August 17, 2025

Clemson, South Carolina Ranks High Among Small College Towns

Clemson, South Carolina, August 17, 2025

News Summary

Clemson, South Carolina, has been recognized as the fifth best small college town in the U.S. and the sixth best small town to visit in the South. This ranking underscores its appeal, combining vibrant college life with tourism hotspots. Known for Clemson University and its football team, the town offers cultural attractions such as the South Carolina Botanical Garden and scenic parks. The recognition reflects Clemson’s charm and community spirit, drawing visitors year-round.

Clemson, South Carolina, has earned recognition as one of the best small college towns in the United States, ranking No. 5 on USA Today’s 10Best list. Additionally, the town has been distinguished as No. 6 among the best small towns to visit in the South, underscoring its appeal both as a college destination and a tourism hotspot.

The rankings were determined through a public voting process, during which travel experts nominated various towns across the country. With a population of approximately 18,000, Clemson is located about a 30-mile drive southwest of Greenville and is primarily known for being home to Clemson University and the highly regarded Clemson Tigers football team, which attracts numerous fans and visitors each year.

Clemson’s appeal lies in its lively atmosphere that resonates with youthful energy. The town offers a range of options for dining and shopping that exceed expectations for a small town. Residents and visitors alike enjoy an array of cultural offerings, making it a vibrant place to be.

Local Attractions

Several attractions contribute to Clemson’s charm. The South Carolina Botanical Garden, which encompasses nearly 300 acres, showcases themed gardens, a captivating butterfly meadow, and a 70-acre arboretum, making it perfect for nature lovers. The Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park, another appealing location, provides scenic views of Lake Hartwell along with paved trails and green spaces that invite leisurely walks and picnics.

For those interested in geology, the Bob Campbell Geology Museum is notable, with a collection of over 10,000 minerals, rocks, and fossils, emphasizing the geological significance of the region. Clemson is recognized for its vibrant college atmosphere, featuring numerous events that draw visitors, particularly during home football games, which highlight the town’s strong community spirit.

Previous Recognition

Prior to this year’s accolades, Clemson University was awarded the title of No. 1 small college town by Travel + Leisure in the previous year. This consistent recognition reinforces the town’s stature as a desirable destination for both students and tourists.

Other Notable Rankings

In addition to Clemson, Beaufort, South Carolina, also featured on the 10Best list, securing the No. 10 spot among the top small coastal towns. Both towns highlight the scenic beauty and rich cultural tapestry of South Carolina’s college regions, making them attractive options for visitors and potential residents.

The scenic settings of these towns blend history, culture, and natural beauty, encouraging exploration and deep engagement with local communities. Visitors will find tranquil riverside parks, historical sites, and a variety of opportunities for outdoor activities, all of which enhance the unique charm of Clemson and other college towns in the region.

Key Features Chart

Feature	Description
Rankings	No. 5 best small college town in the U.S.; No. 6 best small town to visit in the South
Population	Approximately 18,000 residents
Main Attraction	Clemson University and Clemson Tigers football
Botanical Garden	S.C. Botanical Garden – 300 acres, themed gardens, butterfly meadow
Parks	Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park – scenic views, paved trails
Museum	Bob Campbell Geology Museum – 10,000+ minerals and fossils
Nearby Town	Beaufort, SC – ranked No. 10 top coastal town

FAQ

What is Clemson, South Carolina known for?

Clemson is known for being home to Clemson University, the vibrant college atmosphere, and its successful football team, the Clemson Tigers.

What attractions can visitors explore in Clemson?

Visitors can explore the South Carolina Botanical Garden, Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park, and the Bob Campbell Geology Museum, among other attractions.

How did Clemson rank among small towns?

Clemson ranked No. 5 as the best small college town in the U.S. and No. 6 among the best small towns to explore in the South according to USA Today.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Oswald Drawdy Inducted into Clemson University’s Athletic Hall of Fame
Beaufort Named Most Charming Small City in South Carolina
Raleigh’s Beau Atkinson Transfers to Ohio State

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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