South Carolina Vacation PackageKathryn Hoyt2023-10-11T08:17:23-05:00
LET TRAVELKATZ PLAN YOUR SOUTH CAROLINA VACATION PACKAGE
Travelkatz will put together an South Carolina Vacation Package custom tailored just for you. We handle all aspects of your trip so you can sit back, relax and enjoy. We provide two options for every state in the USA consisting of the state capital and the Natural Wonder. If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate in contacting us.
MILITARY
South Carolina Military
Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place to visit and is #1 on the list for tourism. The military bases and forts are no exception – check out the Warbird Park!
South Carolina Military Museum: Our mission is to preserve the legacy of the Palmetto State’s rich military history by cultivating community interest in our shared heritage, and inspiring future Carolinians through exhibits and public outreach.
The Citadel Museum: Arranged in chronological order, the permanent artifacts at the Citadel Museum cover the military academy’s history from its founding in 1842 to its involvement in modern military operations around the globe. You’ll learn about all aspects of cadet life here: where the students live, what classes they take, how they exercise and socialize. Historical photographs, uniforms, weapons, and medals number among the items displayed. In the foyer, check out the exhibit of Citadel rings from 1895 to present, and leaf through the photograph albums honoring Citadel men who lost their lives in military conflicts beginning with World War II.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: The history of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum began in June 1975 when the legendary aircraft carrier USS Yorktown entered Charleston Harbor. A few months later, the USS Yorktown was dedicated as the first ship of the Naval & Maritime Museum on the 200th birthday of the United States Navy. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum was officially opened to the public on January 3, 1976. Today the museum consists of the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10) with 29 aircraft on display from WWII to the present; the USS Laffey (DD-724), a Sumner-class destroyer; and the USS Clamagore (SS-343), a GUPPY III submarine. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is headquartered here and their official Medal of Honor Museum is onboard the USS Yorktown. There is also a Cold War Sub Memorial and Vietnam Support Base Camp on the surrounding grounds. Found in Mount Pleasant.
South Carolina Military Museum: Great South Carolina and American history artifacts and weapons including the first helicopter sold to the US Army. Was very impressed with this small museum which is run by vets and offered FREE for all who would like to attend with lots of interesting artifacts and history. You will be greeted upon entering and made to feel very welcome. It is highly recommended if you are into history. They even have helicopters and several other pieces of military equipment on display that have been restored. We were lucky and had a vet who joined us towards the end of the tour and gave us a lot of interesting information regarding the place and some of the artifacts. Kudos to everyone who had a hand in getting this together and keeping it open. Found in Columbia.
South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum: Founded in 1896, the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum is the oldest history museum in the state. The museum focuses on South Carolina’s military history from the Revolutionary War to the present.
Warbird Park: This is a small memorial park but very interesting. There are some warbirds here to check out and benches to sit and watch all the planes take off. This is worth checking out if in the area. Very relaxing to sit and watch the planes take off. At Myrtle Beach.
TravelKatz is looking forward to hearing from you so we can help plan a great and historical vacation for your family. Just call us at 353-277-7300.
STATE PARKS
South Carolina State Parks:
South Carolina State Parks – South Carolina is a southeastern U.S. state known for its shoreline of subtropical beaches and marsh-like sea islands. Coastal Charleston is a historic city, defined by pastel-colored houses, Old South plantations and Fort Sumter, where the Civil War’s opening shots were fired.
Andrew Jackson State Park: This combines history, art and community activities into a setting that has made it one of the state’s most popular parks. Favorite features include living history programs, a museum and interactive exhibits that chronicle Jackson’s boyhood in the South Carolina backcountry. There’s even a birthday celebration every March in honor of America’s seventh president. Among the park highlights are a striking statue of the “Boy of the Waxhaws” sculpted by Anna Hyatt Huntington, an 18th-century replica schoolhouse and more. Other Park attractions include an 18th-century replica schoolhouse, campground and picnic facilities, fishing lake and nature trails. In Lancaster County.
Huntington Beach State Park: This State Park is on the coast of South Carolina. Its Atlantic beach and wetlands are inhabited by sea turtles, alligators and rich birdlife. The Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail has a viewing deck on a pond that attracts egrets and herons. The Kerrigan Nature Trail includes a boardwalk over a lagoon. Atalaya, a vast 1930s Moorish-style castle, was the home of the Huntingtons, who once owned the land. There is a beautiful beach, clean restrooms, changing rooms, and a picnic pavilion. The playground is very nice. You will see lots of wildlife including different kinds of birds & gators! A nature center to visit and a castle to tour which is highly recommend. Camping is available here too. It’s a great family place! You will find this Park on Murrells Inlet.
