The Olde English District honors its storied past while embracing the future. Here you can enjoy small-town charm, outdoor recreation, unique shopping opportunities, wonderful eateries, fun family adventures and so much more. Itโs also a fantastic place to simply relax and recharge, disconnecting from the rigors of everyday life.
Spanning the counties of Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union and York, we invite you to see all that we have to offer. We know youโll love what you discover in South Carolinaโs Olde English District.
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York County
Just south of Charlotte, North Carolina, York County is a vibrant area packed with outdoor recreation, local restaurants and buzzing breweries. It is home to Kings Mountain National Military Park (as well as a state park by the same name, which commemorates a key Revolutionary War battle). The Anne Springs Close Greenway is a natural escape, perfect for an afternoon picnic or leisurely hike. Grab a bite in Downtown Rock Hill, also known as Old Town, at Kounter, Elk Ave Tavern or Flipside Restaurant, and be sure to check out some of the nearby watering holes after a delicious meal.
Officially in South Carolinaโs โUpstate,โ Union County starts to hint at the foothills that rise to rolling hills and vistas. A visit to Union is not complete without a tour of downtown Civil Rights-era historic sites โ nor without a stop at Midway BBQ. History buffs will love the Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site in Sumter National Forest, which tells the rich yet complicated story of many generations of plantation dwellers. Adrenaline junkies, however, may want to visit the Union County Dragway just southeast of the town of Union.
With various water access points, agri-tourism destinations and scenic state parks, Chester County offers opportunities for both outdoor adventure and relaxation. Visitors often gravitate to the Catawba River or Landsford Canal State Park. The 523-acre Chester State Park is a haven for hiking, picnicking, boating and fishing. From enjoying annual festivals such as the Flopeye Fish Festival in Great Falls or Lily Fest at Landsford Canal State Park to stopping by local farms for u-pick produce, Chester County is a breath of fresh air from lifeโs hustle and bustle.
With a rich art community, Lancaster County features galleries and a variety of collectives sprinkled throughout, including Bob Doster’s Backstreet Studios. The Lindsay Pettus Greenway intersects nature and public art in a surprising setting, while history buffs will not want to miss Andrew Jackson State Park, which tells the story of the Presidentโs boyhood and South Carolinaโs storied role in the fight for American independence. Also noteworthy is the Native American Studies Center housed at USC Lancaster with its impressive collection of Catawba Indian pottery.
Downtown Cheraw is a quaint and cozy town for dining, shopping and learning the areaโs history, including the life of hometown favorite, Dizzy Gillespie. Nearby Pageland supports a strong antiquing district while two state parks invite visitors to do as much or as little as they like. Cheraw State Park has an 18-hole championship golf course, mountain biking and hiking trails, and fully outfitted cabins and campsites. Nature lovers will enjoy Sand Hills State Forest and the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. Find all this and more in beautiful Chesterfield County.
Home to the South Carolina Railroad Museum, Fairfield County is the gateway to the 283-acre Lake Wateree State Park, which sports 100 paved camping sites, an on-site tackle shop and a mile-long nature trail. Situated on about 2,600 wooded acres, Carolina Adventure World offers the thrills of ATV, UTV and dirt bike riding. Fairfield County also celebrates the quiet charms of small-town living. Donโt miss Lauraโs Tea Room in Ridgeway and the longest continuously running clock in the U.S. in Winnsboro, whose settlement dates back to 1777.
In the county seat of Camden, a vibrant downtown attracts foodies, antiquers, equine enthusiasts and pickleball players, among others. Nearby, youโll find charming inns, distilleries, grist mills and historic sites that invite a leisurely stroll. Many varieties of birds make their homes in cypress stands along Lake Wateree, while Goodale State Park offers an excellent opportunity to view native flora and fauna. The Revolutionary War Visitor Center and the Historic Camden campus interpret the origins of the nation.
Revolutionary War Visitor Center Located in Camden at 212 Broad Street, this attraction serves as a key historical and educational hub dedicated to the gateway to the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. In fact, the Battle of Camden witnessed a crucial confrontation between the American and British forces during the war. Learn how South Carolinians were instrumental in turning the tide in the war for independence.
