Explore Summerville, SC

How to Make the Most of the Summerville Flowertown Festival

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:43:02 GMT

A Q&A with the Summerville Family YMCA

The Summerville Family YMCA shares tips to help you enjoy their iconic Flowertown Festival like a seasoned local.
Visit the Official Festival Site

March 27th-29th, 2026

March 27: 9 am – 6 pm

March 28: 9 am – 6 pm

March 29: 9 am – 4 pm

Q: For someone visiting Summerville for Flowertown Festival for the first time, what’s your biggest “know before you go” tip?

A: The Summerville Family YMCA Flowertown Festival is the largest annual fundraising event to support programs and financial assistance at our YMCA. The event began 53 years ago as an arts and crafts festival and is now one of the largest events in the Southeast welcoming more than 230,000 visitors over the three-day weekend. Because we have such a large attendance, we recommend visitors wear their walking shoes and utilize available public and paid parking options near the festival perimeter.

The YMCA offers a respite area near the corner of 5th and Main Street, but does not provide shuttle transportation to and from vehicles. To best support the health and safety of all guests, smoking and pets are not permitted within the festival . With more than 400 vendors in attendance, the Flowertown Festival truly has something for everyone. For a complete list of vendors, please visit the Festival site or follow us on Facebook for event information and updates. And the fun doesn’t end when you leave the Flowertown Festival. Just outside of the Festival footprint, there are local businesses to support such as Sweetwater 123, Nailed It DIY Studio and so many others!

A local’s tip : Make a full day of your trip to Summerville! Start off at 8am with breakfast at Biscuit Belly or coffee and a pastry at StillWild Coffee. Walk over to the Flowertown Festival when it opens at 9am and stroll through Azalea Park to view the arts and crafts vendors. Snap a few photos with the bronze statues in the park or next to the blooming azalea bushes. If you’re traveling with kiddos, be sure to visit the Youth Festival to ride on twirling swings or try your hand at a carnival game. The food options are endless, so you’ll want to breakup your meals throughout the day so that you can sample all of the delicious local food vendors. Stop by the entertainment stage to listen to artists displaying their skills. With more than 400 vendors, you really can spend an entire day shopping and experiencing all that the Festival has to offer from Otter interactions, flower crowns and everything in between! After your day at the Festival, head over to The Icehouse for dinner and dessert at a local favorite!

Q: Why do you think Flowertown Festival is such an important tradition for Summerville, both for longtime residents and first-time visitors?

A: Flowertown Festival is such an important tradition for Summerville because it’s more than just a weekend event. It’s our community’s way of officially kicking off the spring season while celebrating the history, charm, and hospitality that define our town. For longtime residents, it’s a cherished annual tradition that reconnects them with neighbors and local pride; for first-time visitors, it offers an authentic glimpse into the heart of Summerville. What makes it especially meaningful is its impact: all proceeds directly support YMCA programs and services that benefit our community, including youth programs, swim safety initiatives, health and wellness efforts, and financial assistance for families that need it most.

Q: What’s your advice for enjoying Flowertown at a slower, more local pace — especially for families or visitors who want to avoid feeling rushed?

A: For anyone who wants to enjoy Flowertown Festival at a slower, more local pace (especially families) start by embracing the setting itself. Much of the festival footprint is located within the Azalea Park, which naturally lends itself to a relaxed experience. Instead of trying to see everything at once, pick a small section to explore, then pause - there are plenty of benches and shaded spots where you can sit, take a break, and truly enjoy the blooming azaleas that give Flowertown its name. Grab a bite from one of the food vendors and settle in near the entertainment stage to enjoy local performers without rushing from booth to booth.

Q: Are there certain times of day that feel more relaxed or family-friendly during the festival?

A: Yes - if you’re looking for a more relaxed, family-friendly experience at Flowertown Festival, the best time to come is on Friday or Sunday morning when the gates open at 9:00 a.m. The morning hours tend to be noticeably calmer before the larger mid-day crowds arrive, which makes it easier to navigate strollers and browse vendor booths at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed. You’ll also have a much better chance at convenient parking, which reduces stress before you even step into the festival. By late morning into early afternoon, attendance typically peaks.

Q: How can someone find their way around once they are there?

A: Lifeguard stations with Festival volunteers are located at 2nd and 3rd Streets as well as an Information Booth at 5th Street. Our volunteers look forward to helping direct you to vendors, food and experiences that best suit what you’re looking for! You can also visit the official Festival site with the full list of vendors and a map to help you find your way around. Police, fire and EMS personnel are also on-site for the duration of the event to assist with medical or safety concerns.

Q: When visitors leave Summerville after Flowertown Festival, what do you hope they understand about our community?

A: When visitors leave Summerville after experiencing Flowertown Festival, I hope they understand that our community is defined by more than its beautiful azaleas and historic charm. It’s defined by people who show up for one another. Flowertown isn’t just an event; it’s a reflection of how deeply this town values connection, service, and investing locally. I hope visitors see that the festival’s success not only strengthens the surrounding businesses in town, our community as a whole through the YMCA programs the festival supports. If they leave knowing that Summerville is a place where traditions and community connection have a strong purpose despite our rapid growth, then the festival has done exactly what it was meant to do.

While you’re in Summerville, explore all that the area has to offer!

Places to Stay
Places to Eat
Things to Do
Day Trips

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Summerville This Spring

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 20:45:32 GMT

Your Guide to Springtime in Summerville

Spring arrives gently in Summerville, when azaleas bloom, patio tables fill, and the pace of the day slows just enough to savor it. Just beyond the bustle of Charleston, the Flower Town in the Pines offers an easygoing spring getaway rooted in gardens, history, and small-town charm. Here are just ten reasons to come and explore.

1. Azaleas and Outdoor Adventures

Spring in the Flower Town in the Pines brings azaleas spilling over garden gates, historic streets lined in color, and Azalea Park at its most beautiful. In the 1930s, thousands of azaleas were intentionally planted as part of the park’s development, helping shape the spring landscape visitors still experience today. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors with golf, birdwatching, or kayaking the Ashley River.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/outdoor-recreation

2. Stroll Through Historic Downtown

Historic Downtown Summerville is made for wandering, with locally owned boutiques, galleries, and cafés all within a few charming blocks of Main Street. Take time to visit the Summerville Museum, and learn more about the history of Summerville.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/what-to-do

3. Experience the Flowertown Festival

Held early each spring, the Flowertown Festival is one of the Southeast’s most celebrated arts and crafts festivals, drawing visitors for its blooming backdrop, artisan vendors, and lively atmosphere. It is the perfect centerpiece for a spring weekend getaway.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/local-events

4. Follow the Sweet Tea Trail

The Sweet Tea Trail is a uniquely Summerville experience that celebrates the town’s role as the Birthplace of Sweet Tea. Along the trail, you will find sweet tea–inspired treats, gifts, and specialty items at participating stops throughout town. It is a fun, family-friendly way to explore Summerville while discovering creative nods to its sweetest tradition.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/sweet-tea-trail

5. Patio Dining Season Returns

With warmer days and cool evenings, spring is ideal for outdoor dining throughout downtown. From brunch to evening cocktails, patio tables and porches fill quickly as the season settles in. A few restaurants we recommend: Bexley Raw Bar, Eclectic Chef, Sweetwater One Twenty Three, The IceHouse, La Chev 208, Laura, Montreux, and Five Loaves Cafe.

https://www.visitsummerville.com/eat

6. Explore Azalea Park & the Sculpture Garden

Azalea Park offers blooming pathways, peaceful green space, and a public sculpture garden tucked beneath the pines. It is one of Summerville’s most loved spots for a relaxed morning walk or quiet afternoon. Take a self-guided sculpture tour by Sculpture in the South.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/walking-the-ville-azalea-park-sculptures-tour

7. Shop Local Finds

Spring refreshes the displays in Summerville’s boutiques and antique shops, making it a wonderful time to browse for unique gifts and locally inspired pieces. You never quite know what you will discover along Main Street.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/shop-historic-downtown

8. Discover Summerville’s History and Arts Scene

From the Summerville Museum & Research Center to nearby Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, the area’s history is easy to explore at your own pace. Summerville’s cultural side is just as rich, with rotating exhibits at the Public Works Art Center and live performances at the James F. Dean Theater, home of Flowertown Players.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/do

9. Close to Charleston, Beaches, and Iconic Lowcountry Attractions

Summerville offers a peaceful home base just beyond Charleston, with easy access to the area’s top sights. From historic estates like Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to the Charleston Tea Garden on Wadmalaw Island and nearby beaches, day trips are simple while returning each evening to Summerville’s relaxed pace.

Learn more: https://www.visitsummerville.com/day-trips

10. Easy Planning with a Free Visitor Guide

Planning your spring getaway is simple with a guide that gathers the best of Summerville in one place, from dining and shopping to events and must-see stops. It is an easy way to map out a visit that fits your pace and interests.

Request your free guide here.

Just Like Home for the Holidays

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 03:51:04 GMT

Experience Summerville's Southern Ho-Ho-Hospitality

Making you feel right at home is exactly what Summerville's hosts do best because they understand that where you stay is just as important as where you go. After a stay in our sweet town, you'll find that "Southern hospitality" and "Summerville" are nearly synonymous.

As the saying goes, "There are no strangers, just friends we haven't met yet."

Enjoy the charm of Summerville’s downtown, fine dining, and shopping while being only minutes away from Charleston. You can do it all from Summerville — the center of your Lowcountry experience through the holidays. And once you're done adventuring for the day, Summerville will give you something wonderful to come home to.

Plan your trip!

WHERE TO STAY

Bed & Breakfast s & Inns

Looking for a cozy spot to nest for a spell? A Bed & Breakfast is the answer. Live like a local while you enjoy the hospitality of your gracious hosts, take in the charm of a sprawling porch or beautiful garden, and rest peacefully on the comfy bed made up just for you. Many of the inns and bed & breakfasts are within walking distance to Downtown Summerville.

Hotels

If the familiarity of a hotel is your preference, Summerville offers several options. With many located close to the interstate, you can lay your head down for the night and then get up and go wherever your itinerary leads you. Some of these hotels are pet-friendly, many offering breakfast and pools - and all providing a warm welcome and helpful assistance from the front desk.

SEE & DO

Whether you're looking to get away for a quiet holiday with your family or seeking out a busy day trip full of festive cheer, Summerville's magical setting is sure to fill you with the Christmas Spirit.

Make your season bright by attending a local event:
Summerville’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Live Windows Display, The Holiday Market, and the Summerville Christmas Parade are just a few events coming up!

Get more information and details here:

Shop Historic Downtown
With decorated window displays and decor wherever you look, historic downtown of Summerville looks like it belongs in a Hallmark movie, with the locals just as sweet. Shop, sip, and eat to your heart's content - there's something for everyone!

Hint: Check out Hutchinson Square in the evening and get photos at the light displays! Be sure to tag us #visitsummerville so we can follow along!
Learn More

Arts and Performing Arts

Peruse the galleries of the Public Works Art Center, catch a performance with The Flowertown Players or the Summerville Orchestra , or plan a stroll through our parks to admire the sculptures installed by Sculpture in the South .
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Tours & Experiences

Experience Summerville through the people who bring its stories to life. Southern Clue Co offers immersive, puzzle-style adventures that lead you through town in a completely unique way, while storyteller Tim Lowry brings a bit of holiday magic to the streets with his guided walks inspired by Dickens. For something a little whimsical, Flowertown Charm , an urban farm and Bed & Breakfast, hosts multiple family-friendly farm-animal experiences that add a sweet, playful touch to your holiday stay.

Historic Sites

History buffs and garden lovers can enjoy all that the Summerville and Charleston area has to offer. The Sue Sanders Memorial Historic Homes & Flowers Walking Tour is a great way to explore Summerville’s historic homes. The oldest home on the tour is the Gelzer Brothers House, c. 1819.

Middleton Place , located on the Ashley River, is just 8 miles from downtown Summerville; you can take a stroll along 65 acres of garden paths that are more than a quarter of a millennium old.

Stop by Colonial Dorchester State Park where you can take a peek into the early history of life in colonial South Carolina. The Bell Tower is a great place for photos!
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Museums and Libraries

A quiet respite, the libraries and museums are wonderful places to take in local history. The Timrod Library is located in historic downtown Summerville, and is one of only two membership libraries still in existence in South Carolina. The Summerville Dorchester Museum features displays upstairs, downstairs, and a tour of the small courtyard, including the Saul Alexander garden. They also offer guided walking tours.
Learn More

Day Trips

These day trips are perfect for the person who doesn’t want to travel far from “home” base. Take a tour of The Charleston Tea Garden on Wadmalaw Island, which is the place to go if you like history and tea. Nature lovers and children love The Francis Biedler Forest .
Learn More

Antiquing

Summerville has no shortage of antique and vintage treasures just waiting to be discovered. Pick up a unique gift or take home a trinket to remember your trip!
Learn More

Outdoor Recreation

With temperate weather year-round, you can find plenty to do outside.
Bird watching, golf, nature trails, the Edisto and Ashley Rivers, parks, and local walking tours all offer the outdoors person an adventure to remember.
Learn More

At the Heart of Summerville: Dora Ann Reaves and the Story Behind a Beloved Photograph

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:59:52 GMT

A lifelong storyteller, Dora Ann Reaves has spent her life capturing the spirit of Summerville in words, in photographs, and in the moments that matter most.

The Woman Behind the Lens

When retired journalist Dora Ann Reaves looks at the photograph she took decades ago of Mrs. Evelyn Segelken in Azalea Park, it brings back more than just memories of a single day. It captures the essence of Summerville itself, a town of kindness, beauty, and people who care deeply for one another.

“I have very fond memories of that day,” Dora Ann shared. “My mother came with me for the interview because they were best friends, and I knew the key to getting Mrs. Segelken to relax and talk would be my mom. I still keep a copy of that photo in my home office.”

Behind Mrs. Segelken in the image bloom the ‘Pride of Summerville’ azaleas, a salmon-pink variety developed by her husband, George Segelken, a nurseryman who helped shape the park that remains one of Summerville’s most beloved spaces.

The Legacy of the Segelkens

In 1935, George Segelken donated 33,000 azaleas to help create Azalea Park during the Great Depression, an effort that would eventually turn Summerville into a springtime destination. His Pride of Summerville blooms became a local hallmark, and today, a memorial plaque honors his contribution to the town’s identity and its annual Flowertown Festival.

For Dora Ann , the portrait of Mrs. Segelken isn’t just a beautiful photograph; it’s a symbol of friendship and community, a connection between generations of Summervillians. “Whenever somebody new showed up at church,” she remembered, “she was always the first one at their door with a home bake. She was a great lady. A really great lady.”

A Life of Storytelling

Dora Ann’s instinct to preserve the stories that shape her community comes from decades in journalism. After graduating from Summerville High in 1964, her sixteenth school thanks to her military family’s frequent moves, she attended Winthrop and later joined The Evening Post, eventually retiring from The Post and Courier in 2006 after 36 years.

She covered everything from the Charleston hospital workers’ strike to the beginnings of Spoleto Festival USA, earning a reputation among her colleagues for her sharp wit, integrity, and deep compassion for the people she wrote about. “I loved every minute of it,” she said in her interview.

Even after retirement, her storytelling never really stopped. While living in West Ashley, Dora Ann once prayed, “Dear Lord, if I could live anywhere, I’d like to live at Shepard Park in Summerville.” Not long after, the opportunity came, and she made her home near the park she had admired for years — the same neighborhood where she still finds inspiration among her camellias and quiet streets.

Dora Ann began documenting the town she has long called home: its people, its history, and the art that continues to enrich it.

Ties to Art and Community

Dora Ann and her husband, Jim, became deeply involved with Sculpture in the South, helping foster Summerville’s impressive collection of public sculptures that today line the paths of Azalea Park. Together, they have celebrated the kind of art that, much like Dora Ann’s photography, turns ordinary moments into lasting memories.

While she speaks humbly of her contributions, her quiet influence is easy to see — in her photographs, in her support for the arts, and in the way she captures Summerville’s heart through stories worth remembering.

A Town Remembered Through Its People

Dora Ann’s life is woven into Summerville’s own story: from her days as a reporter to her work supporting the arts, and that unforgettable afternoon in Azalea Park with her mother and Mrs. Segelken. Her photograph, now recognized by many locals, stands as a visual reminder of what makes Summerville special — its people.

Because in the end, it isn’t just the azaleas that make the town bloom. It’s the hands that plant them, the neighbors who share them, and the storytellers like Dora Ann Reaves w ho keep their beauty alive.

From Camellia to Cup: Summerville's Tea History

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:11:41 GMT

Sweet tea is more than just a refreshing beverage - it's a symbol of Southern hospitality and tradition. For many years, this iconic drink has been a staple of Southern cuisine, and nowhere is its history more celebrated than in Summerville, South Carolina, the Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

The History of Tea

Tea has a rich history in America, with its roots dating back to the late 1700s when French explorer and botanist Andre Michaux first planted tea at Middleton Place Plantation, which is in modern-day Summerville.

Beginning in 1880, despite two failed attempts to grow tea in South Carolina, the federal government became interested in this new tea experiment. It established an experimental tea farm at the former Newington Plantation, leasing 200 acres from Henry Middleton.

In 1888, Dr. Charles Shepard, a philanthropist and professor at the Medical College of SC acquired 600 acres of the Newington Plantation property. He established the Pinehurst Tea Plantation using plants from the government’s farm. He cultivated about 100 acres, built a factory, and began to sell his tea commercially, becoming the first successful commercial tea farm operation in the United States.

After Dr. Shepard's passing in 1915, his plantation became deserted and remained so for over four decades until the Lipton Company purchased it in 1960. They salvaged the remaining plants from Pinehurst and utilized them to open a research facility spanning 127 acres on Wadmalaw Island.

In 1987, an expert third-generation tea taster trained in London named William B. Hall, purchased the tea farm to establish what is now the Charleston Tea Garden. In 2003, Bigelow Tea Co. purchased the farm and partnered with Hall.

