Stay Like a Local: Aiken's Hidden Gems and Insider Tips

Stay Like a Local

A Blog for Visitors and Newcomers to Aiken, South Carolina by Aiken Vacation Rentals

Get insider info, local recommendations, and hidden gems that will help you experience Aiken like a seasoned local. Whether you're here for the day or making Aiken your new home, this is your go-to resource for making the most of your stay.

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The Origin of the Phrase "The Life of Riley"

Kendra DeKay

Dec 43 min read

The Origin of the Phrase "The Life of Riley"

If you grew up in the South, you likely heard the phrase “living the life of Riley” used to describe someone enjoying an easy, carefree,...

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Discovering Aiken's Culinary Scene: Popular Restaurants You Have to Try

Kendra DeKay

Sep 103 min read

Discovering Aiken's Culinary Scene: Popular Restaurants You Have to Try

Aiken, SC is home to a surprisingly delightful culinary scene. These six restaurants are local favorites that you simply must try!

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Famous Faces of Aiken, SC: Celebrities Who Have Called This Charming Town Home

Kendra DeKay

Aug 154 min read

Famous Faces of Aiken, SC: Celebrities Who Have Called This Charming Town Home

Aiken, South Carolina, is known for its rich equestrian history, scenic charm, and Southern hospitality. But did you know it has also...

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Roadtrip! Drive times from Aiken, SC to popular destinations

Kendra DeKay

Jul 241 min read

Roadtrip! Drive times from Aiken, SC to popular destinations

There are many population destinations for a day or weekend trip within a day's drive of Aiken, SC.

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Kendra DeKay

Jul 172 min read

The Love Story that Created Aiken, SC

Did you know that the very existence of Aiken, South Carolina, could be called a romantic accident? Aiken's origin is deeply intertwined...

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Kendra DeKay

Jun 131 min read

Citizens Park: A Tale of Two Parks

Citizens Park in Aiken, SC is on the corner of Banks Mill Road and Pine Log road, and depending on the season and the time of day, you...

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Kendra DeKay

Jun 41 min read

The Mile-a-Minute Plant: Kudzu

What's that green stuff?! Newcomers and visitors to the southeastern united states may not be familiar with Kudzu, the invasive tough...

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Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day in Aiken, SC

Kendra DeKay

May 242 min read

Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day in Aiken, SC

On Memorial Day we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation. Their...

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Kendra DeKay

May 162 min read

Aiken SC Wildlife 101

What kind of wildlife can you expect to see in Aiken, SC? We have red foxes, coyotes, deer, armadillos, and beaver living in Hitchcock...

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Kendra DeKay

May 11 min read

Spring Things To Do Near Aiken: Synchronous Fireflies

My husband and I witnessed this unique spring phenomenon a few years ago in late May at Congaree National Park. It’s one of only TWO...

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Weekend Adventure: Canoe the Edisto + Treehouse Camping

Kendra DeKay

Apr 162 min read

Weekend Adventure: Canoe the Edisto + Treehouse Camping

Has your adventurous heart dreamed of traveling the ancient Amazon river in South America, marveling at the solitude? Well, much closer...

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Kendra DeKay

Apr 13 min read

Spring Horse Events: The Aiken Horse Show

The historic Aiken Horse Show (sometimes also referred to as "The Horse Show in the Woods" has been held in the grass arena in Hitchcock...

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Things You’ll Love: Lighted Make-up Mirrors

Kendra DeKay

Feb 71 min read

Things You’ll Love: Lighted Make-up Mirrors

Upgrade alert! Check out this neat new adjustable lighted make-up mirror! You can change the light to be cool or warm, and even adjust...

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Kendra DeKay

Jan 291 min read

Things You’ll Love: Dog & Horse Treats

In Aiken, chances are that our guests will be horse lovers, dog lovers, or both! The AVR family of homeowners and the management team...

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Kendra DeKay

Jan 233 min read

What’s so SPECIAL about Aiken, SC?

Welcome to Aiken, South Carolina! Our beautiful city is known for its history, small-town southern charm, and of course, the unique...

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The Surprising Origins of Aiken's Wavy Walls

Kendra DeKay

Jan 161 min read

The Surprising Origins of Aiken's Wavy Walls

So, what’s the deal with the “wavy walls” you see around Aiken? You’ve probably noticed them curiously if you’re new to Aiken or...

272 views0 comments

Kendra DeKay

Jan 93 min read

Fascinating Local Flora: The Stinkhorn

Of all the fascinating flora and fauna I've seen in Aiken to date, the Stinkhorn mushroom is still my favorite. I have equal parts...

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Kendra DeKay

Jan 21 min read

Let's Horse Around Aiken!

Looking for something fun to do as you explore downtown Aiken, SC? Kids, horse lovers, art enthusiasts and the young at heart can all...

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Kendra DeKay

Dec 19, 20232 min read

The Mystery of Beech Island, SC

So, perhaps you’ve heard people talk about a mysterious "Beach Island" area southwest of Aiken. Perhaps–like me–you’ve had… QUESTIONS....

246 views0 comments

Day Trip Adventure: Redcliffe Plantation

Kendra DeKay

Dec 12, 20231 min read

Day Trip Adventure: Redcliffe Plantation

Redcliffe Plantation is a slice of Southern history located in Beech Island, just a 30 min drive from Aiken. A South Carolina state...

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Stay Like a Local

A Blog for Visitors and Newcomers to Aiken, South Carolina by Aiken Vacation Rentals

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