Living in Summerville offers the charm of a small town with the added benefit of being close to some of the Southeast’s most interesting places. Whether you’re craving beach time, historic streets, mountain views, or a change in scenery, weekend adventures are always within reach. From vibrant city strolls to peaceful coastal retreats, these destinations offer something for every pace and preference. If you're planning your next short getaway, these weekend trips from Summerville, SC, should be at the top of your list.
Charleston, SC: Close to Home, Big on Experience
Only about 40 minutes from Summerville, Charleston makes for an easy, go-to weekend escape that never feels repetitive. The city’s mix of waterfront views, cobblestone streets, and historic homes is well-known, but there’s always something new to uncover.
You can spend Saturday morning browsing the Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square before heading to the Battery for a quiet walk along the harbor. For food lovers, the city’s dining scene continues to impress, with everything from casual oyster bars to nationally recognized restaurants. If you're visiting with family, the South Carolina Aquarium and ferry rides to Fort Sumter add variety to the itinerary.
Charleston’s nearby beaches—like Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms—also make it easy to extend your city visit into a coastal weekend. It’s the kind of destination that’s close enough to enjoy regularly but dynamic enough to feel like a true getaway each time you visit.
You can spend Saturday morning browsing the Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square before heading to the Battery for a quiet walk along the harbor. For food lovers, the city’s dining scene continues to impress, with everything from casual oyster bars to nationally recognized restaurants. If you're visiting with family, the South Carolina Aquarium and ferry rides to Fort Sumter add variety to the itinerary.
Charleston’s nearby beaches—like Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms—also make it easy to extend your city visit into a coastal weekend. It’s the kind of destination that’s close enough to enjoy regularly but dynamic enough to feel like a true getaway each time you visit.
Hilton Head Island, SC: Coastal Relaxation at Its Best
If your idea of a great weekend includes biking trails, golf courses, and expansive beaches, Hilton Head Island delivers. Just under two hours from Summerville, this low-key destination is ideal for relaxing without sacrificing amenities.
Spend your days riding the island’s 60+ miles of bike trails or lounging on Coligny Beach. For golfers, Hilton Head is home to over 20 championship courses, offering a mix of coastal scenery and well-designed layouts. There are also opportunities for kayaking, dolphin tours, and guided nature walks that introduce you to the island’s unique ecosystem.
Dining is casual and coastal, with plenty of outdoor patios and fresh seafood on every menu. Hilton Head also has several family-based spots like Harbour Town and Shelter Cove, which offer shopping, live music, and waterfront views perfect for an easy-going evening.
Spend your days riding the island’s 60+ miles of bike trails or lounging on Coligny Beach. For golfers, Hilton Head is home to over 20 championship courses, offering a mix of coastal scenery and well-designed layouts. There are also opportunities for kayaking, dolphin tours, and guided nature walks that introduce you to the island’s unique ecosystem.
Dining is casual and coastal, with plenty of outdoor patios and fresh seafood on every menu. Hilton Head also has several family-based spots like Harbour Town and Shelter Cove, which offer shopping, live music, and waterfront views perfect for an easy-going evening.
Greenville, SC: A Mountain-Edged City with Arts and Green Space
If you’re looking to head inland for a change of scenery, Greenville makes a strong case. About three hours northwest of Summerville, Greenville is a city that blends urban energy with access to the Blue Ridge foothills. It’s walkable, scenic, and full of character.
Start your weekend with a stroll down Main Street, where tree-lined sidewalks, public art installations, and local shops create a welcoming vibe. Falls Park on the Reedy is a must-visit, with the Liberty Bridge offering views of waterfalls right in the heart of downtown. Bike rentals and riverfront paths make it easy to explore more of the area at your own pace.
The city’s food and drink scene continues to grow, with craft breweries, wine bars, and award-winning restaurants dotting the downtown area. If you're interested in arts and culture, check out the Peace Center for live music or theatre, or explore local galleries tucked between restaurants and boutiques.
Just outside of town, you’ll find hiking trails, lakes, and overlooks worth the drive—ideal for those who want to blend their city stay with a few hours in nature.
