Our Top Getaway Picks for Couples
Whether you choose to slip away for a romantic weekend, plan a surprise overnight getaway, or pop over for a special evening, Oconee County offers a fun variety of date night (or day) opportunities.
Sure there’s a movie theater. However, maybe you’re tired of doing “dinner and a movie” and want to spice things up a bit. The following locations include activities, restaurants, breweries, and romantic stays that make it easy to enjoy being together in Oconee County, SC.
SALEM, SC
On a date in Salem, we suggest getting out on Lake Jocassee. You can access the lake at Devils Fork State Park. Once there, you can rent kayaks or standup paddleboards from Eclectic Sun and set out on a couple’s adventure exploring the shores of the lake. If you prefer to let someone else lead the way, go sightseeing with Jocassee Lake Tours. They run pontoon boat tours every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
When you’re ready to grab a bite, check out Jocassee Valley Brewing Company This taproom is open Wednesday – Sunday serving craft beer, light appetizers, and live music.
When the day is done, Sunrise Farm Bed & Breakfast is a charming place to stay. Once part of a cotton plantation, the farmhouse now hosts guests and serves a wonderful full breakfast with homemade specialties.
Visit Salem, SC Today!
SENECA, SC
The historic downtown is off the main drag. Seneca was a railroad junction point for cotton farmers in the 1870s. Ram Cat Alley is still where the action is these days. Wonder about that name? The street became known as such because there were so many cats that scrounged the alley back in the early 1900s when the buildings housed fish and meat markets. People would say: “You can’t ram another cat into that alley!”
A fun time to be in downtown Seneca is on Thursday nights. Each week (April-October) Ram Cat Alley is closed to cars and Jazz on the Alley takes over the street. It’s perfect for couples who like to socialize since there’s live music, dancing, and friendly people galore.
If you’re in town on a different night of the week, you can get dinner and bar hop between Keowee Brewing Company and Brews on the Alley, which are just up the street from each other.
Visit Seneca, SC Today!
WALHALLA, SC
Walhalla is the “Main Street to the Mountains” at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town has been named the northern terminus for the Palmetto Trail that spans the state of South Carolina. Walhalla is undergoing a resurgence with new event venues, restaurants, bars & lodging moving into historic downtown storefronts.
The Walhalla Performing Arts Center is a prime example of a renovated building with a new lease on life. The venue is located a block from Main Street and has a great lineup of well-known artists scheduled to perform this season.
Walhalla’s newest restaurant, The Hungry Hiker, moved into a building that was vacant for years. They serve lunch and dinner – we recommend the fried green tomato sandwich!
Lofts Over Main was once a shopkeeper’s apartment. The rooms have been modernized, but retain vintage elements of times past. These vacation rentals are perfect for couples looking for something different. You’ll be within walking distance to WPAC, restaurants, and bars on Main Street.
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MOUNTAIN REST, SC
This rural area is surrounded by national forest and home to dozens of waterfalls.
Venturing into dark Stumphouse Tunnel is a great excuse to hold on tight! One of several attractions at Stumphouse Park.
At the foot of the mountain, Dakota Grill, is the best choice for date night ambiance. The menu includes steak, surf and turf and a great salad bar.
Tucked in the woods, luxury treehouses Stella Vista and Bella Luna are ideal for romantic nights.
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LONG CREEK, SC
Rolling country near the banks of the Chattooga River. Long Creek is known for apple and peach orchards, as well outposts for commercial whitewater rafting outfitters who operate on the river.
You can simply enjoy being together in the rural countryside, swim, boat or hike along the Wild & Scenic Chattooga River or listen to music at Chattooga River Lodge.
Have brunch or lunch at Belle’s Bistro. Located at Chattooga Belle Farm, this is one of the most scenic places anywhere around! Humble Pie pizza or Brasstown BBQ Gathering Place (Friday & Saturday nights 4-9pm) are also great date night options.
A neat place to stay is in the Goldfinch Treehouse. It’s a cozy one-bedroom, one-bath space that includes a kitchenette and a private outdoor deck.
Visit Long Creek, SC Today!