Things To Do
in Clemson
Clemson is a small university town in the Upstate of South Carolina anchored by Clemson University. The campus sits amid rolling hills and is bordered by the scenic shores of Lake Hartwell. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, admire collegiate architecture, and enjoy outdoor recreation just steps from campus.
The area blends Southern hospitality with outdoor adventure, making it a convenient base for exploring the Blue Ridge Foothills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Clemson and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the small-town atmosphere. Afterward, head to Clemson University for a guided campus tour, where you'll learn about its rich history and vibrant culture. Make sure to visit the iconic Tillman Hall and the beautiful botanical gardens nearby.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling Southern cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Post-lunch, explore the Clemson Experimental Forest, which offers miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque scenery.
Wind down your day with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Clemson. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along Lake Hartwell, where you can appreciate the peaceful surroundings and maybe spot some local wildlife. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local brewery for a taste of South Carolina craft beers.
Start your day with breakfast at a cozy diner before heading to the Clemson Area African American Museum. Dive into the local history and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts. The morning will be a blend of education and exploration as you learn about the contributions of African Americans to the Clemson community.
For lunch, venture to a nearby restaurant to taste some classic Southern BBQ. Afterward, visit the Fort Hill Plantation, the historic home of former Clemson President Thomas Green Clemson, which offers guided tours rich in history. Stroll the beautifully preserved grounds and learn about the pivotal role the plantation played in the university's founding.
After a busy day, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a waterfront restaurant offering stunning views of Lake Hartwell. Indulge in fresh seafood and local dishes while watching the sunset over the water. Consider catching a live music performance or an open mic night at a local venue to soak in some regional talent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night at a mid-range hotel | $120-200 |
| 💡Monthly utilities (basic) | $150-220 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for one person | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong college-town energy with easy access to outdoor recreation
- Walkable campus and nearby lakefront scenery
- Friendly locals with Southern hospitality
- Rich collegiate sports culture and events
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Can be crowded on game weekends and fall events
- Hot, humid summers requiring outdoor planning
- Less public transit coverage outside campus areas
Places to Visit in Clemson
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic campus buildings and red-brick terraces offer classic collegiate photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Lush gardens, walking trails, bridges, and seasonal flowers provide vibrant nature shots.
Historic hillside grounds with views overlooking the valley and campus—great for landscape photography.
The stadium lights and surrounding glow create dramatic night photography opportunities on game days or during concerts.
Water reflections and sunrises over the lake provide peaceful, scenic photography.
Food in Clemson
Clemson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoky meat often served with coleslaw and hush puppies; widely available at casual eateries near campus.
Must-Try!
Creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce.
A southern favorite served on crackers, sandwiches, or burgers.
Savory breakfast staple found in diners and cafes around campus.
A quintessential Southern beverage widely offered at dining spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, jams, breads, and prepared foods by local vendors.
Rotating lineup of food trucks and casual windows around campus and downtown for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello and a smile; small talk about weather or campus events is common.
Respect quiet study areas and keep noise reasonable; follow posted rules during campus events.
Casual attire is common; be mindful that events and venues may have 21+ age restrictions for alcohol.
Safety
Tipping in Clemson
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips of 15-20% are customary in restaurants and for taxi or rideshare services; rounding up is appreciated at casual spots.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile wallets; some smaller vendors may take cash only; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take midday breaks; outdoor activities are best early morning or evening.
Mild temperatures with vibrant fall foliage; ideal for outdoor hikes and campus photography; traffic can increase on Homecoming weekends.
Cool to mild, occasional cold snaps; snow is rare but possible; layers are essential; many outdoor trails remain accessible.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers; great for gardens and outdoor events; expect seasonal pollen and rain showers.
Clemson at Night
Hiking in Clemson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular Blue Ridge escarpment hikes with sweeping views and forest scenery.
Steep, rewarding climb to a ridgeline overlook with valley views.
Short, scenic waterfall hike near nearby Walhalla, a short drive from Clemson.
Airports
How to reach Clemson by plane.
Approximately 45-60 miles from Clemson, with multiple daily flights and ground transportation options to campus areas.
About 90-100 miles from Clemson; convenient for certain regional flights and a scenic drive via the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Approximately 120-130 miles from Clemson; hub for international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of the population comprises Clemson University students, with a strong presence of graduate and undergraduate students from across the country and abroad.
Families and long-time residents who live in the Clemson area and nearby towns.
Tourists, family visitors, and alumni who come for campus events and seasonal festivities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Clemson Tigers football is a major regional tradition with large stadium crowds and season-long fan engagement.
Men's and women's basketball programs with strong fan support in the arena on campus.
Spring season games with local and student support; family-friendly ballpark atmosphere.
Recreational and collegiate golf opportunities in the region; scenic courses nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clemson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetarian-friendly options by selecting veggie burgers, salads, veggie bowls, and sides; many menus feature veggie dishes and fresh produce.