Start your weekend with a stroll down Main Street, where tree-lined sidewalks, public art installations, and local shops create a welcoming vibe. Falls Park on the Reedy is a must-visit, with the Liberty Bridge offering views of waterfalls right in the heart of downtown. Bike rentals and riverfront paths make it easy to explore more of the area at your own pace.
The city’s food and drink scene continues to grow, with craft breweries, wine bars, and award-winning restaurants dotting the downtown area. If you're interested in arts and culture, check out the Peace Center for live music or theatre, or explore local galleries tucked between restaurants and boutiques.
Just outside of town, you’ll find hiking trails, lakes, and overlooks worth the drive—ideal for those who want to blend their city stay with a few hours in nature.
Savannah, GA: Southern Charm with a Riverside Twist
About two hours from Summerville, Savannah feels like stepping into a storybook. The oak-lined streets, public squares, and historic architecture create a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a city that moves at its own pace and encourages visitors to slow down, too.
Begin your weekend with a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s deep-rooted history, or take your time wandering the squares and riverfront at your own rhythm. Savannah’s food scene has something for everyone, from coastal favorites like shrimp and grits to more modern, seasonal menus served in restored historic buildings.
Forsyth Park offers a great spot for picnics or people-watching, while the boutiques on Broughton Street provide plenty of reasons to stop and browse. Take a riverboat cruise in the evening, or simply enjoy a stroll along River Street to catch the sunset over the Savannah River.
Savannah also has a thriving art and design community, thanks in part to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), whose presence brings energy and creativity to nearly every part of the city.
Begin your weekend with a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s deep-rooted history, or take your time wandering the squares and riverfront at your own rhythm. Savannah’s food scene has something for everyone, from coastal favorites like shrimp and grits to more modern, seasonal menus served in restored historic buildings.
Forsyth Park offers a great spot for picnics or people-watching, while the boutiques on Broughton Street provide plenty of reasons to stop and browse. Take a riverboat cruise in the evening, or simply enjoy a stroll along River Street to catch the sunset over the Savannah River.
Savannah also has a thriving art and design community, thanks in part to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), whose presence brings energy and creativity to nearly every part of the city.
Columbia, SC: Culture, Gardens, and Game Day Energy
Just 90 minutes from Summerville, Columbia offers a mix of urban highlights and outdoor spaces that make it well-suited for a quick weekend trip. As the state’s capital and a university town, there’s always something happening, from sporting events to seasonal festivals.
The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a popular spot for visitors of all ages, offering both wildlife exhibits and beautifully maintained botanical gardens. For those interested in history or the arts, the South Carolina State Museum and the Columbia Museum of Art offer high-quality exhibits without the crowds you’d find in larger cities.
Columbia’s downtown area is compact and easy to explore, with casual restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops lining the Vista and Main Street districts. If you're traveling during football season, a University of South Carolina game at Williams-Brice Stadium adds a festive feel to the weekend, even if you're just in town for the atmosphere.
With riverside trails and Lake Murray nearby, you can also add paddleboarding, fishing, or a peaceful boat ride to your weekend itinerary.
The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a popular spot for visitors of all ages, offering both wildlife exhibits and beautifully maintained botanical gardens. For those interested in history or the arts, the South Carolina State Museum and the Columbia Museum of Art offer high-quality exhibits without the crowds you’d find in larger cities.
Columbia’s downtown area is compact and easy to explore, with casual restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops lining the Vista and Main Street districts. If you're traveling during football season, a University of South Carolina game at Williams-Brice Stadium adds a festive feel to the weekend, even if you're just in town for the atmosphere.
With riverside trails and Lake Murray nearby, you can also add paddleboarding, fishing, or a peaceful boat ride to your weekend itinerary.
Let Local Knowledge Guide Your Next Move
Life in Summerville offers more than just charm; it offers location. And when it comes to finding a home base that balances everyday convenience with access to some of the region’s best weekend destinations, working with local real estate experts can help you see the full picture. The Husted Team brings years of experience, market insight, and a deep understanding of what makes Summerville such a great place to call home. Whether you're new to the area or looking to move within it, their guidance ensures that you find a place that fits your lifestyle, not just for weekdays but for every weekend to come.
*Header image courtesy of Pexels
*Header image courtesy of Pexels
