Set in South Carolina, Florence is brimming with history, culture and Southern charm. It was founded in 1871 and is filled with tree-lined streets, leafy parks and pioneer plantation homes. Spend your days discovering local history, exploring regional parks and devouring the world's best pecans.

Things to do

South Carolina is famous for its pecans, and there's no better place to discover its agricultural roots than the Pecan Trail. From bakeries to cocktail bars, it showcases the city's best pecan-inspired dishes. Save your appetite for specialties like pecan crusted grouper, pecan pizza and pecan pie martinis.

Culture buffs can discover Florence's vibrant arts scene at The Francis Marion University Performing Arts Centre. It hosts everything from Broadway-style musicals to classical concerts performed by the Florence Symphony.

Just out of town is the legendary Darlington Raceway. In addition to the Xfinity Series and Monster Energy NASCAR Cup, the track also hosts high-octane local events throughout the year. Visit the on-site museum to see vintage race cars, driver memorabilia and the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Hall of Fame.

From family picnics to afternoon strolls, Lynches River Park is Florence's signature green space. For a different perspective, hire a canoe and explore the Revolutionary Rivers Trail. The iconic paddling route winds through the lush cypress swamplands that were once used as a hiding place by Revolutionary War hero, General Francis Marion.

Getting around

The best way to explore Florence and the South Carolina countryside is with a rental car. The city is also well-serviced by a network of local buses and taxis. Florence Regional Airport is five minutes’ drive out of town, while Columbia is about 1.5 hours from Florence.