Skydive! Carolina Lookinโ for adventure? Head out to Skydive! Carolina at 1903 King Air Drive in Chester. Billed as the premier skydiving center of the Carolinas, this venue offers first-timers the opportunity to jump in tandem with a professional instructor from 14,000 feet. Training is, of course, provided prior to jumping. The entire experience is documented with photography and a DVD. They also welcome experienced and licensed skydivers.
Goodale State Park Located in Camden, this state park features a nature trail and canoe trail, which give visitors an excellent opportunity to view the native flora and fauna. Cypress trees line the spring-fed lake which offers boating and fishing. In the open water area, you can see ducks, kingfishers, osprey and occasionally bald eagles. Picnic shelters, tables, playground equipment and a meeting facility are available.ย
Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues B&B This plantation style home built in 1904, offers all the modern conveniences expected in comfortable and pleasant accommodations. The century-old front porch is perfect for watching the hustle and bustle of the community. The Inn is also a blues and jazz museum that contains the Dave CC Club Library for researching the blues. Located in the historic district, the inn is within walking distance to the quaint downtown.
Cotton Hills Farm Explore Cotton Hills Farm in Chester, a thriving family-owned farm since 1882, and South Carolina’s largest pumpkin farm. Offering seasonal fruit and vegetable picking, from strawberries in April-May to pumpkins in September-October, this farm presents an authentic rural experience. With its farm market and multiple locations, you can enjoy the farm’s fresh produce. Check out the special events, too!
Flipside Restaurant Group Experience the charm and Southern hospitality of the Flipside Restaurant Group owned by chefs Amy and Jon Fortes. Famed for local-inspired comfort food, they offer a variety of dining experiences from hearty breakfasts to relaxed family dinners. Enjoy the upscale ambiance at the Flipside Restaurant or the casual goodness of Flip Out Burger, each in Rock Hill. Meanwhile in Fort Mill, enjoy the friendly neighborhood feel of the Flipside Cafรฉ, sumptuous Italian fare at Salmeriโs, or globally inspired treats at FM Eatery.
From the suburbs of Charlotte, N.C., to tucked-away towns and rural communities, the Olde English District offers just the kind of getaway you need. We offer an array of hotels, bed & breakfasts, cabins, camping and more across our seven counties.
We love to see you enjoying your time in the Olde English District. Share your photos on social media using #oedtravel for a chance to be featured in our gallery.
Your Weekend in the OED ๐
๐ Chester County โ Showing of The Patriot ๐ฌ Grab your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a special outdoor screening of The Patriot, filmed largely right here in Chester County! Popcorn is provided, and the movie begins at 6 p.m.
๐ Chesterfield County โ 250 Flags for Americaโs 250th ๐บ๐ธ Honor Americaโs 250th with the 250 Flags for Americaโs 250th display in downtown Cheraw beginning at 3 p.m.
๐ Fairfield County โ Winnsboro Fourth of July Drone Show โจ Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food and beverage vendors, and a patriotic drone show lighting up the night sky. Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m.
๐ Kershaw County โ Pints with Patriots ๐ป Ever wanted to grab a drink with a hero from the 1700s? Meet Revolutionary War characters at Greener Pastures Brewing and Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge for a one-of-a-kind evening in downtown Camden.
๐ Lancaster County โ Sunset Yoga ๐ชป Unwind with a free hour of yoga surrounded by blooming lavender and soft evening light at Lavendar Flair. Bring your yoga mat and water, then shop the farm store after class. 7:30โ8:30 p.m.
๐ Union County โ Canoe the Broad River ๐ถ Paddle the scenic Broad River as it winds through Union County, offering peaceful views, pine forests, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.
๐ York County โ Celebrate Americaโs 250th at Historic Brattonsville ๐ Step back into the Carolina Piedmont of the 1850s with living history demonstrations, 19th-century games and toys, site tours, hot air balloon launches, and more.
Yesterday, we officially celebrated the Grand Opening of the Backcountry Revolution Trail, and we couldnโt have asked for a better turnout! Seeing so many partners, supporters, and history enthusiasts come together made this milestone even more special.
