Clemson
Attractions
From beautiful blooms in the South Carolina Botanical Garden to local brews at the world-famous Esso Club, Clemson offers an array of things to see and do. Here, we share a list of some of our favorite attractions and what we think makes them special.
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South Carolina Botanical Garden
Offering a diversity of nature trails, streams, natural landscapes and manicured display gardens, the South Carolina Botanical Gardens is a must see for visitors of all ages who love the great outdoors.
Don't miss:
- Seeing one of the largest collections of nature-based sculpture in the USA
- A visit to Hanover House, an early 18th century house
- Exploring the works of local artists on exhibit at the Fran Hanson Discovery Center
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Abernathy Waterfront Park
A linear lakefront park stretching for a half mile off College Avenue. Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll through natural spaces along the boardwalk with lake access.
Don't miss:
- Enjoying a picnic in the Pavilion
- Strolling the picturesque half-mile boardwalk
- Relaxing and reading on a park bench overlooking the water
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Clemson University Walker Golf Course
Located on Clemson University Campus, this 18-hole championship golf course is designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels. The last five holes run along the shores of Hartwell Lake and offer the most spectacular finishing holes in South Carolina.
Don't miss:
- A chance to tee off on one of the most prominent golf course in the state
- The signature Tiger Paw 17th hole
- House-smoked specialties at Sole on the Green
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Lake Hartwell State Park
Popular with anglers across the state, the recreation lake features lake houses, docks, boating and water skiing. Beyond the superb lake, the park offers a short nature trail, picnic areas, a playground and a basketball court.
Don't miss:
- Relaxing on 962 miles of shoreline featuring boat ramps, picnic areas and more
- Checking out the display of vintage fishing gear in the Information Center
- Hiking along the park's many well-marked trails
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Clemson Area Hiking and Biking Trails
Take in the sights and sounds of nature while venturing along one of the many area trails. The rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains offer trails to suit hikers and bikers of all levels, and some even include waterfalls.
Don't miss:- Nearby Lake Issaqueena trails in the Clemson Experimental Forest
- Yellow Branch Falls Trail, a short, moderate hike with a 50-foot waterfall
- An extensive network of trails at Table Rock State Park
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The Esso Club
The iconic Esso Club is Clemson’s favorite watering hole. Students, parents and Tiger fans gather here for cold beers, pub grub and a look at Clemson memorabilia worthy of a museum.
Don't miss:
- Sampling the Fried Pickle Chips
- Scooping up Esso swag (including t-shirts, visors and croakies)
- Taking a selfie in front of the vintage Esso sign
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Memorial Stadium
Home of the legendary Clemson Tigers and affectionately referred to as Death Valley, Memorial Stadium has been at the center of all the guts and glory of college football since it was first opened in 1942.
Don't miss:
- Experiencing most exciting 25 seconds in college football
- Tapping your toes to The Tiger Rag
- The chance to see "Howard's Rock"
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Brooks Center for the Performing Arts
Home of the performing arts at Clemson University, this state-of-the-art theater receives great reviews, showcasing a multitude of nationally and internationally acclaimed dance companies, theatre troupes and music ensembles.
Don't miss:
- Clemson Players productions at the intimate Bellamy Theater
- The national tours of major Broadway plays and musicals
- The Lillian and Robert Utsey Chamber Music Series