There are tons of places to see and things to do in Florence.

The Florence County Museum recently reopened in its new space on Cheves Street, and it’s just amazing. Check out the artwork by Florence native William H. Johnson for a starter. Just across the street from the museum is the Francis Marion University Performing Art Center, which has a full season of entertainment planned for you.

And just a block or so down the street is Florence Little Theatre, where a community theater group puts on top-notch shows. At the intersection of I-20 and I-95, the Florence Civic Center holds a wide range of shows, expos, and sporting events.

The War Between the States Museum highlights the Civil War history in Florence, including the Florence Stockade and National Cemetery. In early March, the Columns Plantation has a reenactment of the Civil War Skirmish at Gamble’s Hotel.

Florence has a great trail system that connects wonderful parks, including the Florence Veterans Park and Timrod Park. Lynches River County Park in Coward offers a tree top canopy walk and Environmental Discovery Center, along with a splash pad that is a favorite for kids during the summer months. Woods Bay State Natural Area offers a variety of natural habitats surrounding the Carolina Bay.

Young Plantations is a pecan outlet that offers samples of flavored pecans. It’s also a great stop for items made in South Carolina. Just down the road (Highway 52) is the Pee Dee State Farmers Market, where you’ll find all sort of local flavors.

Just outside Florence County, you’ll find the internationally renowned Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden and Darlington Raceway.