Historic Attractions

Upstate South Carolina has an interesting history, and attractions such as historic homes, battlefields, and museums reflect this rich past. Fort Hill in Clemson, the homestead of South Carolina 's eminent statesman John C. Calhoun, has been designated as one of the nation's great historic shrines. The 1803 homestead has 14 rooms and three white-columned piazzas. In addition, another local favorite, Walnut Grove plantation, was built in 1765 and houses eighteenth century antiques.

Another famous attraction is the Poinsett Bridge , which is one of the oldest and most beautiful examples of early road builders' craftsmanship. The stone bridge dates back to 1820 and was part of the original

State Road

connecting Greenville and Asheville . Additionally, Campbell ’s Covered Bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in the state.

The Upstate region is also home to historic battlefields. Cowpens National Battlefield was the site where Daniel Morgan led a rustic militia to victory over Tarleton’s elite corps of British regulars in 1781. Featured at the battlefield are a walking trail, a marked road tour, picnic grounds, and a visitor center with exhibits, memorabilia, and a multi-image slide presentation.

Some of the area’s favorite museums include the Museum of Confederate History , which houses both military and personal relics from the Civil War and a research library. One of the area’s most famous companies, BMW, has its own BMW Zentrum Museum and Visitor Center where visitors can see classic BMWs, motorcycles, and aircraft engines.