Aiken, South Carolina

Aiken

About Aiken

Aiken is located near the mid-point of South Carolina's long border with Georgia, about 15 miles east of Augusta. US 1 and US 78 pass through the heart of the city, and Interstate 20 skirts its northern border. It is the seat of Aiken County. Here is a map of the Aiken area.

Aiken was developed primarily during the first half of the twentieth century. Its ideal location and climate attracted many of New England's financial titans who established a "Winter Colony" here with luxurious homes, churches, clubs, and gardens. These and other historic landmarks abound in Aiken, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys history and beauty.

The northerners brought their horses with them, creating an equestrian community bar none. Today, Aiken forms the center of South Carolina's "Thoroughbred Country" and is home to first-class polo and racing. It is even home to the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame.

As members of the leisure class, the transplants also created extravagant outdoor amenities which are now open to the public. Aiken features an abundance of trails – trails for walking, cycling, and especially riding! In fact Aiken is home to the largest urban forest in the United States – Hitchcock Woods – which offers over 70 miles of trails. The annual Aiken Horse Show has been held at Hitchcock Woods for over a century. Hopelands Gardens is another exquisite park.

Downtown Aiken is also delightful, being just small enough to feel friendly and just large enough to be fun. Aiken is also the site of the USC Aiken, a four-year branch of the University of South Carolina. Enjoy the video above to learn more about Aiken!