Visit Sumter, SC

05/22/2026

Feeling creative? Make a day of it in Sumter.

Start your morning at Baker's Sweets Bakery & Cafe - Sumter with a breakfast that hits the spot (trust us on the bagels). Then head across the street for a little hands-on fun at Sip&Gogh and let your creative side take over.

Afterward, grab a light lunch at Eat Fit, Be Fit before making your way downtown to explore the Sumter County Gallery Of Art—and maybe even find a one-of-a-kind piece to take home.

Plan your outing and get inspired:
https://www.sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar?imgoing-event=rainbow-van-gogh-69bad2fc0a0244ad2d05b43f

05/22/2026

Traveling with Fido? Sumter rolls out the welcome mat for you and your four-legged sidekick.

Start your day with a bite at The Palmetto Oyster House/ Aka PO' House, where pet-friendly outdoor seating makes lunch or dinner easy with your pup by your side. Then get outside and explore—many of our parks welcome leashed pets (just note, Swan Lake Iris Gardens is pet-free).

Looking for a little adventure? Take a walk through Mill Creek County Park, then cast a line from the pier and soak up the scenery. When it’s time to unwind, head up to the rooftop at Sumter Original Brewery for a laid-back, dog-friendly atmosphere and a refreshing drink.

Leash up, head out, and make it a day you’ll both enjoy.

Find more pet-friendly spots here: https://www.sumtersc.gov/tourism/things-do/pet-friendly-we-sure-are

05/12/2026

Craving pizza? Pasta? Maybe a fresh salad or a classic sub? 🍝🍕

Head over to Demara's Italian Restaurant, Sumter’s oldest Italian restaurant, where all your favorites are served up in a relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere.

Make the drive to Peach Orchard Road and bring the whole crew. Dinner’s handled.

05/11/2026

Step into history as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence 🇺🇸

Visit Thomas Sumter Memorial Park, the final resting place of the Sumter family and a meaningful tribute to Revolutionary War hero Thomas Sumter. Known as the “Fighting Gamecock,” Sumter played a vital role in America’s fight for independence—and his legacy lives on right here in our community.

Take a scenic drive through Stateburg along Highway 261, once part of the historic “King’s Highway,” and pause to reflect on the people and moments that helped shape our nation.

Plan your visit to 7120 Acton Road and experience a powerful piece of local and national history.

05/08/2026

Still making plans for Mother’s Day weekend? We’ve got a day she’ll love.

Start Saturday with something sweet at Sweet Success Bakery for “Muffins with Mom”—the perfect way to kick off the day together.

Then step back in time at Sumter Museum during Carolina Backcountry Springtime, where history comes to life with a look at everyday life around 1800.

Wrap up the afternoon at the Sumter County Gallery of Art with High Tea for Two—enjoy light refreshments and create your own keepsake vase to remember the day.

Make it a weekend full of memories she won’t forget. 💐

Plan your day:
https://www.sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar?imgoing-event=muffins-with-mom-696cb1cc81819d4134ebb62a

https://www.sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar?imgoing-event=high-tea-at-two-69e8c019f0c9a2ad3ccde73b

05/07/2026

Sumter sits at the heart of South Carolina’s Revolutionary War story—and this feature from Discover South Carolina highlights just how important our community was in shaping American independence.

From the legacy of General Thomas Sumter to the historic movements of Patriot forces through the Midlands, Sumter’s story is one of leadership, resilience, and strategy during some of the most pivotal moments of the war. Today, that history is still alive in our parks, landmarks, and ongoing efforts to preserve and share it.

Explore the full story here and see how Sumter fits into the broader Revolutionary War journey across the Midlands:

Explore several major battle sites, historical markers and museums as you discover the pivotal role South Carolina’s Midlands played in the Revolutionary War.

05/07/2026

It’s time for the annual Microbrew Festival, with a refreshing theme of Brews at the Beach!

Join the party on May 9 at Rotary Centennial Plaza, where you’ll enjoy a curated selection of beers along with food, live music, and the South Carolina state dance, the S**g.

Hosted by the Palmetto Optimist Club.

Come on out and let’s dance! https://www.sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar?imgoing-event=2026-microbrew-festival---brews-on-the-beach-69bc06dc4d18b5b84169b657

05/05/2026

“Southern cuisine with an upscale twist” is waiting for you at Willie Sue’s Restaurant. From breakfast favorites served all day to perfectly grilled steaks that hit the spot every time, this is the kind of place that turns a simple meal into something worth savoring.

Make the drive to Patriot Parkway and treat yourself—you’ve earned it!

05/04/2026

This week is your final chance to take in the calm before the excitement of the Sumter Iris Festival. Stroll the paths, enjoy the blooms, and soak up one of Sumter’s most beautiful spots.

Hours: 7:30 a.m. to sunset
Admission: Always FREE
Please note: The park will be closed May 11–14, 2026. Please join us at 6:00 p.m. on May 14 for the annual Taste at the Gardens.

Plan your visit:
https://www.sumtersc.gov/tourism/things-do/parks-trails/swan-lake-iris-gardens