Last month, we kicked off our summer road trip series, Hit the Road, with an outdoor adventure to Congaree National Park. If you checked it out, we’d love to hear about it.
This month, we’re continuing the series with a 30-mile trip to Summerville for a quick getaway. From farmers’ markets to history walks, this town offers a little bit of everything — making it the perfect end-of-summer vacay.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.
- Drive time: ~45 minutes from downtown
- Est. population: 54,556
- Avg. high in July: 91°
🎟️ Things to do
Walking the Ville
Embark on a self-guided walking tour of downtown Summerville through the eyes of 13 historic landmarks. Learn more about each landmark. Be sure to check out the Historic Homes and Flowers walking tour, if that’s more your speed.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Check out the oldest public garden in American history which was also selected as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Gardens” by Travel + Leisure. Peep the Gilliard Garden Center, embark on a Nature Boat Tour, or take a look at local wildlife in the Audubon Swamp Garden. Heads up: This spot is located just outside of Summerville.
Farmers Market
It’s fresh produce season. Swing by the farmers market held behind Town Hall every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November + grab your baked goods, meats, seafood, and produce.
🍔 Grub to eat
Accent on Wine, 132 S. Main St.
Calling all wine enthusiasts: Enjoy cheese + charcuteries galore paired with your favorite whites, reds, and craft beer.
Five Loaves Cafe, 214 N. Cedar St.
It’s no secret that we’re Five Loaves aficionados over here. We recommend trying the eatery’s potato, broccoli, and cheddar soup and the FLC Caesar with shrimp. The food + the laid-back energy = chef’s kiss.
Hall’s Chophouse, 300 Nexton Square Dr.
In case you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for some good old veal chop, Hall’s has the perfect menu of soups and apps, raw + chilled seafood, chops, and other offerings. You can’t go wrong with the she crab soup.
🏨 Overnight accommodations
If you get a wild hair and decide to turn this quick day trip into an overnighter, here are some spots to stay.
Check out all that Nexton Square shopping + retail center has to offer at this hotel located three minutes to the center and just off of I-26.
Cool off with a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool and order in at the full-service restaurant and bar.
Courtyard Charleston Summerville
Walk to grab your morning coffee at Starbucks, put in a workout at the on-site fitness center, and explore the hotel’s multiple event venues.
Stay tuned for the August installment of our Hit the Road series. We’ll be highlighting a road trip for the foodies.
