For Friends

A family-owned Chapel Hill spot pouring house-brewed IPAs, stouts, and lagers in a cozy taproom with indoor/outdoor seating, friendly staff, and a full menu—perfect for relaxing with friends and exploring seasonal and year-round brews.

Just minutes from downtown Chapel Hill, this 1,000-acre garden showcases native plants across themed gardens and serene woodland trails, with exhibits and programs that highlight conservation and sustainable practices—a must-visit for nature lovers.

Just 12 miles from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach is a laid-back coastal escape with Atlantic views, a scenic pier for fishing and strolling, and plenty to do—from sunbathing and surfing to birdwatching and exploring nearby nature spots.

Set in the heart of Charleston since 1804, this lively four-block market hosts 300+ local vendors, from famed sweetgrass basket weavers to makers bearing the Certified Authentic: Handmade in Charleston seal—an essential stop for genuine Lowcountry crafts, food, and culture.

Sail through Charleston Harbor on a 90-minute cruise with panoramic views of Fort Sumter, the Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge, narrated history, and chances to spot dolphins and seabirds—a relaxing, scenic way to experience the city’s maritime heritage.

Carowinds is a Charlotte-area theme park on the NC-SC border, featuring record-setting coasters like Fury 325, family rides, a water park, and seasonal events such as Scarowinds and WinterFest—plus live shows, food, and games—making it a great pick for both thrill-seekers and families.

Experience the history and thrill of NASCAR at Charlotte’s NASCAR Hall of Fame, with interactive exhibits, legendary cars and trophies, immersive simulators, and rich memorabilia that bring the sport’s biggest moments and personalities to life.

Charlotte’s U.S. National Whitewater Center is an outdoor playground on the Catawba River, offering whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, and scenic hikes—plus concerts and seasonal events—ideal for everything from high-adrenaline thrills to a relaxed day outside with friends, family, or solo.

A Clemson staple since 1933, The Esso Club is a lively sports bar packed with memorabilia, wall-to-wall game screens, and occasional live music. Come for the welcoming, family-like vibe and customize a drink at the signature Bloody Mary bar—an essential stop for any Clemson visit.

Explore 17,500 acres of trails, creeks, and woodlands at Clemson University Experimental Forest—a peaceful spot for hiking, birding, wildlife photography, and learning about forest management, with seasonal wildflowers and abundant wildlife.

Lake Hartwell is a 56,000-acre reservoir on the South Carolina-Georgia border near Clemson, offering family-friendly boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking amid lush scenery, multiple access points, and abundant wildlife, making it an easygoing escape for a day on the water.

Held each year in Columbia since 1869, the South Carolina State Fair blends thrilling rides, livestock shows, live entertainment, and classic fair food—great for families and friends.