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If you're up for a day of walking and learning something new about Manning, South Carolina, there are some great ways to discover the city. Downtown Manning is full of history, local charm, and southern hospitality. Here's how you can spend a day taking in all that this town has to offer. more Tour the Historic District The Manning Historic District consists of 63 different buildings that have played a part in the establishment and evolution of the town since the 1800s. Starting in the Courthouse Square, the center of town when it was laid out in 1856, walk around and through several of the architectural treasures of the city. Keep an eye out for the Clarendon County Courthouse, Alderman's 20 in One Store, the People Bank and Trust Building, and the Levi Building. On North Brooks Street in Downtown Manning, you'll find the Clarendon Chamber building. Don't miss the historic marker outside the building and the Francis Marion statue. Francis Marion was known as the Swamp Fox for his early use of guerilla warfare against the British army during the Revolutionary War. Follow Along the Swamp Fox Murals Trail American history buffs will love to see the Swamp Fox Murals in Manning. Twelve of the murals along the trail are found in the downtown Manning area. The towns of Paxville, Turbeville, and Summerton host the other murals from the collection. The Clarendon County app is available for your phone and will help you find the various murals and tell their stories. Maps are available online to help you follow the story as you see the trail. The Swamp Fox Murals are painted on the sides of various buildings in Clarendon County and depict scenes from the American Revolution and the battles and historic moments that happened along the Santee River. If you have time, consider jumping in the car and visiting the other sites of the Swamp Fox Murals Trail outside of Manning. The newest addition to the murals is in Turbeville. All four towns are within a 25-minute drive of one another, so it won't take much of your day. Enjoy Dinner at Porter Jacks Grill On South Mill Street in the heart of Manning, Porter Jacks Grill is a local favorite spot for dinner and comfort food. Start with some potato skins and crispy, thin onion rings. If you like seafood, be sure to try the deviled eggs and fried oysters. Main course options include a mouth-watering BBQ Pork Rib-Eye and four different cuts of perfectly-prepared steak. For a traditional southern meal, the Charleston Style Shrimp and Grits are a Porter Jack favorite with shrimp, Andouille sausage, and peppers. If your long day of touring the town has taken your energy, consider ordering online and picking up your food to enjoy at home. Their full menu is available, so you won't have to prepare anything yourself. Don't miss out on the rich history of Manning and the surrounding area. You never know what interesting things have taken place around you until you take the time to learn and investigate. image via pixabay

Being prepared for an emergency is smart. If you went hiking in the mountains, you would bring certain things with you; the same should hold true when you get in your car. Just because you're driving on the road doesn't mean you cannot find yourself lost, or broken down in the middle of nowhere.  Here are some must-have items you should keep in your car. more Cell Phone and Charger There are too many things that can go wrong while driving to anticipate, so you should be prepared to call someone for help. Most Americans have cell phones, so you probably already carry yours. But is it charged? Most people have car charger adapters, so in many instances you can simply plug it in and charge. What happens if your car battery dies, though? You can buy a portable battery pack that is smaller than your phone. You can then charge it from your car adapter, and keep it in your glove box. It could save you a long walk if you cannot call someone to come get you. First Aid Kit This is another item many people overlook, but could end up saving you big time. Having the basic first-aid items readily available is important, especially if you have children. A simple splinter or cut could be horrifying to a five-year-old. Instead of listening to howling crying until you get home or to a hospital, you could use tweezers to pull the splinter. Or you could wash the cut with an antibacterial wipe, and apply a Band-Aid. Problem solved, crying stopped! Jumper Cables One of the top three reasons AAA is summoned is for a dead battery. You should always have a set of jumper cables in your car, even if you do not know how to use them. There are plenty of people that do know how to use them, but may not have cables themselves. if you have cables, any car can give you a jump start if your battery dies. Seat Belt Cutter and Window Breaker The idea of crashing into a large body of water often doesn't occur to people, yet it happens. Two things get in the way of extracting yourself or a loved one from a sinking vehicle are seat belts and windows.jumper cables A seat belt cutter and window breaker tool costs less than $10, and could save your life. Keep one in the glove box, just in case. Spare Tire & Jack Flat tires happen all the time. Even if you have AAA, you might find yourself in a remote area, without phone service, or hours away from help arriving. Having the ability to change a tire yourself will get you back on the road quicker. Make sure your spare tire is inflated. Just in case, you should also have a can of tire inflator/sealant. It is pressurized air with a sealing component that will fill your flat tire with air and seal any small leaks it might have. Being well prepared with the items you keep in your car can prevent you from getting stranded. Be sure to stock up on these five items so you'll never worry about being stranded again. image via pixabay