The tea from the Charleston Tea Garden, all derivatives of Dr. Shepard's Camellia sinensis, is still growing there today and has earned the honor of the Official White House Tea and the Official Hospitality Beverage of South Carolina.

You can also see specimens of the tea plants from the Pinehurst Tea Gardens in the garden of the Summerville Museum .

Celebrating Sweet Tea

Summerville's passion for tea runs deep, and it is an integral part of the town's history and culture. Summerville holds the Guinness World Record for the World's Largest (Sweet) Iced Tea . The tea container, known as "Mason," stands over 15 feet tall and can hold up to 2,524 gallons of sweet tea. The record was set on National Iced Tea Day in 2016, and you can visit Mason near Town Hall.

The Sweet Tea Festival held each September is another testament to Summerville’s love for its place in tea history. Celebrated with vendors, great local food, live music, and a sweet tea contest.

The Hold My Tea Bar Crawl & Cocktail Contest is held the week of the festival and features the sweet tea cocktails of local bartenders competing for the title of the year’s “Official Sweet Tea Cocktail.”

Stop by the Summerville Visitor Center at 402 N. Main Street to take a photo with a larger than life sweet tea mural.

The Sweet Tea Trail
Experience all the sights, sounds, and flavors that make life in Summerville so sweet while collecting prizes along the way. The Sweet Tea Trail was designed to help visitors and locals explore the wonderment of the town by offering a self-guided, sweet tea-centric trail.

Trail Guides are available at the Summerville Visitor Center and all participating businesses. Collecting stamps at each stop with a purchase can earn visitors Official Birthplace of Sweet Tea gifts at the Visitor Center.

Summerville's love for sweet tea continues to flourish, and the town's dedication to preserving and celebrating its tea heritage ensures that the legacy of this delicious Southern beverage will be passed down for generations to come.

This article was first published in the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce quarterly magazine .
Updated September, 2025

At the Heart of Summerville: Biscuit Belly

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:43:50 GMT

"At the Heart of Summerville" is a blog series dedicated to exploring the vibrant community of Summerville, South Carolina. From the historic downtown area to the surrounding districts, we showcase the people and places that make Summerville such a special destination.

In this post, we interview Lauren Coulter of Biscuit Belly, a new dining option serving breakfast and lunch in Summerville, SC.

Let’s start with the important stuff—what’s your go-to order at Biscuit Belly?

(We know picking just one might be impossible!)

Oh, that’s a tough one! But if I had to choose, it’s gotta be the 'G.O.A.T.' The combination of crispy chicken, goat cheese and our pepper jelly on a perfectly fluffy biscuit is unbeatable. But I also can't resist our 'Love Shack.' Literally - if i see it, i must eat a bite. Brie + house made berry jam + our biscuits = perfection.

For those who haven’t had the pleasure of visiting yet, what makes Biscuit Belly more than just a breakfast spot?

Biscuit Belly is more than just a breakfast spot because we focus on the whole experience, not just food. We’re about fun, creativity, and pushing the boundaries of traditional breakfast. Our biscuits are the star of the plate, but it’s the atmosphere, the team, and our effort to level up the 'fast casual' experience that sets us apart. One of our core values is 'Genuine Charm' and i think it's this charming experience that keeps people coming back!

Biscuit Belly started in Louisville, Kentucky. Can you share the story of how it all began and how it grew from one location to many?

YES! Holy moly what a whirlwind. We opened location 1 in 2019, really just thinking it would be fun to share our love of Biscuits with the Louisville community. My husband is a classic visionary and for years had been talking about doing this breakfast concept. I was of course, telling him NO NO NO because we had a lot on our plates already...but as usual, he won out. And I'm glad he did! As the demand grew, we were fortunate to expand to new locations, including Summerville! Each spot we open has its own personality, but the heart and soul of Biscuit Belly remain the same.

Summerville is full of personality and charm—what drew you to open here?
To be honest, Chad and I were visiting Charleston on a rare getaway without our kiddo. While here, he booked some time to look at spaces for a potential Biscuit Belly - he is ALWAYS on the hunt. The agent happened to bring him to Summerville and something just felt right. The charm of the area, the friendly people...and the location of the building itself was perfect. Summerville has that perfect balance of small-town charm and a growing, vibrant community. The energy here is contagious, and the people are so welcoming. It felt like the perfect place for our next chapter. We love that Summerville has a mix of long-time locals and newcomers, and they all seem to appreciate good food with a bit of fun. We wanted to be part of that dynamic!

We love a good behind-the-scenes story. What’s something fun or unexpected you’ve learned since opening here?
People here have LOVED to talk to us. I seriously felt like a celebrity while walking down Main Street with my Biscuit Belly clothes on. Strangers would just stop me and ask me so many questions - as well as tell us the history of the building. This was extra special to me...Chad and are technically pharmacists. We both went to pharmacy school. Our building used to have an 'old time' pharmacy, so it really brings things full circle for us!

Biscuit Belly is all about comfort food with a twist. If you could describe Summerville in three words, what would they be?
W elcoming, community-driven, and, dare i say - a bit quirky? This makes us feel like we fit right in! There’s always something unique and fun happening here, and the people are so down-to-earth and ready to be a part of whatever comes their way.

Tell us about your Biscuit Bosses.
Our Biscuit Bosses are the heart and soul of Biscuit Belly. These are our amazing team members who have undergone the training necessary to make a Biscuit Belly biscuit. Their training is 4 days - they go from making small batches of biscuits to large ones, and it is a PROCESS. They make thousands of biscuits before people ever pay for their first one. We highlight them and want people to know how hard they work - when you come in Summerville and place your order, you will see them directly in our kitchen making their biscuits. Some concepts hide away their kitchen - but we like to showcase these folks.

Lastly, if you could have brunch with anyone (famous or not), who would it be and why?
This is an easy one - and i will take the liberty of answering with two answers. One is my sweet grandpa who passed away just after his 80th birthday. He loved breakfast - and getting it was something we did together. He never got to eat a Biscuit Belly biscuit but i know he would love it. The other - obviously - Taylor Swift. ��

Biscuit Belly opened February 4th, 2025, and is located in Downtown Summerville at 118 W Richardson Ave Suite 101, Summerville, SC 29483.

A Day Trip from Charleston to Summerville

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:50:47 GMT

See Summerville in a Day!

Are you a Charleston local or guest looking to explore beyond the city's confines? Dive into the heart of Lowcountry charm with a day trip from Charleston to Summerville. Just 24 miles away, Summerville offers a picturesque escape for those seeking to experience the true essence of the Lowcountry. With these one-day itineraries, we'll show you how to make the most of your Summerville adventure.

Be sure to check out our Local Events page which features upcoming festivals and gatherings!

Mason - The World's Largest Sweet Tea Coloring Page

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 17:07:30 GMT

Color Mason, The World's Largest Sweet Tea

10 Must-Do Activities in Summerville, SC this September

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 18:53:23 GMT

As September brings cooler weather and a shift in seasonal activities, Summerville, South Carolina, offers the perfect blend of events and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a local or planning a trip, here are ten things you can enjoy this month in Summerville.

1. Sweet Tea Festival

No September visit to Summerville is complete without attending the Sweet Tea Festival , held annually in the downtown district. Known as the Birthplace of Sweet Tea , Summerville celebrates with sweet tea tastings, live music, and local vendors. This is a must-attend for both residents and visitors alike.

2. Explore the Historic Downtown

With the temperatures beginning to drop, take a leisurely stroll through Summerville's historic downtown. Browse through quaint boutiques, antique stores , and local art center . The Summerville Farmers Market is also in full swing every Saturday morning, offering fresh local produce and handmade goods.

3. Visit Azalea Park

Azalea Park is a year-round gem, but September is one of the best times to visit as the temperatures become more pleasant. With its walking paths, ponds, and sculptures , it’s an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon. Don’t forget to check out the sculptures that dot the park, offering a mix of art and nature in one peaceful setting.

4. Third Thursday

Summerville Dream's monthly Third Thursday event transforms the downtown into a lively street fair. With local artists, live music, and food trucks, this community event is the perfect way to spend a Thursday evening. You’ll feel the small-town charm that Summerville is known for.

5. Live Music at Montreux Bar & Grill

For music lovers, Montreux Bar & Grill on West Richardson Ave. offers live performances several times every week. September’s cooler nights are perfect for sitting on their patio with a beer or cocktails while enjoying some of the best live music Summerville has to offer. Whether you prefer rock, blues, or something in between, Montreux is the place to be for good food, good vibes, and great tunes.

6. Take a Historic Home Tour

Step back in time by visiting Summerville’s historic homes . With the cooler weather, it’s the ideal time to take a self-guided walking tour and learn more about the architecture and history that give Summerville its character. Many of these homes have been beautifully preserved and showcase the town’s rich heritage.

7. Bike or Walk the Sawmill Branch Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Sawmill Branch Trail is perfect for a scenic bike ride or walk. The trail offers over six miles of beautiful nature views, following the old sawmill canal through Summerville. It's an excellent way to enjoy the cooler weather while getting some exercise in a beautiful setting.

8. Pumpkin Carving with Goats

Celebrate the arrival of fall at Flowertown Charm's Pumpkin Carving with Goats events. Happening several days in September and October, this family-friendly activity lets you carve your pumpkin alongside the silliest goats! Tickets include everything you need: pumpkins, carving tools, and plenty of fun. Plus, the goats make for some great photo ops! This is an ideal activity for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to get into the autumn spirit in a fun, interactive way.

9. Hold My Tea Bar Crawl

Get a taste of Summerville’s nightlife with the Hold My Tea Bar Crawl happening this September. Featuring sweet tea-inspired cocktails, this multi-day bar crawl takes you through some of Summerville’s best local watering holes while earning spaces on a bingo card which can be redeemed for a free t-shirt. Whether you're a fan of creative cocktails or just looking for a fun night out with friends, this event is a unique way to experience Summerville’s vibrant social scene.

10. Kayak the Ashley River

September’s cooler weather makes it a great time for outdoor adventures, and paddling the Ashley River is a must-do. Explore the State Scenic River's wildlife and learn about its historic significance. Access to the river can be made at several points including the Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing and Howard Bridgman River Access at Bacons Bridge. The Ashley River is also an American Rivers Blue Trail .

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Plan Your September Visit

With so many events and outdoor activities, September is an ideal time to experience Summerville. Reach out to us at the Summerville Visitor Center if you need help planning your visit.

Indoor Adventures in Summerville

Fri, 17 May 2024 21:17:29 GMT

When the forecast calls for inclement weather in Summerville, it's the perfect excuse to explore the town's hidden indoor gems. From hands-on crafts to entertaining theater performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy – rain or shine.

Get Your Hands Busy

Pepper Jack Pottery Studio: A great rainy day activity! Create your very one one-of-a-kind piece of art at Pepper Jack Pottery Studio. This local favorite offers walk-in pottery painting for all skill levels and ages. They also offer classes and camps, so be sure to check those out, too! https://www.pepperjackpottery.com

Nailed It DIY Studio: Get hands-on at Nailed It DIY Studio. Located on Hutchinson Square, make an afternoon of crafting with your friends. Book your studio time and choose your project- they have everything you need to create something beautiful for you home. Simple Treasures, a beloved sweets shop, has recently joined this space, moving from their spot on Central Ave, so get some gourmet popcorn or homemade ice cream while you’re here! https://summerville.naileditdiy.com

People Places and Quilts: Celebrating the beginning of their 35th year this May, People Places and Quilts is a Summerville staple. They have also been recognized as one of the nation’s top ten quilt shops. Browse their extensive fabric collection (including sweet tea fabrics!), take home a quilt kit, get inspiration for your next project, or chat with their knowledgeable staff. https://peopleplacesquilts.com

It’s All Fun & Games

The Axe Joint: Test your aim at The Axe Joint. Throwing axes is like a game of darts, but perhaps a bit more exciting. First time? No problem. They have instructors there to guide you. Reserve a lane and grab a few of your best friends for drinks and axe-throwing! Conveniently located in Downtown Summerville. https://theaxejoint.com

Stars and Strikes: Keep the good times rolling at Stars and Strikes. There's something for everyone, from a huge selection of arcade games, laser tag, an escape room to 24 state-of-the-art bowling lanes. With great food, Stars and Strikes is truly a great spot to make lasting memories with family and friends. https://www.starsandstrikes.com/locations/summerville

Arts & History

Summerville Museum: Step back in time at the Summerville Museum. Explore exhibits that highlight our town's rich history, from its Golden Age to its significance in tea growing. Learn about the men and women who have shaped Summerville into what it is now. http://www.ourmuseum.org

Public Works Art Center: Check out the local art scene at the Public Works Art Center. With rotating exhibitions and hands-on workshops, there's always something new to discover here. Admission is free, open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm. https://publicworksartcenter.org

The Flowertown Players: Experience the magic of live community theater at the historic James F Dean Theater. Flowertown Players hosts a wide range of shows, workshops, and events throughout the year, creating an exciting space for theater fans of all ages and backgrounds. Fun fact: The theatre was originally a single screen movie theatre built in the 1930s. https://www.flowertownplayers.org

Rain or Shine...

There’s plenty to see and do in Summerville. Be sure to check operating hours and book in advance where applicable, and share your rainy-day adventures with us by tagging us on social media: @visitsummerville.

A Sweet Spring in Summerville

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 18:40:59 GMT

Experience the aptly named "Flower Town in the Pines"

Spring has finally arrived in Summerville, SC, and with it comes a whole host of sweet things to do in this charming Southern town. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something magical about this time of year, when the azaleas bloom, the weather warms up, and the town comes alive with events and outdoor activities. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Stroll Through the Azalea Park

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Azalea Park , located in the heart of Summerville. This 12-acre park features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and ponds. The park is famous for its stunning azalea blooms, which typically peak in mid to late March. In addition to the azaleas, you'll also find camellias, magnolias, and other spring blooms throughout the park.

Take a Walking Tour of Downtown

Summerville's historic district is home to many interesting and beautiful buildings. Taking a walking tour of the historic downtown is a great way to learn about the town's rich history and architecture. There are 13 stops on this tour, beginning at the Summerville Museum located at 100 E Doty St. Parking information is here . Spring is a great time to take this tour, as the weather is mild and the trees and flowers are in bloom.

Explore the Sweet Tea Trail

This is a delightful adventure designed for guests and locals to fully immerse themselves in the charm of Summerville as the Birthplace of Sweet Tea. Pick up a Trail Guide at participating locations or the Visitor Center, and earn stamps with purchases along the way. Stamps=Prizes! Learn more here.

Take to the Water
Grab your fishing rods, kayaks or a picnic and head to the Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing located at 4820 Ladson Road Extension in the Oakbrook area of Summerville. In addition to a public boat landing and fishing pier, Jessen Boat Landing has a walking trail and boardwalk area overlooking the picturesque Ashley River as well as a picnic shelter with tables.

Shop at the Farmers Market

Summerville's farmers market runs every Saturday from April through November and is a great place to stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and other treats. The market features local vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and jewelry. It's a fun way to support local businesses and stock up on goodies for the week ahead. Learn more about the Farmers Market here .

Enjoy Outdoor Dining

Summerville is home to many great restaurants, and spring is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor dining. Many restaurants in town have outdoor seating areas, and the mild weather makes it a perfect time to enjoy a leisurely meal al fresco. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or Southern cuisine, there's something for everyone in Summerville. Check out a listing of restaurants with outdoor dining here .

Attend the Flowertown Festival or Event

Spring is a busy season for festivals and events in Summerville. The Flowertown Festival, one of the town's most popular events, takes place in early April and features over 200 vendors selling arts and crafts, live music, and delicious food. Events in Summerville are always happening, and our local event calendar is a great place to start when planning.

Take a Hike or Bike Ride

Summerville is home to several great parks and nature trails, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sawmill Branch Trail is a popular choice for walking and biking, while the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site offers visitors a chance to explore the ruins of an old colonial town. Both options offer a chance to get some exercise while taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Check out more places to explore outside.

Visit a Historic Location

Located within a short drive of Summerville, you can step back in time and explore the South as it was over two and half centuries ago and Middleton Place and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens . With expansive gardens, historic homes, and new stories to hear, you'll walk away with a new appreciation for American history. You can also check out Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site that sits along the Ashley River.

There you have it, a list of all the sweet things to do in Summerville, SC during the spring season. From blooming azaleas and historic landmarks to local festivals and indulgent bites, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy during your visit. Whether you're traveling solo, with your family, or a group of friends, Summerville offers a unique and charming experience for all. We can't wait to welcome you to Summerville.

Want to learn more about Summerville? Request a Visitor Guide .

At the Heart of Summerville: Flowertown Players

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 15:18:33 GMT

An interview with The Flowertown Players at the James F. Dean Theater in Downtown Summerville

Can you share a brief history of the Flowertown Players and its significance to the town?

The building was built in 1935 by Carolina Films, Incorporated owned by Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Legendre. The theatre, changing management several times, showed movies until the mid-1970s when single screens fell out of favor. The building remained empty when in August of 1976 a group of eight Summerville theater enthusiasts recognized a need for live theater in the area and established the Flowertown Players, Incorporated. The current owner of the existing building was contacted, and these thespians presented their vision of the Summerville Community Theatre. It was agreed that the Flowertown Players could use the facilities as long as it would not cause any loss or liability to the owner.
Every year following four or five shows were produced until 1983. Even with the constant reinvestment of proceeds into the upkeep of the building and purchase of theatrical equipment, they could not keep up with the deterioration of the original structure. The Players were forced to vacate. However, the Flowertown Players team was not to be deterred. Moving the productions to Ladson Elementary School and rehearsing at the Coastal Center, they entered into negotiations with the Town of Summerville for the restoration of the old Theatre building and the return of community theater to Main Street. The Town of Summerville decided to sell the building to the Players.
With a degree in theater, James F. Dean designed the interior of the auditorium with its raked, stadium seating and excellent acoustical projection from the stage. Through private investors, the building interior was gutted, and after a two-year renovation project performances came back to Summerville in 1988. The building is listed as part of the Historic District in the National Register of Historic Districts. Following Jim’s death as a member of the original movers and shakers, the building was renamed in his honor.

