Discovering Historic Downtown Beaufort

Historic Beaufort is undoubtedly a Southern gem. Nestled in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Beaufort enjoys a reputation for offering rich culture, intriguing history, and above all, genuine Southern hospitality. Situated near the Atlantic coast, downtown Beaufort also serves as an excellent jumping-off point for an enjoyable day at the beach. Beaufort’s Spanish moss covered live oak trees, magnificent antebellum plantation homes and small town quaintness only add to its undeniable charm.

Most visitors enter historic downtown Beaufort via Bay Street. Legendary for its historic grandiose waterfront homes, rows of palms, and stately live oak trees, visitors will take pleasure in a truly Southern landscape. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has designated Beaufort’s entire downtown as a historic district. Once downtown, visitors should consider enjoying a narrated horse drawn carriage ride. This serves as an excellent way to discover downtown Beaufort’s fascinating history, and explore its gorgeous neighborhoods. Walking tours of historic Beaufort are also available.

Beaufort’s downtown offers a variety of opportunities for shopping and dining. Funky boutiques, fine art galleries, charming bookstores, and antique shops are just a few of the many unique shops waiting to be discovered. Visitors can dine on casual to elegant Southern cuisine, enjoy a spectacular ice-cream sunday, kick-back in a modern coffee shop, or unwind with the locals at one of the many waterfront watering holes. Downtown Beaufort sports a lovely waterfront park which overlooks the famous Intracoastal Waterway.

Beaufort’s downtown offers several outstanding bed and breakfasts- all of which are within walking distance to shopping and dining. Hotels are just an easy drive away. Visitors can access historic downtown Beaufort from US 17 or I-95.