Sumter, South Carolina, US

Sumter, South Carolina, offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Explore its rich heritage, charming downtown, and the scenic Swan Lake Iris Gardens, perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil Southern getaway.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

10:13 AM

Population

40,500

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

72-90°F (22-32°C) - Hot and humid; potential for tropical storms.

Best Time

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

CAE

Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Distance

Approximately 1 hour by car, covering a distance of 45 miles via I-20 W and US-521 S.

Description

Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers various flights, dining options, and shops. It features easy accessibility and a convenient terminal layout.

Sumter, a city steeped in history and Southern charm, provides visitors with a variety of attractions. From the lush Swan Lake Iris Gardens, famous for its rare Japanese Iris and graceful swans, to the historic downtown featuring unique shops and eateries, Sumter promises a memorable experience. Delve into the area's Civil War history at the Sumter County Museum, or enjoy the outdoors with fishing and hiking at Poinsett State Park. Rich in cultural events, Sumter hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, reflecting the vibrant community spirit. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, Sumter has something special to offer.

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Sumter Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Moderate Risk

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption and open container regulations.

Crime Rates

Sumter has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are available, but travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Seasonal allergies can be an issue due to pollen.

Natural Disasters

Sumter is susceptible to hurricanes and flooding, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence is visible, and the Sumter Police Department is active in community engagement and crime prevention efforts.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options are limited in Sumter, and safety is generally considered adequate during daytime hours.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should exercise caution, especially at night, and stay in well-populated and well-lit areas.

Recent Developments

There have been efforts to improve community safety through increased patrols and community policing initiatives.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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Sumter Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Rainy Days


Sunny Days


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Pattern

Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit Sumter

Summary: The best time to visit Sumter is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and attending local festivals.

❄️

January

January in Sumter is cool with temperatures averaging 39°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C). It's a quiet time for visiting museums.

💘

February

Temperatures range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). It's a great time for bird watchers as migrations start.

🌱

March

Best

Spring begins with temperatures of 48°F to 68°F (9°C to 20°C). Ideal for garden visits.

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April

Best

April enjoys temperatures of 54°F to 73°F (12°C to 23°C) and hosts the annual Iris Festival.

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May

Best

Warm weather with temperatures 61°F to 81°F (16°C to 27°C). Perfect for outdoor activities.

☀️

June

Summer begins with temperatures 70°F to 88°F (21°C to 31°C). Enjoy water sports at local lakes.

🏖️

July

Expect hot temperatures from 73°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C), perfect for indoor attractions.

🌞

August

Hot and humid with temperatures ranging 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C). Drink plenty of water.

🍂

September

Best

Cooling down with temperatures 66°F to 86°F (19°C to 30°C). Celebrate local harvest festivals.

🍁

October

Best

Mild weather of 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C) makes it perfect for hiking.

November

Best

Cooler temperatures of 46°F to 66°F (8°C to 19°C). Ideal for history tours.

🎄

December

Cooling further to 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C), festive decorations light up the town.

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Seasonal Events in Sumter

May 26-28, 2024

Sumter Iris Festival

Celebrate the blooming of irises with music, food, and crafts.

Sumter Iris Festival
October 14, 2024

Fall Feast & Festival

Local celebration of harvest with food stalls and live music.

Visit Sumter SC Events
July 4, 2024

Freedom Day in Sumter

Patriotic celebration with fireworks and family events.

City of Sumter
November 18, 2024

Rembert Heritage Celebration

Festival celebrating local African-American heritage with cultural events.

Rembert Heritage Organization
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Popular Foods in Sumter

Southern Barbecue

Slow-cooked meats with rich, smoky flavor, a regional specialty.

Shrimp and Grits

Creamy grits topped with spicy shrimp, a classic Southern dish.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Sliced unripe tomatoes, battered and fried, a Southern staple.

Hoppin' John

A dish of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, traditionally eaten for luck.

Sweet Tea

A refreshing, sugary iced tea, perfect for cooling off in the summer.

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Closest Airports to Sumter

Regional Airport

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Florence Regional Airport (FLO)

Florence Regional Airport provides domestic flights with basic dining and shopping facilities. It is a small, regional airport.

Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by car, covering 56 miles via US-76 E.

Check airline services for limited flight options; car rental services are available.

FLO Website

International Airport

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Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers various flights, dining options, and shops. It features easy accessibility and a convenient terminal layout.

Approximately 1 hour by car, covering a distance of 45 miles via I-20 W and US-521 S.

Arrive early for a smooth security check; ample parking is available.

CAE Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Sumter, South Carolina is perfect for family vacations with its Swan Lake Iris Gardens, where families can enjoy picnics, walking trails, and beautiful swan wildlife. The area offers other family-friendly activities including the Sumter County Museum, which provides interactive exhibits that children and adults will enjoy.

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Couples Retreat

Sumter offers a tranquil escape for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The idyllic Swan Lake Iris Gardens provide a serene setting for romantic walks, while local bed-and-breakfasts offer cozy accommodations. Couples can also explore nearby vineyards for intimate wine tastings.

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

Sumter has a rich cultural heritage, with attractions such as the Sumter County Gallery of Art and the Sumter Opera House showcasing local and regional art and performances. Visitors can immerse themselves in local history and culture at these venues, making it ideal for those interested in cultural exploration.

Outdoor Adventure

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sumter and its surroundings offer numerous activities like hiking and fishing. The nearby Manchester State Forest provides trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as opportunities for hunting and camping, making it perfect for those seeking an outdoor adventure.

Golf Getaway

Sumter is an excellent destination for golf enthusiasts, featuring several top-notch golf courses such as the Beech Creek Golf Club. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely day on the greens, followed by fine dining in the area, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing golf getaway.

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Custom Language

Bless your heart

Compassionate remark

A phrase often used to express sympathy or pity.

Fixin' to

About to do

A common expression indicating an intention to take action soon.

Y'all

You all

A Southern contraction of 'you all,' used in informal addresses.

Coke

Soft drink

Refers to any soft drink, not just the Coca-Cola brand.

Piddlin'

Wasting time

Means to engage in minor, non-productive activities.

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Popular Sports & Teams in Sumter

Sumter High School Fighting Gamecocks

The Sumter High School Fighting Gamecocks are known for their competitive high school football team, drawing significant local support during the football season.

Sumter High School Athletics

USC Sumter Fire Ants

The USC Sumter Fire Ants compete in various sports including baseball and basketball, representing the University of South Carolina Sumter.

USC Sumter Athletics

Sumter P-15s

The Sumter P-15s are a celebrated American Legion baseball team with a rich history in the Sumter area, fostering young talent and community engagement.

Sumter P-15s Baseball

Sumter Soccer Club

The Sumter Soccer Club offers youth soccer programs and competitive leagues, promoting soccer development in the community.

Sumter Soccer Club

Wilson Hall Barons

Wilson Hall School's sports teams, known as the Barons, participate in multiple sports, with basketball being particularly popular among students and fans.

Wilson Hall Athletics

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Unique customs/traditions

Sweet Tea Ritual

Sweet tea is considered the 'house wine of the South,' served cold and sweetened.

Sunday Supper

Community tradition of gathering family and friends for a large meal on Sunday.

Shag Dance

A popular dance style in the Carolinas, usually done to beach music.

May Day Celebrations

Local traditional celebration marking the arrival of spring with music and dance.

Making Tomato Pie

A beloved local dish featuring fresh tomatoes, often made in the summer.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Sumpter Zoo

A Day at the Zoo

Outdoor (Half-day)

A fantastic family outing where families can observe a variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation.

Poinsett State Park

Nature Trails

Outdoor (Half-day)

Families can hike through beautiful trails, perfect for exploring nature together.

Sumter County Museum

Interactive History

Museum (2-3 hours)

Explore local history and enjoy special family-friendly events and exhibits throughout the year.

The Palmetto Place

Family Fun Center

Entertainment (2-3 hours)

An entertainment center with bowling, mini-golf, and arcade games, making it fun for family bonding.

Sumter Cinema 10

Movie Night

Entertainment (2-3 hours)

A great way to enjoy a family film together, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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