Temperatures may be hot right now in South Carolina, but fall is just around the corner. There is nowhere quite as beautiful as the Palmetto State, and if you’re planning a trip to Fort Jackson, we have all the best places and attractions to visit while you are here.
Charleston
Consider starting or ending your trip with a few days in Charleston, just a two-hour drive from Fort Jackson. Rich with military history, Charleston is one of the best places to see both Revolution and Civil War era fortresses. Head to Sullivan’s Island and start at Fort Moultrie, the first fort constructed here that held Charleston from the British for almost the entire Revolutionary War before finally being captured in 1782 as the war entered its final year. Then, be sure to visit Fort Sumter which was built to protect against British invasion in the War of 1812 but is more famously known for the Battle of Fort Sumter, which started the Civil War.
The South Carolina Military Museum
Open Monday through Saturday, 10:00am – 4:00pm
If you can’t make it to Charleston, you will still be able to get the full history of South Carolina’s military involvement at The South Carolina Military Museum. The museum features a complete timeline of South Carolina’s land, sea, and air operations and features weapons, equipment, and artillery exhibits. Admission is free to the public but be sure to check the schedule when you are in town as the museum is closed on Saturdays when the University of South Carolina football team plays at home in the Fall.
U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum
Open Monday through Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm
If you’re interested in the evolution of basic combat training, this museum takes you through how training has evolved from Fort Jackson’s inception in 1917 all the way to the current phases of training. Exhibits show how techniques have developed and evolved since WWI. Admission is free to the public.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Open daily, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Home to over 2,000 animals as well as one of the nation’s best botanical gardens, the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden has 170+ acres of natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views, and spectacular valley overlooks to explore. There are several attractions for kids as well, making this a great family-friendly activity! A military discount is available with a valid Military ID presented at time of purchase.
Still need things to do? The Columbia Museum of Art, EdVenture Children’s Museum, and Sesquicentennial State Park are all great options for you and your family. And if you are looking for where to stay, we would be honored to host you at the two recently opened Candlewood Suites® on Fort Jackson, or the Holiday Inn Express® Fort Jackson Inn on Fort Jackson.