What are some notable performances or events that have taken place in the theater over the years?

We have had many notable events at the theater but one of the biggest was when Hollywood came to town! In 2003 we did a production of Purlie Victorious, written by the legendary actor Ossie Davis, who also starred in the title role on Broadway. The director of the play, John Barracuda, invited Mr. Davis to come to Summerville to see the show and he accepted. Can you imagine how our Purlie, played by local actor Henry Clay Middleton, felt to be performing the role originated by the Tony-nominated author himself, sitting in the audience? Flowertown Theater was all over the news with shots of Mr. Davis arriving in a limousine, touring our theater and heading to a special dinner event at Alexanders across the street. Mr. Davis pronounced the show excellent and Flowertown Theater had a memory that would last forever (commemorated by a plaque in our lobby!).

Are there any distinctive architectural features or design elements that make the theater building unique?

The theatre was originally a single screen movie theatre built in the 1930s. You can still see where the old theatre seats were attached to the concrete floor when you walk into what we call “the hall,” the room just off of the lobby where patrons gather at intermission to enjoy refreshments. If you happen to attempt the Summerville B.I.R.D.S. Sculpture Trail , which is an artistic scavenger hunt featuring a series of life-size bird sculptures cleverly placed on buildings throughout our historic downtown, you may want to check out our very own James F. Dean Theatre to solve one of the clues (hint - look up!).

How does the Flowertown Players engage with the local community, both in terms of audience participation and collaboration with local artists or organizations?

We actively seek out partnerships with our local community. We are members of Summerville Dream and a partner organization with the Junior Service League. We formed a partnership this year with Beyond Basic, a local organization that works with individuals with intellectual disabilities to teach them life skills so that they become more independent. They work with us each month on various tasks around the theatre. We also just began talking to the staff of the Timrod Library to co-host an event that will publicize not only our production of 9 to 5, but also Dolly’s Imagination Library, a wonderful program started by Dolly Parton and her organization that provides free books to children up to age 5 when they start school.

Tell us about the impact that community theater can make on the local arts scene and what your vision is in terms of this.

Community theater is unique in its impact because it offers so many ways for a diverse group of people to work towards a common goal - it takes actors, directors, stage managers, props people, a backstage crew, box office staff, and costumers to come together, not to mention a dedicated staff including a Managing Director, an Artistic/Technical Director, and a Board of Directors, all working to ensure we can produce and present quality theater for our community. And let’s not forget the last piece of the puzzle - our amazing audience. Our vision is to continue this effort and grow our volunteers and audience by getting the word out about who we are and what we do so they can come be part of the magic!

Are there any upcoming productions that the Summerville community and visitors should be particularly excited about?

Certainly. Our annual Youth Production opens on March 15. This year we are performing Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. In April, we have our second Studio Spotlight Series production of the season, Take Me Out, performing in our studio space behind the main theater. We also have the final mainstage production of the season, 9 to 5 The Musical, opening on May 3. ( Get Tickets )

Are there any insider tips for getting the most out of a visit to the Flowertown Players?

If you’re local, the biggest bang for your buck is to buy a season ticket - it will save you money, you’ll get a complimentary Bring a Friend ticket for each show and you can pick your seats for the whole season! If you’re just visiting our lovely town, we encourage you to come by to find out what we have going on - chances are you can browse the shops and restaurants all around us, get tickets to our latest show and enjoy a wonderful night of theater and take an evening stroll around our Town Square.

Any closing thoughts?

We love it when people stop in randomly and want to see the theatre. There are so many people who are new to the area or who have lived here for years and didn’t realize that we are here. We welcome them to stop in and talk to us and learn more about who we are, what we do, and how they can get involved.

Check out their website for tickets and information:

https://www.flowertownplayers.org

133 South Main St., Summerville SC

A Hidden Gem: The Sue Sanders Memorial Summerville’s Walking Tour of Homes & Flowers

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:26:32 GMT

Unveiling some of Summerville's most iconic historic homes.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of every day, we invite you to take a moment to transport yourself to the peaceful streets of Historic Summerville. Here, where time takes its time, you'll find majestic oaks and church steeples that reach back to eras long past, beckoning you to experience the charm of yesteryears.

In Historic Summerville, each house holds a unique tale waiting to be discovered, and every corner tells a story. The self-guided "Historic Homes and Flowers Walking Tour" offers an insightful window into the town's history and charm. Get ready to walk, explore, and fall in love with Summerville's past and present.

Navigating the Path

Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a leisurely way to spend an afternoon, this tour is designed for everyone to enjoy at their own pace.

Embarking on the Historic Homes and Flowers Walking Tour is a breeze. Armed with a map and a sense of curiosity, You'll begin at Azalea Park , where you'll set out on a leisurely, one-hour, self-guided stroll past 20 historic homes. Each home is marked with a sign and a convenient QR code, providing seamless access to the audio tour.

As a visual guide, you'll find a map and descriptions of each home on the Visit Summerville website, ensuring that you won't miss a moment of the captivating history Summerville offers.

Uncover Stories of 20 Historic Homes

From Victorian elegance to Colonial charm, every home has a tale to tell, and no two houses are the same. One of the gems you'll encounter is " The Teacherage ," pictured above, a home that dates all the way back to 1882. Records show this 2-acre property was purchased in December 1881 by Mrs. Pauline B. Rhett for $300. This house is a true wonder, from its unusual octagonal room to the stunning medallion skylight stretching a jaw-dropping 18 feet high. It became a haven for teachers in 1944 when the Summerville School District acquired it. And in 1954, it found a new owner in author Paul Hyde Bonner.

Another iconic home on the tour is the Samuel Lord/Elizabeth Arden House , pictured below. This elegant Victorian residence was crafted around 1891 for Samuel Lord by the very contractor who shaped the Old Pine Forest Inn. Standing tall at three stories and adorned with graceful double piazzas, the home boasts a distinct Charleston charm. Notably, this residence found a new owner in 1938 – Elizabeth Arden, a luminary in the cosmetic industry. She acquired it as a winter retreat and remained in her possession until 1954.

Plan Your Journey into Summerville's Past

Ready to step back in time and experience Summerville's rich history? Start here to take the tour , or by stop by the Summerville Visitor's Center at 402 N. Main St., Summerville.

This article was first published in the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce quarterly magazine .

Bars & Nightlife in Summerville

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 19:45:21 GMT

Exploring the After-Hours Charm of Summerville's Nightlife

Maybe you've spent the day sight-seeing, visiting with family and friends or doing a little retail therapy... and now the sun is going down but you're not quite ready to end the day. Luckily, there's plenty to see and do in Summerville at night. Whether you seek live music, serene dining, a relaxed bar, exploring the arts, or a chance to soak in our distinctive Southern hospitality, you're sure to find a memorable experience.

To Do

Seeking something exciting to do with friends and family? Try your hand at axe throwing at The Axe Joint ! Instructors are available to get you started with the basics if you’re a newbie. Another entertaining destination is Selfie Addict Studio on S. Main Street. Immerse yourself in the full sensory experience offered at SAS with a variety of options for interactive selfie-taking fun at Summerville’s first Selfie Museum.
If you’d rather sit back and take in the arts, enjoy a performance by the Flowertown Players or the Summerville Orchestra . Both organizations offer full calendars and ticket purchasing options online.

Bars & Pubs

If a tasty bite to eat paired with local beer or handcrafted cocktail is up your alley, Summerville has plenty of bars and pubs to choose from. The Knot Burger Pub is a must-try for burger aficionados. Carolina Ale House is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner, with everything from sandwiches to seafood, sure to please any palate in your party. For a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu with southern fare and craft beverages, visit The Azalea Bar & Garden . Dining with your pooch? Head over to Dog and Duck and choose something delicious from their menu while relaxing on the pet friendly patio.

Live Music

Music lovers will find themselves right at home at O’Lacy’s Pub on Short Central. This is the perfect place to grab a beer and listen to a live band or participate in their bi-weekly Music Trivia Nights. Also in downtown Summerville, Montreux Bar and Grill hosts bands playing anything from Blues to Rock and Roll, and boasts a large selection of draft and bottled beers, as well as a wide menu ranging from fish tacos to shrimp and grits.

Fine Dining

If you’re planning a romantic date night or just in the mood for fine dining, you don’t have to look far in Summerville. In the quintessential Southern setting, La Rustica is a family run restaurant operating in a historic home surrounded by live oaks. Offering age-old family recipes from Italy, seats for dinner are in high demand, so check their website to see if you'll need reservations or if you should utilize their waitlist.
Sweetwater One Twenty Three has a long-standing history serving delicious fare in the lowcountry. The menu includes southern staples such as freshly ground burgers topped with pimento cheese and sweet tea glazed lamb. Another stop on the not-to-be-missed fine dining list is Bexley’s Fish and Raw Bar . Featuring the freshest seafood from the lowcountry, this family owned gem on W. Richardson Street is sure to please any seafood lover with its enticing menu. Right in the heart of downtown, Laura offers rustic Italian dishes with pasta made in-house and sauces prepared from scratch. High quality ingredients and classic preparation makes Laura a must-try establishment.

Wineries & Breweries

Summerville offers several wine bars and breweries that are perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. Accent on Wine has a large selection of wine for patrons to choose from, as well as regular specials and tastings. Another fun stop for wine tasting and small bites is Wine & Tapas Bar on Main Street. It's a delightful place to enjoy a glass of wine and enjoy live music. They recently started serving cocktails, so give them a try! Headed down Central Ave, you’ll find a quaint homegrown wine bar called Luxe Espresso & Wine Bar . Relax in the warm lowcountry evenings at their charming outdoor seating area while enjoying live music, Bingo or Open Mic Night.

Off World Frothy Beard Brewery and Tap Room has a relaxed atmosphere, entertainment such as music bingo, trivia and dozens of unique beers to taste. Oak Road Brewery is another establishment known for its lengthy list of beer on tap and laid back atmosphere. Be certain to taste their 1847 Summerville Lager!

Hotel Bars

Close to the interstate, guests and visitors to Cambria Hotel Summerville will love the freshly prepared cocktails and craft beer served in the Cambria Hotel Summerville Restaurant and Bar. The Garden Grill at Hilton Garden Inn Summerville also offers its guests an on-site restaurant and bar.

Summerville has so much to offer when the sun goes down. With plentiful dining, drinking and entertainment options, there truly is something for everyone. Plan your next unforgettable night out with family and friends in The Heart of it All, Summerville.

While we strive to maintain accuracy, please verify information on the official websites of the mentioned locations.

A Summerville Summer: Outdoors & Ecotourism

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 14:49:46 GMT

There’s a reason our town is called Summerville. Aside from its rich history and unwavering Southern hospitality, Summerville is also a mecca of outdoor activities. With plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors, families and individuals alike will be delighted to participate in ecotourism , self-guided tours and other engaging activities this summer.

Fishing and Water Activities

A park that offers a beautiful walking trail with scenic views is Jessen Boat Landing . Overlooking the picturesque Ashley River, the boardwalk provides nature lovers and bird watchers with the perfect setting to bask in Summerville's natural beauty. Launch your boat and partake in a peaceful cruise down the river, or drop a line in the water and troll the Ashley. This park also is an excellent destination for dock fishing, with the possibility of reeling in catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and more. After a peaceful stroll down the boardwalk, the property's picnic shelter is a welcoming place to rest and enjoy lunch. Renovations are currently underway, including new restrooms.

Another beloved river a short drive from Downtown Summerville is the Edisto River. As the country's longest free-flowing blackwater river, it is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hop on a tube and enjoy a float down the tranquil water with friends and family. Edisto River Adventures offers tube rentals for a refreshing and thrilling trip down the river from spring through fall.

Parks in Summerville

Summerville has many outdoor attractions waiting for you to discover this season, including many scenic parks and playgrounds . Azalea Park is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. The park spans 12 acres in the heart of town, with well-maintained paths leading past several ponds, fountains, and various beautiful native plants, most notably the azalea. While in Azalea Park, explore the permanent sculptures installed by Sculpture in the South . A hands-on guide is available to download online that includes a map and description of each sculpture.

The Sawmill Branch Trail , running parallel to the Sawmill Branch Canal, boasts a ten-foot-wide paved path reaching nearly seven miles in length. Throughout its expanse, the trail allows users to experience Summerville's wildlife, such as whitetail deer, egrets, alligators, and more. While the path travels along a wooded area, it is mostly in the sun, so be sure to pack some water and sunscreen for your adventure.

Rosebrock Park is a great destination for individuals interested in really engrossing themselves in nature. With 1.5 miles of trails running through over 70 acres of protected forest, including a quarter of a mile along the Ashley River, Rosebrock Park showcases much of the natural beauty Summerville is known for. Ecotourists will love the interpretive panels that continue along the trail, offering visitors a chance to learn more about the park's history, conservation efforts, science, and more. Additional information is available on each panel via a QR code.

Magnificent Gardens

Magnolia Plantation is another great place for nature lovers to enjoy Summerville's innate beauty. This property is open 365 days a year and is home to the oldest public garden in American history. Some trees and plants seen here have been growing on the property since the 1840s. Built in the 17th century, the estate has a breathtaking view of the Ashley River, which can be enjoyed while strolling through what is widely known to be the most popular garden in the state of South Carolina. After enjoying the gardens, Magnolia Plantation guests can participate in the guided tours or climb aboard the nature train. While riding, you will travel around the plantation's 450 acres of diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, swamps, and marshes. On this excursion, you will have the chance to see many animals, such as alligators, turtles, and several species of birds. Your tour guide will teach you about the native plants you come across on the grounds and the history of rice cultivation at Magnolia Plantation.

With meticulously maintained gardens and captivating architecture, Middleton Place is another must-visit destination for residents and ecotourists alike. Guided garden tours are offered throughout the day and will discuss the land, plants, and history of the gardens. Guided tours are also available to those interested in learning more about the historic livestock breeds at Middleton Place. After the tour, linger in the stable yards to observe the heritage breeds still housed there. Also in the stable area are blacksmith, pottery, and textile demonstrations, showcasing the skills used by the enslaved men and women who are at the core of Middleton Place's history.

Historical Architecture

An additional point of interest for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate historical architecture is Dorchester County Historical Society's Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site . Step back into history as you explore a colonial village established in 1697 along the banks of the Ashley River. The wonderfully preserved remains of structures from Colonial Dorchester include:

The bell tower of St. George's Anglican Church.
Remnants of the cemetery from St. George's parish.
A fort made of oyster shell concrete, called tabby.

The historic site also features an interpretive trail with kiosks and exhibits that describe the history of the village that once stood there. This location is also a stop on Summerville's Sweet Tea Trail, so don't forget to stamp your Trail Guide while visiting!

Birding and Nature Walks

The perfect place for photographers and bird watchers alike, Francis Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary is one of only two forests left in the state that have never been logged. Francis Beidler Forest offers two trails for the public to use. Open only during business hours, the boardwalk trail gives visitors an in-depth look into the old-growth swamp comprised of cypress tupelo trees. It is the home of many species of birds and other animals, such as alligators, river otters, and dozens of others.
Additionally, the Grassland-Woodland Trail takes visitors down a dirt path through Longleaf Pine, woodland, and grassland habitats. This ecosystem supports a wide range of species that birdwatchers and photographers will treasure observing, such as Painted Buntings, Blue Grosbeaks, Loggerhead Shrikes, Purple Martins, and an abundance of sparrows. The Francis Beidler Forest offers several types of guided tours to allow further engagement in the diverse ecosystem. Exciting options for ecotourists include guided night exploration, kayak and canoe tours, guided bird tours, and private tours.

More to do!

For a memorable summer chock full of outdoor fun, dive into all that Summerville offers. From an exciting float down the Edisto River to an afternoon learning about the significance of the Old Dorchester State Historic Site, there is something for everyone here.

Summerville's events and festivals happen year 'round, so check out the local event calendar at visitsummerville.com/local-events .

At the Heart of Summerville: Virginia Lowndes Bailey

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:48:23 GMT

This ongoing blog series will feature interviews with local business owners, residents, and community leaders, as well as highlight the top attractions, events, and hidden gems in town.

Honoring Mrs. Bailey, Creator of Slogan, "Summerville, The Flower Town in the Pines"

We invite you to delve into the origins of our beloved town slogan, "Summerville, The Flower Town in the Pines," as we celebrate the remarkable woman behind it, Mrs. Virginia Lowndes Bailey.

Recently, a commemorative ceremony took place at the GSDC Chamber/Summerville Visitor Center, honoring the slogan's 98th anniversary. In attendance were members of the Bailey family, town-elected leaders, and representatives from the Garden Club and Chamber of Commerce, all gathering to pay tribute to Mrs. Bailey and recognize her invaluable contribution.

This event stood as a poignant reminder of the transformative impact Mrs. Bailey had on shaping Summerville's identity. Visitors to the Summerville Visitor Center will now be greeted by the striking portrait of Virginia Lowndes Bailey, exhibited alongside the original document relating to the historic slogan contest. This display serves as a powerful testament to Mrs. Bailey's enduring legacy, reminding us of her remarkable talent and the distinction bestowed upon her by the Chamber all those years ago.

In the 1920s, horseback riding emerged as a beloved activity, cherished by both locals and visitors alike. Mrs. Virginia Lowndes Bailey, known for her affinity for flowers, was also an ardent horsewoman. To honor her multifaceted legacy, the Bailey family generously donated a horse weathervane, now adorning the pinnacle of the Town Hall cupola. This charming symbol serves as a poignant reminder of Summerville's equestrian heritage and Mrs. Bailey's recognition through her winning slogan.

As you explore Summerville, immerse yourself in its rich history, wander through its charming streets, and take in the beauty of the nature that surrounds. Pause to appreciate the weathervane atop the Town Hall, a symbol of Mrs. Bailey's equestrian passion and the cherished memories she left behind.

