HOW TO PLAN THE ULTIMATE STAYCATION IN FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA

The Pee Dee region of South Carolina is sometimes snubbed out of preference for the hilly upstate and the sandy coast — but the city of Florence offers plenty to do, see, and eat. For the last decade, Florence has leveled up with a walkable urban core of restaurants, cultural attractions, and independent lodging, while longtime local favorites still beckon on the periphery.

9 a.m. Savor a cup of coffee at Bean Bar

Start the morning with one of Florence’s independent coffee shops, just a few minutes from the center of downtown. Bean Bar offers 100% organic ingredients, including homemade sauces and syrups. Snacks and pastries are made in small batches, so come early before they’re gone.

11:30 a.m. Indulge at the iconic Venus Restaurant

When it opened in 1977, the 80-seat, 24-hour diner was known as the Venus Pancake House. Since then, Venus Restaurant has been a local mainstay for its wide variety of breakfast favorites, sandwiches, and dinner plates. Order the signature Venus omelet with ham, bacon, sausage, cheese, tomatoes, peppers, and onions. Or try the Southern pecan buttermilk pancake trio.

1 p.m. Explore downtown Florence

Take a walk and explore Florence’s urban core. The Florence County Museum moved into its snazzy new spot on Cheves Street in 2014 and is celebrating 10 years of curated history with the Recollect exhibition, open through December 2024. Nearby, on Dargan Street, the main branch of Florence County Library is open every day but Sunday and offers events for kids and adults. Stroll Dargan and West Evans — the “main” streets of town — where you’ll find whimsical spots for a treat such as Top Hat Special-Teas (reservations required for tea time), ChocoBella (homemade bonbons and gelato), and Lula’s Coffee Company, where you can hit refresh with a nonalcoholic beverage or espresso. Got the shopping bug? Try Barringer General Store, Trendy Twist Boutique, and Jack’s Books, opening fall 2024.

4 p.m. Enjoy rooftop happy hour at the Dispensary

Yes, Florence is a small city, but it still has a modest skyline, and the Dispensary is the ideal vantage point. Located upstairs from Town Hall Restaurant, it’s more than 3,000 square feet of rooftop space with a menu of fun cocktails like The Dog Ate My Homework and Summer Crush.

Other idea: Apple Annie’s Deli & Pub

For an iconic local dive, Apple Annie’s Deli & Pub has everything: cheap drinks, friendly regulars, tasty appetizers, and a large patio. Though you’ll have to drive or take a rideshare from downtown, it’s a taste of Florence you won’t get anywhere else.

6 p.m. Dine at Town Hall

Downstairs from the Dispensary, Town Hall’s menu of American fare with a Southern twist appeals to gourmands both near and far. Entrees such as lamb shank and bone-in pork chop are paired with local sides — think butterbeans and Carolina Gold rice — and a sprawling selection of crafted cocktails, desserts, and post-dinner digestifs round out the meal.

Other idea: Starfire Grill

Florence mainstay Starfire Grill is a short drive from downtown and is locally owned and operated. The American and Mediterranean menu is enormous and features salads, pita sandwiches, gyros, house specials, and desserts— plus prepared items to take home for later.

7:30 p.m. Catch a play at the Florence Little Theatre

In 2023, the Florence Little Theatre celebrated 100 years. First known as the Community Players and then the Pinewood Players, this homegrown hub for thespians performed in many places prior to settling into its current abode on South Dargan Street. Shows are staged between fall and spring – the 2024-2025 season kicks off with the musical classic Cats – so snag a ticket and enjoy the local talent.

Late evening: Cap your night at the bar inside Victor’s

An upscale steakhouse inside Hotel Florence, Victor’s is quite the hotspot for the late-night crowd. Grab a seat at the circular bar, order a glass of wine or a classic cocktail, and mingle with friendly locals. If you’re hungry, the bar menu includes a steak kabob with mashed potatoes and veggies, a turkey club topped with cranberry mayo, wings in flavors such as maple lemon pepper or caramelized peach barbecue.

Other idea: Jazz on Dargan

Cozy nightclub Jazz on Dargan offers live jazz music a few nights every week, a wide selection of martinis and signature cocktails, and a menu of intriguing small plates. For night owls, it’s also one of the few places open until 2 a.m.

Where to Stay: You’ll be in the center of the Flo-Town action at this boutique hotel located on West Palmetto Street. Managed by Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, Hotel Florence offers rooms and suites overlooking the city, free breakfast and coffee, and a fitness center. Book an afternoon at the Spa at Hotel Florence for facials, massages, pedicures, and body treatments.

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