Things To Do
in Clemson

Clemson, South Carolina, is a vibrant college town known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. Home to Clemson University, the town boasts a youthful energy and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. Located near the picturesque Lake Hartwell, it offers numerous outdoor opportunities and scenic views.

The community is friendly and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Clemson
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Clemson University campus to explore its stunning architecture and gardens.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before heading to the South Carolina Botanical Garden to take in the beautiful flora and walking trails.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and then catch a game at Memorial Stadium if it's football season.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Table Rock State Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to Clemson for a picnic lunch at the park, followed by a visit to the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce for local artisan shops.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at a local brewpub and enjoy live music or a trivia night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🚌Public transportation ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$120
🍕Pizza$12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful outdoor scenery and parks
  • Vibrant, youthful atmosphere due to the university
  • Rich cultural and historical experiences
  • Limited nightlife options outside of college events
  • Traffic congestion during school events
  • Weather can be hot and humid in summer

Places to Visit in Clemson

Visit one of these nice places.

Clemson University Memorial Stadium

Capture stunning shots of this iconic stadium, especially when filled with cheering fans during game days.

Lake Hartwell

A picturesque location perfect for sunset views and serene lake scenes.

South Carolina Botanical Garden

The vibrant flowers and serene landscapes make this garden a perfect backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Clemson

Clemson offers a delightful array of Southern cuisine, craft brews, and local specialties that cater to all tastes.

Clemson Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barbecue

A Southern staple, try the local pulled pork served with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread.

Must-Try!

Shrimp and Grits

A must-try dish featuring creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp cooked in a savory sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Clemson Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market showcases local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Clemson experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures frequently reach the 90s °F (30s °C), while winter lows can drop to the 30s °F (0s °C). Spring and fall provide pleasant conditions, making these seasons ideal for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents typically greet each other with a friendly 'Hello' or 'How are you?'—it's part of Southern hospitality.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, though there is a general understanding of Southern 'flexibility' in less formal settings.

Dress Code

Casual attire is common, but be mindful of local customs when attending events or dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Clemson is generally safe for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep personal belongings secure. The local police are approachable and can assist with safety inquiries.

Tipping in Clemson

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% in restaurants; rounding up for baristas and taxi drivers is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for lake activities but be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage create an attractive landscape for hiking and photography.

Winter

Though mild, occasional cold snaps can occur; it's a quieter time to enjoy local indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Clemson at Night

Clemson's nightlife revolves around its vibrant college atmosphere. The town features numerous bars, pubs, and live music venues, particularly near the university. Popular spots often host trivia nights, karaoke, and live bands, attracting both students and locals. The nightlife remains lively during football season, with pre-game festivities adding to the excitement.

Hiking in Clemson

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Foothills Trail

A scenic trail spanning over 76 miles, offering varied terrain and beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Table Rock Trail

This challenging trail leads to the summit of Table Rock, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Clemson by plane.

Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)

Located about 45 minutes from Clemson, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the primary airport for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Clemson is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance in the downtown area. The presence of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly pathways encourages walking. However, some areas outside the main commercial district may require a car or bike for access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Clemson's population consists of university students, contributing to the town's youthful vibe.

Families

Families are a prominent demographic, often drawn to the area's recreational opportunities and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

College Football

Clemson is known for its passionate college football culture, with the Clemson Tigers being a prominent team in the NCAA.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with both men's and women's teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during their seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Clemson can be heavy during peak hours, especially when the university is in session and during sporting events. Public transportation options are available, but many residents and visitors prefer to drive. Ride-sharing services are also commonly used for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Clemson.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in dishes like salads and pasta.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives; it's advisable to ask staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Clemson has access to quality healthcare services, including urgent care centers and local hospitals. The nearby Prisma Health system offers comprehensive medical services, and residents can access specialized care within a reasonable distance. Emergency services are also readily available.

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