Honoring the past by celebrating individuals like Mrs. Bailey is how our town's heritage continues to thrive. So, join us in celebrating the remarkable woman behind our beloved slogan and discover the sweet charm of Summerville, The Flower Town in the Pines.

27 Free Things To Do in Summerville

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 02:30:05 GMT

A rich history, beautiful parks, and plenty of free things to do.

Summerville, South Carolina is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of free activities to enjoy. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, here are some fun, budget-friendly activities to keep you entertained and give you a taste of the local culture:

Visit Mason - the World's Largest Sweet Tea ! Mason, a Guinness World Record holder, stands over 15 feet tall and can hold 2,524 gallons of sweet tea. Snap a photo with Mason and tag us on social with @visitsummerville and #visitsummerville! Located in downtown Summerville next to Town Hall, 200 South Main Street.
Marked by a historic placard, you can discover the front gates of the bygone majestic Pine Forest Inn , an iconic Summerville inn that presidents visited. The Pine Forest Inn sat on 60 acres and opened its doors in 1891. The internationally renowned hotel had four floors, elevators, and 150 sleeping apartments. Located at the intersection of Linwood Lane and Salisbury Drive.
Attend the Old Time Summerville's Christmas Celebration . Experience the magic of live window displays, the annual Christmas Tree lighting, and Santa in downtown Summerville. Many festive events happen during the Christmas season , and many are free.
Stop by the Summerville Visitor Center inside the Summerville Area Chamber of Commerce for information on events, attractions, and activities in the area. Friendly and knowledgeable staff will greet you.
Parking is available for free in the Summerville Parking Garage . From there, you can explore historic downtown on foot.
Take a self-guided Historic Homes Walking Tour . This walking tour starts in Azalea Park with a leisurely one-hour stroll by 20 historic homes with a sign and QR code with information about each home.
Take a bike ride on the Sawmill Branch Trail . Check out the newly painted mural celebrating native flora along the Gahagan underpass at the Berlin G. Myers intersection.
The Fireworks and Freedom Festival is held annually on July 4 at Gahagan Park . You will want to experience this free, family-friendly event with live music, food, fireworks, a kid's zone, and loads of fun!
If you appreciate art and a little game of hide and seek, keep your eyes peeled for painted rocks in Azalea Park. Guests and locals often hide rocks for others to find, usually with instructions to post to a Facebook page. If you're feeling crafty, bring some to hide, too!
Discover the past on the Walking the 'Ville Downtown Summerville History Tour . This self-guided walking tour takes you through 13 stops in Historic Downtown, where you'll learn about the beginnings of the "Flower Town in the Pines."
Find 23 birds hiding around downtown on the B.I.R.D.S. Sculpture and Art Tour ! Solve the limerick clues to find their locations.
Visit Public Works Art Center - always free admission and three galleries with exhibitions that change every six weeks.
Meander through Azalea Park to explore the sculpture tour placed by Sculpture in the South. Azalea Park has Main Street running through the middle, with paths, ponds, and sculptures on each side. Parking is available at 105 W. 5th S St. or along S. Magnolia St. between E. 4th and E. 5th St.
Visit one of many playgrounds in Summerville . The Saul Alexander Park playground and Gahagan Park playground are a couple of family favorites.
Pack a picnic lunch and spend an afternoon at Jessen Boat Landing . The public boat landing and fishing pier has a walking trail and boardwalk area overlooking the picturesque Ashley River .
Attend a Summerville Parks and Recreation live music concert in downtown Summerville called Sounds on the Square . These shows offer various bands and typically take place in April, May, June, and September from 2 - 9 p.m. Participants should bring their chairs or blankets.
Window shop around downtown Summerville . There is always something interesting to discover and friendly faces to meet in Summerville.
Enjoy an outdoor movie on a big screen at one of the parks. Summerville Parks and Recreation hosts Free Movie Fridays ; check their schedule for details. Remember to bring a chair or blanket!
Attend the Summerville Family YMCA's Flowertown Festival . On one 3-day weekend during the spring, thousands of festival-goers transcend this gracious Southern town to take in the flowers and hospitality to attend one of the Southeast's largest arts and crafts festivals. (Dates for 2023 are March 31 - April 2)
Grab your racquet and play a game of tennis at Saul Alexander , Doty , or Azalea Parks . Doty Park also has a pickle ball court.
Skate at the Summerville Skate Park , located at the corner of S. Magnolia St. and E. Richland St. It's open every day from dawn to dusk.
Explore the Oakbrook Nature Trail . This trail is a loop that covers a twelve-acre tract of land located just off Springview Lane near Summerville Medical Center. Keep your eyes peeled, as this area is home to a variety of Lowcountry wildlife, including whitetail deer, turkeys, and a bevy of our reptilian friends.
Check out Summerville Dream's Sweet Tea Festival , which happens every year in September. (Dates for 2023 are September 16th) Enjoy the local musical talents and a variety of foods and vendors spread throughout the historic downtown area.
Peek over the white picket fence and into the Summerville Museum and Research Center garden, where you'll see the Saul Alexander Garden House and tea plants.
Pack a picnic and head to Hutchinson Square to enjoy the shade of the spanish moss-laced oak trees, trains passing by, and the excitement that comes from being in the center of the hustle and bustle of downtown Summerville. The pavilion and sign were inspired by the historic train depot that existed near Hutchinson Square in the early 1900s and the archway that once spanned Main St. near Hwy. 78.
Peruse the Summerville Farmers Market . The market is held on Saturday mornings from April - November and features fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors.
Grab a photo and have a picnic at the Birthplace of Sweet Tea Mural by Kevin Morrisey. It is located at the back of the Summerville Visitor Center.

These are just a few of many free things to do in Summerville. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something for everyone in this charming town.

Visiting Summerville in the Fall

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 17:05:57 GMT

Summerville is typically known as the place to be in the spring due to the flowering azaleas and warm weather… but make no mistake that this charming town debuts its own unique beauty this time of year.

VISITING SUMMERVILLE IN THE FALL

Happy Fall, Y'all! Summerville in the fall is just about as sweet as it is any other time of the year!

The historic downtown square features a sprawling display of scarecrows, the porches are decorated in a cozy fall fashion, and numerous festive events make this season in Summerville a treat. The coffee shops bring out the pumpkin spice and the bars are playing the latest college football game.

Let's plan your next trip into Summerville:

10 Things you can only do on the Sweet Tea Trail

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 20:33:14 GMT

2- Enjoy the winning Sweet Tea Cocktail (and all the runners up) from the annual Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest. Local Bartenders create goodness with Sweet Tea as an ingredient.

5- Float the tea tannin stained waters of the Edisto River with Edisto River Adventures , the only place to float in the Lowcountry.

6- Explore Sweet Reads at the Timrod Library one of only two membership libraries still in existence in South Carolina.

8- Picnic at the bigger than life Sweet Tea Mural on the back of the Summerville Visitor Center- 402 N Main Street.

Visit the Birthplace of Sweet Tea-Summerville, SC

and experiece the historic and bold flavors that prevail in a town rich with history. Prepare to be charmed.

1-Take a photo with Mason - The World's Largest Sweet Tea. Over 15 feet tall and can hold up to 2,524 gallons of Sweet Tea. The Town of Summerville made its way into the record book by setting the Guinness World Recored for the World's Largest (Sweet) Iced Tea on Naional Iced Tea Day. Stop by anytime day or night, Mason lives in historic Downtown Summerville between Town Hall and the parking garage.

3-Savor the Sweet Tea Pecan Pie with a side of bbq. Recipe created by Bakers Garden and BBQ.

4- Discover the Tea Plant (Camellia Sinensis) in the courtyard at the Summerville Museum .

7-- A sweet tea to go from Guerins , South Carolinas oldest Pharmacy that has been serving Summerville since 1871

9- Grab a Trail Guide and experience the historic and bold flavors along the Sweet Tea Trail and earn unique prizes along the way.

10- Explore All the Sweet Tea Trail has to offer. Shopping, Dining, Parks, History, Historic Homes.... Click here for more information.

It is time to take a slow down

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 18:30:04 GMT

It's Time for a Slow Down in a Town that's known for its Southern Hospitality.

Slowing down means something a bit different to just about everybody. In general, though, slowing down is really about setting the unnecessary aside and focusing on what's around us.

In Summerville, we're all about slow southern style and love to serve it up with plenty of good southern hospitality. We've pulled together a few suggestions to help get you started. Tell us what we've missed by tagging us with a picture @VisitSummerville.

Slow Down by: Tucking the phone in your pocket. It is good to be connected, and we all love using the phone for maps and information.

But the truth is, outside of that bright little screen, you can find some delightful things.

Take in a performance at the James Dean Theatre or stop in the FREE Art Gallery –in the sweetest little walkable historic downtown. Learn a little something at the Summerville Dorchester Museum or sit in Hutchinson Square and say hey to a stranger- who knows the stories you will hear. Some old-fashioned conversation over a fantastic meal is always a great idea.

Slow Down by: Connecting with the great outdoors and remember why it is called “great”. In a town known for its flowers, you will always find something blooming in Azalea Park. With sculptures, paths, bridges and ponds, there’s something to admire on every trail. A QR walking tour of historic homes gets you off the beaten path and into the neighbors, where the houses and gardens date back to the 1800s.

A drive to Colonial Dorchester is a look back in time along the historic Ashley River. Big on animals? Check out goat yoga at a local B&B or take a drive to Bee City , family-friendly with plenty of fresh air.

Slow Down by: Sitting on a porch- and Summerville has plenty of lodging options that all start with a big front porch. Perfect for slowing down and retelling stories about this big, wonderful world. We always recommend a glass of something refreshing, like our famous sweet tea.

Slow Down by: Taking your time to find a special gift. There is no reason to hurry where the parking is free, and the shops are packed with adorableness.

Many are located in historic buildings and homes, and the merchants are so sweet. Pick up a Trail Guide to help you discover the Sweet Tea Trail and unique goodies you will want to take home.

There are so many more reasons we love the Sweet Life of Summerville and know you will love it, too. If you've got questions about your upcoming Summerville Road Trip, are curious about all the fantastic eats we've got around here — or want to know just about anything else, just give us a call! We'd love to hear from ya, and we can't wait to see you!

Summerville Visitor Center

402 N Main

Open Monday - Friday 9am-5pm

Saturday 10am - 3pm

Sunday 1pm - 4pm

Drying Tea Leaves

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:03:41 GMT

Guest Blogger- Ellen talks about drying tea leaves from her own backyard.

J eff and I both grew up in New England but consider ourselves Southerners after living in South Carolina for the last 34 years. My beloved grandfather was a huge tea drinker. No matter how hot the weather, he drank hot tea even in his unairconditioned house, saying, “Ah, good tea”, after the first sip.

I’ve been fascinated with tea since we bought our house in the Tea Farm area of Summerville in 2011. Most people from this area know the story of Dr. Shepard and his tea plantation. If not, there is a lot of the history to be found online. Although nothing remains of the original Pinehurst Tea Plantation, the area still has some active tea plants and is the finest place in the area to find mature Camellia plants. We have more than three dozen camellia plants growing on our one-acre lot that are breathtaking in beauty. They bloom from October until April with each variety blooming at different times. I have yet to figure out how many different varieties we have, but it is well over a dozen. In addition to that, when the tea olives bloom, I literally close my eyes and stand still and sniff the air to take in as much as possible.

We took a trip to the Charleston Tea Plantation, now the Charleston Tea Garden, a couple of years ago to learn more about the history of tea in this area and visit the very plantings that came from Summerville’s tea farm. We had a great tour of the place, learning a lot about the effort that goes into growing tea. We purchased some loose tea and tea ball infusers before we left, which I use regularly.

About that time, my husband and I talked about growing our own tea plants. We did some research, reached out to a neighbor with a blooming tea plant and retrieved some cuttings from his plant. We did our research and steamed the leaves, cooled them with water, dried them in the oven and stored them, but when we tried to make tea from them, we found it lacking in flavor. Obviously, not enough research was done. We planted some cuttings in our greenhouse, but since we were not living in Summerville full-time, splitting our time between Aiken and here until this year, the plants did not fare well. Although our first try didn’t work, we plan on trying again sometime soon. In the meantime, I’ll keep using my tea from the Charleston Tea Garden and my infuser, and living in the sweetest part of Summerville to us, the Tea Farm!

For more information about the Charleston Tea Garden, visit https://charlestonteagarden.com/

For more information about the history of tea in Summerville, visit https://south-carolina-plantations.com/dorchester/pinehurst-tea.html

Pictures:

1 Sign on Tea Farm Road tells of the history of the Tea Farm

2 Side two of the Tea Farm Road sign

3 Some of the Camellia varieties in our yard

4 Signage at Charleston Tea Plantation (Garden)

5 Sign at Charleston Tea Plantation recognizing Summerville’s entry into the Guinness Book of Records in 2018

6 Signage at Charleston Tea Plantation regarding Summerville’s tea production

7 Loose tea available for purchase at Charleston Tea Plantation and an infuser

8 Tea cuttings from a neighbor’s tea plant

9 Planted the cuttings

10 Steam the leaves for 1-2 minutes and then cool with cold water immediately to stop heating

11 Roll the leaves and place in oven for heating at about 220 degrees for 10 minutes, turning halfway through

12 Dried leaves after heating

13 Store in a sealed glass container

The Timrod Library

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 12:59:52 GMT

The Timrod Library: A Heart for Books and Reading for 125 years.

The Timrod Library: A Heart for Books and Reading for 125 years

Just as the historic Timrod Library is nestled in the heart of Summerville, a love for books and readers is at the heart of everything that happens there—and it has been for a long time. This year, the library marks 125 years of learning and literacy in Summerville, a mission that continues today.

The seeds for that mission were planted in 1897 by a group of Summerville women who formed a reading group, inspired by the Chautauqua Literary movement. In 1908, they formed the Timrod Literary and Library Association for the purpose of creating the town’s first library. The building at 217 Central Avenue was dedicated in 1915. Expansions in 1927 and 1985 completed the library as it is today. A ramp added in 2021 makes the library more accessible to people of all abilities.

A bell on the front door jingles with each arrival and departure at the Timrod. The card catalog is still in daily use here, and book due dates are hand-stamped on check-out cards. This little library may be quaint, but it’s no museum piece. It is operational and busy, housing an eclectic collection of books, from the latest bestsellers to vintage reference editions, plus a dedicated children’s section.

The Timrod is also home to a full calendar of literary events, including story time for kids, author appearances, book signings, book clubs, and more. Visitors are always welcome during library hours, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friendly staff members offer guided personal tours and insights into the library’s storied history and outreach to the community.

The Timrod Library is a subscription or membership library. Membership is $25 yearly for an individual or family and is open to everyone. Membership covers everyone in a household, including book-borrowing privileges and discounts on tickets for special library events. Most library programs are open to members and non-members alike.

For more information about the library’s history, events, and membership:

Website: https://www.thetimrodlibrary.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Timrod-Library-301741173187227

Instagram: @thetimrodlibrary

Presents Meets Past at Historic Timrod Library

https://booksmakeadifference.com/timrod-library/

Did you know?

· The Timrod Library building is listed on the National Register of Historic places.

· The Timrod Library’s diamond-pane windows were made by local carpenter Jim Cooper when the building was constructed. A handful of houses and cottages in downtown Summerville also have examples of Mr. Cooper’s distinctive windows.

· Subscription libraries were the forerunners of today’s public libraries. Benjamin Franklin created the first one in the United States in 1731. Only twenty or so subscription libraries remain in the US.

· The library is named after Henry Timrod, a nineteenth century poet born in Charleston who composed an ode that became the South Carolina state song.

· The Timrod Library is also an affiliate of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides books for children and encourages literacy through early reading. https://www.thetimrodlibrary.org/imagination-library.html

· The Timrod Library operates with a small staff and a cadre of volunteers, including a board which oversees and directs the nonprofit Timrod Literary and Library Association. Library operations and maintenance of the historic building are funded by memberships, donations, events, and other fundraising efforts.

Come and Stroll the Sweetest Town in the South

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 12:31:55 GMT

Famous for its flowers and mild temperatures, strolling Summerville is a favorite.

Azalea Park

A visit to Summerville wouldn’t be complete without flowers, right? Located close to the Summerville business district, Azalea Park is a landscaped garden that bursts with color every season. Pathways wind throughout the 12-acre tract, featuring gazebos, bronze sculptures, an amphitheater, reflecting ponds, and shade. Bustling with azaleas and camellias, few places in Summerville are emblematic of Flowertown’s nickname. As host to the annual Flowertown Festival, the park is also used for weddings and special events. The perfect relaxing walk past the ponds, creeks, bushes, and flowers.

Locoated at 105 W 5th S St with free parking and bathrooms.

Summerville Historic Home walking tour

Summerville host a scenic self-guided walking tour of historic homes starting at Azalea Park and winding through its off-the-beaten-path streets. The Summerville Walking Tour of Homes and Flowers offers a glimpse into homes tapped by the National Register of Historic Places as worthy of preservations. Participants should prepare for about an hour of moderate walking.

Hutchinson Square

It was newly remodeled for strolling and sitting, and we think it is the best spot for enjoying the outdoors. The large oak trees with courtyard fountain with the biggest welcome sign invite you to grab a drink and stay awhile. Bronze sculpture, music on the grandstand, you may sit and visit a newfound friend more than you stroll.

Come and Sip the Sweetest Town

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 17:14:01 GMT

Grab a Trail Guide for sweet rewards while you sip.

Although we are known for our love of Sweet Tea, Summerville delivers when it comes to a good cup of coffee. Locally owned coffee shops have the coziest spots to spend some time visiting with the locals.

Coastal Coffee Roasters has been turning out small-batch specialty coffees since 2010. Using their onsite roasting process combined with high-quality, sustainably-grown beans, you'll want to grab a bag to take home and enjoy. Located at East 3rd North Street, the kitchen specializes in pastries with a fresh lunch menu.

Cuppa Manna is located in the heart of Summerville's historic downtown is one of our favorite landmark buildings.

