Sitting on a hilltop and not too far from Interstate 77 is a little town that’s seemingly in the middle of nowhere – but oh, it’s so worth the effort to get there! Since its beginning in the 1780s, what would become the City of Chester has had much to offer in the way of friendly streets, historic buildings, and neighborhoods, as well as a peaceful escape for the day or weekend. Come along and let’s take a look at all of the many things to do in Chester, South Carolina, a small town in the Palmetto State of a little more than 6,000 people with a great deal to offer!

1. Skydiving!
TripAdvisor/RhondaB212
Get high above it all with a birds-eye view of the Palmetto State. One of the few diving schools in South Carolina is located in Chester. It's called Skydive Carolina and has been rated by some of the more well-known traveler sites as the #1 thing to do in Chester. It's easy to see why...this looks absolutely terrifying and thrilling at the same time!
2. The Hill
Chester, SC
Historic downtown Chester is most notably located on a hill - a somewhat rarity in this part of the state. The natural phenomenon gives much reason to celebrate, as does the charming and historic architecture.
3. The HILLarity Festival on the Hill
Facebook/Chester Downtown Development Association
The annual HILLarity Festival on the Hill in Chester attracts folks from all over the state. The festival celebrates fall with a great flair and features food and craft vendors, two stages for entertainment, a car show and more — all perched neatly on the HILL in historic downtown. The festival takes place every October.
4. Historic buildings
Wikipedia/Bill Fitzpatrick
They're beautiful - and everywhere. The Romanesque City Hall and Opera House (shown above) was completed in 1891 and dominates the skyline. If you love 1800s architecture, you'll find plenty to admire in Chester.

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5. Culture
Facebook/Arts Council of Chester County
If art is your first love, the Arts Council of Chester County could be your new best friend. They regularly host art classes and unique events, like the Southern Porch and Garden Party and Greek Night. Stop in. They're located right on Main Street and it has been a neighborhood landmark for 50 years!
6. The Quaint Shops and Picturesque Streets
Chester SC
There is so much of Chester, SC that is charming and the quaint shops and picturesque streets are no exception. Both residents and visitors from all over the state come here, a lot of the latter by word of mouth, to enjoy this wonderful small town.
7. The Old Jail and Current Museum for the Chester Historic Society
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Housed in the 1914 Chester County Jail, the Chester County Historical Museum is a stoic reminder of the past - in more ways than one. Among other notable things you'll find on display is the largest collection of vintage photos in the area.
8. Fishing Creek Creamery
TripAdvisor/Melinda Cole
This amazing creamery is an area favorite! You'll find an assortment of goats milk cheeses and soaps, among other great gifts that are just too good to resist! Plus, the goats are quite cute, too. They're located at 3694 Fishing Creek Church Road in Chester.
9. Chester State Park
TripAdvisor/kish_29730
Last, but certainly not least, head to Chester State Park for a day of R&R. Whether you're seeking the best display of fall colors in autumn, or a chance to get a little sun in the spring, Chester State Park offers a variety of things to do. From camping to picnicking and hiking, you'll find it at this outdoor oasis.

Have you been to Chester, CO yet? If so, what did you think? We’d love to know all the things you love most about this small South Carolina city by reading about your experiences in the comments section below.

For another great afternoon escape, tackle one of these short and sweet hikes in the Palmetto State.

If you’re still in the mood for more Palmetto State adventures, take a look at this video about the Kiawah River Pelicans:

 

 

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More to Explore

Learn More about South Carolina

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | March 23, 2023

Where can we find the best beaches in South Carolina?

  • The Isle of Palms is a seven-mile-long stretch of beach located in a lovely seaside community.
  • Cherry Grove Beach in North Myrtle Beach is a pristine stretch of sand in the Cherry Grove Beach neighborhood.
  • Coligny Beach in Hilton Head offers a wealth of amenities including restrooms, WiFi, changing rooms, and more.

Read on to learn about the best beaches in South Carolina.

Where can we find waterfalls in South Carolina?

  • The Bee Cove Falls in Tamassee is popular because it is slightly off the beaten path.
  • Carrick Falls inside Table Creek State Park in Pickens an easily accessible waterfall along a paved road.
  • Issaqueena Falls is said to be named after a Native American woman who risked her life to save those of some white settlers back in the day.

Read on to learn about the many spectacular waterfalls in South Carolina.

Where can we find museums in South Carolina?

  • The Museum of York County-Taxidermy Paradise in Rockhill features scores of taxidermied animals from around the state.
  • The South Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame Museum in Belton details all the history and great athletes of the sport.
  • The BMW Zentrum Museum in Greer features a wealth of antique, new, and concept BMW vehicles and memorabilia.

Read on to learn about the many intriguing museums in South Carolina.

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Chester, SC 29706, USA