This Charming South Carolina Town Is a Less-Visited Lowcountry Escape-With Quaint Inns, Scenic Views, and Literary Ties

"Beaufort, a harbor town on Port Royal Island, is remarkable and magical in its own right. While its narrow streets, oak trees, and historic district that pre-dates the Civil War are similar to those in Charleston, Beaufort doesn't draw the same crowds that tend to flock to notable Holy City hangouts like King Street, Folly Beach, and the Battery."

"In 1969, Beaufort became one of the few U.S. cities with an entire downtown designated as a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, so exploring the neighborhoods filled with Victorian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Federal-style homes is at the top of most travelers' lists."

"At Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, you'll spot Woods Memorial Bridge, recognizable from the aforementioned Tom Hanks blockbuster. Stretching your legs is also encouraged along the Spanish Moss Trail, a 10.2-mile greenway that weaves by Beaufort's marshes and through trees draped in Spanish moss."

Beaufort is a historic harbor town on Port Royal Island that rivals Charleston in character while remaining less crowded and more affordable. As South Carolina's second-oldest city, it features narrow streets, oak trees, and a pre-Civil War historic district. The entire downtown was designated a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1969. Beaufort showcases Victorian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Federal-style architecture. Key attractions include Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park with Woods Memorial Bridge, the 10.2-mile Spanish Moss Trail greenway, and water-based activities like dolphin cruises and kayak tours. The town gained cultural recognition through appearances in "Forrest Gump" and works by author Pat Conroy.

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