As you walk up, notice the tile at the door and building façade. The location offers a front-seat view of Hutchinson Square. They offer all-day breakfast and lunch, and we highly suggest trying their bubble tea.

Biggby Coffee is located at 717 Old Trolley Road Midway between historic downtown and Colonial Dorchester State Park. It's the perfect spot to grab a to-go and enjoy the outdoors. Locally owned with a drive-through and a wide variety of beverages, they are known for their bagel sandwiches. Add in a fresh-baked delectable goodie, and you are fueled to explore.

Starbucks is one of America's most well-known coffee places with 4 locations in Summerville. Two Drive-thru locations at 125 Angus and 101 Sigma and two walk-in spots at Target- 450 Azalea Square Blvd & Harris Teeter- 680 Bacons Bridge

Dunkin' Donuts If the rest of America runs on Dunkin', then so should Summerville. Stop by our two locations that are on opposite sides of town. The 1099 North Main Street is in the Azalea District just off I-26 with 4720 Ladson Road at the Ashely River/Jessen's Boat Landing entrance.

Spring Flowertown Festival

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 16:30:59 GMT

…the azleas are having a party and everyone is invited.

The history of Flower Town’s annual Spring party goes back to 1929 with a forward-thinking Mayor, Garden Club, Nurseryman, and Chamber of Commerce.

Let’s time travel back to when a group of ladies called the "Civic League" raised funds to buy 16 acres of land in the heart of Summerville for their garden club (known as the Flowertown Garden Club today). The 16 acres was the start of our now beautiful Azalea Park.

Right in the middle of The Great Depression, add in a flower enthusiast- Mayor Grange Cuthbert, looking to draw visitors to Summerville by taking those 16 acres to create a park. With a Works Progress Administration grant and paying workers (including his own son) 10 cents an hour, the rugged land was turned into a beauty. Filled with our famous pine trees, it just needed flowers.

Cuthbert called upon his friend, Mr. George Segelken, a local nurseryman who donated 33,000 azaleas. He planted most himself, including a salmon-colored flower known as the “Pride of Summerville”.

During that same time, The Chamber of Commerce held a contest and adopted the slogan "Flower Town in the Pines”.

Around Spring of 1930, bus loads of folks traveled from Charleston to Summerville to visit this small town with its acres of blooming azalea bushes- some 6-8 feet tall. The colorful display was not only in the park, but throughout the beautiful gardens and yards of the town.

In 1972, the Young Women's Christian Organization (now known as the YMCA) visualized a springtime celebration surrounded by these gorgeous flowers just as they were beginning to bloom. This event, now hosted by the Summerville Family YMCA, was later named the "Flowertown Festival”.

The Flowertown Festival became such a massive success that every Spring it is a celebrated tradition drawing in thousands of visitors. A local merchant with a big heart for Summerville coined the slogan, “The azaleas are having a party, and everyone is invited…”

A BREAK FROM TRADITION

In 2020, the Spring festival was canceled due to Covid, and the 2021 was moved to the Fall.

The azaleas’ blooms will return in Spring 2022, along with the tradition of a Spring Flowertown Festival.

A big thanks to the Summerville Family YMCA for continuing a tradition born in the hearts of a Mayor/Garden Club, Nurseryman, Chamber of Commerce, and celebrated by all who have ever visited.

The festival supports the improvement of, and access to health + wellness programs to over 5,000 local members, including military families, children, + cancer survivors.

For complete details go to Flowertown Festival

Summerville ...Flower Town in the Pines

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 17:24:03 GMT

The healing power of the pine trees.

Tucked behind the courtyard gate there is a mural that shares the history of Summerville through art.

The pine trees are an integral part of the history of Summerville. You will see them on the town seal, the banners celebrating 175 years and in tag lines like

Flower Town in the Pines.

Read on for a quick history lesson on the power of the pine...

In 1785, Summerville started as Pineland Village, when plantation owners came here to escape the swamp fevers and insects.

In1888, Summerville became known as one of the two best places “on the face of the earth” for the treatment and recovery of lung and throat disorders. Such belief was founded in the purported healing aspects of the pine trees’ turpentine scent.

In 1847, Summerville was incorporated as a town and passed a law prohibiting the cutting of certain size trees, one of the first such laws passed in the nation.

Learn more of Summerville's rich history at the Summerville Dorchester Museum located at 100 E Doty

Small Town Christmas

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 23:11:26 GMT

Megan Alexander hosts a new show

"Small Town Christmas", a joyful holiday travel series promoting America's small towns

Small Town Christmas has its World Broadcast Premiere on

Sunday, Dec. 5 at 9 p.m. ET on UPtv (pronounced "up tv," two words)

Small Towns Visited & Where to Watch UPtv in those markets:

● Branson, MO – Premieres December 5 at 9 p.m. ET– Suddenlink – UPtv is on channel 212 SD & 319 HD

● Bethlehem, PA – Premieres December 12 at 9 p.m. ET – Service Electric -– UPtv is on channel 130 and RCN Channel 324

● Natchitoches, LA – Premieres December 19 at 9 p.m. ET – Suddenlink – UPtv is on channel 212 SD & 319 HD

● Summerville, SC – Premieres December 24 at 9 p.m. ET – Spectrum – UPtv is on channel 124

(Comcast also services some of the area, particularly around Charleston, as well as ATT U-verse)

● UPtv is also on Dish CH 188 & DirecTV CH 338

● UPtv can also be streamed on Philo (“Fi-Low”) and Frndly (“Friendly”)

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yZ-mAdfeK4

About UPtv:

● UPtv is the trusted entertainment brand for adults who seek positive programming with relatable stories of love, laughter and relationships.

● Find UPtv by visiting https://www.uptv.com/find-channel/ .

Connect On Social:

● Twitter - @UPtv

● Official website - www.UPtv.com

● Instagram – @UP_TV

● Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/UPtv/

● Hashtag – #SmallTownChristmas

The Sweetest Small Town to Visit During the Holidays

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 22:49:11 GMT

The historic downtown of Summerville looks like it belongs in a Hallmark movie with the locals just as sweet. You will want to skip the crowded cities and spend the Christmas season in one of the most charming small towns in the South.

Cozy, mild weather and our usual year-round appeal. Downtown shops, charming streets, and Southern hospitality with festive touches of Christmas. Town Square parade, the mayor flipping the switch for holiday lights. You’ll find Summerville is a great place to make the season bright.

Whether you're looking to get away for a quiet holiday with your family or simply seeking out a day trip with festive cheer, these magical settings are sure to fill you with the Christmas Spirit.

Kicking off, its the Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration on November 30th where the Mayor himself flipping the switch for the annual Christmas tree lighting. Santa Claus will be joining us at Hutchinson Square, which is in the heart of the historic downtown. Carolers will sing to passers-by and as a bonus, shop owners host a Live Window Display in their storefront windows.

Summerville Junior Service hosts the Christmas on the Square Dec 3-18th where the display of decorated trees on Hutchinson Square in historic downtown are created by local civic groups, schools, businesses, and individuals.
Bring the family for a wonderful stroll through the square and vote on your favorite decorated tree. Be sure to bring plenty of quarters to vote for your favorite – all proceeds go to support the JSL school supply fund.

PJs with Santa: Grab your Christmas pajamas and join the Junior Service League of Summerville as they host Jolly Old Saint Nicholas for their 5th annual PJs With Santa! The fun takes place at Hutchinson Square, December 5th from 5:30pm to 8:00pm.

Children will have the opportunity to whisper their wishes to Santa while parents capture the moment with their cameras. Ticket includes a visit with Santa and a viewing of the Polar Express. Highly encouraged donation of $5 per person. All attendees must have a ticket.

Get your tickets quick because they will sell out fast. Please bundle up, bring a blanket or lawn chair. For complete details go to https://www.facebook.com/summervillejsl/

The Annual Christmas Parade around Town Square on December 12th will put you in the holiday spirit! Thousands line the streets (bring a chair) because Ole Saint Nick is the grand finale.

Summerville Final Skates opens November 27th through January 9th at 208 S Cedar Street in Historic Downtown Summerville.

The Holiday Farmers Market on Saturday December 4th from 8am-1pm behind Town Hall is a great opportunity to shop local for unique holiday gifts.

It’s a Caribbean Christmas hosted by The Summerville High School Steel Drum at the bandstand in Hutchinson Square from 6-7:30 Friday December 10th

Third Thursday Dec 16th , 5:30-8:30 is an ongoing event hosted by Summerville Dream. Throughout the downtown, shops stay open late with special events and the local dining scene is vibrant. You will find music all over downtown from the bandstand to Short Central, and in the local bars. The Historic Downtown keeps Summerville’s Small-Town Charm no matter how big we’ve grown.

The Spirit of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol returns to the Timrod Library. Resident storyteller Tim Lowry is offering the annual Dickens Ghost Walk with two tours, Thursday, December 16 @ 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm in the historic downtown. There will also be a candlelight performance Friday, December 17 @ 7:00 pm at The Timrod Library. Ticket must be purchased in advance by calling 843-871-4600. Details on the Visit Summerville Events Calendar .

Living the Sweet Life

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 20:10:59 GMT

Living the Sweet LIfe

one dessert at a time-

The tea isn’t the only thing sweet in Summerville.
Trust us when we say that while we may be small,

we have restaurants at the big-city level and our desserts are decadent.

We’re Southern hospitality with a side of pie (or cookie/muffin/cake)

because a good host never lets a guest go hungry.

(What can we say? It’s that Southern hospitality.)

Scroll on for our sweet round-up of a few of our local favorites.

Know Before You Go...
Because we're a small town with hard-working locally owned businesses, a lot of our spots need a day off. Be sure to check out restaurant opening days and times before you make plans to visit Sweet Summerville.

Start and end with dessert at Oscars

We have an insiders tip! Oscars has so many different areas to dine, that you can start with dessert in the bar, eat dinner in the restaurant and then choose between the bar or Azalea Room for more dessert. We won’t judge.

Baby Bundt Cake

Double chocolate bundt cake served warm with Crème Anglaise and coffee ice cream.

Caramel Xango

Cheesecake and caramel wrapped in a flour tortilla, deep fried with white chocolate Crème Anglaise served with cinnamon ice cream, candied pecans and caramel

New York Style Cheesecake served with a three-fruit coulis.

Pecan Tuille

A butter pecan shell filled with vanilla ice cream, seasonal fruit, topped with fruit coulis & whipped cream

Coffee with our dessert at Coastal Coffee Roasters

If you give a moose a muffin will they want three? Absolutely. Grab some locally roasted coffee and it’s up to you if you share.

You will FALL in love with the pumpkin muffins offered this November: Pumpkin donut, pumpkin chocolate and pumpkin cream cheese. They are made in house with locally sourced ingredients from Wishbone Heritage Farm and Lowcountry Creamery. Summerville’s friendliest gathering spot means there is a good chance you will be back tomorrow.

Sweet Tea Pecan Pie from Bakers BBQ

In a place where tea is measured by the gallon, we salute the Baker Family for putting tea into their made from scratch, award-winning Sweet Tea Pecan Pie. Technically, it is less sweet than most pecan pies because they substitute sweet tea for the heavy syrups and sugars. This gives you a lighter, more delicate flavor.

This family owned BBQ joint with plant nursery combined is the perfect “off the beaten path” experience. Open Thur-Sat, be sure to check their hours and call ahead to save a slice of this amazing pie.

SWEET Southern Hospitality served at Eva's on Main

Eva’s large selection could cause you some “problems”. They offer so much variety that you will have to make a return trips. (Not really a problem in our book!) They’ve been serving up this sweet goodness in Summerville for the past 48 years – right on Main Street in historic downtown. You could eat pie for breakfast, walk around the square and eat cake for lunch. We wouldn’t blame you one bit! Check their Facebook Page for the daily offerings.

Swank Bakery , a Speciality Dessert Shop in the Heart of Downtown Summerville.

You know those pretty little french sandwich cookies? They are NOT pronounced “mac-ar-OOns”! Stop by Swank Deserts- they have dedicated a shirt to the cause! Be sure to order plenty of Mack-A-Rhons, they come in so many unique and thoughtfully created flavors.

Say it with us, Mack…A…Rhon!! Nervous? You can just point.
The bakery case is filled with them every morning with fresh, completely-from-scratch, highest-quality ingredients.

Or order the brownies– they are amazing, also.

Sweetwater One Twenty Three is a pure Sweetwater Delight

Sweetwater Delight is a house dessert and a customer favorite since the original Sweetwater Cafe of 20 years!

Thats because it is that good.

You know this one.. the pecan crusted bottom with creamy cream cheese layer with whip cream, next is the chocolate pudding layer, finished with a final layer of sugared pecans and whipped cream! Maybe you’ve had it, but it was called Better than Robert Redford or Fat Man’s Delight, even Chocolate Lasagna. We call it yummy goodness!

Dessert with History at The Icehouse

The Icehouse is known for its long history starting out as a power plant and then in 1920, providing ice to Summerville for 40 years. But since 1981, it has been serving up fresh, quality comfort food in one of Summerville's must-visit restaurants. As fabulous as their meals are, the desserts will have you at first bite.

Beignets, a fried delicious pastry dough with a crunchy outside and fluffy inside, covered in powdered sugar & caramel drizzle.

Homemade Buttermilk Creme Brulee topped with fresh fruit

Homemade Caramel Apple Streusel Cheesecake with caramel & fresh apple slices

Homemade Warm Chocolate Chunk Brownie with Peanut Butter Semifreddo

Homemade Warm Bourbon Pecan Pie topped with caramel drizzle and vanilla bean ice cream

*Feature Dessert* Warm Pumpkin French Toast topped with Pumpkin Latte Ice Cream, Caramel & Candied Pecans

If you visit one of these locations, show us your sweet stuff on Instagram with #VisitSummerville and #sweetlife .

Fall in Summerville, SC

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 16:11:09 GMT

For a town know for Spring....

For a town known for its flowers in the Spring, you might be surprised at how charming the Fall is in Summerville. The weather’s a little cooler, the pumpkins have made their appearance — and the folks are as sweet as ever.

Looking for a quick getaway? We’d love to have you.

Scarecrows on the Square

From Friday, October 15th (4 pm) to Friday, October 29th (noon), everyone flocks the heart of Downtown Summerville for the annual scarecrow display.

Featuring scarecrows created by locals, this family-friendly event is a reminiscence of small-town USA. Hosted by The Summerville Junior Service League, be sure to vote for your favorite. This .25 cent vote benefits the Summerville School Supply Fund. Ribbons will be placed on winning scarecrows on October 28th. For complete details and where to vote visit Scarecrows on the Square .

Ghostwalk

The Fall night air is just the thing you need away from the bustle of the big city. Book a stay at one of our fantastic lodging locations, grab your family and meet in Downtown Summerville for a family-friendly Ghostwalk. Wear a costume and join the others as you meet the ghouls on Saturday October 16th from 6 to 9 pm. Hayrides, entertainment, games, and guided Ghostwalk tour. Advance tickets are available online for purchase starting October 1st. Complete details here .

Add some Fall to your Instagram

Quaint, historic and charming —there’s no shortage of photo opps in Summerville. Share a glimpse of a historic small town by snapping away as you explore. Be sure to tag us @VisitSummerville so we can explore with you!

Get in Some Outdoor Dining

The Fall weather in Summerville is a beautiful thing with warm days, and cool nights. Take full advantage by dining at one of many of our excellent outdoor restaurants . The Eclectic Chef is located on Short Central, a historic cobblestone street which is one of the most charming lunch spots to outdoor dine.

Learn a Little Somethin’

When your history starts in the 1600’s, there is a lot to learn. Swing by the Summerville Dorchester Museum for photos and artifacts. Be sure to visit the MOST adorable courtyard with the historic Summer House, a spot where the guys would play cards and ladies would have tea.

Enjoy Some Time on the Farm

A Historic B&B, Flowertown Charm could also be called Flowertown Farm- and it is just a hop, skip and a jump away from Downtown Summerville. This urban mini-farm at their historic farmhouse was the first to bring goat yoga to the Lowcountry. The goats share the farm with mini Scottish highland cows, chickens, barn cats and farm dogs. Be sure to say “hello” to Tank the Tortoise while you enjoy being one with nature.

Take a Stroll

The weather is just perfect, the parking is free and easy, and the self-guided Walking Tour of Historic Homes allows you a glimpse of Summerville’s rich history. It’s the ideal way to experience our small town atmosphere. Azalea Park, with its paths and permanent public sculpture collection, is easy to navigate. Historic Downtown with Hutchinson Square is a great place to explore with shops/restaurants off the main square. Leave your schedule open for plenty of wanderin’. You’ll be glad you did!

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

We aren’t called “sweet” just because of our famous tea. The livin’s sweet thanks in part to our fabulous bakers. Swank Desserts is renowned for their speciality desserts and fresh menu each week.

We feel like ice cream is a necessity when paired with Simple Treasure fresh-made waffle cones. It doesn’t end there. With so many great Summerville restaurants, you’ll find tasty treats to dig into all over town.

Do Some Shopping

Fall is a great time to get a head-start on holiday shopping and support locally-owned shops. Summerville has a number of unique spots to explore and plenty of antique stores with vintage treasures you won’t see anywhere else. You never know what’ll you will find.

Get Creative

A new season with early nights is the perfect excuse for learning a new craft, and Summerville is on the map with People, Places and Quilts, a top ten quilt store right in the downtown. It doesn’t stop there, Nailed it DIY Summerville will host small groups where they will help you make and take your own creation. Need some art inspiration? The Public Works Art Center is free with a chance to speak with artist in their studios.

Prefer to buy it already made? Check out The French Mercantile that has a combination of antique/handmade and plenty of inspiration .

Spring Flowertown Festival

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:52:09 GMT

…the azleas are having a party and everyone is invited.

The history of Flower Town’s annual Spring party goes back to 1929 with a forward-thinking Mayor, Garden Club, Nurseryman, and Chamber of Commerce.

During that same time, The Chamber of Commerce held a contest and adopted the slogan "Flower Town in the Pines”.

