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 blackwater 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 South Fork Paddlers organized outings, which includes a free shuttle ride. Call 803-300-1972 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 Silver Bluff Audubon’s Center and Sanctuary to explore the Kathwood Stork Ponds during Storks and Coffee. This premiere event is a fun morning of coffee, refreshments and a guided walk and interpretation in celebration of this spectacular annual migration event. Registration required. In lieu of a ticket price, please consider donating $50 per person, 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 Augusta GreenJackets, Low-A East League affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, take on the competition in SRP Park, their state-of-the-art stadium in North Augusta. With 36 food stands, a Biergarten and a riverfront view, it’s regarded as one of the best minor league ballpark fan experiences. Check the GreenJackets’ ticket schedule by visiting www.MILB.com. SRP Park is the center of North Augusta’s thriving downtown scene, along with the restaurants, shops and greenway at Riverside Village, a scenic live, work, play development that includes a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center.
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.