Myrtle Beach State Park: This Park is located on a far-reaching stretch of Grand Strand coastline and sits nestled among oceanfront maritime forest. A quiet, and surprisingly green, escape from the otherwise bustling beach, the park provides educational opportunities, a nature trail and some of the best surf fishing South Carolina has to offer as well as stunning ocean views and another great fishing spot on Myrtle Beach pier. As far as Myrtle Beach campgrounds go, the parks’ is among the most popular, providing guests with Myrtle Beach pier and shoreline access as well as cozy sites tucked away under the towering trees. If the Myrtle Beach campgrounds don’t suit you, overnight guests may also stay in one of six rental cabins, built by the CCC in the 1930s. You can swim, pier fish with a one-day pass, go biking and hit the nature trails. This Park is kept impeccable clean, and all the rangers are most helpful, and they want you to enjoy a safe camping experience. They also are very informative about the “ocean Forest ” that you are visiting. Found in Myrtle Beach.
Poinsett State Park: This Park is an awesome place and the Ranger that works the office very helpful and attentive and takes his time explaining everything to you. There are lots of trails to hike, a nice size fishing Lake and they have boats you can rent. The choices include kayaks, canoes and paddle boats. The small waterfall is very pretty and there is also a nice little Spillway that comes off the end of the lake flows down into a little creek. You can just come for the day, or they have camping spots for RVs, and they also have four beautiful cabins you can rent. You will find this park in Wedgefield.
Cheraw State Park: This large park is best known for its championship 18-hole golf course and the 300-acre Lake Juniper. You will find nice RV spots with a nice view of the lake, and the price was very reasonable. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings, plus water and electric hookups. The Boardwalk is teaming with turtles, frogs, minnows and more. If a cabin is more to your liking, they are great. Sewer dump station is available near the entrance of the campground. Found in Chesterfield County.
TravelKatz is looking forward to helping you have a great vacation in South Carolina. Please give us a call at 352-277-7300 or write or “chat” at www.travelkatz.com
MUSEUMS
South Carolina Museums:
South Carolina Museums – One of the best states for Southern Hospitality and for visiting historic museums. Lots of patriotic and maritime museums and Southern Plantations, as well. Being on the Atlantic coast affords you to take in the beaches of South Carolina while visiting, too.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: The history of this Museum began in June 1975 when the legendary aircraft carrier USS Yorktown entered Charleston Harbor. A few months later, the USS Yorktown was dedicated as the first ship of the Museum on the 200th birthday of the United States Navy and the museum was officially opened to the public on January 3, 1976. Today the museum consists of the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10) with 29 aircraft on display from WWII to the present; the USS Laffey (DD-724), a Sumner-class destroyer; and the USS Clamagore (SS-343), a GUPPY III submarine. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is headquartered here, and their official Medal of Honor Museum is on board the USS Yorktown. There is also a Cold War Sub Memorial and Vietnam Support Base Camp on the surrounding grounds. It is very educational and will hold the attention of young children and adults. To cover everything, be prepared to spend about 5+ hours there. It is worth it to visit this museum In Mount Pleasant.
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon: History comes alive as Colonial dressed guides talk about Pirates, Patriots and Presidents! Explore the location where pirates were once held and view a section of the 1698 fortification that once protected the Walled City. Completed in 1771 as the New Exchange and Customs House, is recognized today as South Carolina’s most historic building and was important in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Where Patriots were imprisoned, the Constitution was ratified, and George Washington was entertained. The artifacts are exceptionally good, and the history of the building is fascinating! It contains interesting displays and art. The best part, however, is the live presentation in the dungeon. Visit Charleston.
Rice Museum: This museum provided a nice overview with some artifacts from the era, photos, ledgers, and a film; it is well presented. This museum consists of two buildings in the historic district. The first is an old general store with a gift shop on the ground floor and exhibits on the second and third floors. There is an older, but interesting video presentation on the third floor along with the remains of an 18th century boat hull. The second building is the “clock tower,” which contains an interesting set of exhibits depicting various aspects of the rice industry stretching from the late 1700’s to the early twentieth century. The guide is very gracious, well-informed, friendly, professional, and interesting. Tours are inexpensive. Visit in Georgetown.