A BREAK FROM TRADITION

In 2020, the Spring festival was canceled due to Covid, and the 2021 was moved to the Fall.

The azaleas’ blooms will return in Spring 2022, along with the tradition of a Spring Flowertown Festival.

A big thanks to the Summerville Family YMCA for continuing a tradition born in the hearts of a Mayor/Garden Club, Nurseryman, Chamber of Commerce, and celebrated by all who have ever visited.

The festival supports the improvement of, and access to health + wellness programs to over 5,000 local members, including military families, children, + cancer survivors.

For complete details go to Flowertown Festival

2021 Hold My Tea Bar Crawl

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 19:56:30 GMT

Why does Summerville celebrate sweet tea?

We have Andre Michaux to thank. It was the French botanist, sent to the United States by King Louis XVI in the late 1700s to investigate the flora of the New World, who introduced the tea plant to the Lowcountry at Middleton Place. The locals took to it with gusto, and have been drinking it — with a few modifications such as ice, sugar, and lemon — ever since.

But it was Dr. Charles Shepard who cemented Summerville’s place in Sweet Tea history by founding the Pinehurst Tea Farm, the first in the country to successfully grow tea as a viable crop commercially. In fact, the tea plants grown at the popular Charleston Tea Garden on Wadamalaw Island are cuttings from this Summerville tea farm.

Fast forward to 2006 when Firefly Spirits brought the sweet tea to a cocktail with their creation of the world's first Sweet Tea Vodka. The specialty vodka was crafted at the Firefly Distillery in Charleston, SC by owners Jim Irvin and Scott Newitt. Keeping true to its Southern roots, Firefly is distilled four times and infused with tea originating from those same tea plants from Dr. Shepards Pinehurst Tea farm.

As the locals like to say- and they're only half-joking, that you can drink your way from one end to the other of our sweet town. So let’s take a drinking tour of Summerville on the Hold My Tea Bar Crawl, where the flowers that made the city famous are best enjoyed with a serving of something refreshing close at hand. And while we’re at it, let’s offer a toast to Dr. Shepard, whose tea farm started it all.

Sweet, Small-Town Summertime

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 20:21:17 GMT

Our tea is ice-cold and our hospitality is warm.

We aren’t only about our unique Spring flowers here in the Flower Town in the Pines. Summerville is charming all year long, and our summer season is no exception. Our small-town atmosphere and proximity to the most beloved attractions in the Lowcountry, makes Summerville the perfect place to spend your vacation.

Here are a few recommendations…

We love to grab a beautiful meal on the patio at one of our family-owned restaurants and sip a cold one from locally-owned bars, breweries, or wine shops . Of course, you can always find a tall glass of our famous iced tea in the Birthplace of Sweet Tea. We can promise that our tea is always ice cold and highly recommend you ask about the specialty Sweet Tea Cocktails –you will NOT be disappointed.

To be completely honest, one of our favorite way to stay cool in the Deep South is with air conditioning; so why not enjoy the AC while soaking up some retail therapy? With free parking and easy walking, we have a top ten quilt store , lots of antique and home good shops with unique boutiques for that one-of-a-kind treasure.

Bonus: The historic downtown has a tree-lined square with a refreshing fountain right in the middle of all that retail goodness. Treat yourself to an ice cream from the old fashioned soda fountain , pull up a shady park bench and enjoy the scenery.

Our great location makes for the perfect day trip to the many beaches around Charleston. Each has its uniqueness; so stop by the Visitor Center at 402 N Main for a map and discover which beach most fits your style.

And, of course, you've heard of Charleston just a short drive away- a must-do day trip.

Another way to stay cool in the Summer heat is a slow float down the longest free-flowing black river—the only place to float in the Lowcountry. It's just a short country drive from Downtown Summerville and offers ideal attractions for those hot summer months. Float the river by day and head back to Summerville for a craft cocktail at night. All right outside our back door.

Tell the friendly folks at Edisto River Adventures we sent you, and they will take good care of you.

Our excellent lodging options offer crystal-clear swimming pools and long front porches with all that southern hospitality that we are known for. You will relax and unwind and know this is exactly how a vacation should go.

We can’t wait to see you and will be glad to answer any questions you might have. The Summerville Visitor Center is located at 402 N Main, stop by, and we can help you navigate all that Summerville Charm.

While you are here, be sure to get a picture with the Birthplace of Sweet Tea Mural located on the back of the Summerville Chamber/Visitor Center building.

Tag us @VisitSummervile we love to see your photos and be a part of the fun.

Click here for a Visitor Guide mailed to you.

Worlds Largest Sweet Tea

Tue, 04 May 2021 21:41:55 GMT

For Sweet Sakes - this is some award winning Sweet Tea.

World’s Largest Sweet Tea

Why would the Chamber of Commerce in a small (but growing!) town commission a local artist to paint a larger than life-sized mural of a tea glass?

And why would a town try to break The Guinness World Record for largest iced tea -- and win the title twice?

It may have something to do with Summerville’s history as “The Birthplace of Sweet Tea”.

The Beginning

It all started back in the late 1700s, when the tea plant, “Camellia Sinensis” first made its US landing in Summerville. French explorer and botanist, Andre Michaux planted tea near Charleston at Middleton Place.

The US Government

In 1884, almost ten years after two failed attempts to grow tea (first in Greenville, SC, and then in Georgetown, SC), the federal government became interested in this new tea experiment and established a tea farm in Summerville, SC.

A Wealthy Philanthropist

Four years after the government's Southern tea experiment, a wealthy and scientific philanthropist named Dr. Charles Shepard acquired 600 acres of the Newington Plantation property and established the Pinehurst Tea Plantation not far from the governments' farm.

He cultivated about 100 acres and built a factory to manufacture and package the tea. This is believed to be one of the first industries in Summerville, as evidenced in this NY Times article .

The World’s Fair

Dr. Shepard won the public's favor at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, where his tea won first prize. President Theodore Roosevelt visited Shepard to see the tea-making operation during a trip to the famous Pine Forest Inn.

Lipton
Shepard's plantation thrived until he died in 1915, after which it lay abandoned until 1960. That was when the Lipton Tea Company bought the property. Lipton salvaged the remaining plants and used them to open a research facility on Wadmalaw Island.

Meet the Tea Taster

In 1987, William B. Hall, an expert third-generation tea taster trained in London, purchased the tea farm to establish the 127-acre Charleston Tea Farm. In 2003, Bigelow Tea Co. partnered with Hall. The tea from the Charleston Tea Farm, derivatives of Dr. Shepard’s Camellia Sinensis, earned the honor of an Official White House Tea and the Official Hospitality Beverage of South Carolina.

What in the Rizzo...

As Will & Dottie Rizzo gathered Summerville stories for their local magazine, Azalea Magazine , a recurring theme was the history of tea grown in Summerville. Researching the history, they found receipts of tea and sugar for a Confederate reunion in 1890.

The cover of the 2010 Azalea Magazine proclaimed, “Summerville, The Birthplace of Sweet Tea”. The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce (aka “the Chamber”), who manages tourism for the town, took Azalea Magazine's bold claim and used it to market the town, causing (quite literally) a stir!

In 2015, the Town of Summerville brewed up a move into the record books by setting the Guinness World Record for the World's Largest Tea (Sweet, of course) on National Iced Tea Day.

Lipton Tea very quickly broke Summerville’s record after only a few months.

Persistence or stubbornness had Summerville breaking the record again in 2016 by serving tea to the town from “Mason”, a tea container that stands over 15 feet tall, and holding 2,524 gallons of sweet tea.

Sip-Sip Hooray

Well, there you have it: the reason behind Summerville’s obsession with tea.

If you are a sweet tea lover, make plans to pay a visit to the Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

Take a selfie in front of the Chamber sweet tea mural, or stop by Mason to pay your respects for a job well done. Pick up a Trail Guide for the Sweet Tea Trail and discover all that this charming town has to offer.

And for sweet sakes, while you’re here, enjoy a tall glass iced-cold sweet tea! After all, can you even say you have been to The Birthplace of Sweet Tea if you don’t?

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 11:16:55 GMT

Things you can only do in Summerville, South Carolina

Take your photo with Mason - Worlds Largest Sweet Tea .

The only place to FLOAT the Edisto River , one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America.

Explore the gardens of Middleton Place where French botanist, André Michaux , is thought to have brought the first camellias in America to Middleton Place.

The folklore is told that the Prileou house has 7 gables for 7 daughters. Scan the QR code at each house and Listen to history come to life on the Self-Guided Historic Home Tour in the town known for its flowers.

Photograph a 1757 Tabby Wall at Colonial Dorchester State Park .

Pay ode to the Chautauqua Reading Circle who fundraised to build the Timrod Library one of only two membership libraries still in existence in South Carolina.

Bonus: Five things you can do with a short drive

17 miles from the Heart of Summerville is Cypress Gardens : We highly recommend the paddle tour but it notable that two motion pictures were filmed here, The Notebook and The Patriot.

27 miles from the Heart of Summerville you can experience the peaceful gardens of Mepkin Abbey with located on the Cooper River

34 miles from Summerville is the oldest living oak east of the Mississippi. The Angel Oak is a Southern live oak and is estimated to be 400–500 years old

32 miles from the heart of Summerville is Francis Beidler Fores t - explore the 1.75 mile boardwalk through the world’s largest virgin cypress-tupelo swamp forest.

53 miles with one of the most photographed oak tree canopy in the area. Botany Bay Beach has left a "boneyard" of dead trees along the sand, creating a unique coastline you've got to walk to fully appreciate.

Explore the Sweet Tea Trail and discover the most Charming Town in the South.

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 17:55:53 GMT

Grab your favorite shopping partner and make a trip to Shop the Antiques on the Sweet Tea Trail in historic Summerville, South Carolina. Yes, we are known for sweet tea and southern hospitality, but finding that perfect treasure for your home or as a gift makes a day shopping in Summerville extra sweet. With free parking, friendly merchants and this handy guide you’ll love exploring all this sweet town has to offer.

Don’t go home hungry, there are amazing locally owned spots to grab a quick lunch, coffee or iced tea.

1. Summerville Antique Gallery

Address: 901 North Main Street

Phone: (843) 873-4926

The Summerville Antique Gallery is constantly changing wtih new merchandise coming in daily. One of the largest shops in Summerville

with over 12,000 square feet and 110 booths. Offering unique finds for everybody on your list with its wide variety of collectables, antiques

and unique items.

2- V intage Vibe s on Main Street

Address: 200 A North Main Street

Phone: (843) 879-9529

Shop this 6000+ square feet, family-owned shop full of unique merchandise that changes everyday! Antiques, vintage, architectural, jewelry

and consigned home decor items are organized in a clean, uncluttered arrangement waiting for you.

3- EveryThing Chic - ETC

Address: 126 South Main Street

Phone: 843-879-2099

Located in the heart of the downtown, ETC has everything you need to personalize your space. One of a kind items, furniture and antiques.

They also sell wonderful treats for your home or gifts such as candles, homemade soap and jewelry.

4- Katie Maes Klassy Flea & Antique Mart

Address: 140-A West Richardson Ave

Phone: (843) 771-3375

Katie Maes Klassy Flea & Antique Mart sits on the corner of Richarson and Cedar in the historic downtown. You can find antiques,

vintage, retro, re-purposed, salvaged, primitive, up-purposed, and crafts by top-notch artisans. This is the place for one-of-a-kind furniture

pieces. Fabulous gift items and accessories can also be found here.

5- Cotton Down South

Address: 206 W Richardson Ave

Phone: (843) 285-8292

Located just off Main St. in historic Summerville is the cutest yellow cottage with a white picket fence. Cotton Down South is filled

with a huge selection of vintage charm and shabby chic. Add a fresh look to your home or find that special gift.

6- The French Mercantile

Address: 211 W. Richardson Avenue

Phone: 843-494-3229

This European inspired home decor & gifts shop is in a beautifully renovated 1800's home in the historic

district of Summerville, SC. Shop for Antiques, French Farmhouse, Cottage Style, Vintage style and more.

7- Relic Revival

Address: 113 West 2nd Street

P hone: (843) 871-1119

A lovely and affordable selection of antiques and vintage home decor. Relic Revival specializes in glassware,

kitchenware, barware, and furniture with a rich history.

8- Antiques & Artisans Village

Address: 619 Old Trolley Road

Phone: (843) 900-5386

Antiques & Artisans Village is a multi-year award-winning home to antiques, works by local artisans, vintage items and DIY

projects. Over 175 vendors & consignors make this place fun to shop for unique finds. Ample parking.

9- Simply Vintage

Address: 419 C East 5th North Street

Phone: (843) 323-1825

Simply Vintage is a collector's dream come true! Featuring more than 75 vendors, one-of-a-kind antiques and treasures for

every budget. Be sure to visit the Simply Vintage Facebook page for more information.

New Paragraph

Sweet Summerville Holiday Gift Guide

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 15:41:03 GMT

Make your holidays extra sweet with a gift from The Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

Sweet Summerville Holiday Gift Guide

Make your holidays extra sweet with a gift from The Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

We have rounded up 6 local Sweet Tea Products that will be sure to charm your friends and family.

1- Cotton Down South - Sweet Tea & Jesus Candle

2- Simple Treasures - Sweet Tea Ganache Candies

3- Main Street Reads - Baptised in Sweet Tea

4- Pine and Petal - Sweet Tea Sticker

5- Four Green Fields - Tea Hand Cream

6- Hanebrink Jewelers - Tea Leaf Pendant

#1 Cotton Down South - Hand poured, the Sweet Tea & Jesus candle is a signature scent of Cotton Down South. This scent is available in multiple products. The combination of Jasmine, Bergamot, Mandarin, Lemon, Thyme, Ginger, Sandalwood, Nutmeg, and Patchouli will charm your family and friends.

#2 Simple Treasures – Summerville’s Sweet Shop has taken our signature sweet tea to a new wonderful level. The Sweet Tea Ganache Chocolates are the sweetest gift for everyone on your list.

#3 Main Street Reads – Every small town needs a family-owned book shop and a copy of Baptized in Sweet Tea. This book celebrates life in the South and soothes its readers like Iced tea on a Summerville porch.

#4 Pine and Petal –Azalea Magazine was the first to connect the history of Summerville as the Birthplace of Sweet Tea and since has created Pine and Petal, a shop for sweet tea items. You can order online or stop into Public Works to buy direct.

#5 Hanebrink Jewelers - The tea plant was first brought to Summerville in the late 1700’s by the French Botanist, Andre Micheaux, and thus began our history of the Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

Through a partnership with Charleston Tea Plantation, the Tea Leaf Pendant is an authentic replication. Each piece has been blessed by a Proper Southern Lady and will charm the gals with its rich history.

A Sweet Weekend in Summerville

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 15:19:52 GMT

Looking for a places to visit in South Carolina? Look no further than Summerville, SC

Summerville is located in the heart of the Lowcountry, just 25 minutes from Charleston. Nestled among pine trees and azaleas, this cozy town offers all the Southern Charm of the Holy City, with the added bonus of a slower pace.

STAY

Can we let you in on a secret? You don’t have to stay in Charleston if you plan to visit Charleston. Summerville offers many beautiful hotels - many of which are brand new and newly remodeled. Plus, you can enjoy free parking!

If you’re looking to sleep like a local, one of our many historic Bed and Breakfast Inns might be the ticket for a fully immersive Southern experience.
https://www.visitsummerville.com/stay

Grab a coffee to go, and get outdoors during your stay in Summerville.

Love the water?
Paddle, kayak or tube float with on the black waters of the historic Edisto River. The Edisto River Adventures Riverfront Outpost will take care of everything for you.

Local History
The Sue Sanders Memorial Historic Homes & Flowers Walking Tour is a great way to explore Summerville’s historic homes. The oldest home on the tour is the Gelzer Brothers House, c. 1819.
Use this interactive map to take the walking tour that starts with free parking in Azalea Park.

Look for the QR code sign at each home for all the details, or ask the friendly locals- they love to share their stories!

Another great stop for history-lovers is Middleton Place. Located on the Ashley River just 8 miles from downtown Summerville, you can take a stroll along 65 acres of garden paths that are more than a quarter millennium old. See history come alive through re-enactments of working Stableyards, artisans and heritage breed animals. Explore the ornamental lakes shaped like butterfly wings, and have a meal at the restaurant!

Stop by Colonial Dorchester State Park where you can take a peek into the early history of life in colonial South Carolina. Follow the settlers trail from England, to Massachusetts, to South Carolina.
Hint…the Bell Tower is a great place for photos.

https://www.visitsummerville.com/historic-sites

Shopping

Unique shopping is Summerville’s speciality. The Historic Downtown is the place to find a unique item for your home.

Shop for everything from Vintage to Modern at our beautiful locally owned shops. Peruse our antique malls for local treasures, and don’t miss our dress boutiques with the latest styles.
Oh, and take our word for it- whether you’re a quilter or not, you must stop in People, Places & Quilts .

If you’re in need of some time out, get pampered at The Winchester Spa and Salon. Indulge yourself in facials, body wraps, customized body massage, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, medical treatments, and full range salon services. With luxurious new facilities the Winchester is tucked just around the corner from Main street.

Feeling Creative?

The Public Works Art Center is located in the heart of Downtown Summerville exhibit gallery is always free and they keep a full calendar of classes to discover your inner artist. Visit with local artist onsite. The Shop at the Public Works is filled with beautiful creations and Summerville products.

DIY Nailed it Summerville is a do-it-yourself wood decor studio located on “Little Main”. It’s in a beautiful historic building that is perfect to bring the girls for a group class or with a friend for some studio time.

Feeling a last minute need to create? Just stop by and they will take care of you!

Visiting the in the Spring? Summerville changes hats from “The Birthplace of Sweet Tea” to the “Flowertown in the Pines”, where the 6-8 ft Azaleas put on a show. Plan a photo shoot when the bright azaleas are blooming en mass throughout the town, especially in 16-acre Azalea Park.

