Things To Do
in Clemson
Clemson is a vibrant town located in the state of South Carolina, known for being home to Clemson University, a prestigious public research university. The town has a strong college town atmosphere, with a lively downtown area featuring various shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Clemson is surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the stunning Lake Hartwell, offering residents and visitors plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.
The town has a strong sense of community pride, with a passionate fan base for Clemson University athletics, particularly football.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Sunset Park. Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll by the lake, taking in the serene nature around you.
Head to the South Carolina Botanical Garden for a relaxing walk through well-maintained gardens. Take your time exploring the different plant species and art installations.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant featuring Southern cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while reflecting on the lovely sights of the day.
Begin with a visit to the Lee Hall, where you can explore art exhibitions and displays. The morning is perfect for immersing yourself in Clemson's artistic offerings.
Visit the Bob Campbell Geology Museum to broaden your knowledge of geology and natural history. This interactive experience is both educational and enjoyable.
Catch a local theater performance or live music event in town. Enjoy the vibrant culture of Clemson while relaxing with a drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong academic programs, especially in engineering and agriculture.
- Beautiful campus with a vibrant community and plenty of outdoor activities.
- High-quality athletic programs, particularly football, which foster school spirit.
- A sense of community and strong alumni network.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other university towns.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Rural location may mean fewer job opportunities after graduation.
- Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Rural areas may have limited access to certain amenities and services.
- Traffic congestion during football game days and university events.
Best Activities in Clemson
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the beautiful Lake Hartwell, which offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor space.
Explore the lush gardens and trails of the Clemson Botanical Gardens, featuring native plants and a serene environment for walking and picnicking.
Hike, bike, or horseback ride through the extensive trails of the Clemson Experimental Forest, which offers various routes for all skill levels.
A short drive from Clemson, this park offers hiking, fishing, and stunning views from the top of Table Rock Mountain.
Hike to the beautiful Issaqueena Falls and enjoy the scenic views along the trail, especially stunning in the fall.
Attend a soccer match or enjoy a casual game with friends on the fields at the Clemson Soccer Complex.
Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the calm waters of the Seneca River, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
Tours
Uncover the best of Clemson with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Clemson
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a great view of the Clemson University campus and the surrounding area.
A popular spot with a view of the iconic Howard's Rock and the football stadium.
Home to the historic John C. Calhoun mansion with scenic gardens and views of the campus.
Provides beautiful waterfront views and opportunities for outdoor photography.
Food in Clemson
Clemson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Lowcountry dish featuring fresh shrimp served over creamy, stone-ground grits, often with a flavorful gravy.
Must-Try!
A beloved Southern spread made from sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos, often served as a dip or spread on sandwiches.
Tangy, firm green tomatoes coated in crispy cornmeal and often accompanied by a zesty remoulade or ranch dipping sauce.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Clemson better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant farmers' market where local growers and artisans showcase their fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
A delightful gathering of food trucks offering a diverse range of cuisines, from Southern BBQ and gourmet burgers to international street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Clemson, it's common to greet others with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' A firm handshake is also a standard practice when meeting someone new. Maintaining eye contact during conversations shows attentiveness and respect.
When dining in Clemson, it's courteous to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Additionally, polite table manners, such as chewing with your mouth closed and using utensils appropriately, are important. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is highly valued.
Clemson residents take pride in their community. Participating in local events and showing interest in Clemson University activities can foster positive relationships. Being respectful to diverse cultures and beliefs within the community is vital for harmonious interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Clemson with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Clemson
Ensure a smooth experience
In Clemson, as in much of the United States, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip in restaurants is typically around 15-20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping bartenders usually involves $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab. Other services, like haircuts and taxi rides, also generally warrant a tip of 10-20%. However, it's always recommended to check if a service charge is already included in the bill.
Payment practices in Clemson reflect broader trends in the United States. Cash is still accepted, but credit and debit cards are widely used for convenience. Many establishments also offer contactless payment options, such as mobile wallets and apps. Students, who make up a substantial part of the population, often utilize student discount programs and may have access to campus-specific payment systems for local businesses. It's common for businesses to also accept mobile payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Clemson.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Clemson for pleasant weather and blooming flowers. Expect crowded areas during graduation ceremonies.
Great for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect hot and humid weather.
Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures make it a popular time to visit Clemson. Expect football games and fall festivals.
Quiet and less crowded, but also colder weather. Expect holiday events and occasional snow.
Clemson at Night
Hiking in Clemson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park with multiple hiking trails offering stunning views of Table Rock Mountain and the surrounding area.
Features several trails that wind around lakes and through the scenic forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for both hiking and camping.
A moderate hiking trail that leads to picturesque waterfalls, providing a great spot for photography and nature walks.
A scenic trail that follows the Chattooga River, known for its beautiful landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Offers stunning vistas and numerous challenging trails, including the iconic Raven Cliff Falls hike, which leads to a breathtaking waterfall.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Clemson through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Clemson by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles from Clemson, GSP serves as the primary airport for the Upstate region of South Carolina, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
About 130 miles from Clemson, ATL is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing extensive national and international flight options.
Located around 130 miles from Clemson, CLT is a major hub for domestic and international flights, serving as a key gateway for the southeastern United States.
Approximately 130 miles from Clemson, CAE offers a range of domestic flights and is the primary airport for the Columbia area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Clemson, comprising approximately 70% of the population.
The second largest demographic group in Clemson, making up about 20% of the population.
A smaller demographic group, accounting for roughly 5% of the population.
This group represents about 4% of the Clemson population.
A combined demographic group that makes up about 2% of the population.
An umbrella category for all other racial identities, accounting for less than 1% of the population.
The Soul of Clemson
Discover the essence of Clemson through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Clemson University has a strong football tradition, with the team, known as the Clemson Tigers, being a significant part of the school's identity and achieving national championships.
Clemson Tigers basketball is competitive in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), with a loyal fan base supporting both men's and women's teams.
Both men's and women's soccer teams at Clemson are popular, participating in NCAA Division I and drawing enthusiastic support from the student body and local community.
Clemson Tigers baseball has a rich history and is well-supported, consistently competing at a high level within the ACC.
Clemson University's golf teams are recognized for their competitive success, with both men's and women's teams performing well nationally.
Track and field is popular at Clemson, with the program featuring a variety of events and a strong commitment to athlete development.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clemson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from hearty veggie burgers to flavorful grain bowls and fresh salads.
Several restaurants in Clemson provide gluten-free alternatives and are accommodating to individuals with gluten sensitivities, ensuring a diverse and inclusive dining experience.