Newberry, South Carolina: where the battlegrounds of the Revolutionary War combine with arts culture and a strong food scene to create what may possibly be the perfect American town.
In the South Carolina midlands, nestled between Charleston and Greenville, Newberry is a historic enclave surrounded by beautiful woodlands and appointed with antebellum-era buildings
Newberry, South Carolina: where the battlegrounds of the Revolutionary War combine with arts culture and a strong food scene to create what may possibly be the perfect American town.
In the South Carolina midlands, nestled between Charleston and Greenville, Newberry is a historic enclave surrounded by beautiful woodlands and appointed with antebellum-era buildings. The pace of life is easy, and the proximity to major cities allows for a quick trip for a night on the town. Newberry has been named on several Best Small Towns in America lists, and there are plenty of reasons why. The downtown is a gathering place for business and for fun. Dozens of shops and restaurants provide options for every taste. Festivals are held throughout the year, giving a celebratory air to the small town; don't miss Oktoberfest or the Taste of Newberry. In the summer, the farmers market takes over Memorial Park every Saturday, giving residents access to the freshest local produce. This town was founded in 1789, so find a house for rent dating from decades past, and join in the historic living available in Newberry.
It may be difficult to find a month-to-month lease in Newberry, so you should be ready to move for at least a year, though the quality of life in Newberry might just keep you there forever. As with many such towns, the apartments for rent are older, with the charm of hardwood floors, built-in shelving, and the like, but with the vibe of years past comes the proportions of years past, and you should keep this in mind when looking at places. Measure your furniture first, so you don't have to borrow a handsaw to cut your couch in half. Newberry is a college town, so you'll want to move after the school year is over, when more rental apartments will be available. Start looking a few months before, however, as many landlords will list properties before they become vacant. The rental homes in Newberry are affordable compared to the average in South Carolina and the vibe is laid-back and friendly, which would make moving there easy.
Newberry has a neighborhood for every preference. If you're the outdoorsy type, there is seclusion. If you're a social butterfly, you'll find satisfaction in bustling downtown living. This town has something for everyone.
City Center: Downtown Newberry is home to buildings of character, with whole blocks full of structures on the National Registry of Historic Places. One-bedroom apartments are available on a budget, or spend a little more and get a two-bedroom apartment with a little more space. Live walking distance from the hustle and bustle of city center, which is a truly old-fashioned town square, a center of business, entertainment, and culture.
Jalapa: In Newberry's northwest, on the edge of the Sumter National Forest, Jalapa is home to many rental properties that overlook the scenic natural surroundings. Drive down the road to Wise's Barbecue and enjoy a plate of slathered ribs or pulled pork. Retreat to a home in a secluded area and enjoy your morning coffee, listening to the birds chirp, or cultivate your green thumb by planting a garden on spacious property, or jump on Route 76 for a short drive to downtown Newberry.
Beth Eden: If Jalapa is beautiful on the edge of Sumter National Forest, Beth Eden is heaven immersed in it. Colonial rental homes are available, with sprawling lawns and moss-covered retaining walls. Just minutes from walking trails and hiking areas, this area is perfect for the outdoorsy person. Beth Eden is a neighborhood for those who want to feel as though they've left civilization behind, while knowing that the amenities of the city are a short drive away.
Historic Downtown
No pre-fab, cookie-cutter apartments for rent here! Find your artistic side in downtown Newberry. The Newberry Opera House frequently hosts some of the best musicians in the business. Loretta Lynn has performed there, along with many other legends. Take a walk around the town square on a fall evening, drink a coffee and absorb the vistas of days gone by. The smells, the sights, the sounds; the sensory experience of downtown Newberry will leave you elated!
Dining
Feed your inner foodie with culinary delights from Newberry. Half Full Coffee and Wine Bar is a local hot spot for breakfast, lunch or happy hour. The menu is small but inviting, attracting a variety of people for early morning gatherings over java. Later in the evening, wine is poured by the glass or bottle and paired with a Tapas-style appetizer menu. Enjoy a date night or special occasion at Steven W's, where the finest seafood and steaks are served, and the owner, who is also the chef, will make frequent trips out of the kitchen to talk with customers. It is fine dining food paired with Southern hospitality. Finally, a lunchtime gem: the Cabana Caf̩ serves up sandwiches and soup in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Outdoor Living
Newberry offers up much for the outdoorsy person. At the north end, Sumter National Forest provides hiking, walking trails, boating, fishing, picnicking and equestrian trails to satisfy every interest. Or go south to Lynch's Woods Park, a smaller forest, open 24 hours with sheltered picnic areas and large campsites in close proximity to hiking, biking and walking trails. The Wells Japanese Garden, built in 1930 by a local resident, is now owned by the city of Newberry. Featuring pagoda-inspired buildings, still ponds, exotic fauna and ornate bridges, the Japanese Garden is a fine place for a stroll or some quiet meditation. Lake Greenwood, located in the southwest end of Newberry County, provides residents with miles of shoreline. Enjoy boating and fishing year round, and the Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area, providing RV or tent camping, perfect for a weekend getaway. A short drive away, you can boat and fish at Lake Murray as well, with an expansive waterfront and plenty of boating opportunities, where some of the finest small-mouth and large-mouth bass fishing in the state can be found.
Southern Charm
If you enjoy feeling like you're walking the streets where history was made, you will love your new life in Newberry. The neighbors are friendly, and you can find plenty to do in this cultural hot spot. With no shortage of places to live in, you'll find a place you love in no time in this cozy town that's like a slice of European flair dropped in the middle of South Carolina!
