filled with carefully selected expert brewers, Growler Haus offers its visitors a variety of locally brewed beers in a relaxing and comfortable environment.
The brewery has three locations offering a wide variety of brews as well as a customer-friendly staff ready to happily offer samples and take care of you throughout.
In addition, Growler Haus helps promote local talent and homebrewers through a community brewing competition that it hosts on several occasions.
Things to Do in Anderson (NC) For Couples
1. Shop at Anderson Jockey Lot and Farmers Market
Located near Belton, just a 16-minute drive from Anderson, SC, the Anderson Jockey Lot and Farm Market is a 65-acre market that opened in November 1974.
The opening of the market was inspired by a trip of the founders, namely D.C. Bryson and Richard McClellion, to a flea market in Mexico, which gave them the idea to create something similar, but with plenty of parking and clean restrooms.
Today, the Jockey Lot has grown considerably since its inception, with an average daily attendance of 30,000 to 60,000 people.
The huge market offers a variety of items from hundreds of vendors who most likely have everything you could be looking for.
Other features of this market include snack bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of meals from short orders to full courses.
2. Test Your Skills at the Club at Brookstone
This is one of the best golf courses in South Carolina, and it’s open to the public.
The Brookstone golf course features 18 holes in a Tom Jackson-designed layout that provides its visitors with a fairly challenging, enjoyable, and fun golfing experience.
In addition, the golf course has become remarkable after undergoing about $2 million in renovations in 2016.
The renovations included new Championship Bermuda greens, a refreshed clubhouse and events center, amazing golf practice facilities, lots of improvements to the hole layout, and new bathrooms.
Other features of the Brookstone golf course include a chipping green, a driving range, large golf putting green, and a practice bunker made of real quality sand.
In addition, the golf course is open for events such as birthdays, weddings, retirement ceremonies, anniversaries, and other private events.
3. Make a Trip to Split Creek Farm
This is a dairy farm located in the Blue Ridge Mountains that focuses on goat products.
This unique farm produces and sells goat products, including handmade goat milk cheese, yogurt, and fudge.
Split Creek Farm is also open for tours for visitors to learn about matters related to the history of agriculture in the area, as well as what is involved in running a dairy farm.
Visitors can also view the farm’s 350-strong herds and the work of local artists in the farm shop.
In addition, the farm hosts educational events seasonally where visitors are shown how their products are made through live demonstrations.
Add a visit to this farm to your list of things to do in Anderson (SC) if you are interested in agriculture.
Things to Do in Anderson (SC) For Kids
1. Let Them Visit the CocoBon Chocolatier
Visit CocoBon Chocolatier, a shop that offers locally made old-fashioned candy and chocolates.
The inspiration for opening the store was the closure of the owner’s favorite chocolatier, who later believed that the tradition should be kept alive.
The chocolate in the store is made from local ingredients, making all the recipes special and unique.
The CocoBon Chocolatier shop is designed in an admirable vintage style that complements the uniforms of the workers.
Other goodies sold in the store include vintage and vintage candies like Adams Candies, Ferrara candy, and NECCO.
The shop also sells handmade popcorn, cotton candy, truffles, and candies.
Stop by with your kids and treat them to any of these delicious treats of their choice, or grab something for yourself.
2. Let Them Paint at Belton Center for the Arts
Just a 17-minute drive from Anderson, SC, the Belton Center for the Arts is a cultural arts center established in 1999.
The center is focused on community engagement in exhibition, exploration, and education in the visual, performing, and literary arts.
With an open and welcoming atmosphere, the Belton Center for the Arts promotes and appreciates the arts for all disciplines through a variety of cultural experiences.
The center also helps promote local artists by creating several exhibition opportunities, as well as improving emerging artists of all ages and abilities through various educational programs and classes.
The Belton Center for the Arts offers a gallery designed for multi-use by the community and has an exhibition space with space to display a variety of arts.
3. Kid Venture Playground
For fun with the kids, visit the Kid Venture Playground, built by a humanitarian organization called “Community Partners At Play” for children of Anderson County; it’s remarkable.
The Kid Venture Playground is built and designed from the ideas of local children in several community meetings with the designer.
Anderson County donated adequate space at the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Center for the field, and then community volunteers worked together to build the structure.
Currently, some Anderson County departments maintain the Kid Venture playground, many local volunteers, and the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Center.
With an age limit of 12, this fun playground is open daily.
However, the park is occasionally closed due to significant events that may take place near the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Center.
Kid-Venture closes daily at dusk and does not allow food or drink inside the playground.
Finally, the pitch cannot be rented out for parties or private events because it is a community pitch.
This fits the bill of things to do in Anderson, SC, with kids. Give the kids some fun time at the Kid Venture Playground.
