Located in the northwestern corner of South Carolina, Seneca is on the cusp of the Chattahoochee National Forest and the shores of Lake Keowee. This town is steeped in history. Take a walk through the historic district, or go boating and swimming at the lake. After settling into your Seneca vacation rental, try out one of these top activities.
1. Go Kayaking on the Keowee Waters
With its lakeside location, exploring the Keowee waters is a no-brainer. The Hartwell-Keowee Paddleboard and Kayak Co. not only provides kayak and paddle rentals, but it also delivers and picks them up from your Seneca vacation rental so that you don’t have to worry about finding a way to haul them around. You can even meet the Hartwell-Keowee Paddleboard and Kayak Co. at South Cove County Park or other lakeside areas for ultimate convenience. There are one and two person kayaks available with rentals that range from one hour to one week.
2. Rent a Boat at the Lake Keowee Marina
Whether you want to effortlessly tool around Lake Keowee, motor out to a quiet spot for some fishing, or explore the aquatic environment, you can find a boat to rent at Lake Keowee Marina. The marina offers a range of boats from the large pontoon boat, great for fitting a dozen people aboard, or the more intimate Boston whaler, perfect for just two people wanting to get cozy. There are also deckboats and Supra Wake boats available.
3. Explore the World of Energy at Oconee Nuclear Station
What’s World of Energy? you might ask. It’s one of Seneca’s top attractions and an educational museum that centers on, but is not limited to, energy exhibits. Take a virtual tour of the McGuire Nuclear Station, learning how nuclear energy is harnessed and used. Learn about other types of energy such as that found in coal, uranium, solar, and even water. Explore the local wildlife along the center’s nature trail down to Lake Keowee. If you have the entire family with you, there are kid-friendly events, activities, and movies as well such as the Story of Energy movie and video game area.
4. Step Into History at the Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum
Learn about all aspects of human life in and around Seneca at the Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum. This museum focuses on the history of African Americans in the area with exhibits about their segregation, integration, and assimilation into American society. Afterward stop at the Lunney House Museum, a 1909 Queen Anne-style bungalow restored to its original glory. It features art glass windows, English fireplace tiles and a sawn oak mantel, original chandeliers, and other details that recreate life in the early 20th century. Top off your historical exploration with a tour through the historic Ballenger House nestled in the historic district.
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5. Play Room Escape at Escape Zones
Challenge your mind in Seneca’s Escape Zones. In this room escape game, you are given all the clues to find a way out of a locked room; you just have to figure them out and piece them together–with the clock ticking down. With a max group of six people, you can take the entire family or play with your best buds. There are different adventures available from Imprisoned to Black Beard’s Brig.
6. Visit the Blue Ridge Arts Center
Round out your trip by indulging in a little culture. The Blue Ridge Arts Center is a gallery featuring unique pieces from local artisans. It also doubles as a museum containing antiques and relics from historic Seneca. If you plan your trip right, you can enjoy an Afternoon with an Artist that includes an art demonstration, discussion, and lunch.
7. Test Your Skills at the Paint-Play Studio
After whetting the appetite of your inner artist, try your skills at Seneca’s Paint-Play Studio. Bring your favorite drink or snack, and eat as you paint. Brushes, paint, and canvases are provided. Take part in one of the specialty classes, such as Portrait Your Pet, where you can learn valuable skills that last a lifetime. Book a private event for a family party or a group of friends.
8. Play Disc Golf at the Shaver Recreation Center
Challenge your family to a cut-throat game of disc golf at the Shaver Recreation Center. The 18-hole game takes you through hills and woods with a total length of 4,980 feet. Besides yourself, all you need is a know-how in throwing a frisbee and a sense of competition.
9. Shop at Ram Cat Alley
Enjoy the quaint historic downtown area while shopping at Ram Cat Alley. The eclectic combination of shops include home and garden stores, boutiques, antiques shops, and art galleries. The district is more than just stores, though; it’s an experience. You can listen to live music, watch street performers, and even find a good restaurant nearby.
10. Feast at Seneca Restaurants
Speaking of restaurants, take advantage of your time in Seneca to satisfy your foodie dreams. Vaneli’s Bistro is all your favorite food from pasta to seafood. The Spot on the Alley features a laid back attitude, bingo nights, and pub grub. Think thick, meaty hamburgers and fries. Feel like a local at the Seneca Family Restaurant, or indulge in comfort food at Dienners Kitchen. Ram Cat Social House features both a dinner and a show.
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