Ardmore
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ardmore's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Ardmore and check into your hotel, taking a moment to settle in and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some home-cooked Southern favorites. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the nearby parks and appreciating the lush greenery.
Visit the historic Ardmore Depot and Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area and its development during the railroad era. Afterward, grab lunch at a charming diner and chat with locals to feel the community spirit. Consider a stroll through Main Street, showcasing unique shops and boutiques.
Dine at a local restaurant known for its mouthwatering barbecue, indulging in a feast of smoked meats and tasty sides. Post-dinner, head to a live music venue where you can experience the vibrant arts scene and enjoy performances from local artists. End the night with a relaxing walk along the lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day immersed in art and culture. Head to the Charles Babbage Institute to explore exhibits on technology and innovation, which will deepen your appreciation of Ardmore's contributions. Spend time wandering the local art galleries, discovering works by resident artists.
After a cultural morning, enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste the freshness of locally sourced ingredients. Attend a workshop at a local arts center, engaging your creativity while learning new skills. Allow yourself to be inspired by the talents of fellow attendees, fostering connections and collaboration.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet dinner at a cozy bistro, savoring a dish paired with a local wine. If there's a play or musical performance happening at a nearby theater, make plans to attend and support local artists. Wrap up your evening with a casual stroll through the downtown area, taking in the twinkling lights and vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with a sunrise hike at the nearby Lake Murray State Park, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the serene views. A breakfast picnic by the water can elevate your experience, allowing you to soak in the nature surrounding you. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you wander through the scenic trails.
After your hike, return to Ardmore for a hearty lunch at a local pub, reflecting on your morning adventure. Spend the afternoon at the Elmer Thomas Park, where you can partake in various outdoor activities such as paddle boating or cycling. Enjoy the shade of the trees while resting on a bench, appreciating the tranquility of the environment.
For dinner, find a spot with riverside views, relishing the delicious flavors of the area. Attend a community event or concert in the park, mingling with locals and appreciating the friendly atmosphere. As the stars fill the night sky, find a quiet spot to sit and take in the beauty of the moment.
After breakfast, visit the Ardmore Historic District, where you can take a guided walking tour of its charming old buildings. Each structure tells a story from the past, enriching your understanding of Ardmore's heritage. Capture photos of the fascinating architecture as you walk through the streets.
Once you've finished your tour, stop for lunch at a café known for its house-made pastries and coffee. In the afternoon, explore the nearby adjacent historical sites that may include Civil War monuments and interpretive centers. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into local history.
Dine at an elegant restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, treating yourself to a fine dining experience. Afterward, consider stopping by a local haunted tour to learn about the ghostly legends of Ardmore, adding an element of thrill to your evening. Finish with a nightcap at a pub that offers live storytelling or ghost tales.
Kick off your adventure sports day with a filling breakfast at a local diner, then prepare for an exhilarating day ahead. Head to a nearby facility offering rock climbing, zip-lining, or obstacle courses, allowing you to challenge your limits. Embrace the adrenaline as you conquer various obstacles and enjoy breathtaking views.
After a morning filled with excitement, refuel with a picnic lunch provided by the facility or enjoy a meal at a nearby eatery. Spend your afternoon trying out watersports on Lake Murray, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. The combination of sunshine, water, and adventure will create unforgettable memories.
As the day winds down, opt for dinner at a laid-back grill that features outdoor seating with fire pits. Relive the day's highlights with your companions over delicious food and drinks. Wrap up the night with a night hike under the stars, experiencing the natural beauty of Ardmore in a whole new way.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to the local farmers market, where the aroma of fresh produce and baked goods fills the air. Explore local vendors offering handmade goods, art, and delicious treats while engaging with passionate artisans showcasing their wares. Take your time selecting some local snacks to enjoy later.
After picking up some treats, indulge in lunch at a delightful café that sources its ingredients locally. Utilize the afternoon to shop at unique boutiques that line the downtown area, each offering one-of-a-kind items you won't find anywhere else. Don't forget to interact with shop owners who often share fascinating stories about their products.
As the evening approaches, treat yourself to a dining experience at a restaurant known for seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. Attend a local craft event or workshop to create something special to take home, enhancing your personal connection to Ardmore. Conclude your day with a visit to a local ice cream parlor, enjoying a sweet treat under the stars.
Begin your day of relaxation with a nourishing breakfast at a wellness-focused café that offers healthy options. Follow up with a yoga session at a nearby studio, immersing yourself in a calming practice that helps center your mind. Feel rejuvenated as you connect with nature through breath and movement.
Savor a light lunch post-yoga before indulging in a spa treatment renowned for its soothing ambiance and professional staff. Experience a massage or facial that will help melt away tension, leaving you feeling refreshed and reenergized. Consider exploring the nearby botanical gardens to further immerse yourself in a peaceful environment.
For dinner, choose a restaurant with a focus on organic, locally sourced meals that nourish both body and soul. Spend your evening enjoying a peaceful stroll around your accommodations, perhaps even indulging in a good book by the water if the area allows. Embrace the serenity of the evening, reflecting on your journey in Ardmore.
Start your culinary journey with a breakfast at a trendy spot known for its innovative twists on classic dishes. Spend the morning exploring the town’s best coffee shops and bakeries, sampling unique flavors and artisan brews. Engage with baristas and bakers to learn about their craft as you enjoy your treats.
After your breakfast tour, join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare regional dishes. Working alongside skilled chefs, you’ll get hands-on experience that enhances your culinary skills while making new friends. Wrap up the class with a communal lunch featuring the delicious meals you've prepared together.
Treat yourself to dinner at an upscale restaurant known for its tasting menu, showcasing the best of local fare. Enjoy a wine pairing that complements each dish you sample, truly delighting your palate. After dinner, explore dessert options at a popular sweet shop before soaking in the lively atmosphere of Ardmore's nightlife.
As your trip comes to an end, enjoy a final breakfast at a favorite café, taking in the ambiance one last time. Reflect on the experiences you’ve gathered and the connections you’ve made throughout your stay. Consider wandering through any local spots you may have missed before departure.
Before you leave, visit the local shops for souvenirs or gifts that remind you of your time in Ardmore. Enjoy lunch at a casual eatery, reminiscing on your favorite moments spent in the area with friends or travel companions. Take in the last views of the city as you prepare for your journey home.
Depart Ardmore with a heart full of memories and a bag filled with unique finds. Whether returning home or heading to your next destination, consider this experience a stepping stone for future adventures. Until next time, Ardmore—may the memories linger and inspire.