Destinations, South Carolina, Travel, USA

Discover Old 96 District: A Weekend Guide for Abbeville and Greenwood, South Carolina

Alyssa drinks a cup of coffee in Abbeville

A biscuit on a plate

A crowd at Good Times in Uptown Greenwood

A hand reaches for clothing at Sugar Boutique

Alyssa stands on a dock at Lake Greenwood

A brunch burger at Indigenous Underground

Alyssa walks in front of JP's Food and Spirits

Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you can take without the hassle of airport security and cramped airplane seats. Whenever I’m itching to explore somewhere new, I pull up a map and zoom out from my home city of Charlotte, tracing my finger over the Southeastern corner of the country to see what new-to-me destinations are in easy reach.

After a busy season of flyaway trips, the thought of exploring quaint streets, discovering hidden gems, and indulging in delicious local cuisine was all the motivation I needed to find a cozy destination. This time, my finger landed on the neighboring towns of Abbeville and Greenwood, just three hours away in South Carolina’s Old 96 District. Sold.


This post was created in partnership with Old 96 District, but as always, all content and opinions shared here are my own. This post may contain commissionable links.

As I planned my trip, I pictured a weekend of relaxed exploration, leaving every stop on my itinerary open-ended to allow as much time as my heart desired to soak it all in. From boutique shopping to Southern dishes, I was ready to immerse myself in the charm and warmth of these towns – but what I discovered during my visit far exceeded my expectations.

I’m beyond excited to share this guide with you, filled with all the must-see places and experiences that will make your trip to Abbeville and Greenwood unforgettable. But first:


ABOUT ABBEVILLE & GREENWOOD

These two neighboring cities are perfect for combining in a weekend getaway, but each has a distinct personality
Abbeville sign on a lamp post
Abbeville is a small South Carolina city of about 5,000 residents
Alyssa walks in downtown Abbeville
Downtown Abbeville’s colorful storefronts call cheerfully to window shoppers
storefronts in Downtown Abbeville
You’re not imagining the vintage charm; several of Abbeville’s buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places

About Abbeville

Abbeville, South Carolina, was established by French Huguenots in 1764 and is a town steeped in a complex and often contentious history. As the site of the first secession meeting and the last official cabinet meeting, Abbeville’s past is forever linked to the Civil War as the birthplace and deathbed of the Confederacy.

Today, the presence of a Confederate monument in the public square serves as a stark reminder of that history. While these monuments are part of the town’s historical fabric, their continued presence may make some visitors question whether the city has reconciled with its past and if they are welcome today.

Despite these challenges, Abbeville has grown into a diverse and vibrant community that offers much to visitors. The town’s charming streets are lined with colorful buildings housing local businesses that play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and forward-looking future. From the historic Belmont Inn to unique restaurants and bakeries like Indigenous Underground and Swartzentruber’s Bakery, there are numerous opportunities to support the hardworking individuals who are dedicated to making Abbeville a warm and inviting place for all.

Alyssa walks in front of a mural depicting a train and flowers
The railroad fueled Greenwood’s population growth in the late 1800s; today about 22,000 people call the city home
Exterior of Greenwood Visitor's Center
Stop by the Greenwood Visitor’s Center to pick up a travel brochure and learn about the weekend’s events
Alyssa under a Gateway to Greenwood sign
Each year, Greenwood is the host city for the South Carolina Festival of Flowers

About Greenwood

Established in the early 19th century, Greenwood initially thrived as an agricultural hub, benefiting from its fertile soil and strategic location along the railroad. Greenwood’s history is intertwined with tales of growth and resilience, from its agricultural roots to its industrial boom. Today, remnants of its past can be seen in the beautifully preserved historic buildings and landmarks that dot the downtown area (known as Uptown Greenwood), offering a glimpse into the city’s evolution over the centuries.

Visitors today will find a hub of pedestrian activity in the uptown corridor, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries that reflect the city’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit. One of Greenwood’s standout events is the annual South Carolina Festival of Flowers, held each June and drawing over one hundred thousand visitors to the city to explore the impressive topiaries lining the streets. As you explore Greenwood today, you’ll find a community that honors its past while enthusiastically embracing the future.

