Hitchcock Woods

One of the largest urban forests in the country, Hitchcock Woods has over 2,000 acres of natural beauty and quiet solitude. Points of interest include: Sand River, an unusual feature that has been the source of folklore and Indian legends; Cathedral Aisle, formerly a portion of the Hamburg to Charleston Railway; and Ridge Mile Track, built for training horses in the 1920s and ’30s. There are also miles of marked trails for hiking and riding.

Hopelands Garden

Given to the City of Aiken by Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin, this 14-acre estate was opened in 1969 as a public garden. The gardens boast a beautiful network of paths shaded under 100 year old live oaks. Open from 10am to sunset, Hopelands Garden is a leisurely activity for all ages. Take a stroll and experience reflection ponds, fountains, the “Dollhouse,” home to the Aiken Garden Club, and three of Aiken’s iconic “Horseplay” statues. During the Christmas season, a visit to Hopelands Garden is a must to witness the awe-inspiring light displays.

Silver Bluff Audubon Center and Sanctuary

Here you can canoe, bird watch, hike and kayak in 3,154 acres of pine forest, hardwood bottomlands, open fields, lakes and streams. More than 200 species of birds live here, from wood storks to redheaded woodpeckers and bald eagles.

Aiken State Park

Set against the calm, winding South Edisto River, Aiken State Natural Area is a popular destination for the family or a budding naturalist. It offers canoeing in the river, peaceful picnicking, fishing in the river and the park’s spring-fed lakes, campground and trailside camping and hiking trails.

Boyd Pond Park

The park has miles of hiking and walking trails, mountain bike trails, a 30-acre fishing pond, picnic areas, playgrounds, and much more.

South Boundary Avenue

South Boundary Avenue in Aiken, South Carolina, is widely recognized for its beautiful “Avenue of Oaks,” a scenic stretch of road lined with large, old oak trees that form a magnificent canopy.  It was named “One of the prettiest streets for a stroll” in the country by USA Today’s Travel Experience South.

LOCAL CLUBS

• Aiken Golf Club
• Woodside Plantation Country Club
• The Reserve Club at Woodside
• Houndslake Country Club
• The River Golf Club
• Cedar Creek Golf Club
• Midland Valley Golf Club

POLO

Polo season is September through November and March through June. Tournament games are played during the week and weekends. Club polo games are Sundays at 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Whitney Field. For specific schedules, visit www.aikenpolo.org. For assistance with booking polo at any of the polo clubs listed below, please reach out to our Concierge

Local polo clubs include:

• Aiken Polo Club
• New Bridge Polo & Country Club
• La Bourgogne Polo Club

FOX HUNTS

A traditional Winter Colony pastime, fox hunting and drag hunts take place in Hitchcock Woods. Area hunt clubs also sponsor the annual Blessing of the Hounds, a fall hunt meet, a hunter pace in Hitchcock Woods, and the spring horse show in Hitchcock Woods.

Local fox hunting clubs include:

Aiken Hounds
Whiskey Road Foxhounds
Belle Meade Hunt

HORSE SHOWS

Bruce’s Field

Home to three all-weather competition arenas, two practice arenas, a grass Grand-Prix Field, and International Derby Field, Bruce’s Field is a premier equestrian center in the area. The land was purchased in 2000 by Bruce Duchossois to save the land from residential development and has become a great addition to the Aiken equestrian community.

Progressive Show Jumping

Through making safety a priority and awarding accomplishments, the shows give you and your horse the opportunity to gain the confidence to compete in this exhilarating sport.

AIKEN STEEPLECHASE

Influential horsemen including Thomas Hitchcock, Temple Gwathmey and Harry Worchester Smith founded the Aiken Steeplechase Association in Aiken in 1930. The first official race was run in Hitchcock Woods, and more than 1,000 people gathered to watch. Aiken has been home to many steeplechase greats and exceptional trainers. Whether it is fact or fiction, the universal truth is that horses will always reign supreme in Aiken’s history and in its future.
Aiken Steeplechase

EVENTING

January, February and March are months in which Aiken becomes the center of eventing on the East Coast. Aiken’s eventing snowbirds include some of the top names in the sport, including Phillip Dutton, Sally Cousins and Corinne Ashton.

