Georgetown, SC

Georgetown – The Third Oldest City in the U.S.

Georgetown is the most southern city comprising the Grand Strand area. Georgetown, as its neighbor to the north, Murrells Inlet also attracts a large number of retirees. Georgetown is steeped in history. Georgetown Historic District has more than 50 homes, public buildings and sites that are on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the third oldest city in the U.S. In the 1500’s a Spanish expedition found a colony along the Wachesaw Neck and it included slaves, making it the first known European settlement to include slaves. The Spanish did not stay long as the slaves revolted and there was a fever epidemic. The Spanish did not know how to farm and feared for their survival. They left and sailed to the east.

A factoid about Georgetown- It has a Jewish cemetery dating back to 1760. The first Jewish settlers to the area were Sephardim that departed from London after their ancestors were forced to leave Spain, and Portugal. Georgetown is also the home of one synagogue, Beth Temple Elohim.

Georgetown is known for its small town charm. If you are wondering where the big box stores are you will have to keep wondering. Explore Front Street, the main drag in Georgetown it is comprised of small mom and pop shops. You will feel like you are taking a step back in time. This quaint waterfront town has some great restaurants and shops where you can find almost anything you need. Take a drive an explore some of the beautiful 100 year plus homes. Due to the quaint nature of the area, it is a great place to have a wedding.

Take a stroll along the HarborWalk Marina. It is protected by an island on one side and city of Georgetown HarborWalk. Georgetown is accessible by water, land and air. There is a small airport 5 miles away or you can fly into Myrtle Beach and drive about 45 minutes. If you are boating in the area along the IntraCoastal Waterway be sure to park your boat and have a bite at any of the local restaurants off the boardwalk.

There are a number of great museums to visit to learn more about the history and culture of the area. Be sure to check out the Rice Museum, the Gullah Museum and the Kaminski House. Take some time and enjoy the history of this quaint town. The even have their own Cinema which is also home to their very own playhouse for the Swamp Fox Players who perform throughout the year.

Lastly, if you are in the area and heading to Charleston from Myrtle Beach be sure to do a stopover in this area if only for lunch. You will be glad you had an opportunity to take a break and feel some small town charm.