Travel Tips for Abbeville & Greenwood

A car is essential for exploring this region, but unlike back home in Charlotte, parking is free and readily available. Like many other small-to-midsize cities in the area, businesses often close on Sundays, allowing their staff to attend services at their preferred places of worship. The strong religious communities here are an integral part of the local culture, and you’ll see the evidence of that as you explore. The takeaway? It’s always a good idea to call ahead to make sure a business is open.

I always say there’s no spring quite like a Carolina spring, and while we can’t always choose when we’re visiting a destination, it’s a blooming delightful season to visit if you’re able (we have the South Carolina Festival of Flowers to thank for that!). The days are warm enough for outdoor activities but not yet brutally hot like South Carolina’s extended summers. Autumn is another lovely time to visit as the leaves change, and winters here are generally milder than their northern counterparts (as any snowbird will likely tell you!).

Ready to hit the road? Here’s how to enjoy a relaxing weekend in Upstate South Carolina:


ABBEVILLE & GREENWOOD RESTAURANTS

A brunch burger, biscuit and grits, and Alyssa with a coffee
Indigenous Underground brings bold flavors to Abbeville

Indigenous Underground

Thanks to Chef Erica McCier (also known as Chef Trudy), Indigenous Underground offers a fresh and innovative dining experience in the heart of Abbeville. Indigenous ingredients, Southern cuisine, and global flavors blend together to create a menu that feels simultaneously familiar and adventurous.

By sourcing from local vendors, Indigenous Underground ensures that you are enjoying the best of South Carolina’s produce. Whether you pop in for a midday meal, late supper, or a Sunday brunch, you’ll be treated to bold flavors like black-eyed pea gumbo or gator and grits. But just promise me you won’t hold me responsible when you find that Chef Erica’s Cajun grits have ruined all other grits for you – they are truly life-changing.

Time your visit for a First Friday if you’re able, which promises to be an extra lively affair with musicians in the house, or check the calendar to see what else Chef Erica is cooking up.

Indigenous Underground // 117 Trinity St, Abbeville, SC 29620

A brick oven and a pizza
The Mill House serves piping hot pizzas from its brick oven

The Mill House

“Are you going to The Mill House?” was a common question from locals as soon as they heard I was visiting from out of town. Every trip needs a good, laidback pizza and beer meal when traveling, so of course the answer was an emphatic yes.

From humble backyard beginnings, The Mill House has grown into a beloved fixture in uptown Greenwood. Open seven days a week, the team serves up delicious pies in an attractive brick building alongside pours from the brewery next door. The menu is packed with specialty pizzas that emerge piping hot from the brick oven, carefully delivered from the fiery furnace by an expert pizzaiolo.

Though the pizzas are intended to be personal size, the circle of pie that arrived at our table was so generous that Michael and I were grateful we decided to share. If you’re wary of finding a pizza to please everyone’s palate, The Mill House is happy to create a half-and-half pizza with two options from the specialty menu as long as they share the same sauce. How perfect is that?

The Mill House // 237 Maxwell Ave, Greenwood, SC 29646

A Mexican grocery store and restaurant
Find dreamy tacos, tortas, and quesadillas at Adelita’s

Adelita’s

If you’re unsure whether you’ve arrived at Adelita’s, you’re probably in the right place. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood of Greenwood, this Mexican tienda has a minimal online presence and could easily be overlooked – a mistake you definitely don’t want to make.

Why? Hidden in the back of this unassuming grocery store is a kitchen that serves up a small yet expertly crafted menu of authentic tacos, tortas, and quesadillas, bursting with flavor. Diners can enjoy their meals in the cozy, four-table dining area or take them to go, a popular option evidenced by the steady stream of takeout orders leaving the restaurant.

Creature of habit, Michael ordered a chorizo quesadilla while I opted for three tacos: chorizo, asada, and pollo (sin cebolla, forever and ever). With fresh tortillas, flavorful meats, and salsas that add just the right amount of kick, our meal felt like a genuine street corner taquería experience right in upstate South Carolina.

Got a sweet tooth at the end of your meal? Browse the grocery store shelves for Mexican candies or pick a pan dulce from the case for a delightful dessert!

Adelita's // 790 Gilliam Ave, Greenwood, SC 29646

Servers plate from a buffet of Southern cuisine
The Belmont Inn serves an award-winning Sunday lunch
The Belmont Inn's Sunday lunch menu and a crowd waiting in line
A crowd gathers expectantly for the rotating Sunday menu (it’s easy to see why!)

