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.
Top Things to Do in the Pee Dee Region
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Book an excursion with Riverrats Canoe & Kayak Rentals to travel down the Revolutionary Rivers of the region
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Visit “The Lady in Black”, Darlington Raceway
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Explore Moore Farms Botanical Garden
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Walk downtown Florence
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Experience South of the Border
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Attend a local festival or shop the Pee Dee State Farmers Market
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Visit Florence County Museum
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Explore Hartsville’s arts scene
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Discover Revolutionary War sites
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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
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Kayaking, boating, fishing, and public swimming area at Little Pee Dee State Park
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A close-up look at one of the last remaining large Carolina Bays at Woods Bay State Park
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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:
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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.
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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
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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:
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Visit Darlington Raceway, home of the legendary Southern 500 and known as “The Lady in Black”
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Explore Moore Farms Botanical Garden, a nationally recognized garden in Lake City
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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.
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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
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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
Family-Friendly Things to Do
Traveling with kids? The Pee Dee offers plenty of activities for families of all ages.
Enjoy:
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Parks, playgrounds, and interactive outdoor spaces
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Hands-on museums and educational attractions
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Farms and agritourism experiences
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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:
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Authentic South Carolina BBQ at Scott’s Bar-B-Que in Hemingway
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Farm-to-table dining at Town Hall in Downtown Florence
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Local cafes and bakeries like the delicious Get Down Pound Bakery in Bishopville
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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:
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Florence Food and Wine Festival
- Taste of Darlington
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Farmers Market Events
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Arts and music events
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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.
When is the best time to visit the Pee Dee?
Spring and fall are ideal, offering mild weather, outdoor activities, and a full calendar of festivals and events.
Is the Pee Dee region family-friendly?
Yes! The region offers parks, museums, farms, and events that make it a great destination for families traveling with children.
