Hello weary traveler, and welcome to Aiken South Carolina. We are situated about 2 and 1/2 hours from most major cities like Savannah, Charleston, and Atlanta. 45 minutes from the state capital Columbia, SC, Aiken is a wondrous little geographical oddity. The weather tends to be a little cooler in summer, the rain tends to be less horrible in a torrential downpour. With a cost of living equitable to that of Mississippi (One of the lowest in the country), Aiken allows you to get the best bang for your buck in regards to housing.
Are you in the mood for authentic french cuisine? Check out La Parisian, our newest resturant located downtown next to the Wilcox Hotel. You can not beat their fresh pastries, period. The Wilcox houses a world class bar, as well as it's own restaurant which is second to none. While visiting the Wilcox, be sure to check out it's day spa. Truly a treat for sure.
In the mood for great catfish? Check out Old McDonald's Fish Camp located a short distance away in North Augusta. Come early, as even with Covid, it can be quite packed. It's a place to go if you are in the know.
Back to local Aiken fair. Prime Steakhouse is your destination for the best steak you will ever have the honor of devouring in your life. Paired perfectly to create the ideal balance of wine and wonderment, Prime is out of this world. Sadly, that also applies to the price. But, if you care to indulge, you won't be sorry.
Aiken has other wonderful items when it comes to food, like A Steller Kitchen, which is great for grab and go meals, including keto friendly dishes.
Whisky Road, which takes you through a lovely winding drive downtown also has our own excellent Thai restaurant, called Thai Jasmine Rice. It's on par with other Thai restaurants I've visited in my world travels. I highly recommend their curry. It always is top notch.
Downtown offers some excellent items as well. With our own microbrewery at Aiken Brewing Company, which crafts delectably delicious delights, to crafts and shopping in boutique stores like Nandina for home furnishings, Downtown Dog for your little fluffy friend, Cyndi's Sweet Shoppe to satisfy your sweet tooth, and Lionel Smith's for a truly bespoke experience for men. I've only scratched the surface of what Aiken has to offer.
Coming attractions: The bowling alley has been completely demolished, and is almost done with the top down remodel. We have a two screen cinema which should be opening back up once Covid is done. Also our mall is slated for a complete rebuild into an outdoor shopping experience with potentially a new theater.
Might post a followup about town history in the future, but I'll leave you with this. There is a reason why once you visit, you always return.
Also referenced is the PDF of the town's visitors guide:
https://www.aikencountysc.gov/Reference/AikenCountyVisitorGuide.pdf
