Small Town, Big Charm: A Day Trip Guide to Laurens, SC

A street sign that reads "East Laurens St" in front of a brick building in Laurens, SC

Alyssa picks up a plant for sale at Verdins Too in Laurens, SC

A cooler with fresh produce at the Sanitary Market in Laurens

Heading to Laurens, South Carolina? Your day is already planned—all you need to do is hit the road!
—

Slowly but surely, I’m making my way around South Carolina and exploring destinations both large and small. From the capital charm of Columbia to the coastal corner of Charleston, and from the billowing branches along the backroads of Berkeley County to the sweetest Saturdays in Seneca, each stop reveals a new layer of the state’s personality.

But let me tell you: there’s something special about the Old 96 District.

This post was created in partnership with Old 96 District, but as always, all content and opinions shared here are my own. This post may contain commissionable links.

Tucked into the northwestern part of the state, this five-county region offers a slower pace and welcome escape from our frantic daily lives. And Laurens, along with its neighbor Clinton, makes a perfect entry point.

Less than two hours from Charlotte, it’s an easy day trip that delivers far more than you might expect. Michael and I spent a lovely spring day here, enjoying a mix of outdoor adventure and indoor charm. If you’re looking to see a new side of South Carolina, I think you’ll find that a day in these two towns is well worth adding to your weekend plans.

ABOUT LAURENS, SOUTH CAROLINA

The Courthouse in Laurens, South Carolina

Laurens, South Carolina, sits about halfway between Greenville and Columbia in the rolling hills of the Upstate region. Founded in the late 1700s and named for American Founding Father, merchant, slave trader, and rice planter Henry Laurens, the town grew around the public square that still serves as its centerpiece today.

The downtown area—with its brick-lined streets and historic buildings—gives you a sense of what Laurens once was and what it’s becoming. From early Revolutionary ties to its role in the cotton economy, Laurens has long been a crossroads of American and Southern identity.

What makes this area a compelling place to visit today is the mix of that rich historical texture with the warmth of small-town life. Here (and in neighboring Clinton, also featured in this guide), you’ll find beautifully restored buildings, family-run businesses, and a community that still gathers on the square to greet each other—and you, as a visitor.

—

Travel Tips for Laurens

Having a car is essential for making the most of your time in Laurens. While public transit isn’t really an option here, parking is both plentiful and free, which makes exploring at your own pace a breeze. Like many towns in the region, you may find some shops and restaurants closed on Sundays, a reflection of the area’s strong faith-based roots. I recommend timing your day trip for a Friday or Saturday if you can, but if your visit falls on a Sunday or holiday, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to make sure your destination will be open.

While on the topic of when to visit Laurens, spring is a truly special time to explore the region. The trees are turning green once more, the temperatures are mild, and if you’re lucky, festivals pop up throughout the region. That said, fall brings its own kind of magic with crisp mornings and colorful foliage that make it easy to linger a little longer on the town square. Summers tend to be hot and humid if you’re not out on the water, and while winters here are generally mild, things can slow down a bit during January and February.

Before we dive in, I should note that—as in many Southern towns—Laurens is still grappling with aspects of its complex history. A Confederate monument stands tall in the public square, a sharp reminder of the past that may spark discomfort for visitors wondering how the town is reconciling history with creating a welcoming environment for all. That said, what I found during my time in town was a community of business owners eager to move forward—people who are proud of where they live and passionate about creating an inviting, inclusive experience for anyone curious enough to spend the day exploring.

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN AND AROUND LAURENS

The Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site commemorates the Revolutionary War site and offers visitors a chance to get out and explore

Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site

Revolutionary War buffs won’t want to miss the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, where, on August 19, 1780, 200 Patriot militiamen defeated a joint force of roughly 200 Loyalist militia and 300 British Provincial troops. It was a major turning point during the war—and today, you can follow in their footsteps through the backcountry.

That said, this stop is worthwhile even if military history isn’t your thing. As someone who admittedly couldn’t always keep her eyes open in history class, I still found this to be a wonderfully approachable trail through the woods, with plenty of wildlife to keep things interesting—and the flowing Enoree River as a peaceful soundtrack.

