5 Things to Do in Beaufort, S.C.
With its centuries-old live oaks, gorgeous waterfront views, and charming historic district, it’s easy to see why Beaufort, South Carolina, is one of the most beautiful towns in the South. Not only is Beaufort easy on the eyes, but it also has so much to offer: excellent restaurants, quaint shops, art galleries, museums, and endless recreational activities. So, take some time and visit. Here’s a list of things to do to help you get started.
The Beaufort History Museum is located in this castle-like building, which use to serve as an arsenal for the town. (Photo credit: Donna Brooks)
1. The Beaufort History Museum
The Arsenal, 713 Craven Street
Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Please call beforehand to confirm museum staff availability or to make a reservation for your group)
Admission: Adults, $7; Seniors, $6; College students, $5; Active military & family, museum members and children under 18, free.
Your first stop should be the Beaufort History Museum. You really can’t miss the place because it’s located in a large, yellow, castle-like structure, which, in its day, served as an arsenal for the town (it has an interesting history on its own!). Once inside you will learn, through artifacts and displays, about the town’s history, from the arrival of the first settlers to the present day.
2. Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
706 Craven Street
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This National Park encompasses four areas in and around Beaufort: Downtown Beaufort, Camp Saxton, Penn Center and Brick Baptist Church. Start at the park’s visitor center, located across the street from the Arsenal. While you are there, you can take an hour-long, guided walking tour and explore the Reconstruction era history of Beaufort. The visitor center’s staff can also help you plan your visits to the other three sites.
Photo credit: Donna Brooks
3. Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Bay Street
If you are looking to relax while you are in Beaufort, then this beautiful waterfront park is a great place to do so. You can settle down in a swing and feel the breeze come off the water or you can check out one of several restaurants with outdoor seating and enjoy the view.
Named by Outside Magazine as a Top Ten Urban Walking Trail in the U.S., the 10-mile paved Spanish Moss Trail offers beautiful water and marsh views and is a great place for running, walking or biking. You can park your car at one of the six parking areas along the path.
5. The Parris Island Museum
111 Panama Street
Hours: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
Admission: Free
Located at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island, the 10,000-square-foot museum focuses on the history and traditions of the Marine Corps. You will see thousands of artifacts covering Port Royal's military role from the American Revolution to the Civil War, and you will also learn about the development of the island into a Marine Corps installation.
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