Catch a fly ball, break out the paddles and get down to live music
Grab a friend or the whole family, fill up the tank and set the GPS for Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina, for a three-day weekend packed with adventure. Situated along I-20, between Atlanta and Charleston–just east of Augusta, Georgia, this untapped, four-county part of the Palmetto State, is filled with rolling countryside, parks, antique shops, world-renowned horse racing tracks, Civil War sites, plantation homes of yesteryear and more. Among the well-known “to dos” of Thoroughbred Country lie unique and fun events that are meant to be crossed off your summer bucket list.
Day 1
After a long trip, stretch your legs as you make your way down the serene South Fork portion of the Edisto River. The Edisto is one of the longest black rivers in the country, stretching 250 miles and flowing through 10 counties in South Carolina. This peaceful stretch of water is enveloped by intertwining Cypress and dotted with lily pads offering beautiful scenery around every bend. The river’s calm nature also makes it an ideal outdoor excursion for the entire family. Paddle the gorgeous Edisto River Canoe Trail at Aiken State Park in Windsor, South Carolina, or add to the adventure by registering for one of the Bamberg County Chamber’s organized outings, which includes a free shuttle ride. Call the Chamber at 803-245-4427 to reserve a spot. Need a boat? Rent a canoe or kayak from Edisto River Adventures by emailing or calling, EdistoRiverAdventures@gmail.com, 843-695-8146.
Dry off and head to the Silver Bluff Audubon Center for Storks and Corks. This premiere event is an evening of fine food, wine and Wood Storks. Sip on a broad selection of wine and savor hor d’oeuvres while browsing silent auction items. Then journey out to the foraging ponds to observe up to 500 Wood Storks, shorebirds and other wading birds as they feed for the evening. Upon your return to the visitor center you will enjoy a buffet style dinner with desserts. Tickets are $65 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the Silver Bluff Audubon Center and Sanctuary. Registration is available online or by calling 803-471-0291.
Day 2
Roll into a day of fun with an Aiken Trolley Tour. This two-hour excursion will immerse you in the best of Aiken with a guided walk through Hopelands Gardens where you will also find the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about Aiken’s history as you ride through town. Tickets are $15 and tours are Saturdays only. Make a reservation to guarantee a seat–purchase tickets here or call (803) 644-1907.
Tap your toes at the Aiken Music Fest. Listen to top bands bang out tunes in an idyllic outdoor concert setting. This event is great for the whole family, with four hours of live music, complete with delicious bites from area food trucks. Drink for a cause; all proceeds from beer sales go to support non-profits. You can even bring your suit and run through the giant sprinkler! Visit the Facebook page or call (803) 649-3505 for more information.
Day 3:
Batter up! Relax with America’s favorite pastime. Watch the San Francisco Giant’s minor league team, the Augusta GreenJackets, take on the competition in their new state-of-the-art stadium in North Augusta. Complete with 36 food stands, a Biergarten and a riverfront view, watching the GreenJackets play ball is not just a game, it’s an experience. After the match up on the diamond, take a stroll in the Riverside Village at Hammond’s Ferry. This adorable waterfront area is home to the lush North Augusta Greeneway, several parks and delicious restaurants. Check the GreenJackets’ ticket schedule by visiting www.MILB.com.
Round out your weekend with a cultural experience to remember. The stage lights shine bright at the Aiken Community Playhouse as they premier various productions featuring top-notch performers.