Road Tripping for Antique Pickers

Explore the back roads of South Carolina to experience some of the best antiquing in the South — plus local history museums, delightful restaurants and historic hotels along the way.

Uncovering Treasures in the Upstate

Anderson

This historic town reveals its rich past, including its namesake American Revolutionary War hero, Robert Anderson. Stroll the 16-block Historic District to enjoy exceptional eateries and local shops lining the charming streets. Explore the nooks and crannies of Willow’s Antiques, offering a mix of antiques ranging from furniture and home décor to jewelry and artwork.

Greenville

In this storied town, you’ll find beautiful Liberty Bridge in Falls Park on the Reedy, the historic West End district with its charming architecture and local heritage at the Upcountry History Museum.

Collectors and those seeking distinctive home furnishings will want to stop into Vintage Now Modern. The store is known for its stylish, unique pieces that combine classic charm with modern aesthetics. Peruse mid-century modern and retro furniture, home décor and accessories.

At the Vintage Market, sift through a diverse range of items, including furniture, collectibles and décor, all curated by various local vendors. Then find something truly unique in its architectural salvage area.

After a day of shopping, refuel with classic Southern cuisine at Sassafras Southern Cuisine, or try Soby's for an award-winning wine list and modern takes on Southern dishes.

Landrum

Discover notable historic spots here, including Landrum Depot, a beautifully restored train station that reflects the town's railroad heritage, and the Landrum Historic District, featuring early 20th-century architecture. At Landrum Eclectics, find a wide range of eclectic finds, including vintage furniture, distinctive home décor and uncommon collectibles.

After exploring, grab a bite to eat at The Hare & The Hound, known for its cozy ambiance and hearty pub grub such as chicken pot pie, pecan-crusted trout and Guinness beef pie.

Antiquing Across the Midlands

North Augusta

Spend the morning getting lost in the maze of over 90 local vendors, spread throughout two separate buildings at Riverside Antiques & Treasures. Take in the large selection of antique, vintage, mid-century modern and farmhouse-style furniture as well as pottery, silverware, jewelry, knick-knacks, vintage signs, lamps and chandeliers. Then grab a quick bite to eat in The Market Café, conveniently located inside the store.

Aiken

Continue to Aiken Antique Mall for the grand selection of antique furniture, as well as a vast selection of unique home decor at competitive prices.

Insider Tip: They host a sale on the second Sunday of every month, so time your visit to score some great deals.

After exploring the antiques, step inside one of Aiken’s famed “Winter Colony” cottages, the Aiken County Historical Museum, originally built in 1860. This is a living museum with exhibits changing frequently and often consisting of items residents bring in for that special exhibit. Before coming, check the calendar to catch family-friendly events, tour programs and other educational happenings throughout the year.

Ridge Spring

This small town is packed with antique and gift shops, such as Ridge Antiques & Dry Goods, which has been a mainstay for many years, thanks to its selection of timeless, hard-to-find items.

After a day of treasure hunting, enjoy a cup of corn chowder or a hearty sandwich at Juniper, one of the first South Carolina Chef Ambassador restaurants.

Camden

At AAA Pickers, a multi-vendor store featuring 14 dealers, discover a collection of vintage metal advertising signs, which are popular with collectors.

Edgefield

Stop into The House Next Door, where owner and proprietor Ms. Beth greets you with a smile and a “come on in, y’all.” The exterior of the store is decorated with quirky finds like a ringer washing machine and vintage handmade dollhouses. The inside is packed with treasured antiques and collectibles galore that Ms. Beth and her vendors have thoughtfully assembled.

Batesburg

Wander the 4,000-square-foot Oak Street Vintage Mall & Gifts for vintage collections, arts and crafts, and one-of-a-kind items from 30 vendors. The building is also home of the art gallery of local wildlife artist Danny O'Driscoll.

West Columbia

In the booming River District of West Columbia, what appears to be a quaint blue house is Three Rivers Antiques, offering an exciting mix of antiques. The nearby Old Mill Antique Mall features 75 dealers offering a spread of collectibles and unexpected finds. For a tasty snack, stop right next door at Café Strudel for their famous fried green tomatoes.

Detour: Little Mountain

Discover a treasure trove about 40 minutes from Columbia in Little Mountain. Explore over 25,000 square feet of the best antique and vintage shopping at Little Mountain Unlimited Antique Mall & Café. Plus, enjoy gourmet sandwiches at its on-site cafe.

Florence

Discover old items that bring the past to life in a refurbished factory at Palmetto Peddlers in Florence. If you are in town for the weekend, book your room at Hotel Florence and don’t miss the Florence Flea Market, where you’ll find even more to pick through.

Collectibles Around Charleston Area

Charleston

Located 10 minutes from downtown Charleston Terrace Oaks Antiques Mall is worth the short drive to explore their dual level shopping areas filled with an eclectic mix of books, jewelry, furniture and porcelain goods. Then, take a stroll down King Street and check out Joint Venture Estate Jewelers for fine antique, vintage and modern estate jewelry. Continue to feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you tour the architecturally distinguished Nathaniel Russell House and Aiken-Rhett House landmarks.

North Charleston

The Station Park Circle in North Charleston touts sustainable shopping at their vintage marketplace, where 60 vendors showcase chic outfits, retro accessories and stylish furnishing from bygone eras.

Summerville

More than 175 vendors come together for a sprawling showcase of home wares, vintage clothing, tools and more at Antiques & Artisans Village. Peruse the antique mall or come during a live auction at Auction Charleston Antique Mall. Then, stay at a Victorian estate embellished by lush gardens at The Linwood Inn.

Walterboro

End your trip in beautiful downtown Walterboro at Downtown Envy, with four buildings and 50 vendors to shop.

Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the 2025 South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy. Request your free copy or download the guide today.