If you’re looking for a charming, picturesque town with an old-fashioned Southern feel, you should consider a day trip to Bluffton, South Carolina. Nestled amongst moss-draped trees, winding creeks, and post-civil war architecture, Old Town Bluffton offers a relaxing atmosphere combined with an almost limitless range of things to see & do.
History of Bluffton, South Carolina
Bluffton was settled in the early 1800s and became the summer retreat for those looking to get away from the harsh summer heat in inland South Carolina.
The breeze by the river and shade from the oaks made the area desirable.
Soon, Bluffton became a town where farms would sell their good and the river acted as an access point to other places in the area.
When the Civil War broke out, the Union set fire to Bluffton believing that the town was a hotbed of rebel activity. The majority of the town was destroyed, leaving less than 15 homes and 2 churches.
Over time, the residents returned and Bluffton has become the hidden gem of the Low Country known for its laidback vibe, and motto, “Bluffton State of Mind.”
4 BEST Things to Do in Bluffton on Day Trip
This coastal town is full of beautiful things to see and do! Here are some of our favorite ways to spend the day!
1. Heyward House
The Cole-Heyward House, built in 1841, is one of only eight antebellum homes left standing in Bluffton.
This Carolina farmhouse was used as the summer home for a local plantation owner and remains virtually as it did in that time.
The house-museum is the official Welcome Center for the Town of Bluffton and available to tour.
Guests can tour the home, along with its recreated summer kitchen and original slave quarters
Docent-guided tours are available Monday-Friday, 10 am to 4 pm and Saturdays, 11 am-2 pm.
2. The Garvin-Garvey House
Located at the intersection of Bridge Street and Wharf Street within the “Old Town” district of Bluffton, this Lowcountry house was built in 1870.
It is believed to be one of the earliest known homes owned by freed slaves that is still standing along the May River.
3. Church of the Cross
Erected in 1854 along the May River Bluff, this church is listed on The National Register of Historic Places due to its architecture.
The building is made of weathered Carolina pine with beautiful arched windows and lattice shutters.
The windows (shipped from England) have a beautiful pink hue.
Docents are available on the Historic Church property to give guided tours Monday -Thursday from 11am – 2 pm.
3. May River Excursions
If you are traveling with your kids, one of the fun things to do in Bluffton is to take a May River excursion.
This tour company specializes in tours on the water and has everything from dolphin tours to crabbing excursions.
Families will love the private excursion to a local sandbar to hunt for shark teeth & shells.
Along the way, you might even get to see the local Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
4. Enjoy some South Carolina BBQ
One thing everyone coming to South Carolina should try is Carolina BBQ. South Carolina BBQ has its own style of sauce called Carolina Gold.
The main ingredient in South Carolina BBQ sauce is Mustard.
While not for everyone, you will find an array of different sauces if mustard isn’t your thing!
As you can see, spending the day in Bluffton, South Carolina will give you the opportunity to see some really amazing places.
This town is really one of the hidden gems of the area and if you are making the trip to Hilton Head or Savannah, it is worth the time to stop and check it out!
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