Fort Sumter National Monument: If you love history and the Civil War; this was a must on the trip. The ferry ride is enjoyable, and the trip is narrated giving a lot of good information. At the Fort, a ranger gives a brief, interesting history of the Fort. You have an hour to walk around which is more than enough time to see the Fort. You’ll enjoy being close to one of the most important events in our history. There are 3 tours daily, so it is best to pre-book because tickets sell fast. The ferry has 3 decks with the top being open so you get a better view of Charleston Harbor and passing boats and on a breezy day you cannot beat it. Once on the island where the fort is located you have about an hour and a half to check out the cannons and the gift shop. The rangers give lectures about the fort and there is also a huge sandbar nearby. And then when times up you hop back on the boat and take the 30-minute ride back to Charleston.
The Charleston Museum: The Charleston Museum, this is America’s First Museum, founded in 1773. Its mission is to preserve and interpret the cultural and natural history of Charleston and the South Carolina ‘Lowcountry’. You are invited to explore this rich, varied history at the Museum and its two National Historic Landmark houses, The Joseph Manigault and Heyward Washington Historic Houses. All are located downtown, in America’s Most Historic City. Featuring: Lowcountry History, Historic Armory, Charleston in the Revolutionary War, “City Under Siege” (civil war), The Bunting Natural History Gallery, Kidstory, and Historic Textiles Gallery. Enjoy this museum in Charleston.
Travelkatz can be reached by “chat” at www.vacationnationradio or by calling 352-277-7300. Let us plan your vacation to South Carolina.
FESTIVALS
South Carolina Festivals:
South Carolina Festivals – are going to prove to be some of the best in the south. We all know that the southern states which border the Atlantic Ocean have the best seafood festivals in the world! South Carolina is no exception! Listed below are a few plus the Pecan Festival…my favorite…
Pecan Festival: With over 50,000 in attendance, we hope you will come on out and enjoy the day with us as we host stages of Live Entertainment. Over 250 Food & Craft Vendors with Special Art Demonstrations, a Free Kids Zone, Amusement Rides, and Antique Tractor Show will help you celebrate the Pecan! Don’t bypass the Car Show and Competition, the Pecan Cook-off and Competition, and the Chalk Art Competition either. There will be 10K, 5k, and Half Marathon Races, bike rides including a Metric Century, Half Metric Century Bike Ride, and 10 mile ride, plus so much more! Celebrate in Florence on Nov 2.
44th Annual Craftsmen’s Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival: This festival features original designs and work from hundreds of talented artists and craftspeople from across America. See the creative process in action as many exhibitors demonstrate throughout the weekend. There is something for every style, taste and budget with items from the most traditional to the most contemporary. This show is a winner of Sunshine Artist “200 Best” awards. Taking place at the South Carolina State Fair Grounds in Columbia on Nov 15 – 17.
23rd Annual South Carolina Oyster Festival: Over 10,000 pounds of fresh oysters perfectly roasted by PEARLZ Oyster Bar available for sale @ $10 per serving. Many other food vendors of all kinds, 2 stages of live music entertainment all day, dozens of arts, crafts, and business vendors, as well as discounted house and museum tours. This event promises fun for the entire family. Those under 16 are admitted free. Tickets will be sold at the gates for only $10.00. Nov. 16.
Vintage Market Days: This is considered an upscale vintage and vintage-inspired indoor and outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home decor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and much more. Come to the South Carolina State Fair Grounds in Columbia; Nov 22 – 24.
30th Annual Festival of Trees: The South Carolina State Museum welcomes you to this festival and to the museum Nov. 22-24. The event will kick off with the Auction Preview, and family-friendly holiday cheer will continue through the weekend with “Santa & Me” on Saturday; more fun on Sunday.
South Carolina State Bluegrass Festival: The family-friendly event will feature performances from The Marksmen, Lonesome River Band, Carolina Blue, Bass Mountain Boys, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and so many more. Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach; Nov 29, 12:00 – 10:30 PM
Winter Wonderland Festival: The festival provides a safe environment for families to start their Holiday celebrations! Everyone is welcome! There will be carnival games, children’s parade, golden candy cane hunt, and much more. Don’t forget that we will be joined by Mr. & Mrs. Claus! Free admission, donations welcome. Concessions, trampoline bungee, and rock wall experiences are ticketed events. Shelter Cove Community Park, Hilton Head Island; Dec. 6, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Travelkatz will be happy to make vacation plans for you and your family and friends to go to South Carolina. Begin your holiday shopping at the Winter Wonderland Festival. Just give us a call at 352-277-7300.