Eventing Centers: 

• Aiken Horse Park
• Highfields Event Center
• Jumping Branch Farm
• Stable View

AIKEN TRIALS

Begun in 1942 as a way to give young horses in training the enlightening opportunity to experience every aspect of live racing, the Aiken Trials has become a time honored tradition as the first leg of Aiken’s Triple Crown events, held annually for three consecutive Saturdays in March. The jockeys are local exercise riders who have an afternoon in the spotlight after paying their dues exercising horses each morning (in all weather) throughout the year.
Aiken Trials

THE AIKEN DRIVING CLUB

Founded in 1985 by the late Clifford S. Gerde, The Aiken Driving Club has grown from a handful of drivers to a membership of more than 200 individuals and families. Drives are in the Hitchcock Woods, Hopeland Farms, the Winter Colony District and other private facilities in Aiken and surrounding counties.
Aiken Driving Club

RIDING LESSONS

Aiken is home to steeplechases, fox hunts, polo matches, and other competitive equestrian events. Needless to say it pays to learn how to ride. If you get the itch to learn, our concierge can assist you with booking your trail ride. 

Aiken Training Track

The recently renovated Cot Campbell Clockers’ Stand at the Aiken Training Track offers the ideal spot to watch your horses train in the early morning. Named in honor of legendary Aiken horseman and National Racing Hall of Fame Pillars of the Turf inductee W. Cothran Campbell, it stands as a tribute to his lasting legacy.
Aiken Training Track

Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame Museum

The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum inside of Hopeland Gardens, honors the city’s storied equestrian heritage. Showcasing champion racehorses, trainers, and jockeys, the museum features exhibits and memorabilia celebrating Aiken’s role in flat and steeplechase racing.
Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum

National Wild Turkey Federation

Devoted to the conservation of turkeys, advocating for responsible hunting practices, and hunters’ rights, the National Wild Turkey Federation is just a short drive away in Edgefield, SC. The facility offers many educational opportunities, a shooting range, as well as providing legal hunting locations. If you are looking to hunt turkeys during your stay, National Wild Turkey Federation is your contact!

Turkey Ridge Plantation

Turkey Ridge Plantation is a private and exclusive sportsman’s paradise in the heart of the Piedmont region of South Carolina. Turkey Ridge promises a pristine hunting experience with a guide who knows what you are looking for each and every hunt. Hunt for quail and chukar with the experts at Turkey Ridge Plantation. Reservations can be made for a three hour hunt for two shooters with a guide, guide dogs, and you’ll leave with your birds cleaned and packaged.

Carolina Star Shooting Range

Whether you’re planning a family outing or a corporate retreat, the 234-acre property—featuring open green fields and longleaf pine forest just outside Aiken, South Carolina—offers a unique experience for members and guests alike. From beginners to seasoned shooters, all are welcome to enjoy our Trap and Skeet fields, 5-Stand range, and Pistol and Rifle ranges.
Carolina Star

If you’ve come to escape, we’ve got the solution to help tune out the the distractions. Ask The Willcox staff to arrange yoga, Pilates, Tai chi, Qigong and Chiogalates classes to relieve stress, decompress and drown out life’s clutter.

Aiken Yoga

As our guest, you enjoy complimentary use of Max Fitness. Please give your name and present your room key to have full use of the exercise equipment and classes (excludes Push Zone Training).

Max Fitness is located at: 101 Corporate Pkwy Aiken, SC

(803) 648-4653

LOCAL SHOPPING

• Aiken Dry Goods
• Beyond Bijoux Aiken
• Big House Outpost
• Caroline’s Boutique
• Curated Clothiers
• Downtown Dog
• Epona
• Equine Divine
• A Fox’s Tale
• Fox and Lady
• Ginger Bee Boutique
• L’Atelier de la Ruelle
• Lionel Smith
• Local Threads
• Nandina
• Pitter Patter
• Plum Pudding
• Return Engagement
• Three Monkeys
• True Aiken
• White Rose Eclectics
• York Cottage Antiques

Aiken Center for the Arts

The Aiken Center for the Arts is a vibrant cultural institution located in the heart of downtown Aiken, South Carolina. Serving as a creative hub for the community, the center brings together artists, students, and residents through a dynamic mix of exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
Aiken Center for the Arts

Aiken County Historical Museum

Recently ranked a Top 10 Small Town Museum by USA Today, the Aiken County Museum is located in a former Winter Colony mansion, this museum displays items and clothing that reflect the county’s history, as well as a nature room that exhibits flora, fauna, and geology of the area. The shell of a temporary observatory, built by German scientists for viewing the Transit of Venus in the late 1800s, is adjacent to the museum.

Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame

Commemorating locally trained horses that are national champions and have won fame on tracks and fields across the nation, this hall of fame is filled with a variety of horse racing memorabilia and awards.