Simple Southern Sunday Lunch at The Belmont Inn

If you grew up in the South, no doubt the Simple Southern Sunday Lunch at The Belmont Inn will be a welcome dose of nostalgia. And if you hail from other parts of the country or the globe, this only-on-Sunday meal at downtown Abbeville’s popular inn offers an ideal introduction to the comforting tradition of meat-and-three Southern cuisine.

The menu is conveniently posted to Facebook earlier in the weekend, which is immensely helpful for planning your meal as once you step foot in the hotel’s dining area, you’re bound to want a little bit of everything. Expect classic entrees like fried chicken, meatloaf, and pot pie, accompanied by a rotating selection of roasted vegetables and casseroles.

That Sunday’s fried chicken, creamed corn, okra, and macaroni and cheese transported me back to every church luncheon and family reunion I’ve ever attended. The hotel’s dining room provides a wonderful setting for fellowship with fellow diners – it’s the perfect place to meet new friends and enjoy a delightful meal together.

The Belmont Inn // 104 E Pickens St, Abbeville, SC 29620

A plate of fried rice at Fusion
Fusion expertly melds Japanese and Thai cuisine on one menu
A panang curry and rice at Fusion
The restaurant’s hearty Thai curries are a bowl of comfort

Fusion

Located just five minutes from uptown Greenwood, Fusion combines Thai and Japanese dishes into one glorious menu of sushi, hibachi, noodles, fried rice dishes, and more. After some prodding, our server confessed that the hibachi dinners were the most popular, but the Thai menu was where the restaurant’s best specialties were listed.

With so many delicious-sounding options, decision paralysis quickly set in. Should I choose the Pad Thai? Nam Som Salad? Or perhaps create a feast from the tempting list of appetizers?

Ultimately, we decided on the spicy basil fried rice with beef (medium spice level) and the panang curry with tofu (hot spice level), accompanied by an appetizer of Thai spring rolls. The generous portion sizes were impressive – if you had told me we accidentally ordered double portions, I would have believed you.

Bigger is rarely better, but this was one of those rare moments. Each dish was fragrant and balanced with a wonderful depth of flavor (and I’m glad neither of us attempted the Thai hot spice level). I can see why Fusion is such a popular spot with locals, and it’s absolutely worth the quick drive.

Fusion // 529 By-pass 72 NW, Greenwood, SC 29649

WHERE TO FIND GREAT COFFEE, SWEETS, AND TREATS

Exterior of Main Street Coffee Co. in Abbeville and Alyssa taking a photo of her breakfast
Main Street Coffee Co. is the perfect place to start a morning in Abbeville
Interior of Main Street Coffee's upstairs space
Downstairs feeling a little crowded? Head upstairs for even more room to stretch out

Main Street Coffee

“Oh, hey!” rang out over and over during my visit to Main Street Coffee in Abbeville. This cute, light-filled coffee shop just off the main square makes for a great place to meet up with friends and bump into neighbors over a good cup of coffee, as evidenced by the cheerful greetings around me.

After placing your order at the register, you can settle into a table in the cozy ground-floor dining room or find a quiet corner upstairs to start your day. The locals rave about their breakfast menu, and it didn’t take much convincing for us to try the sausage, egg, and pimento biscuit special. I can’t imagine a better way to kick off your morning in Abbeville!

Main Street Coffee // 109 S Main St, Abbeville, SC 29620

Exterior and interior of Daily Bread's Abbeville location
The sweetest treats await at The Bakery on Main

The Bakery on Main

Follow the incredible scent of just-baked treats to The Bakery on Main, where owner Abby Ellenberg stocks her shelves with fresh yeast and sourdough breads, oversized cinnamon rolls, mouthwatering cookies, and jammy fruit-studded muffins. Abby’s journey began at the local market, where her delicious baked goods quickly gained a devoted following, leading her to open her first storefront in Abbeville.

A stroll through the shop is a treat for the senses, and because the treats are made with wholesome ingredients, you can stock up without the guilt. It’s easy to go overboard, but don’t worry – these treats travel well (writes the author as she munches on a gluten-free oatmeal cream pie in the car…). As these things go, The Bakery on Main has outgrown its current space and will soon be moving to a larger location in Greenwood, ensuring even more people can enjoy the delectable creations.

