Aiken South Carolina Accommodations

What Aiken, SC season is most appealing?

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.

How can you find the best discounts in Aiken, SC?

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.

Does Aiken, SC have some of the best hotels?

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.

What are the top attractions in the Aiken area?

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.