The best things to do in Aiken

“Perfect your drive on meticulously maintained courses, then settle into a fine dinner that feels like a mini vacation right here in Aiken this week. Sage Valley Golf Club Lodge blends expert coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a friendly golf community into one easy, confidence-boosting reset.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether your week needs a legit fairway fix or a set on Har-Tru followed by something delicious, The Reserve Club At Woodside packs 36 holes across two courses, USTA-certified Har-Tru tennis, dedicated pickleball, a resort-style pool, fine and casual dining, plus a friendly, busy social scene.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Aiken’s own Palmetto Golf Club is a members-only classic founded in 1892, believed to be the Southeast’s oldest continually operated 18 in its original location and probably No.”

From the Aiken newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just a peaceful walk with your wedges, The Aiken Golf Club delivers a Donald Ross-designed challenge with rolling fairways, fast greens, and small-town charm that feels like home. Sneak in a round this week and remember why you play.”

From the Aiken newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Privately run yet warmly welcoming, Old Barnwell, near Aiken, turns 575 acres of sandy, rolling terrain and towering longleaf and loblolly pines into an adventurous round with great food, drink, and camaraderie. If you can snag a guest spot or an introduction, your game will thank you.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Designed by Arthur Hills and now freshly renewed, Cedar Creek Golf Club winds through rolling countryside with tree-lined fairways, natural streams, and complex greens that reward smart golf. Sneak in a round this week, then stick around for on-site dining and that signature Southern hospitality.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 14, 2026

“If you’ve got member access or a friendly invite, Sage Valley Golf Club delivers “golf as it should be” with a masterwork course, Southern hospitality, dazzling dining, a world-class spa, and even a Gun Club... basically the ultimate local flex for a midweek reset or weekend victory lap.”

From the Aiken newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Midland Valley Golf Club is a revitalized Ellis Maples design in Graniteville with rolling elevation, smart bunkering, and conditions that keep getting better. Tee it up, then slide into Horse Creek Tavern for a laid back post-round bite or catch live music, no membership required.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Woodside Country Club is your Aiken go-to for two signature courses by Rees Jones and Bob Cupp, lively tennis and pickleball, a resort-style pool, and legit eats at Mulligan's or the Charleston Dining Room. Treat yourself to a mini staycation vibe without ever leaving town.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Houndslake Country Club pairs an 18-hole championship course with daily tennis and pickleball, a splashable pool, and dining for members and their guests, plus The Inn and Villas when you want a mini getaway without leaving town. Treat yourself to an after-work nine or a weekend match.”

From the Aiken newsletter, August 24, 2026

“South on Whiskey Event and Entertainment Venue keeps it easy for Aiken folks this week or whenever, with a sophisticated open-concept room for up to 80, a custom beverage bar, a caterer’s kitchenette, DJ or presentation setup, and an outdoor entertaining deck begging for a toast.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 12, 2026

“South Carolina's Largest Pinball Arcade with 125+ games on unlimited free play, Radioactive Pinball Arcade is pure flipper therapy. Drop in for tournaments, leagues, or Little Flippers, then make it a birthday or group night so your crew can chase multiballs and bragging rights this week.”

From the Aiken newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Indoor jungle-themed fun is calling at PlayLand of Aiken, with slides, tunnels, a trampoline, climbing wall, obstacle course and a sweet toddler zone, plus unique rainbow nets and sand tables.”

From the Aiken newsletter, September 19, 2026