THINGS TO DO IN THE PEE DEE REGION

The Pee Dee region of South Carolina offers a diverse mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, arts and culture, and authentic small-town experiences. Spanning seven counties—Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg—the region is filled with scenic rivers, historic landmarks, local farms, and family-friendly attractions.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring hidden gems along I-95, you’ll find plenty of unforgettable things to do in the Pee Dee.

Where is the Pee Dee Region?

The Pee Dee region is located in northeastern South Carolina and includes Florence, Darlington, Dillon, Marion, Marlboro, Lee, and Williamsburg counties. Known for its rivers, farmland, and historic communities, the region is easily accessible along the I-95 corridor.

The Pee Dee region is one of South Carolina’s most diverse travel destinations, offering everything from river-based outdoor recreation and agritourism to historic sites, cultural attractions, and nationally recognized events. Its central location along I-95 makes it an ideal stop for travelers exploring the Southeast.

Top Things to Do in the Pee Dee Region

Book an excursion with Riverrats Canoe & Kayak Rentals to travel down the Revolutionary Rivers of the region
Visit “The Lady in Black”, Darlington Raceway
Explore Moore Farms Botanical Garden
Walk downtown Florence
Experience South of the Border
Attend a local festival or shop the Pee Dee State Farmers Market
Visit Florence County Museum
Explore Hartsville’s arts scene
Discover Revolutionary War sites
Travel the SC Pecan Trail

Outdoor Adventures in the Pee Dee

If you love the outdoors, the Pee Dee region is a hidden gem filled with natural beauty and wide-open spaces.

Explore the only river canopy walks in South Carolina at Lynches River County Park, a must-visit outdoor destination in Florence County. Paddle along the scenic Black River in Williamsburg County and experience our newest state park opening in Spring 2026!

You’ll also find:

A public swimming area, equestrian and hiking trails at Lee State Park
Kayaking, boating, fishing, and public swimming area at Little Pee Dee State Park
A close-up look at one of the last remaining large Carolina Bays at Woods Bay State Park
Birdwatching and wildlife viewing throughout the region

👉 Looking for more? Explore our trails and outdoor recreation opportunities across all seven counties.

Historic Sites & Cultural Experiences

Step into South Carolina’s past and discover the stories that shaped the Pee Dee region.

Cultural highlights include:

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Hartsville and explore various exhibits at the Hartsville Museum that showcase the traditions, stories, and artifacts of this vibrant community.
Housed in a 19th-century courthouse, the Marion County Museum is where you can explore exhibits on local history and culture.
Discover the rich history and heritage of Darlington County at the Darlington County Historical Commission & Museum
Florence Veterans Park is a place of respect, honor, and remembrance for the ones who have served in the armed forces

👉 Explore our historic sites and museums to discover the legacy of the Pee Dee.

Must-Visit Attractions

No trip to the Pee Dee is complete without experiencing some of its most iconic destinations.

Top attractions include:

Visit Darlington Raceway, home of the legendary Southern 500 and known as “The Lady in Black”
Explore Moore Farms Botanical Garden, a nationally recognized garden in Lake City
South of the Border is an iconic tourist attraction located on the border of South Carolina and North Carolina, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Amazing Grace Park – Visitors can stroll through the serene surroundings and find moments of peace and inspiration.

These destinations offer a mix of history, entertainment, and unique local character you won’t find anywhere else. Check out all of the attractions in the Pee Dee region!

Small Town Charm and Local Experiences

One of the most special aspects of the Pee Dee region is its collection of welcoming small towns, each with its own personality.

Darlington County – A blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines Southern charm
Dillon County – A community rich in history with a strong focus on preserving its past
Florence County – A vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and events
Lee County – A haven for hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation
Marion County – A historic area with deep roots and Southern character
Marlboro County – Known for its beautifully preserved historic district in Bennettsville
Williamsburg County – Where charming streets and historic landmarks tell the story of the region

Neptune Island Water Park in Hartsville, SC

Family-Friendly Things to Do

Traveling with kids? The Pee Dee offers plenty of activities for families of all ages.

Enjoy:

Parks, playgrounds, and interactive outdoor spaces
Hands-on museums and educational attractions
Farms and agritourism experiences
Seasonal festivals and community events

From nature exploration to cultural experiences, there’s something to keep everyone engaged.

Food, Drink & Local Flavor

The Pee Dee region is a destination for food lovers, offering everything from classic Southern comfort food to local culinary experiences.

Highlights include:

Authentic South Carolina BBQ at Scott’s Bar-B-Que in Hemingway
Farm-to-table dining at Town Hall in Downtown Florence
Local cafes and bakeries like the delicious Get Down Pound Bakery in Bishopville
Seasonal food festivals and events like the Florence Food & Wine Festival or the SC Pecan Festival

👉 Don’t miss exploring the SC Pecan Trail and local food experiences throughout the region. Savor the Flavors of the region!

Events & Festivals

There’s always something happening in the Pee Dee. Throughout the year, the region hosts a variety of festivals, markets, and special events that showcase its culture and community.

Popular events include:

Florence Food and Wine Festival
Taste of Darlington
Farmers Market Events
Arts and music events
Seasonal celebrations and holiday experiences

👉 Check out our events calendar to plan your visit around what’s happening.

📲 Plan Your Pee Dee Adventure

Ready to explore more?

👉 Discover the 7 Counties
👉 Explore the SC Pecan Trail
👉 View Upcoming Events

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the Pee Dee region known for?

The Pee Dee region is known for its scenic rivers, Revolutionary War history, Southern cuisine, and charming small towns spread across northeastern South Carolina.

What are the best things to do in the Pee Dee?

Top activities include kayaking the Lynches River, visiting Darlington Raceway, exploring local museums, enjoying food festivals, and discovering small-town downtown districts.