The Bakery on Main // opening in Greenwood Summer 2024

Exterior of Aromas Village Coffee
Aromas Village Coffee is your stop for coffee in Greenwood, open seven days a week

Aromas

I purposely timed my visit to Aromas Village Coffee for a Sunday, as it’s the only non-chain spot to grab a coffee on Sunday mornings in Greenwood (unless you’re having brunch, I suppose!). Unsurprisingly, the place was packed. The neighborhood coffee shop vibes are immaculate, a stark and delightful contrast to its strip mall setting. Sunday or not, the coffee here is definitely worth a visit.

If you’re closer to uptown, check out their sister location, Aromas Uptown Coffee, located on Main Street. Note that this location is closed on Sundays, but it offers the same great coffee and inviting atmosphere throughout the rest of the week.

Aromas Uptown Coffee // 338 Main St, Greenwood, SC 29646
Aromas Village Coffee // 211 Hospitality Blvd, Greenwood, SC 29649

Exterior and interior of Swartzentruber's Bakery
Swartzentruber’s Bakery has been keeping Abbeville sweet for decades
Racks of bread at Swartzentruber's Bakery
Find breads, pies, cakes, and more

Swartzentruber’s Bakery

Swartzentruber’s Bakery is a family-owned bakery that specializes in traditional Amish and Mennonite recipes, offering a delightful selection of homemade breads, pies, cakes, and pastries. As you enter the bakery, you’re greeted by the rich, comforting aroma of fresh-baked goods that instantly make you feel at home.

You’ll find whole treats like pecan pie, carrot cake, and apple strudel, or you can indulge in a slice or two – just don’t miss the three-flavor pound cake, featuring orange, lemon, and vanilla. Beyond the irresistible bakes, Swartzentruber’s Bakery also stocks a selection of pantry staples and kitchen items. This bakery’s blend of tradition, quality, and community spirit has kept people coming back for decades, and it’s easy to see why.

Swartzentruber's Bakery // 139 Hwy 28 S, Abbeville, SC 29620

Exterior of Refuel in Abbeville
This former service station in Abbeville has been transformed into a cafe and ice cream parlor
Alyssa eats an ice cream and holds a cup of ice cream next to an old fuel pump
Refuel’s ice cream parlor is extra popular on a warm evening

Refuel Abbeville

You know I love a good play on words, so Refuel Abbeville immediately caught my eye. This circa 1950s service station has been reimagined as a restaurant and ice cream parlor (providing a different kind of fuel for the tank, you might say).

While I didn’t have enough time or stomach space to enjoy a full meal from the tempting café menu, I made sure to hop in the queue for an ice cream one evening – there’s always room for ice cream, right? A scoop or sundae from Refuel is the cherry on top of a perfect day exploring Old 96.

Refuel Abbeville // 100 Vienna St, Abbeville, SC 29620

PLACES TO SIP AND SAVOR

The interior of Buenavista Latin Cafe and Alyssa with a mojito
Enjoy a mojito at the bar or on the dance floor at Buenavista Latin Cafe
Two mojitos at Buenavista
Buenavista’s mojitos are made with fresh mint

Buenavista

Take a trip to Havana with a freshly prepared mojito at Greenwood’s Buenavista. This vibrant bar and café offers the best of Cuban culture—classic Cuban dishes and robust, sweet espresso during the day, and refreshing mojitos, Cuba Libres, and Caribbean-imported cervezas by night.

Cozy up to the bar, hit the dance floor, or join the locals spilling out onto the sidewalk—Buenavista is open “until.” I savored one of the best mojitos I’ve had in the U.S. and can’t wait to return to explore the rest of the menu. Reviews rave that the Cuban food here rivals that of Miami, which is a huge compliment!

Buenavista // 322 Main St, Greenwood, SC 29646

Break on the Lake exterior, drinks, and bar
Experience a slice of the lake life at Greenwood’s Break on the Lake

Break on the Lake

Break on the Lake is the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon on Lake Greenwood without needing to hop on a boat! On a beautiful day, head to the back patio bar to order a seasonal cocktail or local draft beer before settling into a rocking chair to watch the boats and jet skis glide by.

