If you don’t know much about Florence, South Carolina, there’s a good chance you might just associate it with pecans. While the area is a hotspot for pecan growers (it’s the start of the state’s Pecan Trail, after all), there’s a lot more going on here that is worth seeing for yourself—most notably, its surprisingly vibrant arts scene.
Florence’s art offerings rival comparably sized cities (there are currently about 40,000 people), as well as larger metro areas. Hear the Florence Symphony Orchestra perform, stroll past murals and sculptures throughout downtown, or take in some local theater. Then, spend some time kayaking along a river, do some shopping and dining downtown, and yes, don’t forget to eat some pecans.
Here’s how to spend a weekend in Florence, South Carolina.
The Best Weekend Getaways In The South
Experience The Arts
With more than 100 years of shows under its belt, this community theater has deep roots in Florence. Come here for local productions of Broadway musicals and other performances.
florencelittletheatre.org; 417 South Dargan Street Florence, SC 29506
Florence has its own symphony, and you can hear it perform, as well as other national touring acts, at The Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center. Also known as PAC, the center hosts an impressive roster of events including performances by the South Carolina Dance Theater and the South Carolina Ballet.
fmupac.org; 201 South Dargan Street Florence, SC 29506
Florence resident and award-winning artist Alex Palkovich contributions to the city’s art scene are evident all over town. From his Fountain of Tears in Veteran’s Park, to his lifelike sculptures of notable South Carolinians in places like the local library and Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center, his work will make you stop in your tracks. This guide will help you locate pieces all over Florence.
In addition to Palkovich’s works, there are other public art pieces like sculptures and murals around downtown that are worth seeking out. This handy map will help you locate them.
The Florence County Museum is more than a look at the area’s history (though that’s interesting, too). The decidedly modern building is also home to the Wright Collection of Southern Art, which has more than 140 works by 20th century Southern artists, in particular, Florence native and celebrated artist William H. Johnson.
flocomuseum.org; 111 W Cheves St, Florence, SC 29501
Try Some Pecans
The South Carolina Pecan Trail begins in Florence, so it’s a natural place to shop for the South’s favorite nut. You’ll find plenty of them at Young’s Premium Foods (try the double dipped chocolate kind) or Pee Dee State Farmers Market.
If you prefer your pecans already in baked goods, check out Palmetto Bake Shop, which specializes in French-style pastries like a pecan-topped pumpkin croissant with pumpkin filling; or Freeman’s Bakery, which makes pecan danishes, Pecan Chewy cookies, and German Chocolate Cake.
Get Outside
Located just south of Florence, Lynches River County Park is a popular spot to go kayaking and canoeing. Boat rentals are available at the park, and guided trips are available. The park also has a river boardwalk, trails, fishing, and a splash pad in the summer.
lynchesriverpark.com; 5094 County Park Road Coward, SC 29530
Also south of the city, Moore Farms Botanic Garden is a lovely place to spend an afternoon, no matter the season. The garden highlights plants native to South Carolina in a variety of green spaces, including a formal garden, green roof, meadows, and more.
moorefarmsbg.org; 100 New Zion Rd Lake City, SC 29560
Spend Time Downtown
Florence’s charming downtown district, which was named a Great American Main Street in 2023, packs plenty to see and do in just over a mile. Browse independently-owned shops like Jack’s Books, clothing store Main Street Boutique, or home good shop Barringer General Store.
When it comes to dining, there’s a little bit of everything in Florence. King Jefe serves tacos and sushi, Birdsnest Eats & Ales specializes in sandwiches and brews, The Drive-In is a longtime local favorite for burgers, fried seafood, and comfort food, and Victor’s, located in Hotel Florence, is a popular spot for its steaks and dishes like shrimp and grits.
10 Best Lakes In South Carolina For A Sunny Escape