Top Spots for a Relaxing Girls’ Weekend in Sumter, SC
I might not have expected it, but I had the best girls’ weekend in Sumter: great food, boutique shopping, and small-town charm. I’ve been living in Sumter for a while now, and I’ll admit, I haven’t been the best about appreciating what it has to offer.
But this weekend was all about exploring this little Southern city with fresh eyes and two of my favorite women by my side. And what I found surprised me in the best way.
My mother and grandmother came up for the Iris Festival and for us to spend some quality time together. I usually get stressed when family visits that there won’t be enough for us to do here — but this time, I let myself be open to that idea. Why would we be on the go the entire trip when the goal is to unwind and connect?
Turns out, Sumter is an ideal destination for that kind of slow-paced staycation or quiet weekend getaway.
The Sumter Iris Festival at Swan Lake
Fun Fact: Sumter’s Swan Lake Iris Gardens is the only public park in the United States to host all eight species of swan. Every spring, the city hosts the three-day Iris Festival to celebrate the blossoming of the iris, welcoming vendors, musicians, and artists from all over the southeast.
We parked at the Civic Center and took the shuttle over to the gardens, which was a convenient option for us. Admission to the festival and gardens is free, which gave me the perfect excuse to buy a few extra things for myself as we shopped.
Shopping bags and Cheerwine slushies in hand, we perused the garden walking trail, which is just under a mile. Fuzzy young swan and geese were waddling around every corner. We saw beautiful sculptures, butterfly gardens, and walked the pedestrian bridge — you can even take a boat ride across the lake.
Where We Stayed in Sumter
Sumter’s historic district and downtown areas have come a long way over the past decade or so, and are only improving. There are many old homes that have been renovated recently and made into Airbnbs, which could add a bit of local charm to your stay if you decide to go that route.
You’ll find cute cottages with everything you need and close proximity to downtown, about a five minute drive, if you look in areas around Park Avenue or Haynesworth Street.
If you’re looking for a hotel, the Hyatt Place Downtown Sumter is also a nice spot to stay that’s right in the heart of all the shops and restaurants.
Where We Ate in Sumter
The Juice Box — The freshest, creamiest smoothies and bowls. Located downtown inside Naomi & Warner Gifts, so you can shop while you sip and snack.
Yucatan Mexican Restaurant — Authentic Mexican with great service and the best chips and salsa. A bit tucked away, but definitely worth seeking out.
Ward’s BBQ — My favorite BBQ in Sumter. It’s mustard based with coleslaw, hash, and rice on the side. It’s a small place, so we like to order our sandwiches to-go.
Baker’s Sweets — The best place for coffee and sweet treats. They are pros at cakes, pies, macarons, lemon squares — and they have an impressive lunch menu, as well.
Hamptons — The nicest restaurant in Sumter, but not overly formal. Their dinners are a bit pricey, but we love going to the Sunday brunch, which is more reasonable and just as delicious. I love the crab quiche and Preston gets the ham benedict.
Rafters — Rafters and Hamptons are one in the same, really. Rafters is their upstairs bar, which has more of a cool speakeasy vibe. We love getting the woodfired pizza and fun craft cocktails.
Where We Shopped in Sumter
The Pink House — A historic home turned chic boutique. Beautiful home décor, especially for kitchen and dining. Affordable with some higher-end items in the mix.
The Olive Tree — A Christian bookstore that also has some of the cutest home and fashion finds, and even a small baked goods section.
Bits ‘n Pieces — A home factory outlet that’s a bit out of the way but worth the trip if you love discount home goods.
Downtown Sumter Shops
Silver Paper — A perfect place for gifts, stationary, and stylish fashions, too. Smells like candles and serotonin.
Naomi & Warner — A mix of modern artsy finds and rustic furniture. Also home to The Juice Box café (I love the Paradise smoothie)!
One Accord — Gorgeous dresses for events or just to treat yourself to something special. On the pricier side, but they also have a sale room on the second floor with some great finds and deals.
Final Thoughts
Playing tourist in my own town, one that I’ve taken for granted since I moved here, showed me that I’ve been missing out on what’s been right outside my door.
Everyone we met throughout the weekend, from the restaurant staff to the festival vendors, shop owners, and everyone in between genuinely exuded Southern hospitality and charm — I’m not exaggerating. Netflix’s Sweet Magnolias (Sumter-inspired) honestly nailed it.
If you don’t believe me, come see for yourself.
Have you ever been to Sumter? What are your favorite spots to visit? Let me know in the comments!