While Break on the Lake features two bars, it’s also a full-service restaurant, with delicious-looking dishes constantly passing by. Because of this, the atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly – think more restaurant vibes than bar vibes. The hospitable service adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a spot where you’ll feel right at home. This gem was recommended to us repeatedly, and I’m thrilled to be able to do the same for you.

Break on the Lake // 300 Lake Greenwood Blvd, Greenwood, SC 29649

The entrance to Good Times Brewing Greenwood and two beers
Good Times are indeed brewing with pints of The Wilds and EC Dub
Interior of Good Times Brewing
Good Times Brewing’s inviting atmosphere beckons you to linger

Good Times Brewing

Good Times Brewing truly lives up to its name! If you’ve spent any time in Greenwood, you’ve likely seen their name on tap all around town. However, that doesn’t mean you should skip a visit to their brewery on Maxwell Avenue.

Savvy visitors often pair their trip with a stop for pizza next door, making for a perfect combination of great brews and delicious food. The brewery also hosts a variety of events, including trivia nights, musical bingo, and open mics, ensuring there’s always something fun happening when you pop in. During my Friday visit, the space was lively and bustling without feeling overcrowded, making it an ideal spot to unwind. The friendly atmosphere, paired with a wide selection of craft beers, guarantees a great experience every time. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy Good Times Brewing right at the source.

Good Times Brewing // 233 Maxwell Ave, Greenwood, SC 29646

Interior of Sled Dawg Brewery and a flight
The best way to try Sled Dawg Brewery’s beers? Order a flight!

Sled Dawg Brewery

Hidden in plain sight, Sled Dawg Brewery brings even more local brews to uptown Greenwood. Once you find this gem, you’ll discover an impressive tap list of unique beers (how about a beer made with butterfly pea flower tea?), along with wine and cider options. Order a flight to sample several at once!

One of my favorite aspects of the craft brewery movement is how these establishments have become the living rooms of their communities. It was wonderful to see couples, friends, and families with children gathered to listen to live music or relax and play one of the many board games available throughout the brewery. With a menu featuring tasty snacks (the pretzel comes highly recommended!), you can easily spend a perfect afternoon here.

Sled Dawg Brewery // 220 Phoenix St, Greenwood, SC 29646

Scenes from South Bend Winery
South Bend Winery is conveniently located just five minutes from uptown Greenwood
Alyssa holds a wine glass
All wine tastings come with a souvenir glass

South Bend Winery

Oenophiles rejoice! South Bend Winery is a beautiful winery and tasting room located just five minutes from Uptown Greenwood. Owners Larry and Mandy Cozine have lovingly transformed six acres of farmland into a serene haven that feels miles away from the bustling city.

Order a flight to sample the winery’s standout selections like Aromella, La Crescent, and Black Forest Port, presented cheekily in test tubes. If you already have a favorite, indulge in a full glass of your preferred red or white. The winery also offers a range of traditional ciders and intriguingly beer-like options, perfectly paired with their menu of burgers and pizza. Plan to spend more time here than you might expect – once you arrive, you won’t want to leave!

South Bend Winery // 122 Old Mt Moriah Rd, Greenwood, SC 29646

Alyssa walks into JP's Food and Spirits and the bar
Belly up to the bar for a nightcap at JP’s Food and Spirits

JP’s Food and Spirits

I regret only having the chance to try the latter part of JP’s Food and Spirits‘ name and not the former, but I don’t at all regret being able to tumble upstairs to bed after a nightcap (but more on the hotel later!).

This dark, cellar-like bar might just be the coziest place to grab a drink in Abbeville, offering an appealing contrast to the tavern or sports bar atmospheres found around town. Take a seat at the bar if you’re feeling social, or find a quiet nook near the entrance for a more intimate experience. Regardless of where you sit, you’ll enjoy a well-crafted cocktail in the cool and eclectic surroundings. JP’s is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a delightful evening out in Abbeville – and next time, I’ll be sure to explore their food menu as well, for the full experience.

JP's Food and Spirits // 104 E Pickens St, Abbeville, SC 29620

SHOPPING IN ABBEVILLE & GREENWOOD

Goods by local artisans at Main & Maxwell
Find works by more than sixty artists and makers at Main & Maxwell

Main & Maxwell

Main & Maxwell could be your one-stop shop if you’re on the hunt for a truly local souvenir. This unique store located at the corner of – yes, you guessed it – Main and Maxwell, showcases works by more than sixty local artists.

