Visiting South Carolina Upcountry, Lakes and Rivers

South Carolina, land of smiling faces and beautiful places. A visit to Columbia, the “Capital of Southern Hospitality” or Charleston, the “best-mannered” city in the U.S.A., will take your breath away. South Carolina is the belly of the south and is known for its “Lowcountry” cuisine - a vibrant mix of southern, Caribbean, and African dishes. Land of towering coconut cake and hot bubbly cobbler, iced sweet with a slice of lemon, and brown paper bags full of boiled peanuts, South Carolina has flavors that are beyond mouth-watering.

With 24 Best Western hotels in South Carolina’s deep southern parts, you’re sure to find accommodations with friendly faces waiting to greet you.

Catch Tony the peanut man at City Market selling South Carolina’s official snack food - boiled peanuts. Clad in a Gullah hat and bowtie neatly around his neck, you’ll know him when you see him, as he’s sure to be singing- "I’ve Got some boiled. Got some toasted. Got some stewed. Got some roasted. I’ve got em’ all." The best peanuts in all of South Carolina is what Tony’s peddlin’ and if you ask him why he’ll simply state, “I Gotta move. Gotta sell. I gotta make a buck”.

Toast, located at the corner of Meeting St. and Cumberland is like stopping by your grandmother’s house for a full out southern meal. Home of the Bottomless Mimosa, travelers will love the fried green tomatoes and crab cakes. With a friendly staff and smiles in abundance, don’t be surprised if someone up and hugs you just to say hello. Upon leaving don’t forget to ask your waitress for a pen and a toast- a little note card on which you can write your very “toast” to the restaurant, to yourself or to the customers who come in to dine after you. And while you’re at it, why not pop a bottle of champagne or wine to celebrate life as your write. Cheers to a grand time.

Slightly North of Broad is one of Charleston’s most popular restaurants. Their Maverick Shrimp and Grits are delicious and despite the nickname SNOB, the ambience is casual and relaxed. Acclaimed chef Frank Lee and his love of culinary creations from Lowcountry foods is easy to spot- with a trademark red pepper cap and glasses low on his nose, Frank is the heart behind SNOB. Stop in and be sure to say hello, his friendly expression will warm your heart and you’ll be sure to stay for a helping of the “South of Broad” Classic- rum and chocolate custards layered on Oreo cookie crust. Yummy!

Sip a cup of local homegrown American Classic Tea and relax at a Best Western hotel after a day sampling and savoring the character of South Carolina.

South Carolina Upcountry, Lakes and Rivers Hotel Map