South Carolina was one of the original thirteen colonies of America. This gem of the South has many different areas within its terrain to explore, from the sea level Lowcountry to the high elevation of Sassafras Mountain. And have 5 places that you should know to travel or living.

Columbia is South Carolina’s capital, and a lot of people choose to live here. It’s centrally located to the beach and the mountains. It’s one of the biggest cities in the state, and the population has grown to just over 120,000. Some of the biggest employers in the area are the University of South Carolina, the state government, and the hospital systems. Columbia (and Greenville) are the most affordable places to live in South Carolina that are also relatively good sized cities.

Greenville is located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has cooler weather than the coastal areas of South Carolina. It snows usually about once or twice a year in the uppermost part of the state, and Greenville is the largest city in the upstate. It has an estimate of about 60,000 residents. This area has seen some of the largest growth for non-coastal areas in South Carolina, and it’s expected to grow even more in coming years. The city has plenty to do and lots of nice areas, but it’s also considered an up and coming area simply because of its past and projected growth.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist areas in South Carolina. Every year, more than 15 million people visit South Carolina’s coast, and Myrtle Beach is at the top of the list of beaches, statistically speaking. Although a lot of people in Myrtle Beach live there year round, it’s considered more of a vacation spot. You’ll find putt-putt courses and beach shops sprinkled throughout the area. It also has a lot of large hotels and condo complexes right on the beach. Myrtle Beach is the most coastal city on this list. The residential population is estimated around 23,000.

Charleston is known for its history and culture. Its economy is also based largely on tourism, and it has started to make its way into the international tourism and real estate markets as it’s become the cultural hub of the state. You’ll find historic sites, museums, and art galleries throughout the main peninsula and surrounding areas. Charleston is considered more of an upscale port city and has 6 beaches along its coast (plus several islands and towns further inland). Charleston is comparable to Columbia in size, at just under 118,000.

Hilton Head does not attract as many tourists, and it’s known as a smaller and quieter coastal area. Various magazines often list Hilton Head in the top places to retire, but you’ll find a mix of people there. Its population is estimated at about 33,000. Real estate prices are relatively high, as the town has strict development and commercial guidelines. The town incorporated these rules in an effort to preserve the natural setting that people associate with Hilton Head.

With its rich agricultural heritage it’s no wonder that South Carolina is home to dozens of rich and varied gardens. From swamplands to manicured topiaries, the gardens of South Carolina offer visitors the opportunity to experience all kinds of botanical beauty. Here are six glorious gardens that any visitor to South Carolina should take the time to explore. South Carolina Botanical Garden – Clemson This 295-acre public garden specializes in unique nature-based sculptures. Each of these sculptures showcases the beauty of plant life in its design, blending nature and art in a beautiful symbiosis. Another feature is a variety of niche gardens which include the butterfly garden, the wildflower meadow, and the 70 acre arboretum. Visitors can stop in at the Fran Hansen Discovery Center to enjoy the work of South Carolinian native, Elizabeth Belser Fuller. Also available for discovery are the Bob Campbell Geology Museum and the historic Hanover House.

Audubon Swamp Garden – Charleston Originally a rice plantation, the Audubon Swamp Garden features 60 acres of swampland, traversed by boardwalks and bridges. Hundreds of species of flora and fauna live in the swampland. Visitors can walk a self-guided trail or take a trip through the rice lands on the 45 minute boat tour. Brookgreen Gardens – Murrell’s Inlet Located in the heart of a 9100 acre preserve along the coast, Brookgreen Gardens is structured around over 1200 sculptural works by 350 different artists. With 10 different “rooms” accented with ponds, fountains and of course sculptural pieces, the 300 acre gardens is a worthwhile visit for any nature or art lover.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden – Columbia For a taste of Civil War history, combined with the entertainment of a trip to the zoo, check out this 170 acre home of the Saluda Historical District and Camp Sorghum. Children will enjoy the natural habitat exhibits of the zoo, while adults will love the spectacular view of the river valley. Swan Lake Iris Gardens – Springfield Bird lovers should not miss the opportunity to visit Swan Lake Iris Gardens, which is the only US public park to feature all 8 species of swans. The 150 acres is lovely from May-June when the extensive plantings of Japanese Iris are in full bloom. Visitors who are unable to see can still enjoy the gardens through a series of Braille plaques along an exploratory trail through the property.