From intricately designed ceramics to beautifully handcrafted jewelry and unique home décor items, the selection here is as diverse as it is delightful. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the talent and creativity of the region’s artisans. And the best part? By shopping at Main & Maxwell, you’re not just taking home a beautiful piece of art; you’re also supporting local artists and contributing to the community. It’s a win-win that makes every purchase feel special.

Main & Maxwell // 210 Main St, Greenwood, SC 29646

Alyssa walks by Sugar in Greenwood; colorful clothing and accessories in the shop
Greenwood’s Sugar Boutique is a maximalist’s dream shop

Sugar Boutique

If my luggage went missing en route to Abbeville and Greenwood, I would certainly be devastated…

…but not too devastated if it meant I could replenish everything at Uptown Greenwood’s Sugar Boutique. This colorful shop has been a local staple for more than sixteen years, stocking local closets with chic dresses, stylish separates, game-day essentials, and fun accessories. I mean, the maxi dresses alone made me ready to book another vacation after this one (a tropical one!). Sugar’s trendy offerings and friendly atmosphere make it an essential stop on your Greenwood shopping adventure.

Sugar Boutique // 334 Main St, Greenwood, SC 29646

Inside of The Atelier at Main Street
Experience the magic of a working art studio at The Atelier at Main Street

The Atelier at Main Street

Nestled upstairs at Main Street Coffee in Abbeville is The Atelier at Main Street, an art studio where artist Keturah Stoltzfus breathes life into raw and often overlooked materials, transforming them into one-of-a-kind works waiting to be treasured.

Visitors to The Atelier can meet the artist herself and observe her work in progress, gaining insight into the inspiration behind each piece. Keturah’s range of works includes meticulously crafted leather journals, sweet hand-lettered stickers and postcards, and captivating watercolor paintings made from earth pigments. Her distinctive approach to art, described as “painting the landscape with the landscape,” is sure to create a lasting travel memory.

The Atelier at Main Street // 109 S Main St, Abbeville, SC 29620

Scenes at Crate and Quill
Find your next vintage treasure at Crate and Quill

Crate and Quill

Search for your next treasure at Crate and Quill, a captivating vintage and antique shop in Abbeville. Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or just beginning to explore the world of antiques, you’ll appreciate the shop’s well-organized layout. With carefully curated displays featuring home goods, toys, books, and clothing from days gone by, there’s something to enchant everyone.

You might even find yourself falling for Abbeville just as owners Jenn and Jason Walker did. Their journey from visitors to locals began with a memorable trip to this very town, so who knows? Maybe it could happen to you too. Visit Crate and Quill to uncover their full story and perhaps start your own.

Crate and Quill // 113 Washington St, Abbeville, SC 29620

Shelves of gourmet foots at Pendleton Farms
Gourmet and specialty foods await at Pendleton Farms

Pendleton Farms

If your preferred motivation for shopping is stocking the home pantry, then Pendleton Farms is going to feel a little bit like Oz. Everywhere you look, there’s a shelf with another exciting special ingredient that promises to delight (or tempt you fiercely, in the case of the chocolate truffle display).

If you’re visiting from outside of the region in particular, you’ll want to make sure there’s extra room in your suitcase for all of the wonderful grits, barbecue sauce, regional sodas, and more that are making their way home with you. After all, there’s nothing quite like an edible souvenir to remind you of your travels!

Pendleton Farms // 102 E Pickens St, Abbeville, SC 29620

Wares for sale at Once Upon a Thyme
Be prepared to feel enchanted at Once Upon a Thyme

Once Upon A Thyme

I had a hard time believing that Once Upon A Thyme had been open for less than a year during my visit. The thoughtfully arranged vintage and French market finds create an atmosphere so well-curated that it feels as if the shop has been a beloved fixture for much longer.

Prepare to spend some time exploring every nook and cranny to discover a souvenir that will bring a piece of Abbeville home with you. For me, it was a tiny, colorful bracelet made by the owner’s daughter. Every time I wear it, I’m reminded fondly of our time in Old 96.