Grab a picture with Toby, our most special Sculpture in Azalea park.
While you’re walking through the park, look for several other charming sculptures. .
http://www.sculptureinthesouth.com/perm-walkingtour.html

Be sure to tag us in any of your pictures using #visitsummerville to be featured!

Looking for Insta-worthy photo locations in Summerville?

The Birthplace of Sweet Tea Mural is located at the back of the Visitor Center’s building at 402 N Main. Stop in for helpful maps and brochures while you are here!

Meet Mason, The World’s Largest Glass of Sweet Tea! Take a picture with Mason, the Guinness Book of World Record holding icon in historic downtown- and use #worldslargetsweettea so we can give your post some love!

DRINK

Wine Bar, Tea Bar, Coffee Bars, Brewhouses, oh my!
Whether you’re in the mood for sweet tea or a local brew, one thing is for sure- you will not be thirsty when visiting Summerville.

You can drink your way from one end to the other as locals like to say, and they’re only half-joking.

Closest to the railroad tracks on “Little Main” is Cuppa Manna . T hey serve speciality teas and coffee and they’re a great spot to watch the activities on the square.

Step back in time and grab a soda from the soda fountain at the oldest pharmacy in the state. Guerin’s Pharmacy’s has been in operation since 1871.

Drinking the ‘Ville is a must do while visiting the Birthplace of Sweet Tea.

EAT

Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Supper
Whatever you call it, we take our food very seriously.
We like to say that “not all our tea comes in a glass”. From modern dining at Azalea Square, to local dining in historic Summerville, we have quite a selection of eateries.
Who else can serve you both a slice of BBQ Pie, and Sweet Tea Pecan Pie?

https://www.visitsummerville.com/eat

We hope you have everything you need to plan a trip to Summerville, SC. If you have any questions, we are available to help at 843 873-8535.

Please stop by the Visitor Center at 402 N Main for brochures and maps.

Open 7 days a week:

Mon-Fri 9am 1--5pm

Sat 10am-3pm

Sun 1pm-4pm

5 Picnic Spots in Summerville

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 18:35:12 GMT

Pack your picnic with local treats and head outdoors.

You are trying to be “socially distant” but need to get out and about.

Summerville has you covered with many take-out options offered by locally-owned restaurants and lots of picnic spots to enjoy them.

Top 5 Picnic Spots in Summerville

#1 Azalea Park - T op of our list is Azalea Park. Located in the heart of Summerville with 16 acres, you have plenty of room to spread the blanket, find a seat at a picnic table and benches are tucked throughout the park. Main Street runs through the middle of Azalea, be sure to explore both sides for outdoor sculpture. Bring the kids for the turtle and butterfly ponds, ornamental bridges and there is always something blooming, especially in the spring with our famous azaleas

#2 Birthplace of Sweet Tea Mural - Located on the back of the Visitor Center, this spot is complete with large trees, picnic tables and the perfect backdrop for a photo (tag us @visitSummerville). The mural was painted by local artist/art teacher Kevin Morrissey as an ode to the sweet history of Summerville where the first commercially grown tea was grown in America by the Pinehurst Tea Farm. Stop in the Visitor Center for a Trail Guide to discover the Sweet Tea Trail and ways to win prizes.

#3 Hutchinson Square- In the heart of the historic downtown, the square was recently remodeled. The kids will love all the open green space to run, and you will enjoy the fountain shaded under historic oaks. Surrounded by plenty of shopping, dining and sweet treats, be sure to also visit Mason the World’s Largest Iced (Sweet) Tea and get that free stamp in your trail guide.

Bonus: Short Central has outdoor tables with umbrellas. When cobblestone was discovered under the street it was turned into a pedestrian walkway.

#4 Jessens Boat Landing - This beautiful spot on the Historic Ashley River, is a great place to enjoy nature with your picnic. Nearby are several dining options for easy pick up. The boardwalk has a fishing spot with a boat landing and a Kayak launch. With plenty of covered picnic tables, you will enjoy watching the wildlife and boats pass.

#5 Colonial Dorchester State Park - Just a mile up the Ashley River is a hidden picnic haven. This historic state park has a minimal admission of $3 per person allowing you to step back into history with picnic tables, bathrooms and the remains of the original settlement – think Dorchester, England to Dorchester, Massachusetts to Dorchester, South Carolina. The remaining Bell Tower is the perfect photo opportunity and the historic markers bring the history to life.

Walk Through Time by Exploring These 10 Historic Summerville Homes

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 12:30:37 GMT

It’s a town best known for flowers, but alongside those gardens stand some of the grandest and most historic homes known to the Lowcountry. From cottages and plantation homes to former inns and boarding houses, Summerville presents an array of structures encompassing a variety of architectural styles — many of them standing as testament to the town’s legacy as a place where the region’s wealthy got away from it all.

With no shortage of dining, drinking, and ecotourism options, Summerville is now a haven for visitors of all kinds. Many of its historic homes are clustered near downtown, making for an easy walking tour linking the town’s past and present. So grab a coffee or a sweet tea and meet at Azalea Park — an attraction itself, with flowers, sculpture, pathways and more — to begin this tour of 10 homes that provide just a sample of what Summerville has to offer.

1. Middleton-Minott Cottage

Few names are more synonymous with the Lowcountry than Middleton, the wealthy family of planters that made their home at nearby Middleton Place. This house at 104 West 6th Street stands on the former site of a much larger home owned by Henry A. Middleton, descendant of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The home was destroyed by the earthquake of 1886, and the cottage which replaced it was built for Harriott Minott, Middleton’s granddaughter, to whom he willed the property.

2. Oliver House

Perhaps best known for its much-photographed circular wrought iron gate, this two-story home at 114 Rutherford Street was built around 1888 by Henry Oliver, an architect connected with an icon of the Holy City — the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Oliver purchased the land for the Summerville home in 1887 from Charleston merchant William Carrington. Two decades later Oliver oversaw the completion of the cathedral after the first builder of the church, Henry Cade, died during construction.

3. Brailsford-Browning House

Surrounded by a picturesque white fence and cradled by the boughs of live oaks, this home at 408 Sumter Street was originally archetypal of many early Summerville structures, which were constructed high off the ground and open underneath. Built around 1830, it was one of the original 29 homes comprising the village, and occupied around that time by Dr. W.M. Brailsford. The lower level was enclosed sometime after 1915.

4. William Prioleau House

One of many who moved to Summerville to take advantage of its climate, Charleston druggist Dr. William H. Prioleau built this distinctive Victorian at 302 Sumter Avenue in the Queen Anne style. The home has been occupied by the Bolen family since 1925.

5. Kinloch House

Built for Henry W. Kinloch around 1861, the property was purchased on June 4, 1861 from the Rev. Philip Gadsden, the first Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Summerville. The family was a large landowner in the area.

6. Purcell House

With architecture similar to those of the early hunting lodges or summer homes built by local planters, this home at 224 Sumter Avenue is one of over 700 Summerville buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built sometimes between 1811 and 1828, the guest cottage is now a bed and breakfast.

7. Rhett House

A majestic two-story home framed by live oaks and manicured lawn, this house at 205 Sumter Avenue was built around 1882 by Dr. Benjamin Rhett, who had been a surgeon in the Confederacy and later served on Summerville’s Board of Health. Land titles for the property date back to the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company, which operated one of the first railroads in North America.

8. Elizabeth Arden House

Yes, that Elizabeth Arden — the founder of the cosmetics empire of the same name, who in 1938 bought this home at 208 Sumter Avenue as a winter residence, and retained it until 1954. Originally built in 1891 by Samuel Lord, it’s more reminiscent of homes on the Charleston peninsula with its double piazzas and three-story design.

9. The Teacherage

The home at 127 West 5th South Street was built around 1882 and features unusual interior architecture in the form of an octagonal great room topped by a skylight extending up 18 feet. Purchased by Pauline Rhett for $300, then by the Summerville school district to board teachers, it was sold in 1954 to the author Paul Hyde Bonner, who lived there for 10 years.

10. The Squirrel Inn

A throwback to Summerville’s days as a winter resort, this former inn at 116 West 5th South Street was built around 1913 by Raven Lewis, and continued to offer lodgings and fine cuisine under the ownership of Jeanne and Eugene Sutter until 1966. The building was renovated into condos in 1979, but the former inn can still be seen in its wide and welcoming exterior.

Interested in learning more about these, or any of the many other historic homes in and around Summerville?

Download the full walking tour, contact Visit Summerville at (843) 873-8535 , or visit their website at VisitSummerville.com .

Drink The Ville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 13:21:28 GMT

We are famous for more than just our Sweet Tea

Sweet Tea, Craft Beer, and More: Your Guide to Drinking Summerville

But it was Dr. Charles Shepard who cemented Summerville’s place in Sweet Tea history by founding the Pinehurst Tea Farm, the first in the country to successfully grow tea as a viable crop commercially. In fact, the tea plants grown at the popular Charleston Tea Plantation on Wadamalaw are cuttings from this Summerville tea farm.

The town even earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records by pouring the largest glass of iced tea, in a 15-foot Mason jar that held over 2,500 gallons. Tipping back beverages of any sort is a point of civic pride in Summerville, whose downtown is filled to the brim with local breweries, wine bars, Irish pubs, coffee roasters, and even a historic soda fountain.

You can drink your way from one end to the other, locals like to say, and they’re only half-joking. So let’s take a drinking tour of downtown Summerville, where the flowers that made the city famous are best enjoyed with a cup or glass of something refreshing close at hand. And while we’re at it, offer a toast to Dr. Shepard, whose tea farm started it all.

Main Street Area

Get your day started with coffee or tea at Cuppa Manna, right on Hutchinson Square in the heart of the Summerville’s historic downtown, which also offers all-day breakfast and lunch in addition to an open mic night on Tuesdays. From there it’s a short walk to Guerin’s Pharmacy, the oldest operating pharmacy in the state, whose 1920s-era soda fountain offers milkshakes, malts, floats and flavored fountain sodas in addition to other treats.

For wine connoisseurs, there’s Accent on Wine, a one-stop wine bar, wine shop, and wine club that also features craft beers and sweet and savory bites. Oenophiles can also venture to Wine & Tapas Bar, which in 2018 completed a renovation that included a makeover, new owners, new chef and expanded wine selection. For beer lovers, Homegrown Brewhouse features 40 taps of South Carolina’s finest, with the aim of eventually having every state-made beer available.

Montreux Bar and Grill is a center for live music with an extensive wine, beer, and cocktail menu. O’Lacy’s Pub is an Irish-style gathering place with a casual atmosphere, regular live music, karaoke and a deck. Shuckin’ Shack is a classic coastal South Carolina oyster bar with plenty of cold beer and signature cocktails to go with fried, grilled, and steamed food offerings. And last but certainly not least is The Icehouse, whose lively, umbrella-covered patio is a hub of activity on weekend afternoons and evenings.

Off Main Street

Using a local roasting process to get the most out of high-quality, sustainably-grown beans, Coastal Coffee Roasters has been turning out small-batch specialty coffees since 2010. Housed in the same building on East 3rd North Street and specializing in another type of small-batch beverage is Oak Road Brewery, Summerville’s first brewery, which specializes in making German-style craft beers.

Opened in 2014, the Summerville location of Charleston-area staple Five Loaves Cafe hosts wine nights on Wednesdays and Saturdays with a number of area craft beers and specialty cocktails to go with its locally-minded food menu. They also recently added their popular weekend brunch to their already well-received lineup of offerings. And with Monday night trivia and live music scheduled regularly, Oscars of Summerville features plenty of down home options to go along with a menu full of classic foods.

And of course, wherever you go in Summerville, sweet tea is a staple. For more information on the town’s tea history and its innumerable options for enjoying a cold (or warm) beverage, visit VisitSummerville.com/Drink, or contact the Summerville Visitors Center at (843) 873-8535.

Eco-Tourism in Summerville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 17:31:29 GMT

Interested in Ecotourism? Here are 6 Summerville Sites Not to Miss

Famous for its flowers, but to the nature lover Summerville is about much more. With paddling routes that traverse smooth black water and hiking trails teeming with native plants and animals, Summerville is also an ecotourism dream.

With mild winter temperatures and summer conditions often more tolerable than those found in Charleston, the reason so many of the Lowcountry’s elite made Summerville their home in Colonial days, the opportunity for exploration exists year-round. So grab your rucksack, hiking shoes, or paddle, and consider these six Summerville destinations when planning your next ecotourism trip.

1. Ashley River

Summerville’s defining natural feature winds through the outskirts of town, supporting a diverse ecosystem because of its tidal nature and the mixing of both saltwater and freshwater. Designated a State Scenic River in the 1990s, it’s a jewel of the South’s river system for its abundance of blackwater cypress and the feeling of timeless solitude it offers paddlers.

Three miles of the waterway’s upper reaches are known as the Ashley River Heritage Trail, given that several shipwrecks and architectural remains from the early 18th century are visible at low tide. Just south of Summerville, the river offers a unique view of the plantations that draw thousands of visitors each year.

Summerville offers easy access to the Ashley via landings including Jessens Boat Landing and the Howard Bridgman River Access at Bacons Bridge, a carry-down facility at 200 Renken Road that’s ideal for kayaks and canoes and features overhanging limbs and a twisting channel immediately upstream or downstream of the access point. Bonus? Between those two points of entry is Colonial Dorchester.

2. Givhans Ferry State Park

Just west of Summerville on the Edisto River, Givhans Ferry State Park offers paddlers a 21-mile blackwater trail ending at Colleton State Park. The river also offers visitors swimming and fishing opportunities, while the state park provides camping facilities with water and electrical hookups. Don’t miss Edisto River Adventures offering the only float trip available in the Lowcountry.

Bird watchers can catch glimpses of the many species that call the banks of the Edisto home, while hikers and mountain bikers can enjoy the moderately strenuous 1.5-mile River Bluff Trail. Givhans Ferry State Park is located just 16 miles from downtown Summerville, so non-campers can enjoy the town’s many lodging and dining opportunities before setting off in the morning.

3. Sawmill Branch Walk/Bike Trail

Hikers and bicyclists don’t have to venture very far from downtown to find the Sawmill Branch Walk/Bike Trail, a paved, 6.5-mile greenway starting at Gahagan Road and ending at Cross Creek Drive. Running alongside the Sawmill Branch Canal, the trail travels through the heart of Summerville while still feeling many miles away — as the birds, turtles, and perhaps even deer along the route will attest.

The trail travels under most major roadways, making for a safe and mostly uninterrupted journey. Buffers of trees separate the trail from adjacent neighborhoods, adding to the sense of solitude. Operated by the town of Summerville, parking is available at several areas along the route.

3. Historic Home Walking Tour

Summerville boasts a scenic self-guided walking tour of historic homes starting at Azalea Park and winding through its downtown streets. Summerville’s Walking Tour of Homes and Flowers offers a glimpse into homes tapped by the National Register of Historic Places as worthy of preservation.

What to expect? Participants should prepare for about an hour of moderate walking. Please note, sidewalks are not always available. Be mindful of vehicular traffic for safety.

5. Jessen Landing

Mentioned above, this public landing on the Ashley River provides a boat ramp, docks, fishing pier, boardwalk and plenty of parking. It’s conveniently at the end of Ladson Road just off Dorchester Road. A new kayak launch was added in the spring of 2019 making exploration and accessibility easy.

Two parts of it that run through Dorchester and Charleston Counties were designated a State Scenic River — one in 1998 and the other in 1999. 26 separate sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places adorn its banks, including Drayton Hall, Middleton Place, and Fort Dorchester.

6. Azalea Park

A visit to Summerville wouldn’t be complete with flowers, right? In a residential area very close to Summerville’s business district, Azalea Park is a landscaped garden that bursts with color each spring. Pathways wind throughout the 12-acre tract, which also features gazebos, bronze sculptures, an amphitheater, reflecting ponds and lots of shade.

Bustling with azaleas and camellias, few places in Summerville are more emblematic of Flowertown’s nickname. As host to annual special events such as the Flowertown Festival and Sculpture in the South, the park is also beloved by locals. Azalea Park is used for weddings, festivals, special events — or just a relaxing walk past the ponds, creeks, bushes and flowers.

Interested in more of what Summerville offers a visitor attracted to ecotourism? Stop by the Summerville Visitor Center at 402 North Main St., contact them at (843) 873-8535, or visit their website at V isitSummerville.com .

How Summerville became Summerville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 14:44:29 GMT

Originally published June 11, 2014

Most of us know how we got here – to Summerville. Maybe a job transfer or maybe we were born here.

But how did Summerville get here? What caused a community to locate 20 miles from a populous and prosperous Charleston shortly after the Revolutionary War?

The inland area, where many plantations were located, was popular for hunting parties. Hunters appreciated the cool breezes of the pine forests. Along the coast, in Charleston and nearby environs, diseases such as malaria were present. In the “Pineland Village,” there were no such diseases.

The breezes were credited with keeping people healthy. The fact that mosquitoes, prevalent in the coastal swamps were the real culprits, was unknown.

Avoiding “swamp fever” meant families began to regularly relocate from downtown Charleston during the summer months. Houses were built on stilts and pilings to capture the breezes underneath and to provide shelter for livestock, such as cows for milk and chickens for eggs.

The two oldest congregations in Summerville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 14:33:35 GMT

Originally published July 8, 2014

A recent conversation at Summerville Presbyterian (before the service began) related to the age of the church.

Summerville Presbyterian is one of the two oldest congregations in Summerville. The second is St. Paul’s. Both are outgrowths of earlier parishes – Summerville Presbyterian from the Puritans’ White Meeting House in the old town of Dorchester and St. Paul’s from St. George’s, Dorchester, and St. Paul’s, Stono. The White Meeting House was built in 1696 and St. Paul’s Chapel of Ease in 1719.

Churches in the historic center of Summerville began to be constructed in the early 1800s. Initially, summer residents saw no need to build churches, because they were members of Charleston churches.

As summer residents became more permanent residents, their Charleston pastors commuted. Worship spaces included homes and schoolhouses. When those residents decided their children needed to attend Sunday school classes to continue in their parents’ faiths, sanctuaries began to be constructed.