If you love the outdoors, you probably desire cooler weather. If so, good news! There are some great hikes that get even better in the winter months. Here's a look at some of the most underrated winter hikes in the Manning, South Carolina area. more Congaree National Park This South Carolina gem is one of the oldest bottomland hardwood forests in the state. With most of the park situated at the bottom of a flood plain, there is very little elevation change, making this a great place to hike for novices. There are also eight trails to choose from at Congaree National Park, some as short as 0.3 miles. For the seasoned hiker, the park offers trails over 11 miles long. All trails wind through this beautiful forest starting from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. The Boardwalk Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop with a slight elevation change to the bottom of the flood plain. The trail is wheelchair accessible, and has benches along the way. For another fairly easy hike, the Bluff Trail loops north from the visitor center for 1.7-mile hike through young loblolly trees, and pines. If you want a longer hike, check out the Oakridge Trail. This is a 7-mile hike across a ridge of old oaks. The low-lying sloughs across this ridge line offer plenty of shelter to deer and wild turkey. Poinsett State Park Accessed from Poinsett Park Road in Wedgefield, South Carolina, the Poinsett State Park is a great place for hiking in winter. The 10-acre pond offers plenty of winding trails with very little elevation change, making this a great location for casual hikes. The Park is nestled in the High Hills of Santee, and includes a dozen trails of varying length and skill level. The kids will love the quick 0.2-mile Levi's Run. If you want a view, try the Hill Top Trail. This short 0.4-mile trail will take you up quickly. If you plan on spending the day, the Whippoorwill Trail offers 5.4 miles of hiking through the beautiful hills. You can see animals like deer, and birds of all types. The park offers cabins for rent, and a camping area too. There are park offices and restrooms, and plenty of trail signs so you don't get lost. Ann Springs Close Greenway This nature preserve is located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and accessed via the Greenway Gateway on Adventure Road. The serious hiker can join their hiking club, which regularly explores this 2,100-acre wonderland. The novice will enjoy guided hikes through the region, while you learn about nature and the local wildlife. History buffs will enjoy hiking a portion of the famous Nation Ford Road. This was once part of the main roadway stretching from Augusta, Georgia all the way to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There's also the Garrison-Webb Gristmill to visit. Check out this historic 1780 gristmill, which served the local area for over 100 years. You'll hike trails that have been used for nearly 250 years. There are plenty of winter hiking venues in the Manning, South Carolina area. The next time you're looking for a fun day outdoors, you should check out one of these three great places. image via pixabay

There's nothing quite like the excitement of planning a day trip to experience an adventure to a new destination. With a variety of places to discover near Manning, you can create a day to remember. more Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center Less than an hour's drive away, the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center will keep you entertained with its season of scheduled entertainment. For the upcoming season, the center has an exciting lineup of entertainment. From the South Carolina Dance Theatre putting on its presentation of the Nutcracker and Swan Lake performed by the National Ballet Theatre of Odessa, Ukraine to jazz, tenors, pianists, and legendary singers, the center offers a memorable day trip enjoying the performances of talented artists. The ticket office is open from noon until to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Santee State Park Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy their time at Santee State Park less than an hour from Manning in Lake Marion. With 2,500 acres filled with beauty, beaches, and boating along with fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation, your day trip will be jam-packed with activities. Extend your day trip into a weekend getaway and bring along your tent, or rent one of the cabins built above the lake. There's a pier, boat launch, and geocaching sites for even more things to do. EdVenture Children's Museum A little over an hour away in Columbia, you won't want to miss taking your children to EdVenture Children's Museum. Touted as the "largest children's museum in the south" and home to the Eddie, the world's largest child. The museum offers 92,000 square feet of fun and 300 exhibits providing hands-on interactive fun for kids 10 years of age and younger. There's fun for all with galleries such as the Great Outdoors, Wags and Whiskers, FLIGHT, Autoworks, My Backyard, and more. The museum also offers a variety of programs for members, field trips, camps, and souvenirs at the EdCetera store. The museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. South Carolina State Museum Walk the walk of past residents when touring the South Carolina State