
If you've got some extra time to kill while you're in town for the wedding, here are some of our favorite places for food and fun in the Clemson area.
Where the Blue Ridge yawns its greatness, and where we went to college (and Dave again for grad school). Clemson is a great walking campus. We humbly suggest you start at the Visitor's Center and work your way around campus from there. From the Visitor's Center you can see Bowman field, Tillman Hall (pictured), the Carillon Gardens, and Godfrey Hall (Dave's grad school home). A short walk onto campus will take you to Fort Hill (home of John C. Calhoun), and Death Valley (football stadium). Go Tigers!
Downtown Clemson is a very walkable downtown area. It's mainly one stretch of road book-ended by a Starbucks and the Clemson University campus. Scenic highlights are Abernathy Park and Fort Hill Presbyterian Church. Plenty of Clemson merchandise and lots of local restaurants like Ancheaux (creole/southwestern), Brioso (Italian), and Pot Belly Deli (great sandwiches), as well as franchises like Subway, Moe's, and Firehouse.
The Botanical Gardens in Clemson are a must-visit on a sunny summer day. We had our engagement photos taken there and we've always enjoyed walking the trails and taking in the beautiful scenery.
Clemson Ice Cream is famous for a reason. We have come here for a scoop many a summer afternoon. :) The shop is in the Hendrix Student Center on Clemson's campus. Be sure to park in the metered visitor's spaces or you'll feel the wrath of the equally-famous Parking Services.
Mellow Mushroom has the best pizza in town and plenty of Clemson character.
Calhoun Corners is the essential fine dining location in Clemson. Their Twin Filets is rumored to be the best steak in Clemson.
Featured on ESPN during the FSU vs. Clemson football game, this is a fantastic restaurant if you're in the mood for good sushi or seafood.
The best Mexican in Clemson is actually in Central, about 7 minutes down the road. The menu is similar to many Mexican places, but it's simply better and has a nice family feel to it.
Central Station Cafe in Central is Southern comfort food at its best. The buffet is incredible, but be sure to bring along a pair of stretchy pants.