Summerville, South Carolina: The Flower Town in the Pines

Known as the Flower Town in the Pines, Summerville, South Carolina is a charming small town near Charleston overflowing with Southern hospitality, history, and natural beauty. Summerville offers visitors a taste of classic Southern culture coupled with modern amenities and attractions.

Overview of Summerville

Summerville is located in Dorchester County, South Carolina, about 25 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. As of 2022, the town has a population of around 54,000 residents. It encompasses over 16 square miles of land adjacent to the Francis Marion National Forest.

The town’s nickname comes from its abundant pine forests and the hundreds of acres of flowering azaleas that explode into a sea of color each spring. Summerville is also considered the Birthplace of Sweet Tea and celebrates this claim to fame annually.

Its historic downtown area centered around Main Street features quaint shops, restaurants, and antique stores housed in traditional Southern-style buildings. The surrounding neighborhoods with sprawling porches and hanging ferns complement the classic Southern charm.

But Summerville also offers modern lodging, dining, and entertainment options for visitors. It provides easy access to golf, fishing, parks, and beaches along with cultural attractions.

Below we’ll explore some of the key things that make Summerville a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike

The Sweet Tea Capital

Summerville takes its designation as the Birthplace of Sweet Tea seriously The town celebrates its sweet tea heritage in numerous ways

• The World’s Largest Sweet Tea Pitcher – A giant replica over 9 feet tall holding 80 gallons was constructed in Summerville.

• Annual Sweet Tea Festival – This event in April draws tea vendors and enthusiasts for tastings pairings contests, and more.

• Sweet Tea Trail – Follow this guided tour of restaurants and shops offering special sweet tea drinks and treats. Get an official “passport” stamped at stops to earn prizes.

• World Record – In 2009, Summerville set the Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Glass of Sweet Tea, mixing up a 6,618 gallon pitcher.

From sweet tea cocktails to recipes using it in BBQ sauces or desserts, visitors can taste how Summerville has embraced the drink’s history.

Flower Town Scenery

As the Flower Town in the Pines, Summerville lives up to its floral nickname. The town is known for its abundance of fragrant, colorful blooms.

• Azalea Park – This park along the Sawmill Branch creek has over 15 acres of vibrant azaleas drawing visitors each spring. Walk through the floral wonderland and spot wildlife.

• Flowertown Festival – Coinciding with the azalea peak bloom, this massive street fair takes over downtown in early April. It features over 200 arts & crafts vendors, concerts, children’s activities, and of course flowers.

• Gardens and nurseries – Explore area gardens like the Dorchester County Historical Society’s Azalea Park and Reserve. Visit nurseries like Grooms for landscaping inspiration.

• Blooming neighborhoods – Take a stroll or bike ride through the picturesque streets of the Old Village or Newington neighborhoods to admire the flowers and Spanish moss.

The idyllic scenery provides a backdrop reflective of Summerville’s roots and nickname.

Downtown Charm

Summerville’s downtown along Main Street transports visitors back in time with its preserved historic charm and ambience.

• Antique stores – Boutiques like Anne Madison & Co., Old Village Post House, and Sleeping Tiger Antiques have vintage finds from jewelry to home goods.

• Historic architecture – Standing homes, churches, and buildings like the Summerville DREAM center reflect the traditional Southern styles popular in the late 1800s.

• Dining and cafes – Restaurants like Middleton Place Bar & Grille, Made with Love Bakery & Cafe, and Southern Charm Kitchen serve up Southern fare on antique dishware with old-world hospitality.

• Activities and events – Downtown hosts farmer’s markets, art walks, car shows, holiday events, and more throughout the year.

The quaint downtown district provides an opportunity to slow down and experience the traditional Summerville atmosphere.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Beyond its downtown, Summerville offers abundant opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

• Parks – Large parks like Hutchinson Square and Azalea Park plus smaller pocket parks provide spaces for playing, walking, and picnicking.

• Cycling – Miles of bike paths like the Sawmill Branch Trail connect recreation areas while the town’s Cycling Friendly Community designation caters to riders.

• Golf – Play 18 holes at the links-style Summerville Country Club or 17 holes at Pine Forest Country Club.

• Water sports – Fish or launch your kayak into the lakes at Old Orangeburg Road Park or Laurel Hill County Park.

• Sports fields – Practice your swing at baseball fields or join a soccer match at keenan-Flager Park’s multi-use areas.

Getting outdoors allows visitors to fully appreciate the area’s mild climate and scenic pine forests.

Arts and Culture Scene

Beyond its Southern charm, Summerville has developed a thriving arts and culture scene.

• Performing Arts Center – This state-of-the-art venue offers theater productions, concerts, comedy shows, and other performances throughout the year.

• Public art and murals – Eye-catching sculptures, paintings, and mosaics can be spotted along downtown streets and in parks.

• Festivals and events – Downtown draws lively crowds for monthly First Friday concert series, BBQ festivals, St. Patrick’s Day events, and more unique celebrations.

• Classes and workshops – Get creative with cooking demos, art classes, dance lessons, and other hands-on opportunities offered in the community.

From theater and music to visual arts and creative workshops, Summerville’s flourishing cultural offerings enhance visits.

Accessible Location

Summerville benefits from its location at the crossroads of major highways I-26 and Highway 78. This strategic location provides easy access to key attractions:

• Just a 30 minute drive to beautiful Charleston beaches.

• Only 20 minutes from historic downtown Charleston’s shops, restaurants, and galleries.

• Quick access to Francis Marion National Forest for camping, hiking, and recreation via 70,000 acres of forest surrounding Summerville.

• A short drive from golf courses, nature preserves, and historic plantations offering tours.

With its convenient location, visitors can easily experience the best of the Charleston area along with Summerville’s unique small town character.

With Southern small town charm, natural scenery, history, arts, and accessibility, it’s easy to see why Summerville has earned its Flower Town in the Pines nickname. The azaleas may have put it on the map, but the enduring hospitality, culture, and recreation opportunities will keep you coming back. Summerville’s blend of tradition and progress makes it a can’t-miss destination for understanding South Carolina’s Lowcountry region.