Indoor Activities to Do in Anderson (SC) For Adults
1. Visit William A. Floyd Amphitheater
The William A. Floyd Amphitheater was named in honor of the late William A. Floyd, a council president who was a major supporter and encourager of the revitalization of Anderson County.
This large concert facility opened in 1999 and has been an arena for popular concerts and events featuring most of the biggest stars of R&B, Southern rock, hip-hop, country music, and more.
The William A. Floyd Amphitheater offers several amazing amenities for fan comfort, some of which include convenient concession stands and restrooms, a flowing stream, a beautiful decorative pond, and much more.
2. Learn About the Locals at Anderson County Museum
Anderson County Museum showcases the unique history of South Carolina and the people of Anderson County in general.
This spectacular museum houses a collection of over 20,000 artifacts from across the region.
Other features besides significant artifacts include the Research Room and Reading Room, which contains around 2,000 historical photographs and 1,600 volumes, all accessible to any visitor.
There is currently a remarkable collection of exhibits called “Keep the Home Fires Burning” that depicts the men and women who once fought in America’s conflicts.
The museum contains many educational, entertaining, and interactive exhibits that make its visit special.
Try to stop by this museum when you are in the area and get an item from the museum gift shop as a souvenir for commemorative purposes.
3. Check Out Remnants Antiques
Located in historic downtown Anderson S.C., right on the corner of Church St., Remnants Antiques Gifts & Consignment is a wonderful eclectic shopping center full of opportunity.
This one-of-a-kind shopping center is about 6,000 square feet, holds 45+ vendors, and features antiques, art, giftware, and furniture vendors.
Remnants Antiques was founded with the sole purpose of providing financial support to a non-profit organization for women struggling with alcohol and also drug addiction called Shalom House Ministries Inc.
Shopping at this organized mall is spectacular as it offers unique furniture, books, accessories, and homewares at a very affordable price.
Romantic Things to Do in Anderson (SC)
1. Have a Picnic at Sadlers Creek State Park
Located on a peninsula in Hartwell Lake, Sadlers Creek Park is a 395-acre state park that offers a variety of fun activities that include water sports, bird watching, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
Sadlers Creek Park has about 52 campsites complete with water and electricity available for rent.
Sadlers Creek Park also has two picnic shelters and a reserve lakeside pavilion that can host the whole family or friends.
A notable feature of this park is two hiking or biking trails, namely the Pine Grove Trail (a half-mile trial) and the Loop Bike Trail (a regular 6-mile bike trail).
The park is open to visitors who wish to swim or explore the waters through the available two boat ramps for fishing or excursion purposes.
2. Take a Trip to Denver Downs Farm
Owned and operated by the Garrison family, Denver Downs Farm is a historic farm started in 1869.
The farm, which occupied about 400 acres of land, was greatly improved from cotton to a dairy and is now a major agritourism site.
Denver Downs Farm educates tourists about the importance of agriculture in our daily lives and also showcases the heritage of family farms.
Denver Down also has a Farmers Market that opened during the summer to create a platform for indigenous farmers to showcase and sell their products to both tourists and locals.
In addition to other interesting features, the saga hosts events throughout the year, the first of which includes the award-winning corn maze event that takes place in the fall.
3. Admire the Beauty of the Lake Hartwell
Among the notable attractions near Anderson, SC is Lake Hartwell, it is a beautiful area, and it is known as one of the best fishing spots in all of South Carolina.
Lake Hartwell State Park has several wonderful features, including a long hiking trail and a boat ramp that is available for visitors who want to explore the waters or go fishing.
The park also has three log cabins available for year-round rental for visitors who intend to spend a few days in the park.
In addition to wooden cabins, there are also campsites for hire for caravans and tents.
In addition, Lake Hartwell State Park also has a picnic shelter and playground for families to use that can accommodate about 75 people at a time.
You can bring your pets with you during your visit as pets are not allowed in the park.
Free Things to Do in Anderson (SC)
1. Visit Rocky River Nature Park
Rocky River Nature Park is a 400-acre area located on the border of Anderson with the largest wetland in the Upstate.
It includes stunning natural features that include wetlands, open water for canoeing and kayaking, various hiking, biking, and horse trails, and a discovery center/environmental education facility.
The park is managed by the citizen-led non-profit group Rocky River Conservancy, which protects the Rocky River, its marsh, and the surrounding area.
2. Take a Look at the Historic Belton Train Depot
The Historic Belton Train Depot isn’t exactly in Anderson, SC, but it’s only about 7 miles from town.
Built in 1910, the Historic Belton Train Depot served over 60 trains and trolleys but was later completely decommissioned in the 1960s.
The depot was inactive for many years, but later, in 2007, it was renovated and rededicated.
Since its renovation, it has become home to two major museums, namely the S.C. Tennis Hall of Fame and also the Ruth Drake Museum.
