Table Rock State Park
South Carolina

Inland South Carolina, home to Columbia, the state capital boasts a diversity of geography and attractions for residents and visitors. The Blue Ridge Mountains loom in the Upcountry, beautiful lakes like Marion, Murray and Jocassee provide world-class fishing and hundreds of miles of rivers make excellent water trails for kayakers and canoeists. The Edisto in South Carolina is the longest blackwater river in the US. Manmade attractions like the Riverbanks Zoo, the Darlington Raceway and the Railroad Historical Center are top-notch, drawing crowds of fans and visitors - Be sure to visit inland South Carolina and enjoy its beauty, history and charm.

Visitors to Columbia enjoy the urban excitement of a cosmopolitan city and center of state government. Take a tour of the South Carolina State House, the State Museum or the Columbia Museum of Art. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the Congaree Vista district, with the former warehouses and rail stations now transformed into a cutting edge urban scene. Browse the unique specialty shops of the Five Points neighborhood or shop the cobblestone lanes of Main Street in the Lexington area for a special antique, while enjoying the historic charm of South Carolina.

Get down and dirty at the 17th Annual USMC Mud Run the end of September. The largest mud run in the southeast, the 4.2 mile course, new for 2010, is the Leatherneck at Sandy Run. Teams compete over the all-terrain course with 30 obstacles including walls, trenches and mud holes. A great demonstration of teamwork and determination, come cheer on your teammates or favorite team. September 25th is the date for 2010.

Through October the River Runner Outdoor Center hosts weekly Kayak trips through Columbia's Historic Canal. Get a view of the city from the inside out as you pass the water plant and behind residential neighborhoods. An easy and safe introduction to kayaking, bring friends and family and try a paddle through Columbia.

Greenville in the uplands of western South Carolina has a beautiful tree lined downtown, parks and serves as the commercial center for the region. Euphoria, one of the city's favorite events, takes place for three exciting days in September. This premier food, wine and entertainment event fills Greenville with world-class chefs and vintners showcasing the best in cuisine and wine parings. Attend cooking demonstrations with well-known culinary stars, sample the gourmet food or attend a fabulous multi-course dinner.

Catch the best of USA Cycling in Greenville, also in September. The 2010 Greenville Hospital System USA Cycling Professional Championships features the Stars and Stripes Challenge, including time trial challenges and a 112 mile road race championship. The first Saturday in December brings one of Greenville's favorite traditions – The Greenville Poinsettia Christmas Parade. The Christmas parade marks the beginning of the holiday season with bands, floats and fun for all.

The Best Western Greenville Airport Inn and The Best Western Piedmont Inn and Suites are ideal locations for travelers to Greenville. With affordable rates and comfortable accommodations you may want to extend your visit to the Upcountry region of South Carolina.

Morris Island Lighthouse
South Carolina Coast

Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, on the north coast of South Carolina, through historic Charleston to the Resort Islands and Hilton Head off the Low Country, travelers are treated to beautiful beaches, wonderful resorts and the charms of old southern cities. Charleston, founded in 1670, exudes grace and elegance as you walk along cobblestone streets and the Old City Market. Pawley's Island, one of the US' oldest beach resorts boasts of it's shabby arrogance. Well-known Myrtle Beach is one of the East Coast's most visited beaches. The South Carolina Coast has something for travelers of all ages and interests.

Motorcycle enthusiasts mark the end of September on your calendars for the Grand Strand Fall Motorcycle Rally. Fall is a beautiful time to enjoy a ride along the South Carolina coast. Cruise from Murrells Inlet to Charleston, take a break on the waterfront in Georgetown and be sure to visit the historic plantation homes in Charleston. Dine on fresh seafood along the way in the crisp and clear fall weather. For accommodations, the Best Western Grand Strand Inn and Suites and the Best Western The Carolinian Beach Resort are conveniently located in Myrtle Beach.

Celebrate Columbus Day at the 2010 Little River Shrimp and Jazz Fest October 9th and 10th. This is the 6th annual festival and is a highlight of the year in Little River. In addition to the Shrimp Cook-off, enjoy live entertainment featuring local and regional bands and performers, arts and crafts vendors and fun for the entire family. Make it a family getaway and check in the Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort - Situated on the oceanfront, close to all Myrtle Beach's attractions. Enjoy the days at the Shrimp and Jazz Fest, the beach, shopping and relax in comfortable Best Western accommodations for the night.

Charleston will host the 21st Annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park. Get in the holiday spirit during November and December with a visit to Santa's Village and the Winter Wonderland. Dazzle the family with a ride through three miles of light displays before a visit to Santa, a Train Ride or ride on the carousel. Enjoy the magic of the season in Charleston.

Athletes can get a preview of the Festival of Lights at the Holiday Festival of Lights Fun Run and Walk. This is a non-competitive event that features a two mile run or walk through the holiday light displays. Be the first to see and experience the 2010 light displays on the evening of November 12th with a nice run or walk through James Island County Park.

The Best Western King Charles Inn and the Best Western Charleston Downtown Hotel are most convenient to James Island Park. Spend a night or two in downtown Charleston for the Holidays. Do some shopping, enjoy the historic buildings and sites and get in the Christmas spirit. Relax after an enjoyable day in the Best Western Hotel of your choice.