Museum and seeing up-close many artifacts from the past. The museum is a blend of Columbia's culture and history with art and science to show the then and now of the vibrant city. Take time to check out the 4-D theater, which offers a unique experience. While watching the visual program, you'll be subjected to real environmental experiences such as vibrating seats, a quick blast of air, or a gentle spray of water to complement the exhibit and enhance the experience. When you need to refuel, the Crescent Cafe offers a tasty menu of delectable food and refreshing drinks. The museum is open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.to 6 p.m., and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Whichever road you choose to follow for your day trip adventure, with the many places to travel to, you're sure to enjoy the journey from start to finish. image via pixabay

Although there are no fixed requirements as to what constitutes a great family restaurant, eateries that offer good value for money, friendly service, and spacious and clean venues are ideal for families. In Manning, South Carolina, there are a variety of restaurants that offer precisely that. Here are a few suggestions for the next time you take the family out for a meal. more Georgio's Restaurant & Pizza Featuring a spacious and clean venue, a warm and laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and the best pizza in town, this family-owned, Italian-style restaurant is perfect for families. Patrons can eat from the buffet, which features a variety of pizzas and salads, or can choose dishes from the extensive menu. Apart from delicious pizza, the menu features traditional pasta dishes like chicken Parmesan and spaghetti with meatballs, and seafood dishes, as well as burgers and steaks. Kids are sure to be happy with the kids menu, which offers dishes like hamburgers, spaghetti with meat sauce, and cheese ravioli. Georgio's also features specials, such as the family night special on Thursdays, where patrons receive a free kids meal with every entree order. Mariachi's Mexican Restaurant Mariachi's boasts a colorful interior and a friendly and warm atmosphere. The brightly-painted wooden booths and chairs that feature Mexican-themed carvings, as well as the Mexican scenes depicted on the high-ceilinged walls, create a cheerful setting that appeals to kids and adults alike. The venue, as well as the bathrooms, is also spotlessly clean, and the staff friendly and accommodating. The traditional-style Mexican fare served at Mariachi's is fresh and delicious. On the menu you'll find all the favorites, including nachos, fajitas, quesadillas, enchiladas, and tacos, and sides like rice, beans, guacamole, and three levels of salsa. For family members who are not fans of Mexican food, the menu also offers American fare like corn dogs and chicken fingers. And moms and dads may want to try Mariachi's large and affordable margaritas or a refreshing daiquiri. Porter Jacks Grill When the family is in the mood for some Southern-style comfort food and authentic barbecue dishes, Porter Jacks Grill is a great option. Apart from the delicious food, this restaurant features a spacious and attractive venue and great service. On the menu are appetizers like salmon cakes and fried green tomatoes, as well as salads and the soup of the day. For mains, the family can tuck into delicious Southern-style dishes like baby back ribs, served with a baked potato, cucumber salad, and hickory barbecue sauce; slow-smoked pulled pork barbecue and Carolina grits; or smothered pork rib-eye, served with homemade mashed potatoes and cucumber salad. The menu also offers burgers and sandwiches, as well as a few seafood dishes like glazed salmon and butterfly shrimp. Manning is home to many restaurants that offer the perfect setting for an afternoon or night out with the family. Whether you're in the mood for the best pizza in town, traditional Mexican fare, or some Southern-style comfort food, you'll find the perfect family restaurant in Manning. image via pixabay

If you are looking for a great time near Manning, SC then look no further! We have four fun outdoor activities for you that are located in Manning and the surrounding areas. Whether you are searching for something that would be fun for a day out by yourself or a day out with the kids, any of these four options would be a perfect way to get some nature in! Riverbanks Zoo and Garden With a variety of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden graces the top of the list. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 amazing animals and is a top contender for most inspiring botanical gardens. In addition to animal exhibits, there are a variety of other attractions including the Spots and Stripes Railroad Train and a splash pad in the Summer months. They are open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. General admission will cost $19.95 for ages 13 and above, $16.95 for ages 2 to 12. They also offer senior citizen and military discounts. You can find the zoo at 500 Wildlife Parkway in Columbia, South Carolina. more Alligator Adventure While this one is quite a drive from Manning, it is still tons of fun for adults and kids alike. You will be able to come face to face with some of nature's most fierce, yet beautiful creatures. Alligator Adventure is one of South Carolina's best-known tourist attractions. The price for adults is $26.99 and children are $18.99 with discounts for children 3 and under, seniors, and military. Alligator Adventure is located off Highway 17 at Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach. Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park Another activity that is worth the drive is Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park, which offers three different outdoor adventures. The company is dedicated to providing high quality, unique fun to people of all ages. They set the park up to promote challenges to people of all abilities as well. With several different kinds of experiences available, there is something for everyone. They offer a Ninja Warrior experience, a Challenge Course, and an Explorers Getaway that is the perfect starter. They can be contacted at (843)225-1555 for any questions you may have as well as reservations. Santee State Park If you are looking for a more natural environment, then the Santee State Park would be perfect for an outing. Located in Cooper Country the park sits along Lake Marion and while it is best known for the lake, this amazing park has much more to offer. They have camping, hiking, bicycling, fishing, and even pontoon guided tours on Lake Marion. For camping, you can bring your own tent or rent one of their thirty quaint cabins. Admission is $2 for ages 15 and above with a senior discount. They are open daily from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. and can be found at 251 State Park Road in Santee, South Carolina. We hope that one of our favorite things to do outdoors around Manning becomes one of your new favorites as well. Image by Free Public Domain Illustrations by rawpixel via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

If you are looking to get closer to nature or get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Manning and the surrounding areas offer several perfect hiking opportunities for you. While Manning is a beautiful city located in the heart of South Carolina, nothing compares to the tranquility that a day navigating through a trail provides. With so many options available, we've narrowed it down to five amazing places to hike near Manning, South Carolina. Poinsett State Park Poinsett State Park is located upon the gorgeous High Hills of Santee. This park is sometimes called the “mountains of the midlands” and provides a gorgeous backdrop with the different mixed ecosystems that you will see. Poinsett has several different trails that wind their way through the entire park and add up to over 25 miles available to the public. Poinsett State Park can be found at 6660 Poinsett Park Road in Wedgefield. Lake Marion Passage The beautiful Lake Marion Passage provides you with miles upon miles of magnificent views of the lake and plains that surround it. The foliage surrounding the entire area is seasonally colorful with views that amaze year-round. The entire length of the trail is over 33 miles but you are able to start from different points in order to shorten it to fit your needs. There is access to the trail from Santee Town Hall Complex, Pack's Landing, and Mill Creek County Park. more Congaree National Park Visit Congaree National Park to experience astonishing biodiversity including the largest intact area of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest still existing in the southeastern U.S. Waters from the Wateree and Congaree Rivers wind through the floodplain, carrying sediments and nutrients that rejuvenate and nourish this ecosystem while supporting the growth of state and national champion trees. Santee National Wildlife Refuge Located along the north shore of Lake Marion, this awe-inspiring refuge is home to trails, wildlife, and a nature center that adults and children alike will enjoy. The visitor center will provide you with a loaner backpack with items you may need on your hike such as binoculars and field guides.  This service is offered free of charge. The Santee National Wildlife Refuge can be found at 2125 Fort Watson Road in Summerton and is open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. from October to February and 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. from March through September. Santee State Park This beautiful state park located near Lake Marion is home to over 10 miles of pristine hiking trails. It houses over 2500 acres right in the heart of Santee Cooper County. They do require a daily admission fee of $2.00 for adults. Kids ages 15 and under are free. These fees go to maintaining the park. Santee State Park can be found at 251 State Park Road in Santee and is open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. year-round. South Carolina may be known to outsiders for features such as cities and beaches, but locals know what the real appeal is, and that's an abundance of hiking trails. Whether you are a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro, any of these places would be a great pick for a hike near Manning, South Carolina. Image by daveynin via Flickr | CC BY 2.o | Cropped from original

