Submerge yourself in Southern culture at Hopelands Gardens, an old plantation-style estate. Take a walk on the magnolia and oak-lined trails, pose for pictures with the garden statues or admire the turtles sunning themselves at the edge of the pond.While browsing the estate, make a stop at the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum located within Hopelands Gardens. Trophies, silks, photos and ribbons from award-winning thoroughbreds are proudly displayed here.
If children are traveling along, make time to visit the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum located inside the historic Aiken Railroad Depot. The little ones will adore the model railroad while the adults admire the detailed dioramas of the local towns where the rail system used to traverse.
For history buffs, a stop at the Aiken County Historical Museum is a must. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum offers visitors a peek at old horse-drawn fire engines and Civil War-era slave pottery. Do not miss the circus room upstairs for the kids. Wind down with a visit to Hitchcock Woods in downtown Aiken. Sixty-five miles of sandy trails are open to those on foot or horseback. Pets are allowed on the sprawling landscape complete with a bubbling creek, cypress swamp and grassy fields.
Golf enthusiasts should plan to take in a sunset at the Aiken Golf Club. Established in 1910, these greens are some of the oldest in the South. Plus, they offer a challenge with narrow fairways and difficult bunkers to avoid.
Plan to stay awhile and book a room with Choice Hotels to ensure you can explore all that Aiken, SC has to offer while enjoying a great night's rest.