Things To Do
in Irmo

A weekend market where local farmers and artisans sell seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods—great for fresh peaches, squash, honey, and homemade preserves.

During events and weekends you’ll find food trucks and pop-up vendors offering barbecue, tacos, and local sweets near Saluda Shoals and lakefront areas.

People in Irmo and the Midlands are generally friendly—brief greetings, polite conversation, and courtesy go a long way. Expect smiles and casual small talk with strangers.

Respect local norms around modest dress and behavior in religious settings; Sunday services are central to many community activities.

Use please and thank you, hold doors for others, and be patient in customer-service interactions—Southern politeness is valued.

Be on time for scheduled tours and reservations; while social events can be relaxed, organized activities usually start as scheduled.

Tipping is expected in the U.S.: typically 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for delivery if there is no delivery fee; tip ride-share drivers and hotel staff a few dollars for luggage or valet.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common. Carry some cash for small vendors or farmers market stalls, though most will accept cards or digital payment.

Hot, humid weather with daily highs often in the upper 80s–90s°F (30–35°C). Expect strong sun, occasional thunderstorms, and busy lake activity—pack sunscreen, light clothing, and mosquito repellent for evenings.

Mild and pleasant with cooler mornings; peak foliage typically arrives later in fall in upland and forested areas. Great time for hiking, outdoor festivals, and lower humidity.

Mild winters with daytime highs often in the 50s–60s°F (10–20°C) and occasional cold snaps. Snow is rare but possible; layering helps for chilly mornings and evenings.

Blooming gardens, warming temperatures, and intermittent rain—excellent for outdoor activities, farmers markets, and photography of wildflowers.

Multiple short to moderate trails through pine and hardwood forest, boardwalk sections, and birding opportunities; family-friendly and close to town.

Easy riverside trails, paved greenways, and bridges along the Saluda River ideal for walking, running and casual biking.

Trails and shoreline walks around Lake Murray with opportunities for fishing and scenic picnic spots.

A short drive away, Congaree offers a renowned boardwalk through an old-growth floodplain forest—great for dramatic photos and easy hiking.

The nearest major airport (about 20–30 miles): offers domestic flights and is convenient for reaching Irmo by rental car or shuttle.

A major international hub roughly 90–100 miles away—useful for more flight options; about a 1.5–2 hour drive depending on traffic.

Irmo is popular with families and professionals seeking suburban housing, schools, and parks.

A significant portion of the population are multigenerational locals with deep community ties and local traditions.

Many residents commute to Columbia and Lexington for work, education, and specialized services.

Proximity to the University of South Carolina and other colleges brings students and younger adults into the region for classes, events and entertainment.

Gamecocks football is a major local interest—college sports create a lively atmosphere in the fall with tailgating and strong community support.

High school athletics and youth leagues (football, baseball, soccer) are central to local weekend life and community identity.

Water sports on Lake Murray—bass fishing, power boating, and paddle sports—are very popular among locals.

Several nearby courses and country clubs attract golfers year-round in the mild climate.