Located just off Interstate 95 in Clarendon County, Manning, South Carolina, is a hidden gem of the Palmetto State. Named after South Carolina governor John Laurence Manning, the town was established in 1855. In the 160-plus years following its incorporation, the town has grown to over 4,000 residents and become the center of government and commerce in Clarendon County. While some may not get the appeal of moving to a place like Manning, its small-town charm is more than enough to entice those who want a simpler life. Here are just a few reasons to live in Manning. Ideal Location Just because Manning is a small rural community of only 4,100 people doesn't mean that it's far off the beaten path. Situated just 2 miles from I-95, you can hop on the highway in just five minutes. From there, you can head south to hit Charleston in about an hour and a half. U.S. Highway 378 also runs through the middle of town, offering easy access to both Myrtle Beach and Columbia in two hours or less. When you want to get out of town or head out on a road trip, Manning gives you plenty of options in close proximity. Two Major Hotels No one's saying that the in-laws can't stay at your house. But it is nice to know that two major hotel chains operate right outside of Manning off I-95. A Baymont Inn and Super 8 offer superb accommodation that's right near some of the best shopping in the town. When you need a breather from family holidays or other occasions, these two hotels are the perfect escape for either you or your relatives. more Dining Options Towns of 4,100 people usually have few or zero dining options if you don't feel like cooking. However, Manning has more than enough restaurants to appeal to your palate. McDonald's, Hardee's, Cook Out, Zaxby's, Shoney's, and Waffle House are the chain restaurants that provide familiar and delicious food at an affordable price. If you're not a huge fan of fast food or diner food, Manning's culinary options don't end there. Both Yucatan and Mariachi's offer Mexican cuisine that's so good, you would've thought you were south of the border. That said, the true culinary delight in Manning is the barbecue. If you're searching for authentic Carolina barbecue, JK's House of Ribs, McCabe's Bar-B-Q, and D&H Barbecue provide mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and sausages with all the fixings. A Piggly Wiggly is also near downtown, but with so many restaurants, why would you want to cook? Convenience Manning has some of the best shopping within 50 miles, giving you the opportunity to purchase what you need without taking a day trip. Wal-Mart, CVS, Exxon, and Tractor Supply Co. have just about every item imaginable. If you can't find what you're searching for there, head over to a locally owned store such as Simpson Manning Hardware, Young's Fashion Beauty Supply, or Bob's Body Shop. They'll sort you out. From the beautiful outskirts of town to the attractive location that's close to just about everything, Manning, South Carolina, is the unlikely place you just might want to call home. Image via Pixabay | CC 0 | Cropped from original

Summer in Manning, South Carolina, is arguably the best time of the year. The sun is shining, people seem happier, and the calendar of events starts to explode. If you're in the mood to break out of cabin fever, become more social, and enjoy everything this lovely rural town has to offer, check out these summer events hitting Manning and the surrounding area in 2019. 1. Wild Summer's Night Auction & Wild Game Feast Take the 1.5-hour drive to Columbia, South Carolina, on Saturday, July 20, for a night unlike any other. On this date, the Wild Summer's Night Auction & Wild Game Feast takes place at Seawell's Catering with over 400 attendees. At this event, you can place your bids on handmade jewelry, guided nature tours, fishing equipment, hunting gear, and more. During the auction, chow down on a wild game feast that includes tastings of venison, quail, duck, alligator, catfish, and shrimp. You won't find any menu like this in Manning or anywhere else. All proceeds from the auction benefit local education and wildlife preservation funds. Attire is business casual. The event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. more 2. Night at the Museum: Colonial Camp If you're tired of your kids saying they're bored or lounging around the house playing video games, a Night at the Museum: Colonial Camp will immerse them in the history of the area in one fun-filled night. Taking place in historic Camden, South Carolina, at the Historic Camden Revolutionary War building, this June 7 event will let your children experience life as an early settler. For only $20, each child will receive dinner and the chance to explore history first-hand. The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m., but organizers want all participants to arrive 15 minutes early. All children must register online prior to the event. 3. Carolina Country Music Fest 2019 Hop on U.S. Highway 378 east for about two hours, and you'll eventually run into the tourist mecca of Myrtle Beach. On June 6 through June 9, this town heats up for its annual Carolina Country Music Fest. Now in its fifth year, this festival welcomes the biggest stars in country music to the stage. The 2019 lineup includes Alabama, Florida Georgia Line, Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborn and more. Taking place on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, this concert offers the opportunity to see all your favorite artists while the sea breeze blows through your hair. Three-day tickets for the event start at just $199. 4 Sixth Annual Ladybug Release On Saturday, July 20th, experience the magic of a ladybug release with your entire family. Taking place at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, this event allows children to release over 200,000 ladybugs into the wild wherever they please. Food, drink, interactive events, and nature walks are also part of the festivities. The event is $20 for adults and $10 for children and goes from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the ladybug release starting at 10 a.m. No matter what you decide to do this summer, these events near Manning are sure to provide a treat for you, your friends, and the entire family. Image via Creative Commons | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original.