Aiken Railroad Depot

Built on the grounds of the original train depot, the Aiken Railroad Depot serves as Aiken’s Visitor Center and Train Museum. The railroad played a vital part in the history of Aiken and the train museum serves as an homage to this. The museum includes detailed dioramas depicting the history and a guide at the front desk to walk you through some more interesting facts! This is a great activity for children, train enthusiasts, and history buffs. It is open Tuesday-Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm and free to the public.

Center for African American History

he Center for African American History in Aiken, SC, preserves and shares the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans in the region. Through exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling, the center offers a powerful glimpse into the cultural, social, and historical impact of Aiken’s Black community.
Center for African American History

Savannah River Site Museum

The Savannah River Site Museum in downtown Aiken, SC, offers a compelling look into the region’s Cold War legacy and ongoing scientific role. Housed in the historic Dibble Memorial Library, the museum brings to life the story of the 310‑square‑mile Savannah River Site—built in 1951 to produce tritium, plutonium and other nuclear materials for national defense—and its evolution into a hub for environmental stewardship and research.
Savannah River Site Museum

DuPont Planetarium

The DuPont Planetarium, part of USC Aiken’s Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, is a captivating venue where the wonders of the cosmos come alive. Housed beneath its 30-foot tilted aluminum dome and powered by a Digistar 6 projection system, the 57-seat theater offers immersive astronomy shows, live “sky tonight” segments, and even special‐effects presentations set to music.
DuPont Planetarium

Aiken Convocation Center

Home to The Pacers basketball and venue for many of the Southeast’s best concerts, shows and conferences.

Aiken Community Theatre

The Playhouse began in 1952 with an investment of $64 and the desire to produce a play. Rehearsals were first held in the homes of members. Today the Playhouse boasts an annual schedule of fantastic performances.

Summer Concert Series at Hopeland Gardens

A picnic supper, a blanket, family and friends make for a perfect Monday evening May through August as local and regional artists perform at the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Concerts begin at 7 and admission is free. During the Spring you can also enjoy the Hopeland Gardens Concert Series.

Aiken Performing Arts Group

A presenting organization in Aiken that seeks out nationally and international recognized performing artists. They have been enhancing the art community in Aiken since 2005 and hold performances in the Center for the Performing Arts. Check the APAG website for any shows schedules during your stay.

Aiken Symphony Orchestra

Created in 2015, Aiken Symphony Orchestra has been a great addition to the world of art in Aiken. The symphony has some of the finest orchestra players residing in South Carolina and Georgia. Check the Aiken Symphony Orchestra website for possible shows during your stay.

Joye in Aiken

Joye in Aiken is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the very best in the performing arts available to our citizens, and especially our students. In the last 11 years Joye has brought 450 musicians, actors and dancers at the top of their disciplines (primarily from The Juilliard School) to participate in the weeklong Performing Arts Festival held each March, where a wide variety of events are made available to the public at low or no cost.

Local dealers include:

• York Cottage Antiques
• Antiques and More
• Aiken Antique Mall

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKE TOUR

This is the best way to experience Aiken hands down. If you have never ridden an electric bike, it’s a must do experience. If you have tried one before, then you know how much fun they are! Our guides will show you the best parts of Aiken in person and without windows. The bikes do most of the work. Come prepared to have a wonderful time!

Pedego Bike Tour Tickets

Know before you go

• Duration: 2h 30m
• Mobile tickets accepted
• Instant confirmation

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

What to expect

Travelers will ride our fun electric bikes throughout historic downtown Aiken. We will travel approximately 11 miles where you will marvel at the historic architecture and our beautiful horse district. Our electric bikes allow you to experience the sights, sounds and smells of our beautiful city in an unencumbered, up close and personal way!

The Historic Aiken Trolley Tour

This trolley tour starts at the Aiken Railroad Depot and offers an air conditioned, enclosed vehicle to show you around Aiken. On the tour you will see historic homes and churches, equestrian sites, the site of the Civil War’s Battle of Aiken, and the live oak canopy on South Boundary. This is a great way to quickly get a feel for Aiken and it’s history! These tours are held on Saturday mornings at 10am at a cost of $15 per person, reservations are encouraged.

Tailored Tours of Aiken

Tailored Tours of Aiken offers more personal tours and a wider variety of interests. Tour topics include; historic Aiken, Aiken’s Cottages, Aiken and a Plantation, and Haunted Aiken. All tours are typically driving tours but a few walking tours are also available. These tours range in price from $15-$25 per person and reservations are recommended. If you don’t see a tour that peaks your interest, tours can be tailored to your personal interests!

