Pickens South Carolina Map
Introduction
Welcome to Pickens, South Carolina! This charming town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains has so much to offer visitors. From outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, there is something for everyone in Pickens. In this travel guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is one of the top attractions in Pickens. This beautiful park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Table Rock Mountain. You can also go fishing, camping, and swimming in the park’s lake. Don’t miss the chance to see the park’s famous granite dome, which is a popular spot for rock climbers.
Pickens County Museum of Art and History
If you’re interested in history and art, be sure to visit the Pickens County Museum of Art and History. This museum has a wide range of exhibits that showcase the history of Pickens and the surrounding area. You’ll also find a collection of art that features local artists.
Hidden Gems
Issaqueena Falls
Issaqueena Falls is a hidden gem in Pickens. This beautiful waterfall is located just a few miles from downtown Pickens and is a great spot for hiking and picnicking. The waterfall is named after the legend of Issaqueena, a Native American princess who warned the settlers of an impending attack by the Cherokee.
Blue Ridge Electric Co-op
The Blue Ridge Electric Co-op is a unique attraction in Pickens. This co-op has a museum that showcases the history of electricity and how it has transformed the lives of people in the area. You can also take a tour of the co-op’s facilities and learn about how electricity is generated and distributed.
Food Scene
The Pumpkintown Mountain Opry
The Pumpkintown Mountain Opry is a must-visit for anyone who loves Southern cuisine and live music. This restaurant and music venue features a variety of Southern dishes, including fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese. You can also enjoy live music from local musicians while you eat.
The Blue Marble Deli
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious lunch, head to The Blue Marble Deli. This deli serves up a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their famous pimento cheese sandwich.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Pickens Flea Market
The Pickens Flea Market is a great place to find bargains on everything from clothing to furniture. This flea market is open on Saturdays and Sundays and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. You never know what you might find at the Pickens Flea Market.
Bargain Barn
The Bargain Barn is another great spot to find bargains in Pickens. This discount store has a variety of items, including clothing, toys, and household goods. You can save a lot of money by shopping at the Bargain Barn.
Outdoor Adventures
Table Rock Trail
If you’re looking for a challenging hike, check out the Table Rock Trail. This trail is 7.2 miles long and takes you to the top of Table Rock Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area. Be prepared for a strenuous hike, but the views are worth it.
Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Keowee-Toxaway State Park is another great spot for outdoor adventures in Pickens. This park has hiking trails, fishing areas, and a lake where you can go boating and swimming. You can also rent a cabin or campsite if you want to spend the night in the park.
Historical Landmarks
Fort Prince George
Fort Prince George is a historical landmark in Pickens that dates back to the 1750s. This fort played a crucial role in the French and Indian War and is now a popular spot for history buffs. You can take a tour of the fort and learn about its history.
Historic Downtown Pickens
Historic Downtown Pickens is another great spot for history lovers. This charming downtown area has a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Be sure to check out the Pickens County Courthouse, which was built in 1902 and is now a museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
Pickens County Performing Arts Center
The Pickens County Performing Arts Center is a great spot to take the whole family. This venue hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. There is something for everyone at the Pickens County Performing Arts Center.
Jones Gap State Park
Jones Gap State Park is another great spot for families. This park has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of outdoor activities. You can also go fishing in the park’s streams and see a variety of wildlife, including black bears and white-tailed deer.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Jocassee Gorges
Jocassee Gorges is a hidden gem in Pickens. This wilderness area has hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can also go fishing and boating in the park’s lake. Jocassee Gorges is a great spot for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Chattooga River
The Chattooga River is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting in Pickens. This river is known for its whitewater rapids and stunning scenery. You can take a guided tour or rent your own equipment and explore the river on your own.
Natural Wonders
Table Rock Mountain
Table Rock Mountain is one of the most stunning natural wonders in Pickens. This granite dome is a popular spot for hikers, rock climbers, and nature lovers. You can hike to the top of the mountain and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Stumphouse Tunnel
Stumphouse Tunnel is another natural wonder in Pickens. This tunnel was built in the 1850s and was intended to be part of a railroad that would connect Charleston to the Midwest. The tunnel was never completed, but it is now a popular spot for hiking and exploring.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Blue Ridge Brewing Company
The Blue Ridge Brewing Company is a popular spot for nightlife in Pickens. This brewery has a variety of craft beers on tap and a lively atmosphere. You can also enjoy live music and events at the Blue Ridge Brewing Company.
The Spot on the Alley
The Spot on the Alley is another great spot for nightlife in Pickens. This bar has a variety of drinks and a friendly atmosphere. You can also play pool or watch sports on the bar’s TVs.
Local Markets
Farmer’s Market at Doodle Park
The Farmer’s Market at Doodle Park is a great spot to find fresh and locally grown produce in Pickens. This market is open on Saturdays and has a variety of vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and other goodies.
Pickens Flea Market
The Pickens Flea Market is not only a great spot for bargains, but it’s also a great place to find unique and handmade items from local artisans. You can find everything from pottery to jewelry at the Pickens Flea Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Keowee-Toxaway State Park is a great spot for both mountain and lake activities. You can go hiking in the mountains or swimming and boating in the lake. This park is a great spot for anyone who loves both the mountains and the water.
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is another great spot for both mountain and lake activities. You can hike to the top of Table Rock Mountain or go fishing and swimming in the park’s lake. This park is a great spot for anyone who wants to experience both the mountains and the water.
Cultural Immersion
The Hagood Mill Historic Site
The Hagood Mill Historic Site is a great spot to learn about the history and culture of Pickens. This site has a working gristmill and blacksmith shop, as well as a variety of exhibits that showcase the history of the area. You can also attend events and festivals at the Hagood Mill Historic Site.
The Pickens County Museum of Art and History
The Pickens County Museum of Art and History is another great spot to learn about the culture and history of Pickens. This museum has exhibits that