South Carolina

If you think milk just comes from a jug in your fridge, a trip to Happy Cow Creamery will make you see dairy in a whole new (and delightfully delicious) light. Tucked into the green fields of Pelzer, South Carolina, this down-to-earth farm is as cheerful as its name—and yes, the cows really do seem happy.

If you’ve ever wished for a mountain lake with Caribbean-blue waters, hidden coves, and cascading waterfalls you can swim beneath, Lake Jocassee is your dream come true. Tucked into the far northwestern corner of South Carolina’s Upstate, this sapphire-blue reservoir is part alpine escape, part natural wonder, and completely worth the drive.

Ever dreamed of paddling your way to a private island where hammocks swing in the breeze and adventure waits around every palm tree? Just a few miles inland from the busy beach crowds, River Island Adventures offers a totally unexpected escape that feels part Survivor challenge, part tropical retreat—and entirely fun.

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through a seaside castle surrounded by palmettos and sea breeze, welcome to your fairytale. Tucked just off the beaten path in Huntington Beach State Park, Atalaya Castle isn’t your average historic stop—it’s a moody, mysterious retreat that feels like it was plucked straight out of Spain and dropped gently on South Carolina’s coast.

If you’ve ever wanted to sip a latte while a purring tabby curls up in your lap, Charleston has just the spot. Welcome to Pounce Cat Café, where the drinks are delightful, the furniture is feline-friendly, and the furry hosts are all available for adoption.

There’s something wildly enchanting about Middleton Place. Maybe it’s the Spanish moss draping like lace over century-old oak trees, or the way swans glide across mirror-still ponds. One thing’s for sure—you don’t just visit this place. You feel it. Tucked along the Ashley River just outside Charleston, Middleton Place is a living storybook of American history and horticultural beauty.

If you’ve never heard of Port Royal, South Carolina, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly why you’ll love it. This lowcountry gem is often overshadowed by its buzzier neighbors like Hilton Head and Beaufort, but it quietly offers something even better: unspoiled charm, waterfront wonder, and small-town soul that feels untouched by the clock.

If you’ve ever dreamed of diving into a sea of color, texture, and design — and coming up for air with armfuls of fabric and crafty inspiration — then All About Fabrics in Williamston, South Carolina should be on your radar. This isn’t your average fabric store. It’s a once-a-month, open-to-the-public mega-sale that feels part treasure hunt, part design playground, and 100% textile heaven.

If you’re the kind of traveler who craves sea breezes, soft sand, and a serious break from the hustle, Pawleys Island might just be your perfect escape. One of the oldest summer resort towns on the East Coast, this South Carolina barrier island has a “barefoot welcome” vibe and a knack for turning lazy afternoons into lifelong memories.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking straight into a nature documentary—minus the bug bites and soggy boots—Cypress Wetlands in Port Royal, South Carolina might just be your new favorite detour. One minute you’re in a charming coastal town, the next you're eye-to-eye with a blue heron, a sunbathing alligator, or a sleepy owl tucked in the trees.