Plan Your Visit To The Old 96 District, SC

The historic Old 96 District is a beautiful area ideal for a road trip with plenty of stops to enjoy nature, history, culture and dining. Taking in Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick counties, there is no shortage of interesting places to explore. 

The History of the Old 96 District

Old Ninety Six is a historic area in the history books for its role in the American Revolutionary War in the 18th century.

What To See And Do In the Old 96 District

While there are beautiful lakes, parks and hiking areas to explore and scenic views that make the Old 96 District great for a road trip, the small towns dotted on the map are what make the area shine. The locals are understandably proud to share their charming towns with visitors who are often impressed by the charm and sights of each place they stop. Here are some examples. 

The Ninety Six Historic National Site is of significant historical and archeologicalimportance as the site of the Star Fort and battles during the Revolutionary War. Learn more at the visitor center and museum and walk the mile-long interpretive trail to see the original 1781 Star Fort and the site of Ninety Six town. 

You can still see shows at the historic Abbeville Opera House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places list. Local theater and music groups take the stage in this well-preserved old building that still has its retro red curtains, box seats and vintage posters. Locals say the top floor is haunted, making a visit even more exciting.

The Museum in downtown Greenwood helps visitors step back in time to imagine what life was like over 100 years ago. Local historical interpreters tell stories from the time of early settlement to today’s modern times. 

Emerald Farm near Greenwood is a gorgeous place to see chickens, peacocks, baby goats and all your favorite farm animals roaming around the wide-open fields. Then, take the quaint train ride around the property and buy some locally made products like goat’s milk soap and lotion. 

The Trinity Episcopal Church in Abbeville dates back to 1859 and features stained glass windows made by the studio of William Gibson, the father of stained glass painting in America. Original wooden pews and a towering spire make this church a stunning example of Gothic Revival-style architecture worth seeing.

There is no better way to discover Abbeville than by taking a Downtown Abbeville Walking Tour with volunteers who are passionate about their beloved town. The 2.5-hour tour covers all the main sights of Abbeville, including historic buildings like the Burk-Stark Mansion. 

Where To Stay In the Old 96 District

There are many lovely places to stay in the Old 96 District and your stay is bound to include a few stories about the past. 

Inn On The Square in Greenwood was built in the 1900s and was once a college dormitory. These days it’s a beautiful hotel with tasteful decor and excellent service. 

Sharon Manor is a family-run bed and breakfast in the historic former Sharon School. The spacious suites, hot tub and immaculate grounds are all part of the charm. 

The Belmont Inn is an affordable Abbeville accommodation option that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Expect clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service at this no-frills hotel. 

Where To Eat In the Old 96 District

The Rough House is all about hotdogs and has been serving up hearty comfort food for 89 years. Save room for their ice cream!

Mill House Pizza in Greenwood is a funky pub serving up brick-oven pizzas, sandwiches and pasta meals with all the craft beer you could desire.

Good Times Brewing in the uptown area of Greenwood has great food and a wide selection of craft beers. It’s a cozy spot where lunches can easily turn into long afternoons of chilling out. 

Are you dreaming of a trip to the Old 96 District of South Carolina?

See our favorite musts, our top lists, the perfect weekend itinerary, our social media resources, and photo gallery below!

Map

Info

• Population 23,000
• McCormick, Edgefield, Abbeville, Clinton, Laurens, Greenwood
• Lake Greenwood

Links

• Visit Old 96 District
• Discover Greenwood

Dr. Benjamin E. Mays House

The Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Historic Preservation Site celebrates the life of a man who is widely considered the founder of the Civil Rights movement.

THIS IS A MUST SEE!

The Mill House

Some of the best pizza is located in downtown Greenwood. Right next to Good Times Brewing, you can’t go wrong with The Harris Mill or Pauly’s Preferred house favorites with a beer to drink.

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Inn On The Square

Centrally located in Greenwood, Inn On The Square is a great place to stay when visiting the Old 96 District. It’s the only full-service boutique hotel, and the breakfast is incredible.

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Friday

• Stay at Inn On The Square
• Explore historic downtown Abbeville: Opera House, Big Bob Bell, Trinity Episcopal
• Enjoy a casual dinner at Rough House
• Grab some chocolates at Urban 2 Country
• Catch a show at the 25 Drive In to finish off the night

Saturday

• Breakfast at Inn On The Square
• Head for a drive to the Ninety Six Historic District Site
• Visit the home of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
• Grab lunch at Blondies on the Bricks
• Enjoy local shopping in downtown Greenwood. You don’t want to miss the art in the Welcome Center!
• Dinner at The Mill House
• Finish the night with a beer from Good Times Brewing next door to Mill House

Sunday

• Breakfast at Inn On The Square is so good, you’ll want it twice!
• Explore Emerald Farms on your way out of town
• Pass through historic Aberdeen for some awesome railroad sites
• Stop and grab lunch from Kickers Takeout: the onion ring tower is famous! (At least it should be)

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