Located in the South Carolina foothills at the southern end of Lake Keowee, Seneca has always drawn outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, bike, kayak or fish in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Just 15 minutes from Clemson, it’s also a popular place to stay if you’re visiting the university or attending a Tigers football game.
But this small Upstate city offers much more than just a convenient location to access surrounding attractions. In recent years, its historic downtown has become a destination in and of itself with lots of fun bars, trendy restaurants and cool shops. Ram Cat Alley, its version of Main Street, features fine dining restaurants like Vangeli’s Bistro and Bonaterra, hip watering holes, including Brews on the Alley and The Spot on the Alley, as well as a wide array of independently owned boutiques and antique stores.
The construction of nearby Lakes Keowee and Hartwell in 1971 brought more changes to the area, including recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking and camping. With its small-town charm and outdoor amenities, it was recently ranked No. 1 among the top 10 places to retire in South Carolina and No. 15 in the nation.
Description Credit: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, DiscoverSouthCarolina.com
