By Susan Miller
About the Palmetto State
There are more than 1,200 historic sites in South Carolina, including one battlefield of the American Revolutionary War at Cowpens. Coupled with the state's popular
beaches,
resort islands, world-class golf courses, southern plantations, architectural gems and many attractions it is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.
History
Charles Towne Landing historic site
Charleston was the site of one of the first permanent English settlements called Charles Towne Landing, and it's also where the Confederates first fired on Fort Sumter out in Charleston Harbor, which began the Civil War.
Geography
Ace Basin National Wildlife Refuge
The state's diverse geography includes a six-county region called Upcountry in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the midlands, beaches and islands, and Low Country with its live oaks and marshes, which includes the Ace Basin National Wildlife Refuge.
Beaches
Myrtle Beach from the Atlantic
College students from all over the country flock to Myrtle beach every spring, and the Grand Strand of beaches that line the coast. There are commercial beaches teaming with people and nice quiet ones where visitors can commune with nature.
Resort Islands
Harbour Town light on Hilton Head Island
South Carolina's resort islands are as popular as its beaches with families and tourists. Hilton Head, Pawley's Island, Edisto, Fripp and Hunting are among them, and many feature golf courses and other attractions.
Other Attractions
Rainbow Row Charleston
The state is the site of eight national parks, 20 designated wildlife refuges, historic architecture in its cities and towns, several national and state forests, and plenty of hiking, biking, boating and outdoor activity opportunities.
Resources
About the Author:
Susan Miller has been a professional journalist since 1990. She edited two weeklies for a chain of suburban newspapers and has written for the "Indianapolis Star," the "Indianapolis Business Journal" and several magazines, among other publications and websites. Miller studied design, photography and technology at Purdue University and Central Piedmont Community College.
Photo Credits:
Photos courtesy South Carolina Tourism Bureau