Walking the trails and soaking up a bit of nature is my idea of an hour well spent, but the park also permits fishing in the Enoree River or the onsite pond (you’ll need a South Carolina fishing permit), geocaching, and picnicking in the pavilions when they’re not reserved. Best of all, a visit to this site comes at a gentle price: admission is just $3 for adults, $1.50 for South Carolina seniors, $1 for kids ages 6–15, and free for children under 6.

→Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site // 398 State Park Rd, Clinton, SC 29325

—

Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina

Presbyterian College

In neighboring Clinton—just a fifteen-minute drive from Laurens—the campus of Presbyterian College makes for a picture-perfect stroll. Founded in 1880 by Dr. William Plumer Jacobs, Clinton College was originally established to provide higher education opportunities for the young adults aging out of the orphanage he had previously founded. Eventually the college became Presbyterian College of South Carolina, and today, you can wander this gorgeous campus with its Georgian-style architecture and oak-lined avenues.

As you stroll the central mall of the 240-acre campus, you’ll pass landmarks like Neville Hall, built in 1907 and still one of the college’s most iconic buildings. Simply walking the grassy plazas is a joy, but with any luck, your visit will coincide with one of PC’s many recurring community events. You can check out their current arts and performance schedule here.

→Presbyterian College Campus // 503 S Broad St, Clinton, SC 29325

—

For a living souvenir, head to Verdins Too (don’t worry, I put this little guy back so he wouldn’t suffer—I have whatever the opposite of the Midas touch is when it comes to plants)

Interior of a chic boutique featuring pastel and neutral-toned clothing on gold racks, with a prominent lavender top and white pants in the foreground. The space has a cozy feel with plush pink seating, a soft area rug, and a stylish, modern layout that highlights feminine fashion. — Ready for a wardrobe refresh? Stop in to Sarabeth Jordan Boutique for a pop of color or a classic neutral

Alyssa looks at a jar of honey at Sanitary Market in Laurens, SC — Souvenirs just taste better at Laurens’ Sanitary Market

Local Shopping in Laurens

In many ways, popping into local shops and boutiques is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture—not to mention get the inside scoop on what to see, do, and eat.

I’m always up for a visit to a local specialty grocer, and Sanitary Market takes it one step further by offering housemade donuts and freshly baked sourdough. While you may not be able to bring home the local beef or milk from the coolers, I have a feeling you’ll find a few treats worth stashing for the ride.

Now, I confess I have a bit of a brown thumb, but that didn’t stop me from window shopping at Verdin’s Too. Don’t worry—I spared the vibrant flowers, shrubs, and greenery their certain fate, so there are plenty of plant friends still waiting to go home with you.

If you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe while in Laurens, stop by Sarabeth Jordan Boutique. This sweet shop on the square offers a wide variety of stylish clothes, shoes, and accessories. I deeply regret not bringing home this one little midi dress—or these fun boots. Guess that just means we’ll have to go back…

→Sanitary Market // 124 E Public Square, Laurens, SC 29360
→Sarabeth Jordan Boutique // 100 S Public Sq, Laurens, SC 29360
→Verdin’s Too // 125 E Laurens St, Laurens, SC 29360

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN AND AROUND LAURENS, SOUTH CAROLINA

People dine on the patio at Roma in downtown Laurens, South Carolina — Popular among locals, Roma has a comfortable, neighborhood feel

Roma

For more than twenty years, Roma has been bringing the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean to downtown Laurens. While I always encourage readers to hold a valid passport, no passport is necessary to enjoy bowls laden with pasta, platters of spiced lamb, or a slice of brick oven pizza out on the patio overlooking the square.

Judging by how our neighbors placed their orders without ever opening a menu, this is a true local favorite. Order a bottle of wine for the table and linger over dinner—just like you would in Rome.

→Roma // 105 E Laurens St, Laurens, SC 29360

—

Wilson’s Curb Market

I have a confession to make: I didn’t get the chance to order lunch at Wilson’s Curb Market. You see, I’d packed us a breakfast for the road on our way down to the Laurens area, but I severely miscalculated my hunger levels.

Not that the mouthwatering smells inside Wilson’s weren’t doing their best to activate my ghrelin levels when I popped in for a sweet iced tea. If you’re not from the South, you might not know that you can tell a lot about a restaurant by its tea—it’s basically our litmus test for quality. And based on those sips of just-brewed tea slowly melting the ice into the perfect consistency—not to mention the long line I had to wait in to get it—I can confidently say that lunch at Wilson’s is a must. Next time for me, and this time for you!

