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Start planning your ultimate South Carolina adventure with a free copy of the 2024 Vacation Guide. Request your free copy, view the guide online or download a PDF version below.

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Sumter

Take in the abundance of wildlife and natural beauty at the world-famous Swan Lake Iris Gardens.

Sumter

Take in the abundance of wildlife and natural beauty at the world-famous Swan Lake Iris Gardens.

Swan Lake Iris Gardens

Sumter’s year-round mild climate, remarkable blend of attractions and thriving arts community make it one of South Carolina’s most popular destinations.

From Downtown Friday Nights to the annual Iris Festival, Sumter offers several yearly arts and music festivals with entertainment for the whole family.

Sumter Offers Discoveries for All Ages

Sumter’s colorful history dates back more than 300 years—and the city has come a long way since its days as “Carolina Backcountry.”

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Lodging in Sumter

Sumter offers many national chain hotels along with a charming bed and breakfast, all in close proximity to the city's beautiful downtown.

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Dining in Sumter

Enjoy everything from Southern cooking with a Cajun twist to hand-crafted burgers—Sumter’s unique local restaurants are sure to satisfy all of your cravings.

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Shopping in Sumter

Sumter’s unique boutiques offer one-of-a-kind paintings, antiques, jewelry and handcrafted items.

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Arts & Museums in Sumter

From exploring the Carolina Backcountry Homestead to enjoying a performance at the historic Opera House, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained in Sumter.

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Recreation in Sumter

Whether you want to rise early for a bike ride, go fishing or head to the dog park, Sumter offers a variety of recreational amenities and activities to keep you playing in the great outdoors.

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5 Ways to Enjoy Sumter’s Natural Beauty

There's a lot of natural beauty to enjoy on a visit to modern-day Sumter.

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Swan Lake Iris Garden

The only public park in the United States to feature all eight swan species, Swan Lake Iris Gardens also boasts many floral attractions, including Japanese iris and magnolias.

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Sumter County Museum

This complex of several small museums includes the Williams-Brice House, built in 1916, and the Carolina Backcountry Homestead, which brings to life a typical 1750-1850 farm community.

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St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

Tucked away in Manchester State Forest, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church is one of the oldest churches in Sumter.

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Sumter Cut Rate Soda Fountain

Opened in 1935, the Sumter Cut Rate Soda Fountain is a slice of Americana you don’t want to miss during your visit to Sumter.

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Sumter Opera House

Built as a theater to host traveling shows, this iconic venue is now home to City Hall and a 550-seat theatre—and that’s only part of its rich and intriguing history.

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Family Trip to Swan Lake Iris Gardens

Enjoy a wonder-filled day as you explore this 150-acre garden, including the beautiful Butterfly Garden and whimsical Chocolate Garden.

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Chef Raffaele Dall’Erta

The Milan native has been solidly positioned at the helm of Hampton's in Sumter since 2010 and patrons come from across the state to indulge in his gourmet dishes made with local ingredients.

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City of Sumter

The city was originally named Sumterville in honor of American Revolutionary War general Thomas Sumter, nicknamed “The Fighting Gamecock.”

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Santee Cooper Country

Rich with natural wonders, history and modern luxuries, Santee Cooper Country is centered around the Santee Cooper lakes¬¬—Marion and Moultrie. These legendary lakes were created during the early 1940s and have become a recreational paradise.

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