Right off Interstate 95, Manning, South Carolina, is a rural community that's not too far off the beaten path. While the town remains quaint and charming, there's more to the city than meets the eye. Top-notch golf courses surround Manning, giving the avid linksman a chance to hone his craft on the green or fairway. The next time you're in the mood for a round, check out these amazing golf courses near Manning. The Players Course at Wyboo Voted the best golf course and golf shop in Clarendon County by The Manning Times for 2018, The Players Course at Wyboo is the area's premier championship golf course. Situated along the shores of Lake Marion, this scenic course adds a beautiful backdrop to your round of 18. Well-manicured and full of difficult approaches, undulating greens, and other hazards, you'll have to be at the top of your game to dominate this course. Rates start at $15 for South Carolina residents or $25 for nonresidents. more Shannon Greens Golf Club Just minutes from Interstate 95 and downtown Manning, Shannon Greens Golf Club is another one of Clarendon County's hidden gems. Three lakes surround and weave their way through the course, offering a blend of both beauty and difficulty. Known as the Home of the Island Green, Shannon Greens's most impressive and famous hole features a hard-to-reach green in the middle of the lake, requiring precision and a delicate approach to overcome. Rates start at $49 for a round of 18 holes or $29 if you're part of the VIP Clover Club. Swamp Fox Golf Course Opened in 1935, Swamp Fox Golf Course is one of the older golf courses in the area and certainly one of the most exciting. Over the 6,507 yards of the course, you'll come across southern pines, hardwoods and giant live oaks that provide a stunning background to your drives and lay-ups. A tad on the shorter side, Swamp Fox Golf Course rewards accuracy and precision over massive drives. What makes Swamp Fox Golf Course different from some of the other courses in the area is its isolation. Far from the traffic, congestion, and housing you'll find on other newer courses, Swamp Fox offers peace, quiet, and golf as its meant to be played. Rates start at $20 for South Carolina residents and $44 for nonresidents. The Country Club at Lake City If you want well-manicured greens, a picturesque setting, and 18 holes of championship golf, you're hard-pressed to find a course better than The Country Club at Lake City. As the host of several Women's Senior PGA Tour events, the Web.com Tour, and the PGA Tour School, this golf course has enough twists and turns to challenge even the most seasoned golfers. Rates start at $19 for nine holes or $33 for 18 holes. Whether you're trying to shave a few strokes off your game, hone a particular skill, or head out for a leisurely round, these Manning area golf courses have enough fun and challenges to keep you coming back for more. Image by Chris Urbanowicz via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

While it doesn't snow very often in Manning, SC, it is still important to know how to drive on snowy, slippery roads when it does happen. The winters in this part of South Carolina bring temperatures down into the mid-30s, which also means there is the possibility for ice on the roads. When you travel through the area during the colder months, make sure you are ready for anything. Follow these winter traveling tips when passing through Manning, SC. Pack for All Conditions Even if your trip starts in an area where it is warm, you will want to plan for any type of weather and pack cold weather clothes. In many parts of the country, the weather can change quickly. Make sure you have a winter jacket, gloves, and a hat in the car and always keep a blanket with you. If you pass through Manning on your way north, you will also want to pack items such as a shovel, a cell phone charger, and sand or kitty litter in case you need to get out of a slippery situation. more Check the Forecast Ahead of You Always look at the weather not only in the area where you are starting your trip but also where you're heading. It is so easy to see what is coming, even when you are already on the road, so take advantage of it. If severe weather is coming in, you can either delay your trip by a day or two or leave early if you can beat a storm. Driving on Slippery Roads The key to safe driving when the roads get slippery is slowing down. It is also important to know how to stop on an icy road. If you have ABS brakes, apply firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal. The