Lose Yourself in Historic Georgetown Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Georgetown is a charming mixture of beautifully restored homes, historic buildings, quaint cafes and novelty shops - all within view or easy walking distance of Winyah Bay Harbor. Recorded history dates back to the 1500´s when the Spanish established an outpost on the Bay. According to legend, this was the first European settlement (outside of Mexico) on the North America mainland. The first permanent settlers were the English in the late 17th Century and Georgetown became an official colonial port of entry in 1732. The city's focal point is Front Street which skirts the water´s edge along the historic district. Historic landmarks include: Kaminski House Museum (1769), The rice Museum (1842), Robert Steward House (1750, Lafayette Park, Prince George Winyah Episcopal Church (1747) and many others.

Rice Plantations of the Tidelands Traveling back through the centuries, long before the Civil Way, Georgetown County was one of the most successful rice-growing regions in the South. Today, still hidden deep within the marshlands - behind towering rows of moss-draped oaks and wind-blown sea oats - stand majestic plantation houses fully restored to their original glory. Sprinkled along the Santee, Waccamaw, Pee Dee and Black River districts, may of these breathtaking structures are easily accessible to visitors, offering guided tours. Two of the particular interest include: Hopsewee Plantation: Built circa 1740 on the North Santee River, Hopsewee is the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, who signed the Declaration of Independence. In addition to the main house, the grounds include two original kitchen buildings with massive fireplaces, a scenic river deck and densely wooded trails for exploration. Hampton Plantation: Also in the Santee District, and constructed by French Huguenots circa 1735, Hampton Plantation was once visited by George Washington. It served as the last home of author and state poet laureate Archibald Rutledege, who left his home to the state knowing it would be carefully maintained for future generations.