Florence South Carolina Accommodations

The Best Time to Visit Florence, SC

The best time to visit Florence is between June and August, when the weather is warm and the events are plentiful. It's the perfect time to go paddling through Lynches River Park, catch a drag race at Darlington Speedway, or travel an hour away to coastal beaches. This is high season for the area, so you will face large crowds and lots of families. Just be sure to book your hotel in advance and prepare to share the sand with other excited visitors.

March through May is a mostly pleasant time to visit. Average temperatures will reach highs of the upper 60s to the mid 80s, but may also drop to lows of around 40, so pack a light jacket and brace for cool nights. Because this is shoulder season, hotel rates will be affordable and crowds won't be nearly as large – although if you spend time on the beaches you will run into spring breakers. But don't worry. You'll also be in town for many of the city's best events, like Taste of Symphony and Flo-Town 5k.

By early fall, much of the summer crowd will clear out and temperatures will begin dipping slightly. This seasonal change means lower hotel rates and more hotel room availability. It also signifies a great time to view local produce at the Downtown Florence Farmers Market, bird watch at Woods Bay State Park, and take an afternoon drive through Florence and surrounding areas.

Between November and February, the weather is too chilly to enjoy the beach, and many beachside attractions have closed for the season. Though it is the perfect time to enjoy indoor attractions within the city like Florence Museum, Francis Marion Planetarium, and Hartsville Museum. Plus, hotel rates will be low and crowds will be few, making your trip even better.

Best Discounts in Florence, SC

There are many hotels that offer great discounts in Florence. Comfort Suites provides AAA, AARP, Military, and Government discounts on its many suites. Conveniently located near downtown Florence, the hotel is a short distance away from the Florence Symphony Orchestra, Darlington Raceway, and Magnolia Mall. It provides a mix of spacious accommodations that feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, sofa sleepers, and more.

Hotel amenities include a 101-person meeting center, indoor heated pool, exercise room, nightclub, sundry shop, and popcorn machine. Save even more money by taking advantage of free hot breakfast, served daily in the hotel's dining area.

Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Florence offers AAA, Military, and Government discounts on many of its King and Queen guest rooms, and is situated near top attractions like Darlington Raceway, Florence Civic Center, and Magnolia Mall. Its 80 guest rooms feature Serta Elite pillowtop mattresses, microwaves, refrigerators, sleeper sofas, and work desks. If you're in town for a romantic getaway, opt for a Whirlpool suite, which features a King bed and whirlpool tub.

Hotel extras include an outdoor pool, fitness center, business center, guest laundry facility, and free cookies in the lobby.

Best Value Options in Florence, SC

There are many great value hotels in Florence. TownePlace Suites Florence is located a short distance away from downtown Florence, and is perfect for short- or long-term stays. Its comfortable and functional guest rooms feature separate sleeping and living areas, fully equipped kitchens, Serta pillowtop mattresses, and flat-screen TVs.

Outside of your room, you can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour convenience store, and business center. You can also take advantage of free hot breakfast, served buffet-style every morning.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Florence is located east of downtown, near commercial shopping, excellent restaurants, and beautiful parks. It's a modern property, offering flexible studio and one-bedroom suites that feature kitchenettes with dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, and hotplates, along with 42-inch LCD TVs, cable programming, and free internet access.

The hotel boasts an indoor saline pool, contemporary game room, and cozy lounge space. If you need to stock your kitchenette, you can visit the convenience store, or request items via the hotel's free grocery service. You can even do your laundry while working out in the hotel's combined laundry/fitness facility, Spin2Cycle.

Top Attractions in Florence, SC

No matter which hotel you choose in Florence, you'll be close to many of the city's top attractions. Darlington Dragway is a legendary NASCAR-sanctioned race track in northwest Florence that's been hosting major drag events since 1976. It's nicknamed the “Lady in Black” and “The Track Too Tough to Tame” by racing fans, who have grown to love its egg-shaped design and unique structure. If you visit the dragway, be sure to check out its famous raceway museum and legends walk.

Lynches River State Park is a Florence-area gem. This river swamp is located south of downtown, and features 676 acres of towering cypress trees, sand hills, and lush vegetation. You can become one with nature while fishing, hiking, kayaking, or simply eating lunch under a picnic shelter. The park also hosts fun events like River Jamboree and Wild Weekends, which give guests an opportunity to view live stage performances, meet their favorite animals, and venture out on park excursions.

For a step backward in time visit the Florence Stockade, which served as a prison for Union soldiers during the Civil War. Located within the downtown historic district, the site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980. It is now one of Florence's most popular attractions and an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Whether you're searching for an affordable hotel in the center of Florence or a luxury one a short distance away, you'll find just what you're looking for – and more in Florence.