Sumter

Travel Guide

Photo by ann fitzgerald
Photo by Ucanquoteme

A year-round temperate climate, a remarkable blend of attractions and a thriving arts and music scene make Sumter one of South Carolina’s most attractive destinations.

Originally known for its industry, Sumter now bursts with culture and colour. The town is particularly famous for art and music festivals which take place throughout the year. Plan your trip around these to enjoy this lively town at its best.

Visit the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, home to a range of floral attractions from across the globe. The irises are best viewed during the summer months, but you can enjoy the abundant wildlife in the park any time of year. Try to spot all eight species of swan that live in the area.

Summers in Sumter are warm, so cool off at the four different Spray Parks around the city. Stand beneath the refreshing water and use the excellent picnic facilities and play areas for children. When the temperature cools, enjoy tennis at the Palmetto Tennis Centre. This stays open into the evening equipment is available for rent.

The sub-tropical climate means that rain can occur throughout the year. When it does, head to one of Sumter’s many indoor attractions. The Sumter County Gallery of Art is one of the best. Here, view traditional and contemporary work from local and nationally recognized artists in one of the state’s best exhibition spaces. Join a group tour and be sure to visit whatever temporary exhibition happens to be present at the time.

For your evening’s entertainment, visit the Sumter Opera House. A year-round program of events makes this one of the town’s most popular attractions. Even if you don’t see a show, the Opera House, which was built in 1895, is well worth a visit for its interesting architecture.

Plan your visit around one of Sumter’s many festivals to see the town at its best. The Fantasy of Lights around Christmas time, the Iris Festival in May and the monthly Fourth Fridays throughout the summer are some of the most popular.

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb

2.5 out of 5
2715 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
The price is CA $159 per night from Aug 21 to Aug 22
CA $159
CA $179 total
Aug 21 - Aug 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are located nearby.
8.4/10 Very Good! (60 reviews)
Noisey Bed
"Hotel was clean and Amazing. The only issue was the bed, every time I moved it made a noise. When you walked in the door you could smell the freshness. Overall wonderful place!"

Reviewed on Aug. 18, 2025

Woodspring Suites Sumter Near Shaw Afb
Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown

3 out of 5
18 N Main St, Sumter, SC
The price is CA $173 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
CA $173
CA $194 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (843 reviews)
"Customer service was fantastic and the young lady Jasmine working the desk was very helpful"

Reviewed on Aug. 18, 2025

Hyatt Place Sumter / Downtown
Tru by Hilton Sumter

Tru by Hilton Sumter

2.5 out of 5
2607 Broad Street, Sumter, SC
The price is CA $164 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
CA $164
CA $183 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Sumter. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (638 reviews)
"Very accommodating"

Reviewed on Aug. 16, 2025

Tru by Hilton Sumter
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter

Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter

2 out of 5
Sumter
Stay at this vacation home in Sumter. Enjoy air conditioning. Popular attractions Sumter Mall and Palmetto Park are located nearby.
8.8/10 Excellent! (14 reviews)
"Place was very clean and well kept will rent again"

Reviewed on Jul. 20, 2025

Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Sumter
The Farm House on Adams

The Farm House on Adams

Sumter
Stay at this property in Sumter. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Swan Lake Playground and Swan Lake Iris Gardens are located ...
The Farm House on Adams
New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB

New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB

sumter
Stay at this vacation home in Sumter. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Jenkins Center and O'Donnell House are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"Lovely homr"

Reviewed on Jul. 27, 2025

New, Oasis Haven near downtown & Shaw AFB
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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