→Wilson’s Curb Market // 210 W Main St, Clinton, SC 29325

—

A woman with long brown hair sits in a pink armchair, holding a drink in a cozy, bohemian-style room decorated with vibrant textiles, potted plants, a vintage record player, and eclectic artwork including a framed “Bananaland” poster. The space features warm tones, patterned pillows, and a mix of modern and retro furniture, creating a relaxed, artistic vibe.

The Roseland

We often think of big cities as having more to offer than small towns, but thanks to The Roseland, Laurens has something my home city of Charlotte is severely lacking: an eclectic, approachable community music venue and bar.

Climb the stairs to the loft and you’ll find a pair of adjoining railroad-style flats packed with funky vintage furniture and decor, games and puzzles, a full-fledged stage with instruments at the ready—and yes, a bar. Or rather, a home fridge stocked with both craft brews and old standbys.

While we missed a live performance, we spent the better part of an hour poking through each nook and cranny of the space, pointing out our favorite unique finds and playing with some toys from our childhood, all while lamenting that we don’t live close enough to call this our weekly spot. To quote one Google review of the place: “All I have to say is… Vibes.”

→The Roseland // 124 E Public Square, Laurens, SC 29360

WITH MORE TIME IN LAURENS

Interior of The Artist's Coop, as seen through the window — With more time in Laurens, support a local artist by visiting The Artist’s Coop…

Exterior of Tap & Table with a sign indicating it is closed for a private event — …or enjoy a local beer and a pub favorite meal at Tap & Table

Have more time in the Laurens area? Lucky you!

If you’re new around here, I always like to include a little wishlist of places I had my eye on but didn’t have time to visit during my day in the area—just in case you find yourself with a bit more time or are planning a return trip. Here’s what’s on my list for next time:

Laurens County Museum to take a deeper dive into local history
The Artist’s Coop for local art and creative finds
Tap & Table for brewpub favorites
The Lumberyard for local beer and wine
Blue Ocean Seafood for the latest catch
T & V’s Authentic Italian for a perfect pie
Scurry’s Cafe for homestyle Southern fare
Boondocks Fish Camp & Smoke House for more seafood and smoked meats

—

Wondering where to stay for an extended visit?

While there are a few motor courts and chain hotels nearby, I always recommend seeking out unique, locally owned accommodations when possible. My personal favorites are all in Abbeville, about a 45-minute drive southeast:

The Belmont Inn | With a prime location in the heart of Abbeville, this historic inn has been a favorite of visitors for decades.
Sharon Manor | A true education in Southern hospitality, this former school is now a four-room bed and breakfast, seamlessly blending its history with modern comforts.
The Veranda on Main | This Main Street inn has the comforts of home—if your home includes a plush bed, a veranda with rocking chairs, and chocolate chip cookies that magically appear in your room.

You can learn more about all three in my Weekend Guide to Abbeville and Greenwood, and be sure to leave a comment if you make it to any of the spots above before I do!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON SPENDING A DAY IN LAURENS, SOUTH CAROLINA

A woman with long brown hair sits smiling in a pink armchair, holding a drink in a cozy, bohemian-style room decorated with vibrant textiles, potted plants, a vintage record player, and eclectic artwork including a framed “Bananaland” poster. The space features warm tones, patterned pillows, and a mix of modern and retro furniture, creating a relaxed, artistic vibe.

It could be easy to overlook a small town like Laurens when you’re planning a South Carolina getaway, but skipping it would mean missing out on so much. Whether you’re walking tree-lined trails where battles once raged, sharing a glass of sweet tea with locals, or relaxing in a bar that feels like a living room, Laurens invites you to slow down and look around.

It’s the kind of place that doesn’t necessarily rush to impress you—but if you give it a little time, it just might win you over. All you have to do is give it a chance.

—

Questions for you

Which stop in this guide are you most excited to experience?

What kinds of small-town features do you love discovering when you travel?

Where to next? You may also enjoy:

Share this post:

Your Guide to Spending a Perfect Day in Laurens, South Carolina