Sumter

Travel Guide
Photo by ann fitzgerald
Photo by Ucanquoteme
A year-round temperate climate, a remarkable blend of attractions and a thriving arts and music scene make Sumter one of South Carolina’s most attractive destinations.

Originally known for its industry, Sumter now bursts with culture and color. The town is particularly famous for art and music festivals which take place throughout the year. Plan your trip around these to enjoy this lively town at its best. 

Visit the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, home to a range of floral attractions from across the globe. The irises are best viewed during the summer months, but you can enjoy the abundant wildlife in the park any time of year. Try to spot all eight species of swan that live in the area.

Summers in Sumter are warm, so cool off at the four different Spray Parks around the city. Stand beneath the refreshing water and use the excellent picnic facilities and play areas for children. When the temperature cools, enjoy tennis at the Palmetto Tennis Center. This stays open into the evening equipment is available for rent.

The sub-tropical climate means that rain can occur throughout the year. When it does, head to one of Sumter’s many indoor attractions. The Sumter County Gallery of Art is one of the best. Here, view traditional and contemporary work from local and nationally recognized artists in one of the state’s best exhibition spaces. Join a group tour and be sure to visit whatever temporary exhibition happens to be present at the time. 

For your evening’s entertainment, visit the Sumter Opera House. A year-round program of events makes this one of the town’s most popular attractions. Even if you don’t see a show, the Opera House, which was built in 1895, is well worth a visit for its interesting architecture.

Plan your visit around one of Sumter’s many festivals to see the town at its best. The Fantasy of Lights around Christmas time, the Iris Festival in May and the monthly Fourth Fridays throughout the summer are some of the most popular.

Tru by Hilton Sumter
Tru by Hilton Sumter
2.5 out of 5
2607 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P6,449 per night from 29 Dec to 30 Dec
P6,449
P7,158 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 29 - Dec 30
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (574 reviews)
"It was nice, clean, smelled good."

Reviewed on Nov 30, 2024

Tru by Hilton Sumter
Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
3 out of 5
18 N Main St, Sumter, SC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P6,293 per night from 29 Dec to 30 Dec
P6,293
P6,985 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 29 - Dec 30
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (729 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"

Reviewed on Dec 15, 2024

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
Baymont By Wyndham Sumter
Baymont By Wyndham Sumter
2.5 out of 5
2491 Broad St, Sumter, SC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P4,470 per night from 29 Dec to 30 Dec
P4,470
P4,961 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 29 - Dec 30
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Sumter ...
5.6/10 (256 reviews)
"A bit outdated property but decent place to stay. They have an indoor pool"

Reviewed on Nov 18, 2024

Baymont By Wyndham Sumter
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion
Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion
4 out of 5
401 Bass Drive, Santee, SC
Stay at this 4-star vacation home in Santee. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Santee Cooper Country Club and Santee ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (17 reviews)
"Friendly staff. Excellent accomodations. Peaceful and beautiful vacation."

Reviewed on Nov 21, 2024

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion
Bells Marina & Resort
Bells Marina & Resort
4.5 out of 5
12907 Old Number Six Hwy, Eutawville, SC
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Eutawville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (48 reviews)
"Just a nice little multi lot sight, campers and boats and a small motel. Plenty of amenities and fishing. Quaint and quiet. Affordable and comfortable."

Reviewed on Dec 2, 2024

Bells Marina & Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Other places like Sumter