ABS system will take care of pumping the brake for you. If you drive an older model that does not have ABS, pump the brakes to keep the vehicle moving in a straight line. Always leave extra time to stop, and keep in mind that if the roads have ice on them, it does not matter if you have all-wheel drive, four-wheel-drive, or two-wheel drive. The vehicle will slide. Pack an Emergency Kit It is a good idea to have an emergency kit in the car no matter what time of year you head out on the road. The kit should include a flashlight with working batteries, an air compressor, a first aid kit, jumper cables, some basic tools, a utility knife, and first aid supplies. You should also keep food and snacks in the car so you have something to eat if you run into any problems. Pack a few energy bars, water, and some other snacks that will stay good for several days. South Carolina may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of snow, but it pays to be prepared. Follow these winter traveling tips for a successful winter road trip through the Manning area and beyond.   Image via Pixabay.com | CC 0 | Cropped from original

Finding events near Manning to fill your upcoming itinerary isn't hard to do. Whether your plans include driving past a Christmas light display, celebrating local history, signing up for a fishing tournament, or partaking in a thrilling marathon race, the attractions and activities to choose from are broad and diverse. Here's a list of popular events to check out in and around Manning this coming year. Florence Festival of Lights (Florence) December is meant for Christmas lights and visits with Santa, and you'll find both at this season's Florence Festival of Lights. Set along Hoffmeyer Place, guests will drive along a designated course dotted with fantastical light displays encompassing more than 150 installments and covering themes such as Santa's helpers and Disney characters. more You can also take the kids to Santa's Village where they can snap photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, write Christmas letters, and enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate or apple cider. All events will take place over three weekends beginning on Dec. 7 until Dec. 22, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The American Heritage Festival (Lake City) Graham's Historic Farm holds plenty of historic significance in the town of Lake City. In fact, the farm dates back to 1738 and once served as a food supplier and Patriot campsite during the American Revolutionary War. Still residing with the Graham family, the farm is now home to the annual American Heritage Festival, which commemorates the War through battle reenactments, cannon demonstrations, musket firing shows, and military vehicle displays. Additional amenities include an evening drum circle and light show, guest speaker presentations, hatchet throwing contests, live entertainment, and a variety of festival fare. Events for next year's festival will take place from Feb. 2–3 with tickets available for purchase online. Striped Bass Festival (Manning) Celebrating its 40th annual run across Courthouse Square, the Striped Bass Festival in Manning is a true fisher's delight and occurs every April amid the gorgeous springtime blooms native to Clarendon County. Activities include a morning parade, carnival rides, children's games, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, local school art viewing, and an open-team fishing tournament. Plus, you'll join the community in celebrating the Striped Bass Festival Queens, ranging from all age groups, as they ride among a set of elegantly adorned parade floats. The Great Inflatable Race (Sumter) Have you ever thought of running a marathon lined with giant inflatable obstacles? Likely not! But the Great Inflatable Race hosted at the YMCA of Sumter gives you the perfect chance to start. This event, held on April 27 and open to all ages, spans 1.5 to 3.1 miles (5K) along a route boasting up to 10 inflatables where you and the family can climb, jump, and bounce your way past the Castle of Doom, Ball Pit, and Volcano Escape. Purchasing a VIP ticket unlocks even more adventure, allowing you unlimited access to the Inflatable Village and its attractions such as the Gladiator Joust, Bungee Run, and DINOmite Bouncy House. Sign me up! If you're searching for fun activities for the whole gang to enjoy this coming year, these top four suggestions offer a nice starting point for local residents.   Image via Pixabay | CC 0