Visit this historic depot to get a glimpse of the old railway line as well as see what a package of history the museum’s available offers.
3. Worship at NewSpring Church
If you’re a Christian and planning a visit to Anderson, South Carolina, add NewSpring Church to your itinerary.
It is a beautiful ancient church that not only has so many fun things to offer visitors but is also a perfect place to offer supplications to the Almighty.
The pastor is very embracing and totally friendly.
As long as you can relate to them, your accommodation and feeding are covered!
You will absolutely love the friendly atmosphere and the greetings, and when you arrive, don’t forget to check out the cafes and creamery.
In fact, if you are a church leader, you must come here to develop your faith through their conferences, training, and ongoing evangelism.
They have some of the best pastors, and their Sunday services are what you should try to attend if you have the time.
An amazing church for all ages! Such a great atmosphere and wonderful music and worship.
Cheap Things to Do in Anderson (SC)
1. Go on a Tour of South Carolina Plantation
Anderson County hosts some of America’s plantation history and hosts more than 1,500 plantations scattered throughout the state of South Carolina.
Examples of historic plantations found in Anderson County include Woodburn Plantation, owned by the Pendleton Historical Foundation, and Ashtabula Plantation.
Currently managed as a house museum, the plantation brings to light a perfect replica of plantation life in the 1800s for the enlightenment of its visitors.
The Ashtabula and Woodburn homes are over 200 years old, dating back to the 1790s and 1800s, respectively.
The plantations are open for public and private tours to those interested in experiencing the history of the area.
2. Grab a Meal at Sullivan’s Metropolitan Grill
Offering bold and flavorful American fare, Sullivan’s Metropolitan Grill aims to become the premier dining experience in Anderson.
Located downtown, Sullivan’s was originally a hardware store when it first opened in the 1800s, but over the years, it has transformed and transformed into one of the city’s premier restaurants.
Try spectacular entrees like duck fries, fried green tomatoes, and crab cakes, or dig into hearty offerings like Sullivan’s Shrimp and Grits, Pan Salmon, Herb Encrusted Rack of Lamb, and Peppercorn Encrusted New York Strip.
Sullivan’s desserts are definitely not to be missed with tempting offerings like Bailey’s Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake, Key Lime Pie, and Black Bottom Peanut Butter Pie.
3. Have a Picnic at Carolina Wren Park
This is an incredible city park with an open-air pavilion and amphitheater, a spray plaza, and a nightly light show.
The area looks so great with the decor.
Even with the trees in their beautiful fall colors, you’ll love this fun place in Anderson, South Carolina!
Great picnic tables for family fun, a large playground for all the kids, a perfect place for parties, and much more!
This location offers visitors so much fun!
If you come in the summer, you can run through the fountains, and in the winter there is also ice skating.
Likewise, there is a tribute to Anderson’s Bose man!
Downtown Anderson is a great place to explore that showcases Anderson’s diversity and cultural influences.
Cool Places to Visit in Anderson (SC)
1. Habitat for Humanity ReStores
The Habitat for Humanity ReStores is a home improvement store and donation center that is open to the public in Anderson.
At thrift stores, you’ll find items such as furniture, building supplies, and home decor donated by businesses and homeowners in the community.
Merchandise, including new and used, is collected daily and sold at a fraction of the retail price.
Proceeds help Habitat for Humanity of Anderson County further its goal of building strength, stability, and self-sufficiency through the long-term impact of a decent and affordable home.
2. Fire Department Museum
The Anderson City Fire Department Museum, located right inside the Anderson Fire Department, houses historical exhibits and equipment used in the past.
The museum’s historical exhibits include four antique fire trucks from 1880-1919.
It is attached to the fire department, and on several occasions, the staff is allowed to take visitors on a tour of various historically significant exhibits.
The museum is open 9-5 daily when museum opening staff are available. However, it can also be opened upon agreement.
3. Concord Produce Market
If you haven’t visited a previously featured market, don’t leave Anderson without checking out what Concord Produce Market has to offer.
Basically, it’s an interesting and beautiful indoor market with a covered terrace that offers local fruits and vegetables as well as seafood.
They sell cheap and quality products that cannot be found anywhere else in Anderson at this price.
With this, you can also be sure of their great customer service in this beautiful market.
They also have a dedicated children’s center, and small sports activities are also provided!
Incredibly, they do not charge visitors an entrance fee, and the area is not always crowded.
Don’t forget to bring a shipping basket as you will definitely be leaving with a lot of goods.
Conclusion
Anderson is an amazing place to visit, and it is filled with tons of fun activities to delight its visitors.
It offers a lot of opportunities to get away from it all and enjoy the relaxing outdoors at the city’s many state parks and golf courses.
Start planning your next vacation already by pinning this article as a guide to refer back to when making your list of things to do in Anderson (SC).
