We often forget that the United States is not that old — few cities even crest the two-century mark.
Here in the Grand Strand, things sometimes seem especially young. We’ve got new hotels, new restaurants and new attractions that seem to pop up daily.
Then we head a little south, to quaint Georgetown, S.C., and get a dose of what life was like so very long ago.
When you head to Georgetown — a seaside community halfway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston — the best way to dip into its historic significance is through the fun and informative Swamp Fox Tours Company. Cars pull iconic blue and white trams around town, led by one of their friendly and knowledgeable guides. They’ll have you thinking, chuckling and maybe shaking a little in your boots — they’ve been known to tell a ghost story or two, and when we’re talking about a town that’s nigh 300 years old, ghosts do linger.
One of the cool things about Swamp Fox Tours is how frequently they run: hop on a tour every hour on the hour between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. Adults are $15; children 6-12 are $5 and kids 5 and under are free. Private tours for weddings and other parties are available with group rates. Purchase tickets in town here.
Ok, so now you’re in love with Georgetown and don’t want to leave. What to do? Hang out for a while, that’s what. Here are some of our favorite spots in this great town:
Aunny’s Country Kitchen: Here’s the thing about Georgetown — great restaurants abound. We’re highlighting Aunny’s on our list because it’s quintessentially Lowcountry and not to be missed. Po’boys, chowder, fried chicken, fried pickles, okra, and grits — you get the idea. Daily specials ensure even more southern favorites, and friendly service brings folks back again and again.
Old Fish House / Big Tuna Raw Bar: You go to Texas for brisket, Kansas City for ribs, and the South Strand for seafood. So do yourself a favor and come here. Casual, friendly dining and ice-cold brews; it’s one of those spots where you’ll see just as many locals as tourists. Start with she-crab soup, move on to the fried oyster basket and wash it all down with a Charleston-based Palmetto Pale Ale. Did we mention the view out back? Oh, it’s good. Real good.
5 Rivers Tavern and Grill: Dependable, tasty, always bustling and pleasing to the masses, 5 Rivers is one of those spots that every town needs. We like the idea of getting a couple of apps to go with drinks here: fried green tomatoes, nachos, crab cakes and hush puppies are all great accompaniments to their extensive beer, wine and spirits list. Pizzas are laden with cheese and toppings on a crisp crust, and their burgers with fresh-cut fries are delish. Seafood is not to be missed, neither are the waterfront views.
River Room: This is another gem in Georgetown, but with a sophisticated edge. Like any self-respecting local spot, the scenery is gorgeous. But beyond that, River Room offers seafood-heavy apps as well as entree delights such as shrimp and scallops with Cajun Tasso ham, stuffed chicken, blackened ribeye and more. The wine list is long and a martini is almost mandatory here. We like this for date nights or celebrations.
Now that you’re an expert on Georgetown history (and food and drink) wander along its beautiful waterfront and duck into a few museums. Options big and small entice, but all will give you a further glimpse of this wonderful spot and will entice you toward many, many happy returns.
Georgetown is just a short drive south from your stay at Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort, and our staff can give you many additional recommendations of things to do, eat and see while visiting.
(Posted: 9/28/15)
