The Aiken center point is approximately the area of Downtown Aiken and 1 mile south of Joint Replacement Center.
Summers in Aiken are hot and muggy with high temperatures averaging 93 degrees in July. To beat the heat, book a hotel with a swimming pool and stick to the indoor, air-conditioned attractions. Just keep in mind that summer is peak tourist season throughout the South, so don't be surprised if you end up paying a little more for your hotel reservation.
Visit in the spring or fall to enjoy more competitive rates and pleasant temperatures. Highs settle around 86 degrees in both May and September, making the shoulder seasons a little more bearable for those intolerant to heat. Visitors who love soaking up the sun will find that spring and fall provide ideal weather for exploring the area's many outdoor attractions, including the downtown historic district.
Winters in Aiken are mild with average highs settling around 58 degrees in January. Evenings can feel quite chilly, however, so pack accordingly. Dressing in layers is a must when visiting South Carolina from November through March. On the bright side, hotel rates hit rock-bottom prices during the winter months. If you're trying to visit Aiken on a tight budget, you can't beat a trip during the off-season.
Seniors, AAA members, military families, and government employees can all qualify for special rates at many hotels throughout Aiken.
Days Inn by Wyndham Downtown Aiken is just one option offering AAA discounts, helping you save an average of 10 percent on your stay. This hotel features a 24-hour front desk, coffee in the lobby, a meeting room, ample parking, an outdoor pool, a picnic area, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms offer microwaves, mini fridges, satellite TV, deep soaking tubs, and rainfall showerheads.
AAA members can also save at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Aiken. This affordable lodging offers a business center, laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guest rooms feature updated decor, mini fridges, microwaves, toiletries, hair dryers, safes, and coffee makers. Cribs are available upon request.
If you're planning an extended trip, consider a stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Aiken Whiskey Road. In addition to offering special rates, this hotel provides a business center, free newspapers, express check-out, a health club, an outdoor pool, a picnic area, barbecue grills, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature kitchenettes with stovetops and refrigerators as well as 32-inch LCD TVs and well-lit desks.
Aiken offers many mid-range hotels that give you plenty of extra value for your dollar. Clarion Inn & Suites is a centrally located option located just 5 minutes from the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. Featured amenities include a spa tub, a garden, a picnic area, free newspapers, laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guest rooms feature TVs with cable programming, coffee makers, ironing facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Quality Inn & Suites is a highly rated accommodation near the University of South Carolina - Aiken. Enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, a TV in the lobby, a computer station, free newspapers, laundry services, a poolside bar, and a lounge. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, safes, desks, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Aiken SC boasts an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, a fireplace in the lobby, an area shuttle service, a business center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. The guest rooms are well appointed with LCD TVs, digital programming, desks, newspapers, designer toiletries, and hair dryers. Upgrade to a whirlpool suite to enjoy even more amenities.
When visiting Aiken, it would be a mistake to overlook the city's attractions in favor of the more popular destinations in nearby Augusta. DuPont Planetarium, for instance, is a state-of-the-art facility that presents public astronomy shows every Saturday. The facility's RPSEC Observatory is also open to the public on Saturdays for viewings, weather permitting.
To learn more about the area, plan a visit to the Aiken County Historical Museum. Set within one of the city's famed “Winter Colony” cottages, the museum charms visitors with its informative displays on the city's past, present, and future. This living museum features exhibits that change frequently, so repeat visits are never the same.
If you want to cool off during a hot South Carolina summer, head to Richardson's Lake Water Park in nearby Warrenville. The lakefront swimming spot boasts water slides, diving boards, volleyball, billiards, sandy beaches, and a concession stand. Bring the whole family for an exciting day of fun in the sun!
It wouldn't be a trip to Aiken without a visit to the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. Located at Hopelands Gardens, this museum pays homage to the city's extensive horseracing history. View the Hall of Fame, the trophy collection, and numerous other exhibits that detail Aiken's beloved pastime.
No matter what your itinerary includes, Aiken offers something for everyone. Search for the perfect hotel that matches your needs and budget and start exploring this vibrant community.
Below are reviews of the city of Aiken, SC from an actual visitor's perspective.
We were there for a horse event and that was fun. The restaurants we visited were all very nice
We were there for a horse event and that was fun. The restaurants we visited were all very nice.
Fun shops especially for horse and pet lovers!
Great restaurants, revitalized downtown, friendly locals.
Great restaurants, revitalized downtown and friendly residents.
Downtown area is nice.
Beautiful city, nice shops!
Aiken is a lovely city!! The downtown area is beautiful! We ate at a restaurant named "What's Cooking Downtown" and the food was excellent! We visited Newberry Hall and the food there was exceptional as well. Aiken is truly a lovely place to visit.
We selected this Inn because we had folks coming in from Europe and up north. We knew they would enjoy being able to walk around the town and visit the shops and restaurants. It all worked out great and they all loved it.
Very quaint town. It was very scenic. I met family for dinner at Applebee's next to hotel.
Lots of good places to eat and shop.
The city of Aiken, South Carolina is beautiful. We highly recommend a visit.
Downtown Aiken is a great, small town. Lots of shops and restaurants. Friendly people. Walking friendly. Happen to be in town when Aiken celebrated Oktoberfest.