Augusta Riverboat Tours

Patriot Riverboat offers scenic and relaxing boat tours along the Savannah River in Augusta, GA. Family-owned and operated since 2007, the custom-built vessel features a fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabin with panoramic views and top-tier safety features. With both public and private charter options, the Patriot Riverboat delivers a comfortable, customer-focused experience for individuals, families, and groups looking to enjoy the beauty of the river.
Auguta Riverboat Tours

Savannah River Site Tour

The Savannah River Site Tour Program offers guided tours of one of the nation’s most important nuclear facilities, providing an in-depth look at its role in national defense, nuclear non-proliferation, and environmental stewardship. Managed by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions for the U.S. Department of Energy, the program showcases SRS’s cutting-edge work while emphasizing safety, security, and innovation.
Savannah River Site Tours

Willcox Kids Enhancements

The Willcox is pleased to offer a variety of Kid’s Enhancements. See our full list in our Experience Enhancements section.

Family Slumber Party

Get the party started with a board game before snugging up to a movie in our cozy Willcox bathrobes, gourmet popcorn included. Later, our Bath Butler will run your choice of Bedtime Bliss or Kid’s Rub-a-Dub-Dub baths.

Ruth Patrick Science Education Center

University of South Carolina Aiken
471 University Parkway, Aiken, SC
Phone: (803) 641-3313

Science looms large at USC Aiken, and the centerpiece of the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center is the DuPont Planetarium. Housing four state-of-the-art telescopes, a graphics projector and an automated special-effects system, the planetarium offers programs for students of all ages and the community. Its hands-on approach to teaching is designed to help people experience the power of science and mathematics, as well as the interest and fun of discovery.

Riverbanks Zoo

500 Wildlife Parkway Columbia, SC
Phone: (803) 779-8717

From elephants and koalas to penguins and sharks, formal gardens to natural woodlands, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden promises new discoveries around every corner.

EdVenture

211 Gervais Street Columbia, SC
Phone: (803) 779-3100

EdVenture appeals to families and children around the state as well as visitors to the Midlands. Permanent exhibits and programs, along with a vibrant schedule of changing exhibits, will entice return visitors and new arrivals. EdVenture is the largest children’s museum in the Southeast. With award-winning exhibits and programming, there is something for every child to discover, experience and understand. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Aiken County Library & Park

314 Chesterfield Street, Aiken, SC
Phone: (803) 642-2020

Across the street from The Willcox is the Aiken County Library and Library Park with a wonderful playground that’s ADA handicapped accessible.

Website

Bisquecuts & Glazy

949 Pine Log Rd, Aiken, SC
803-648-7772

Bisquecuts & Glazy is a contemporary pottery studio. You pick your piece, you paint and create, they fire it!

Website

Radioactive Pinball

Radioactive Pinball is a retro-inspired arcade experience just a few minutes from the hotel, featuring a vibrant collection of classic and modern pinball machines. Perfect for casual players and pinball enthusiasts alike, it offers a fun, nostalgic atmosphere for all ages to enjoy.
Radioactive Pinball

Vampire Penguin

Located on Laurens Street in downtown Aiken, Vampire Penguin fosters a cozy, family‑friendly atmosphere perfect for gatherings, with seasonal specials and catering available for events. Whether you’re crafting your own snow concoction or enjoying a signature creation, it’s a sweet and memorable experience for all ages. Located at 108 Laurens St. SW
Vampire Penguin

Flanigan’s Ice Cream

Experience the charm and flavor of Flanigan’s Ice Cream—a local favorite for hand-dipped, premium ice cream served with a smile! With over 24 rotating flavors, creamy milkshakes, classic sundaes, banana splits, and fresh waffle cones, there’s a treat for everyone. Relax on the front porch rockers, hang out in the backyard, or enjoy cozy indoor seating—perfect for families, friends, and sweet tooths of all ages. Located at 221 Barnwell Ave NW
Flanigan’s Ice Cream

Eudora Wildlife Safari Park

Eudora Wildlife Safari Park in rural Aiken County is South Carolina’s first drive‑thru safari, where guests can see and feed over 300 exotic animals—from zebras and camels to llamas and water buffalo—right from their cars. With additional walk‑through trails, a petting zoo, parakeet aviary, and upcoming interactive experiences, it’s a thrilling and educational adventure perfect for families and wildlife lovers alike.
Eudora Wildlife Safari Park