About Aiken
“The Original Winter Colony”
Aiken‘s rich history dates to the 1830s when William Aiken, president of the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company and one of South Carolina’s leading cotton merchants, hired Horatio Allen, a distinguished engineer who would later build the Brooklyn Bridge, to construct a railroad from Charleston to Hamburg, South Carolina.
Work began in 1830, and on October 2, 1833, the first train arrived in the newly established town of Aiken and named in honor of the first railroad president. Attracting visitors from other wealthy Southern towns, Aiken prospered and was quickly filled with stately mansions, regal churches, and a thriving social scene anchored by equestrian sports like polo and thoroughbred racing.
“IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE”
Located near the Southwest border of South Carolina, Aiken is centered amongst some of the region’s most coveted vacation spots.
Take the trip of a lifetime and savor the joys of coming back home to the peaceful sophistication of Aiken’s welcoming atmosphere and tree-lined streets.
ADVENTURE AWAITSAugusta, GA – 26 MINUTES
Columbia, SC – 46 MINUTES
Greenville, SC – 2 HOURS, 9 MINS
Hilton Head, SC – 2 HOURS, 15 MINS
Charlotte, SC – 2 HOURS, 20 MINS
Charleston, SC – 2 HOURS, 27 MINS
Savannah, GA – 2 HOURS, 29 MINS
Atlanta, GA – 2 HOURS, 38 MINS
Aiken Attractions
Crafted by Hand
Aiken regularly hosts a variety of arts and cultural events that preserve the legacy and creative essence of families, traditions, and ideas all around our region. Be sure to mark your calendar for any of these annual events, including “Antiques in the Heart of Aiken,” Joye in Aiken, a partnership with the prestigious Juilliard School, Aiken’s Makin Craft and Art Festival, or the Southern City Film Festival.
Supporting Local
As a result of Aiken’s firm restriction on chain businesses making a presence on any of it’s downtown streets, the area thrives with small and privately owned shops and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere for patrons to enjoy all year long. Find the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one at any of the town’s unique antique shops, clothing boutiques, and specialty stores.
Shop LocalWhat’s Next…
In collaboration with local business-owners, charities, and farmers, the Downtown Aiken Association and participating non-profits regularly host a full calendar of events including Amp the Alley, Bagels & Bloodies, annual Scarecrow Competition, and much more.