South Carolina State Capital: COLUMBIA
Columbia is the feminized version of Columbus, and was named to honor explorer Christopher Columbus. Columbia became South Carolina’s capital in 1786, and, apparently, there was significant disagreement over what to call the new city. The other contender in the debate? Washington. One 1932 historian observed, “There seems no reason for the name ‘Columbia,’ except that it was, at that time, popular.”
South Carolina State House: Many statues, plaques and artwork to perk your interest in history. Well-manicured grounds and walkways. The memorial for slaves is very interesting. There is also a law enforcement memorial. Check out the 6 bronze stars on the capitol wall. These cover impact holes from cannon balls! The State house tour takes into account the history of the state and its political background. From the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and the changes that have occurred to the state within the past 60 years. It’s a short one hour tour, free of charge. The Capital grounds are well manicured with statues and monuments reflecting the history of South Carolina.
South Carolina State Museum: They had a great variety of things to see from the Civil War to WW1 to transportation throughout history to the Wild West. It would be a great visit and the planetarium is cool too. Lots to see and lots of interacting displays. The exhibits range from art collections, planetarium and space, prehistoric animals, early settlers (Native Americans), Antebellum (before the Civil War) SC to more modern times as well as SC’s culture and people. See the great exhibits on prehistoric animals and the history of SC through the ages to modern times. And the new observatory too!
Founders Park: Great atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff, including hassle-free pregame treatment from the ushers to the visiting team fans. Plenty of different options on food and beverage. Thumbs up, the University of South Carolina did it right. Columbia has the best college baseball stadium and now the best minor league park. Everything here is first class.
University of South Carolina: Everything about USC is top notch. If you visit; there is so much to do that you may need more time than you think. It is the home of champions, from women’s basketball to baseball to equestrian and track and field. It has many cultural stops, including theater-in-the-round in Longstreet Theatre, concerts at the Colonial Life Arena and Broadway shows at the Kroger Center.
Saluda Shoals Park: this place is amazing–boating, bikes, walking trails, dog areas, fishing; you name it and you can do it on a small budget, has a small museum, and wedding area. Water park for the kiddies. Get food from restaurants on the way in or out.
South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum: A little known fact, on many Fridays they have speakers come and talk about all sorts of things related to the history of South Carolina – battles and personalities. There is no charge which is a bonus. Half the museum doesn’t change, but the other half has rotating themes. Strong on American Revolution and the Civil War. Very cool artifacts. The Staff will explain; there was a “myth” but an archeological dig proved it correct! The museum has the arrowhead to confirm the myth. The Confederate Relic Room is a hidden treasure. The exhibits are first class, and well worth a visit.
Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden: This zoo is amazing. First, even from the other side of the parking lot, getting into the zoo was a quick easy walk. Next, they have all the cool big exotic animals you want, BUT squashed into a compact size zoo so you don’t have to walk a million miles between exhibits. On top of that, the exhibits are arranged for maximum viewing. You walk thru the front gates and bam, grizzly bears right there swimming and play fighting only feet from the glass wall. All the animals were out and active the whole time we were there! Finally, the whole zoo is beautifully landscaped and shady. In addition to viewing animals, there are other activities including rock wall climbing and pony riding that children will enjoy. Bathrooms are available in several areas and there is a large gift shop as you leave. They also rent single and double strollers.
Food Tours: Both these food tours come highly recommended so “Happy Eating”.
Columbia Food Tours – The people are great and the restaurants you visit are polite and SO great about answering curious questions! the food is spectacular. Such a beautiful way to see the downtown area. A perfect idea if you are visiting the city or want to treat someone you love to something special. Also, a great day date for couples!
Two Gals and a Fork Food Tours – Be prepared for a fabulous walking history and food tour. The historian is knowledgeable and personable. Even if you think you know a lot about the history of Columbia you will be surprised at what you will learn. The food is delicious. Each of the chefs might greet your group and talk about not only the food but the history of the building. It’s not every day you eat in what used to be a bordello! And the “Two Gals” are fabulous hostesses and guides.