Once Upon A Thyme // 117 Washington St, Abbeville, SC 29620

WHERE TO STAY IN ABBEVILLE

Alyssa walks by The Belmont Inn in Abbeville
The Belmont Inn is ideally located within walking distance of downtown Abbeville’s darling shops and restaurants
Interior of a room at The Belmont Inn
Each of the historic hotel’s twenty-five rooms is decorated with thoughtful touches
Common areas at The Belmont Inn
The hotel’s common spaces are open and inviting, from a grand terrace to the elegant parlor

The Belmont Inn

It’s safe to say The Belmont Inn has witnessed a lot of history in its 120+ year lifetime. Built in 1903, this twenty-five-room inn in the heart of Abbeville has been lovingly updated while still managing to capture the essence of a bygone era with its grand architecture, antique furnishings, and timeless elegance.

Each room at The Belmont Inn is simply but thoughtfully decorated, combining classic decor with the comforts of today. From cozy Queen to Premium King rooms, the accommodations cater to a variety of guests, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Rather than attempting to modernize the space in discord, I appreciated the period details throughout the space, such as the wooden furniture with hard-earned patina and vintage-inspired bedding.

However, the best spaces at The Belmont Inn are beyond the room. I’ve already highlighted JP’s and the hotel’s lovely Sunday meal, but my favorite places to unwind were out on the breezy veranda with a plate of complementary breakfast goodies in the mornings and in the parlor next to the fireplace in the evenings. It was clear I wasn’t the only one drawn to these spaces; they seemed to always host groups of guests becoming fast friends over cups of coffee in comfortable chairs.

But what truly sets The Belmont Inn apart is the warmth and gracious hospitality of its owners, Susan and Jim, and their staff. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like family, with friendly faces ready to make your stay as pleasant as possible and ensure every guest feels welcome and cared for. Though the inn was recently listed for sale and a new era is dawning, its historic appeal and prime location will undoubtedly continue to make The Belmont Inn the top choice for a stay in Abbeville.

The Belmont Inn // 104 E Pickens St, Abbeville, SC 29620

WITH MORE TIME IN ABBEVILLE & GREENWOOD

Greenery at Divine Your Space
With more time in Abbeville, you could shop for a new plant friend and find your next favorite bottle of wine at Divine Your Space

Lucked into a longer stay? There’s plenty more to see, do, and eat in these parts:

More things to do:

•Bring your pick and gloves to search for quartz at Diamond Hill Mine
•Paddle out in a rental on one of the area’s lakes
•Catch a show at the Abbeville Opera House
•Give two green thumbs up for your new plant friend at Divine Your Space
•Connect with where your food comes from at one of the area’s farms
•Get pampered at a local spa or salon
•Connect with nature at Calhoun Falls State Park

More places to eat & drink:

•Enjoy more global fare at Kickers Takeout
•Sip on a craft beer or glass of wine with live music at Flynn’s on Maxwell
•Snag a hotdog from The Rough House
•Feast on seafood at Off Tha Hook
•Go on a date at Pascal’s
•Rack up a plate of barbecue at Southside BBQ
•Celebrate something wonderful at Montague’s

As always, if you make it to any of these spots before I do, leave a comment and share your thoughts!


FINAL THOUGHTS ON SPENDING A WEEKEND IN OLD 96

Alyssa looks back at Pendleton Farms
Two walkable downtown areas help to slow down the pace of life for a weekend

As my weekend in Abbeville and Greenwood drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on how much these charming towns had to offer. From their quaint streets to the welcoming atmosphere, every moment spent here was a delightful surprise.

Just three hours from Charlotte, I found delicious meals, friendly faces, and memorable experiences. If you’re looking for a much-needed change of pace, you’ll find it right here in Old 96.

Thank you to Old 96 District for your generous hospitality and for making this guide possible!

Questions for you

What is your favorite classic Southern dish?

You can only choose one for the rest of your life: beer, wine, cocktails, or cider. Which are you picking?


Where to next? You may also enjoy:

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3 Comments on “Discover Old 96 District: A Weekend Guide for Abbeville and Greenwood, South Carolina

  1. Such a great overview of our cozy corner of the world. I’m a local but you have inspired me to check out a few places I haven’t been yet. This will serve as a great resource for us when we have out of town guests who want to see our community.

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