Whether you are on a family trip or traveling solo, there are seemingly unlimited activities to do at Lake Hartwell, SC. However, there may come a time on your trip when you need a break from kayaking, hiking, fishing or any of the other lake-centered activities. This is the perfect opportunity to head out and enjoy all the activities the local South Carolina towns have to offer.

Here are the best things to do at Lake Hartwell, SC that aren’t at the lake itself.

What to do in Lake Hartwell, SC

South Carolina has the perfect mix of old-world charm along with cutting edge technology—all against the backdrop of some of the prettiest scenery in the country. There is something for everyone on this list of fun things to do at Lake Hartwell, South Carolina including family activities that adults and children alike will love.

Learn About Nuclear Energy

A quick drive from the lake shores lies the city of Seneca. Here is where you will find the World of Energy museum, a family-friendly destination where you can learn about nuclear power through interactive exhibits and informative displays and panels.

Additionally, a butterfly garden is located on the site along with picnic benches—the perfect place to enjoy a nice picnic. They also have boat slips and allow fishing off their pier.

Shop at an Old-Fashioned Country Store

Also in Seneca is Hochstetler’s Country Store. This store features bulk natural foods such as spices and pantry staples, along with locally made cheese and meat. Shoppers can also browse homemade soap, candles, jelly and more while enjoying an in-house deli sandwich made with fresh ingredients.

Browse Antique Markets

It’s hard to think of things to do at Lake Hartwell, SC without mentioning antique stores. Nearby Anderson, SC is a great place to spend hours perusing through antique shops.

Main Street has three gems filled with treasures past to see. Try Remnants Antiques and Gifts, Willow’s Antiques and Apple Dumplin Antiques & Collectibles to name a few.

Enjoy Craft Beer

After a warm day on the lake or exploring the nearby cities, few things sound more refreshing than an ice-cold beer. Head to The Beer Station in Seneca where you can find 30 or so rotating craft beer selections.

Try a few samples, have a pint and, if you are so inclined, take a growler with you to go. Outside food is welcomed so bring your favorite meal with you and enjoy.

Tour a Working Goat Dairy Farm

Split Creek Farm is Grade A goat dairy farm well-known for its award-winning goat-milk fudge and cheeses. It also happens to be open to the public daily, making it the perfect place to introduce your family to a bit of farm life. Stop by, and grab a selfie or two with the goat herd, then sample some of their famous fudge and cheese. You can even shop in the farm store to bring your favorite finds or some handmade goat milk bath products home with you.

Have a Some Seasonal Fun or a Concert at a Farm

One of the most popular things to do near Lake Hartwell, SC is a working farm that’s devoted to agri-tourism and entertainment. Denver Downs Farm is seasoned enough to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places from it’s roots in 1869 as a cotton farm.

There are plenty of seasonal activities to do at Denver Downs. In the fall, find your way out of the corn maze and snap pictures with pumpkins, or visit in the Spring where you can partake in an Easter egg hunt and see live bunnies. Check the calendar of events for nights when the farm transforms into a concert venue and enjoy the sounds of country music.

Pick Fresh Produce at the Farmer’s Market

Farm-fresh produce can be found at the Concord Market six days a week for most of the year. If you are looking for things to do in Lake Hartwell, SC that allow you to interact with locals, this market is one of the best places to do so.

Not only will you find homegrown fruits and veggies, but there is also an assortment of other items. Jams, jellies, and salsas are plentiful, as is local honey and various other farm items. Decorative pieces and seasonal plants are also available for purchase.

Sample Whiskey and Moonshine in Downtown Anderson

It isn’t often someone has the opportunity to sample moonshine, but if that intrigues you then Palmetto Distillery is definitely one of the things to do around Lake Hartwell, South Carolina. This micro-distillery produces the Palmetto Moonshine, which is the first legal moonshine in SC.

Whiskey lovers can also sample Palmetto Whiskey, which is South Carolinas most awarded craft whiskey. Free tours are available six days a week, where you can purchase samples and take home your favorite products.

Which of these fun things near Lake Hartwell, South Carolina will you try?

Share your favorite off-lake activity in the comments below!