Sumter

Travel Guide

Photo by ann fitzgerald
Photo by Ucanquoteme

A year-round temperate climate, a remarkable blend of attractions and a thriving arts and music scene make Sumter one of South Carolina’s most attractive destinations.

Originally known for its industry, Sumter now bursts with culture and color. The town is particularly famous for art and music festivals which take place throughout the year. Plan your trip around these to enjoy this lively town at its best. 

Visit the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, home to a range of floral attractions from across the globe. The irises are best viewed during the summer months, but you can enjoy the abundant wildlife in the park any time of year. Try to spot all eight species of swan that live in the area.

Summers in Sumter are warm, so cool off at the four different Spray Parks around the city. Stand beneath the refreshing water and use the excellent picnic facilities and play areas for children. When the temperature cools, enjoy tennis at the Palmetto Tennis Center. This stays open into the evening equipment is available for rent.

The sub-tropical climate means that rain can occur throughout the year. When it does, head to one of Sumter’s many indoor attractions. The Sumter County Gallery of Art is one of the best. Here, view traditional and contemporary work from local and nationally recognized artists in one of the state’s best exhibition spaces. Join a group tour and be sure to visit whatever temporary exhibition happens to be present at the time. 

For your evening’s entertainment, visit the Sumter Opera House. A year-round program of events makes this one of the town’s most popular attractions. Even if you don’t see a show, the Opera House, which was built in 1895, is well worth a visit for its interesting architecture.

Plan your visit around one of Sumter’s many festivals to see the town at its best. The Fantasy of Lights around Christmas time, the Iris Festival in May and the monthly Fourth Fridays throughout the summer are some of the most popular.

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

2.5 out of 5
2715 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
The price is P6,941 per night from Aug 2 to Aug 3
P6,941
P7,774 total
Aug 2 - Aug 3
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are located nearby.
8.2/10 Very Good! (45 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay. Will return.."

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb
Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

3 out of 5
18 N Main St, Sumter, SC
The price is P6,241 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P6,241
P6,990 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (832 reviews)
"Everything was great and walking around with the family members was great as well."

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
Comfort Suites Sumter

Comfort Suites Sumter

2.5 out of 5
2500 Broad St, Sumter, SC
The price is P5,685 per night from Aug 3 to Aug 4
P5,685
P6,367 total
Aug 3 - Aug 4
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are ...
7.2/10 Good! (564 reviews)
"Front desk was very helpful"

Reviewed on Jul 13, 2025

Comfort Suites Sumter
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Bells Marina & Resort

Bells Marina & Resort

2.5 out of 5
12907 Old Number Six Hwy, Eutawville, SC
Book a stay at this golf aparthotel in Eutawville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (73 reviews)
ok
"Very quiet, the lake was in the back yard."

Reviewed on Jul 15, 2025

Bells Marina & Resort
Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion

4 out of 5
401 Bass Drive, Santee, SC
Stay at this 4-star vacation home in Santee. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Santee Cooper Country Club and Santee ...
9/10 Wonderful! (19 reviews)
"Friendly staff. Excellent accomodations. Peaceful and beautiful vacation."

Reviewed on Nov 21, 2024

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Lake Marion
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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