Oh, and to continue the original conversation -- Summerville Presbyterian’s current sanctuary was constructed in 1895, following the Great Quake of 1886.

You too can be a Summerville Historian

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 14:18:48 GMT

Originally published August 12, 2014

Learning more about Summerville history can be as simple as going on line (but don’t believe everything on Wikipedia). Or, checking out a few books at the George Seago/Dorchester County Library on Trolley Road or the Timrod (subscription) Library on Central Avenue.

If you want to have your own in-home reference books, start with a used book service, such as AbeBooks.com or Amazon. Here are a few. Prices listed do not include shipping.

-- Barbara Hill’s “Summerville” was written for the town’s sesquicentennial. A heavy-weight in every sense of the word, “Summerville” covers from 1847 to 1997. The only thing absent from this best of all volumes is an index. (AbeBooks, $100; Amazon, $67-$125.)

-- “Beth’s Pineland Village,” edited by Clarice and Lang Foster, is a compilation of articles by Beth McIntosh. Originally published in the Summerville Scene (predecessor of the Journal Scene), many of these articles feature Summerville homes. (AbeBooks, $25-$65; Amazon, $28)

-- “Porch Rocker Recollections” has text by Margaret Scott Kwist, photography by Eleanor Brownlee Randall and research by Virginia Cuthbert Wilder. This volume is suitable for reading to children. (AbeBooks, $13-$45; Amazon, $10-$13.)

-- “Summerville: Images of America series,” compiled by Jerry Crotty and Margaret Ann Michels, features vintage images of the Flower Town in the Pines. (Amazon, $11-$17;AbeBooks, $16-$82.)

Centennial Parade in March, 1947. Local Merchants, including the Teapot, T.M. Finucan Feed & Seed and the local ice company parade in front of Town Hall.Photo courtesy of the Albert Peters Family

The Making of Azalea Park

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 14:08:19 GMT

Originally published September 8, 2014

One of the favorite locations in Summerville is Azalea Park, featuring both natural and man-made beauty.
The park’s centerpiece is 16 acres purchased and donated to the town in the 1920s by a civic group that became the Flowertown Garden Club.

When the Great Depression began in the 1929, Mayor Grange Cuthbert envisioned the park as an azalea-filled site that would draw visitors and support the local economy.

Cuthbert approached local nurseryman George Segelken, propagator of the “Pride of Summerville” and “Pride of Mobile” azaleas. Segelken agreed to donate azaleas to the new park with the understanding that if anyone wanted to purchase the plants he would dig them up.

In the succeeding decades, the park would have many major cleanups, such as after hurricanes and ice storms. Local resident Worth Waring remembers after one such storm, when Boy Scouts were enlisted to plant donated pine tree seedlings.
And, after Hurricane Hugo, 25 years ago, the cleanup was marked with the installation of a visual display near the Cuthbert Community Center.

During the last 15 years, the natural beauty of the downtown park has been complemented by the installation of several bronze sculptures, through Sculpture in the South.

Those sculptures, the azaleas and turtle-filled ponds mean there is always something to delight at Azalea Park.

The Magnificent Pine Forest Inn

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 13:45:30 GMT

Originally published October 21, 2014

The Pine Forest Inn sat on 60 acres and opened its doors in 1891. The internationally renowned hotel had four floors, elevators, 150 sleeping apartments and hosted several famous guest including U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft.The Inn had its own power plant, telegraph office and long distance telephone service. The Inn also housed three water supplies: an artesian well for mineral water, spring water and a charcoal purifying cistern.

The weekly rate in the 1934-35 season was $49 for a single room with private bath and $168 for a double, which included meals.

In addition to the enormous rooms the Pine Forest Inn had a glassed in rocking chair porch with 150 rockers and a dining room that was larger than the 1,600 square foot dining room inside the White House.

If the above was not enough reason to stay at the magnificent Pine Forest Inn the amenities also included bowling alleys, shuffle board, billiards, a swimming pool, 18- hole golf course that sat on 130 acres (today's Corey Woods), hunting, fishing, tennis, croquet and a 50 horse stable.

In the mid 1930's the Inn diminished in popularity and closed. It was reopened by T.W. Salisbury in 1939. During World War II the Inn housed officers and defense workers and after the war the Inn was transformed into the Adventure School- A progressive school before it's time. The Adventure School had only one graduating class.

The Inn was later demolished by Mr. Salisbury for fear of fire. With preservation in mind Mr. Salisbury removed as much of the interior as possible. Many Summerville homes have mantelpieces from the Inn.

Today the site of the Inn is now home to a residential community known as President Circle. The only remaining part of the Pine Forest Inn is the entrance gates.

Summerville Turns 167

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 13:37:44 GMT

Originally published December 17, 2014

On October 3, 1832, the Charleston-Hamburg Railroad started running passenger trains, twice a day. The people loved it. They could now live in Summerville and work in downtown Charleston. With the daily routes in place the number of permanent year-round residents grew steadily. It was the continual growth in population combined with the increasingly large amount of pine trees that were being cut down for railroad construction and fuel that led village leaders to begin the incorporation process. The Village of Summerville was granted its first charter on December 17, 1847.

The newly incorporated ‘Official’ Village of Summerville included both new Summerville (south of the railroad) and old Summerville (the old planters’ village, easily recognizable today by its winding roads, large pine trees and historic homes.)

The incorporation statute allowed Summerville to be officially governed by an intendant (mayor) and four wardens (council members.) The elected governing body (even in 1847) was to be officially known as the ‘Town Council of Summerville’ with public elections to be held annually on the second Monday in January. The first act of the first council was a tree ordinance that was passed in early 1848. The tree ordinance continues to be enforced today and is thought to be one of the oldest tree ordinances in the country.

Signers of the incorporation petition were: Dan K. Whitaker, B.E. Kiddell, Edward L. Hutchinson, Joseph J. Waring, B. Perry, E.B. Scott, Daniel Flud, Thomas B. Miles, Joseph H. Waring, B. Perry, E.B. Scott, Daniel Flud, Thomas M. Matthison, John C. Schultz, S.D. Boone and E. Singleton.

Summerville Fire & Rescue

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 12:43:03 GMT

Originally published January 16, 2015

It was in the month of December, 1893, that the first mention of a fire alarm bell and the forming of a fire brigade was discussed by the Town Council of Summerville. The following year in March of 1894, the first fire apparatus was purchased for a town fire brigade consisting of 25 members. That same year, the first fire station was leased and the Pioneer Fire Company was organized. The first fire chief position was created in 1895 and R. H. Sweeney was named the first Fire Chief of the Town of Summerville.

Through the years, the fire department continued to grow with the town and in March of 1930, the town installed the first fire hydrants. By that time, the Town of Summerville had grown to almost 2,400. That same year, the town purchased its first modern pumper, a 1929 American La France affectionately known as “Big Bertha” which has been restored and can be seen today at special events and parades. With the election of mayor, Berlin G. Meyers in 1972, Richard G. Waring, III was named the town’s first paid fire chief and remained for some 20 years until his retirement in 1997. The town continued to grow and according to the 2013 census, Summerville population exceeded 46,000. Summerville Fire & Rescue (SFR) has grown to meet the needs of its citizens from a mostly volunteer department with one station to a 98 member paid department with five fire stations, the latest opening in 2014.

Today the headquarters remains at 300 W. 2nd North Street after opening its doors in June of 1984. In May of 1992 it was dedicated in the name of Chief John Weber who retired in 1972 after being fire chief for 25 years. Currently, SFR answers approximately 4,000 calls per year. SFR operates with 30 full-time firefighters working on each of the three 24 hour shifts, an excellent support staff, and a number of dedicated volunteers. Richard G. Waring, IV currently serves as the fire chief and Johnny D. Allston as his assistant chief.

Alston Graded School

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 12:38:28 GMT

Originally published February 20, 2015

The Alston Graded School opened in 1910. It was one of the first African American schools founded in Dorchester County. The school was named after Dr. J.H. Alston who donated the property on Cedar and 1st North Streets to build the school.

The school housed grades 1-11 until 1949, when the 12th grade was added.

Alston High School was moved to Bryan Street in 1953. The school closed in 1970 after desegregation of county schools. Today Alston Middle School is located on Bryan Street.

The original school on Cedar St. and 1st North St. was demolished. The only known artifact that remains of the school is the cornerstone (currently at the Summerville-Dorchester Museum).

The stone (dated 1910) lists Dr. Charles Sheppard as a founding trustee. Dr. Sheppard who is most commonly known in Summerville history for founding the Pinehurst Tea Farm was also one of the primary backers of the Banks School.

The Banks School was operated by the Epiphany Episcopal Church on Central Ave. next door to what is now St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. The Banks school was used for primary school for African Americans until the Alston School was built.

The Golden Age of Inns

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 12:32:22 GMT

Originally published March 13, 2015

Discussions of The Dorchester hotel (whether pro or con) always prompt thoughts of Summerville’s Golden Age of Inns.

Beginning in the early 1890s, the proliferation of inns in Summerville followed a pronouncement at the first International Tuberculosis Congress in Paris regarding Summerville, SC, and Thomasville, Ga. The two communities, the medical professionals declared, were the two healthiest places on earth.

The reason, according to these professionals, was pine vapors. Those vapors were sure to cure consumption, heart problems, nervousness and insomnia.

Responding to anticipated visitors, local entrepreneurs built hotels and renovated homes into inns (comparable to today’s bed-and-breakfast operations).

Resulting businesses included the Pine Forest Inn, Halcyon Inn, Wisteria Inn, Holly Inn, The Postern, Squirrel Inn and Pine View Inn. Visitors could relax in The Rocking Chair Room – one hundred seats available – at the Pine Forest Inn. They could visit the Pinehurst tea farm. They could go hunting. Or, they play golf at the location of today’s Corey Woods.

Many of the inns continued to operate into the mid-1900s. Following World War II, the convenience of motor traffic led to motels instead of hotels. The quaint and elegant inns disappeared. Today, some of the smaller inns or outbuildings of the larger inns, have become private homes. The largest remaining inn is the Squirrel Inn condominiums, across from Azalea Park. Try not to bother the residents, but notice the stained-glass squirrel windows beside the front door.

Is It Flower Town or Flowertown?

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 12:26:39 GMT

Originally published April 15, 2015

Whenever I see the town slogan “Flower Town in the Pines” written as “Flowertown,” I grit my teeth at the error.

Now, Summerville’s official motto, Sacra Pinus Esto, translated as the pine is sacred, is featured on the town seal.

However, in 1925, the Chamber of Commerce sponsored a competition for a town slogan. That competition was won by Virginia Lowndes Bailey, who collected a $5 prize for her entry, “Flower Town in the Pines.”

Subsequently, the slogan, with “Flower Town” as two words, spanned U.S. Highway 17A on a brick arch that welcomed visitors. A commemorative plaque was hung in Town Hall. And, the running horse weather vane atop Town Hall honored Bailey’s memory.

Interesting, if specific flowers had been picked, say camellias or azaleas, those appellations also adorn other communities. “Camellia City” tags Sacramento, Calif, as well as Slidell, La., and Greenville, Ala. “Azalea City” is claimed by Mobile, Ala., and Valdosta, Ga. The Azalea Society of America offers a certification for municipalities that achieve various criteria to become an Azalea City.

Today, we have a Flowertown (one word) Festival and many businesses include Flowertown (one word) in their business name. No problem.

But, please, respect the author of the slogan. If you are calling Summerville the “Flower Town in the Pines,” it is two words.

The Kornahrens of Summerville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 12:22:45 GMT

Originally published June 17, 2015

Though we begin our short tail in 1801 the Kornahrens family of Summerville, South Carolina can trace their history as far back as 1542.

Gerd Hinrich Kornahrens, born in 1801 in Drangstedt, Germany married Anna Catherina and was blessed to raise a large family of fifteen children. In the mid 1850s, eight of his children including John Nicholas Kornahrens left Germany and set sail for Charleston, South Carolina ,USA.

Upon arrival to the United States John Nicholas began working towards his dream of becoming an American citizen. His dream was realized on May 15, 1867. A few years later in 1871 the now American John Nicholas of German decent married Catherina Henrietta Schlighting at the age of 28 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Charleston.

In 1878 the newly weds learned Catherina was suffering from respiratory health issues and decided to buy seven acres of land in Summerville- where the clean air fostered a healthier environment for Catherina.

The large square lot was advertised, “ As an open field behind Main Street ”. John Nicholas and Catherine used the land to build a two-story, Victorian home on the corner of 2nd South Street (now W. Richardson Avenue) and Blackjack Street (now Cedar Street). The bottom floor was designed for commercial use as a general merchandise shop and the top floor was reserved for the family living space.

Together John Nicholas and Catherina had six children. In 1911, John Nicolas retired and turned the store over to his son Arnold. After John Nicholas passed away in 1921, Arnold changed the store from a general merchandise establishment, into a hardware store called Arnold W. Kornahrens Hardware Store .

Arnold married Annie Fischer of Charleston. Together they had nine children. Arnold managed the hardware store up until his passing on January 5, 1927. Annie continued to live above the store until she passed away on May 21, 1981.

In the beginning of 1982, Kenneth Plexico of Summerville bought the building at 140 W. Richardson Avenue. He kept it until selling the building to Cas Danielowski on April 10, 2006. The sturdy Victorian building still stands today.

The building has morphed into several different shops over the years. Most recently the building was occupied by the Finishing Touch. It is now home to Antiques and Artisans In Town.

St. Paul's Summerville

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 11:10:47 GMT

Originally published August 28, 2015

Nestled on six acres of land between Gadsden Street and Waring Street in the heart of the historic district is St. Paul’s Summerville , the second oldest congregation in Summerville. In 1829 Rev. Phillip Gadsden of St. Paul’s Stono (a chapel of ease to the original parish church established near the Stono River in 1706) began holding summer services in houses in Summerville. In 1830 the first church building was built near the present building. The congregation was officially incorporated as St. Paul’s Summerville in 1855.

In need of more room to accommodate the growing congregation, the present church building was built and consecrated in 1857. With permission from the Gadsden family to build on top of Rev. Gadsden's grave, the church building was enlarged by 20 feet in 1878. A stained glass window was also added behind the alter. Rev. Gadsden's grave is located directly under the alter.

St Paul’s Summerville continued to be resilient, standing tall through the War Between the States, storms, politics and, though it shifted 4 inches off its foundation, St. Paul’s survived the ‘Pandemonium in the Pines’ more widely known as the Great Quake of 1886.

Ambler Hall was built in 1924 and named in honor of Rev. Francis W. Ambler who served as the rector of St. Paul’s from 1908 to 1940.

On the opposite side of the church is the parish house, built in 1974.

In 1986 the rear of the church was extended. With a shortage of land several graves were built over to accommodate the expansion. Though the graves are no longer visible, a monument containing the names of those that lay at rest beneath the church was installed behind the church in memoriam.

***Fun Fact: St. Paul’s is the only church in Summerville with a graveyard. Why a graveyard and not a cemetery? A graveyard is located on the same property as a church. A cemetery is in essence a graveyard, but it is referred to as a cemetery because it is not on church grounds.

Sources:

Hill, Barbara Lynch. Summerville, SC 1847-1997 Our History. Wentworth Printing, West Columbia, SC (1998)
Kwist, Margaret and others. Porch Rocker Recollections of Summerville, South Carolina. Linwood Press, Inc. Summerville, SC (1980)
Woodard, Mark. Home Sweet Home Summerville, South Carolina. Xlibris LLC. Lexington, KY (2014)
A History of St. Paul's Summerville , Summerville, South Carolina. (2006)

The Exquisitely Quaint Timrod Library

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 11:05:27 GMT

Originally published October 1, 2015

The historic Henry Timrod Library , one of only two membership, or subscription, libraries remaining in South Carolina, is still a vital and fully engaged entity today. Named for the Poet Laureate of the Confederacy, it was born from the zeal and forward thinking of 19 intrepid Summerville ladies in 1897. Caught up in the “enlightenment” of the Progressive Era, their enthusiasm led them to establish a Summerville Chapter of the Chautauqua Literary and ScientificCircle . Their numbers and vision grew, and by 1908, they were chartered as “ The Timrod Literary and Library Association ”. With the donation of land from the town of Summerville and eight years of fund raising and focused community cooperation, the present day building became a reality in April 1915. The original minutes from the Timrod’s inception to the present have given us a marvelous, and often entertaining, written record of the evolution of the Timrod.

The exterior of the building constructed by local black contractor, Jim Cooper, is an architectural delight, with its unique diamond paned windows that flood the rooms with natural light. It is included on the National Register of Historic Places (since 1979), and more recently was named to the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Places of Distinction and is a part of the “Sweet Tea Trail” of designated sites to visit.

Two additions, one in 1927 and another in 1985 retained the original design, right down to matching the locally produced bricks. Thanks to the generosity of Catherine Peterman Stewart, a long-serving librarian, friend and benefactor, and the local Summerville community, these additions enabled the Timrod to continue serving its members and the community at large as Summerville grew.

Today, the Timrod still offers fine historic collections, with a focus on the civil war, and the local area, as well as current volumes and best sellers. Currently, programs available each month to our members and the public include: 2nd Monday Children’s Story Hour, 3rd Friday “Tea & Tales” with renown “Resident” Storyteller, Tim Lowry , and 3rd Sunday “Talking about Books”, a casual sharing of whatever you are reading and (like with all events at the Timrod) refreshments!

As the Timrod is a membership library , it depends on modest annual dues, gifts, bequests and the generosity of friends, as well as fund-raising events to maintain this historic building, its substantial collection of books and its place in the community. Some of our annual events include: the 2-Sunday “Southern Author Series” in February, a Patrons Party in May, a BBQ in September, our October Book Sale and Luncheon, and both large and small “meet the author” signings and talks.

Though now also connected to the world via modern media, our modest staff and governing Board welcomes and depends on our volunteer members to provide the personal touch, so as to retain the charm and ambiance we’ve come to love and support. Visitors are always welcome.

Annual Membership: Family- $15.00 Patron $50.00