The Original Influencers Since 1968
It all began with a road trip. In 1965, South Carolina officials hit the highway for inspiration on how to best serve travelers, and they came back inspired. Their fact-finding tour sparked the idea for South Carolina’s very own welcome center program. Backed by Governor Robert E. McNair and the General Assembly, the first center opened in 1968 in Little River, welcoming guests crossing from the North Carolina border.
Today, nine South Carolina Welcome Centers greet millions of visitors with more than directions and restrooms—they offer a warm hello, expert travel advice and an array of comfort amenities. Staff undergo intensive training and can even earn national certification, ensuring every stop is guided by genuine experience and Palmetto State pride.
Want to learn all about what to see and do in South Carolina? Stop by a Welcome Center to talk to a certified professional who can assist you with accommodation and attraction reservations, trip recommendations and insider tips on how to make the most of your vacation.
9 Centers in Convenient Locations
Eight Welcome Centers are located at key entry points along the state’s border, plus the Welcome Center near the center of the state in Orangeburg County along I-95 Southbound. Find your nearest location and plan a stop during your road trip.
Free Amenities
These centers have comfort amenities similar to a rest stop, with restrooms and vending facilities, but they also come fully equipped with so much more: picnic areas, free Wi-Fi, coupons and deals for hotels and attractions, travel guides, brochures and, best of all, highly trained travel counselors to assist with trip planning. Some centers also include kiosks featuring Google Maps so visitors can print directions, while wall-mounted screens allow for self-exploration on DiscoverSouthCarolina.com/welcome-centers.
Special Events
Visit during special events throughout the year, such as National Travel and Tourism Week held May 3–9, 2026. In the past, this annual event has included complimentary refreshments, coloring books and crayons, putting greens, beanbag tosses, shag and square dancing, and giveaways for attractions and weekend getaways.
Front Porch Program
The South Carolina Welcome Centers have partnered with local visitor centers across the state with the Front Porch Program. The participating centers undergo a certification process to ensure the information and service South Carolina travelers receive meet our standards. Stop by one of the certified Front Porch Program visitor centers today to get local insight on undiscovered attractions. Find your nearest certified visitor center, starting on page 61.
Meet the Experts
Dawn Smith
For Dawn Smith, every day is a chance to spark someone’s next great adventure. As Manager of the South Carolina Welcome Center in Fair Play, she delights in sharing her love of the Palmetto State: “I get to paint rainbows for folks every day to go find,” she says.
While guests often ask about beaches, food and local attractions—sometimes just to hear her Southern accent—Smith is quick to turn the tables, asking questions to tailor personalized travel recommendations. Many visitors are surprised to learn the Welcome Centers can help with reservations and often score special rates.
Her favorite spots? “I personally love the Lowcountry with the marshes, low-hanging live oaks and pristine beaches, but I also love my home region in the Upcountry with the mountains, wild water and beautiful waterfalls.” One hidden gem she hopes more travelers discover is the Chattooga River—a scenic escape for porch-loungers and adrenaline enthusiasts alike.
Cardacia Jamison
For Cardacia Jamison, a Certified Travel Counselor at the South Carolina Welcome Center in Santee, the joy of her role lies in meaningful cultural exchange. “My most rewarding aspect is meeting people from around the world. I love to see their enthusiasm as they visit our state for the first time,” she says. Guests often arrive curious about Lake Marion—sometimes mistaking it for the ocean—or ask about state symbols, local landmarks and directions to popular Southern cities.
Many travelers are surprised to learn that South Carolina Welcome Centers provide complimentary hotel booking assistance, attraction recommendations and promotional opportunities for tourism businesses—all free of charge.
When asked about favorite South Carolina destinations, Jamison points to Charleston and Hilton Head Island, both beloved for their charm, beaches and vibrant cultural experiences. But her favorite hidden gem? The Santee National Wildlife Refuge (Bluff Unit) in Summerton, home to ancient Native American mounds and the historic site of Fort Watson—just a mile off I-95 and rich with stories waiting to be discovered.
