This area was first inhabited by the Cherokee Native Americans, who ceded the land to South Carolina in a treaty negotiated by Andrew Pickens in 1777. Pickens had surveyed the land with his good friend General Robert Anderson, a Revolutionary War hero and the city’s namesake. Founded in 1826 and incorporated in 1833, Anderson was the first city in the United States to have a continuous supply of electric power. This, along with the fact that the first electrical cotton gin in the world was built in Anderson County in 1897, gave Anderson its nickname of “The Electric City.” It is the county seat of Anderson County and one of the three primary cities that comprise the Upstate region of South Carolina. Renowned for its friendliness, spirit, warm Southern hospitality, and quality of life, Anderson County was designated as an “All-American City” by the National Civic League in 2000.
Downtown Anderson has blossomed into a cultural and retail hub – its 36 square blocks offer interesting museums, live theater, art galleries, and a variety of unique boutiques and stores just waiting to be discovered. Whether you are craving downhome Southern cooking or avant-garde cuisine, there is a restaurant to suit your taste! Taverns offer tasty and refreshing libations – be sure to visit Palmetto Moonshine, a micro-distillery that produces genuine moonshine from century-old recipes! They also feature free distillery tours – Prohibition is officially over! Split Creek Farm is a working farm that is open to the public; the whole family will enjoy visiting with the animals and tasting some of the award-winning artisanal goat cheeses and fudge.
Anderson County Museum is a great place to learn about local history. Parks, marinas, trails, and championship golf courses offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, and adventurous folks can enjoy a thrilling hot-air balloon ride! Embrace all there is to do in Anderson! Hotels allow you to stay conveniently close to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. We look forward to hosting you soon! Reserve your room today!