The Backcountry Revolution Trail brings the stories of the American Revolution to life by connecting the people, places, and events that shaped our nation right here in South Carolinaโs backcountry.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who helped make this vision a reality, including:
โข Our Board Members โข @southcarolina250 โข @sc_battlegrounds โข @simplyrevolutionarysc โข Our County Committees โข Brewed in Defiance Coffee – @whiteblossomcoffee โข @americanpatriotcoffeesc โข South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism โข @kershawcountychamber โข @historiccamdenfoundation โข @experiencecamdensc โข @authenticitybrandstrategies โข And the many others who contributed behind the scenes
And to everyone who joined us yesterday, thank you for celebrating with us! Your support means the world, and we are so excited for whatโs ahead.
โจ The Backcountry Revolution Trail is officially OPEN. โจ Our History Hub is LIVE. โจ The only thing missing is YOU.
Ready to start your journey through the Revolutionary backcountry? Visit the link in our bio and start exploring today.
Aim for adventure at @rockycreeksportingclays ๐ฏ
Set on 300 acres, Rocky Creek welcomes shooters of every skill level with multiple courses, a 5-stand, pro shop, event spaces, and golf cart rentals for easy access around the property.
Whether you`re chasing your next personal best or trying sporting clays for the very first time, Rocky Creek is always a good shot.
๐บ๐ธ The excitement surrounding SC250 doesn`t stop with our Backcountry Revolution Trail launch next Tuesday!
Communities across the Olde English District are bringing history to life with special events, programs, and heritage experiences celebrating South Carolina`s role in America`s 250th.
Looking for ways to join the celebration? Check out our latest blog featuring SC250 events and experiences happening throughout the region.
We want you there for the Backcountry Revolution Trail Grand Opening Celebration & Press Conference as we officially unveil this exciting new way to experience Revolutionary War history across the Olde English District.
๐ Revolutionary War Visitor Center at Camden ๐ Tuesday, June 23, 2026 ๐ 10:00 AM
Join us as we kick off South Carolinaโs America 250 celebration with:
๐ค Welcome and remarks from regional leaders and partners ๐ฅ Live cannon demonstrations and musket drills by @historiccamdenfoundation ๐ค A reception featuring county SC250 committee booths from across the OED and local vendors
This is the start of something big for our region, and you donโt want to miss it.
#oedtravel #discoversc #sc250 #revolutionarywar ๐บ๐ธ See you there!
Current forecast: โ๏ธ HOT with a 100% chance of needing to jump in the water.
Head to Lake Juniper for the ultimate cool-down. With a sandy beach, calm waters, and plenty of room to relax, this inland oasis proves you donโt need the coast for a perfect beach day. ๐๐๏ธ
We got an exclusive preview at @carowinds on June for Rip Roarinโ Falls, the parkโs newest 2027 attraction. This record-breaking log flume shatters expectations with the tallest drop of its kind in the world, all set against a towering timber ascent before the ultimate splashdown. ๐ข ๐
๐ Chester County โ Farm and Tractor Day at @cotton_hills_farm ๐ Get ready for a day full of farm fun and big machines Experience the sights, sounds, and excitement of real farm life.
๐ Chesterfield County โ Antique Farm Museum & @mcleodfarms ๐ฆ Step back in time at the Macโs Pride Antique Farm Museum, then grab fresh produce and ice cream for a perfect small-town stop.
๐ Fairfield County โ Christyfest SC Folk Art Festival ๐จ Celebrate Southern creativity and community at this two-day folk art festival featuring regional artists, live music, food, and meaningful local impact.
๐ Kershaw County โ Folklore & Legends Lantern Tour at Historic Camden ๐ฎ Spend the evening on a lantern-lit walk through @historiccamdenfoundation as storytellers bring local folklore, legends, and eerie tales from Camdenโs past to life.
๐ Lancaster County โ Outdoor Adventures ๐ฃ Cast a line at Andrew Jackson State Park and enjoy a peaceful day outdoors.
๐ Union County โ Flag Day ๐บ๐ธ Explore U.S. flag history and take a journey through time with a creative mocktail experience at Carnegie Library as part of the SC Humanities Festival.
๐ York County โ Guided Bird Walk at Catawba Bend Preserve ๐ฆ Join a guided bird walk at Catawba Bend Preserve as you look for resident and migratory birds.
All these events and more can be found on the events page on our website. Have a great weekend!
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