Columbia is just a short flight away from Tampa so give Travelkatz a call and we will make your vacation a memorable family event for you. 352-277-2700.
SOUTH CAROLINA VACATION PACKAGE MADE EASY
Another option for our South Carolina Vacation Package is the Natural Wonder. See our selection of choice below to see if it fancies your style. Please don’t hesitate in contacting us with any questions or concerns.
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GARDENS
Alabama Gardens- Come witness the beautiful colors and varieties of flowers and plants as we travel to Alabama for a look. There are 13 varieties of gardens located all over the state. Call us to help you create that springtime Alabama adventure! Or maybe you would rather witness the fall colors instead.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens: A cherished place of respite and inspiration since 1962, these Gardens promote a passion for plants, gardens, and the natural world. Located in the heart of Birmingham, this 67-acre urban oasis offers beautiful blooms, glorious specialty gardens, and opportunities to grow your green thumb throughout the year. The Gardens are free and open to the public every day of the year. A facility of the Parks and Recreation Board, these Botanical Gardens are the result of a public-private partnership between the city the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Beautiful gardens with lots of incredible plants and water features and benches to sit and take it all in and it’s also right across from the zoo. It’s a beautiful place to take a walk, read a book, have a picnic, or take photos. The gift shop is lovely as well. Found in the city of Birmingham.
Dunn Formal Rose Garden: This Rose Garden is an official All-America Rose Selection Display Garden. It features tea roses, floribundas, grandifloras, climbers, miniatures and shrub types that bloom in glorious colors from late April until frost. You’ll see old favorites such as ‘Peace’, ‘Chrysler Imperial’, and ‘John F. Kennedy’ mingle with newcomers like ‘All That Jazz’, ‘Dolly Parton’ and ‘Fourth of July’; our bounty of roses has made this spot a mainstay attraction since The Gardens first opened in Birmingham.
Hess Camellia Garden: Another beautiful site, this Shade Garden and the Japanese Garden are found at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Come and enjoy the diversity these gardens offer.
Huntsville Botanical Garden: The 112-acre Botanical Garden is open year-round and contains a diverse ecosystem of meadows, upland and bottomland forest, and wetlands, as well as a variety of specialty gardens and native plant collections. The Mathews Nature Trail contains the largest accredited trillium collection in the U.S. and the Anderson Education Center is home to the nation’s largest open-air butterfly house. The Native Plants Teaching Garden is a public space that highlights the way local plants, soil, pollinators, and birds create distinct communities and how they interact to form a diverse, sustainable, and attractive landscape. A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Garden is a member of the American Public Gardens Association of North America. Discover this garden in Huntsville.
Dothan Area Botanical Gardens: Serene retreat featuring 50 acres of lush, manicured gardens with ponds & shady walking trails. It is on the smaller side but for $5 a person it was well worth the money! There is a gorgeous Asian garden and tropical plant house. You can see a good variety of roses, camellias, and herbs, too. There are paved walkways for a very peaceful and quiet stroll on a Sunday morning. For the children, there is a kid zone which everyone loves. Found in town Dothan north of Atlanta.
Aldridge Gardens: This spot is amazing. Wonderful accessible walking trails, a hands-on bonsai educational opportunity, a Veterans Memorial Arbor and Pentagon Plaza with beautiful views of the lake, also a great place to take a run in the park – and just adorable geese or ducks! They also have a venue you can rent for events. Come experience the beauty and hospitality the city of Hoover has to offer.
Cornerstone Gardens: This garden is a beautiful hidden gem! You might very well love all the Bible verses throughout the garden! Cornerstone Gardens and Arboretum was created as a place of meditation, rest, and reflection for Carriage House Repose & Restore, Inc., a Christian support ministry for ministers, missionaries, and evangelists. The Carriage House is situated on the property close to the gardens, and the pastors and others come to stay there as a short-term respite. The caretakers and stewards of the Carriage House ministry have opened the gardens to the general public to share the natural beauty and wonder of over 5,000 plants and trees comprised of over 150 different species. Travel to Mobile to enjoy this garden.
TravelKatz is looking forward to helping you and yours have a special vacation in Alabama where you will get to see beautiful gardens. Just call us at 352-277-7300 or chat at www.travelkatz.com.
