Discover Local Attractions
We’re fortunate to be surrounded by a variety of attractions and activities in Manning, South Carolina. From outdoor recreation on Lake Marion to historical sites and local events, there’s always something to explore during your stay with us.
Things to Do
Outdoor activities here range from golfing and fishing to exploring wildlife areas and walking trails. Whether you enjoy being on the water or discovering local history, you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time nearby.
Lake Marion
Lake Marion is South Carolina’s largest lake (about 110,000 acres) and a regional freshwater treasure. Known as the "inland sea," it is famed for exceptional bass, catfish, and crappie fishing. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing along its 315 miles of shoreline. Public access points include Santee State Park and several boat ramps. Seasonal highlights include trophy bass fishing and tranquil swamp paddles.
Santee National Wildlife Refuge
Bordering Lake Marion roughly 8 miles from Manning, Santee National Wildlife Refuge spans about 15,000 acres of wetlands, mixed hardwoods, and rare Carolina Bays. Established in 1941, it conserves migratory waterfowl, bald eagles, and unique species. Guests can explore 40 miles of trails, including auto-tour routes, and visit the historic Fort Watson mound. The visitor center offers loaner binoculars and field guides, perfect for wildlife viewing.
Potato Creek Recreation Area
This riverside recreation area on Lake Marion offers fishing and boating at its public ramps and piers. Part of a wildlife management region, it’s ideal for birdwatching and spotting wetland species like herons and ducks. Located within a 12-mile creek corridor that includes hiking trails and creekside woodland scenery, it provides a peaceful retreat for paddling, angling, and observing nature.
The Players Course at Wyboo
The Players Course at Wyboo, originally opened in 1992 and refreshed in 2017, is a scenic 18‑hole, par‑72 championship course spanning roughly 6,900 yards. It offers a player-friendly experience with just eight to twelve bunkers and minimal water hazards, winding through wooded terrain beside Lake Marion. With undulating greens, a driving range, practice green, and a casual clubhouse, it welcomes players of varying skill levels seeking a relaxed round.
Francis Marion Trail
This historical mural trail winds through downtown Manning and nearby towns, celebrating "The Swamp Fox" General Francis Marion’s Revolutionary War exploits. Thirteen vividly painted murals depict key battles like Ox Swamp and Fort Watson, supplemented with historical markers and QR codes. The trail immerses guests in local heritage, combining art, storytelling, and Revolutionary-era history in a walkable experience.
Swamp Fox Murals Trail
Explore the Swamp Fox Murals Trail to discover more than 30 public artworks across Manning and nearby towns, commemorating General Francis Marion’s Revolutionary War legacies. Installed since 2001, the trail combines vivid outdoor murals with interpretive historical markers and a downloadable QR-enabled map. It offers a lively blend of art and storytelling that immerses guests in local history along a scenic, walkable route.
Millford Plantation
Located about 12 miles northwest of Manning, Millford Plantation is a magnificent Greek Revival mansion built between 1839 and 1841 for future SC Governor John Lawrence Manning. Renowned for its two-foot-thick handmade brick walls, six Corinthian columns, and original Duncan Phyfe furniture, the estate narrowly escaped destruction near the Civil War’s end. Public guided tours are offered most second Saturdays from October through June.
Wyboo Golf Club
Wyboo Golf Club, designed by Tom Jackson and opened in 1999, is an 18‑hole, par‑72 public course known for its strategic layout, rolling fairways, and multiple water hazards. Featuring Tif‑Eagle Bermuda greens, a driving range, practice putting area, and a clubhouse with pro shop and snack bar, it consistently ranks among South Carolina’s top public courses. Its variety of challenges makes it enjoyable for golfers of all levels.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Located in Sumter, about 30 minutes from Manning, Swan Lake Iris Gardens is the only public park in the United States featuring all eight swan species. Visitors can explore walking trails, see seasonal displays of Japanese irises, and enjoy year-round birdwatching and festivals.
Dining Options
Manning offers a range of dining experiences to suit different tastes. From casual spots to sit-down restaurants, you’ll find options that serve hearty Southern cooking, fresh seafood, and other regional favorites throughout the area.
Porter Jacks Grill
Porter Jacks Grill offers a warm, home-style dining atmosphere in downtown Manning. Known for scratch-made comfort food like burgers, sandwiches, and hearty southern entrees, it exudes local charm and welcoming hospitality. Guests praise the friendly service and cozy vibe of this family-run eatery, making it a favorite for travelers looking for genuine community flavor.
Fayz at the Lake
Located lakeside at Randolph’s Landing, Fayz at the Lake serves Southern-style home cooking with scenic views of Lake Marion. Patrons consistently rave about dishes like fried catfish, country-fried steak, hand-cut ribeye, and breakfast omelets. Open daily, it offers indoor dining with window booths overlooking the water, plus pet-friendly outdoor seating, making it a prime spot for locals and visitors alike.
Gullah Gullah Fish
Gullah Gullah Fish brings coastal flavor to inland Manning with fresh seafood served in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Highlights include fried shrimp, crab cakes, New England-style clam chowder, and daily specials featuring Gulf catches. The casual décor nods to Gullah culture, honoring the Lowcountry heritage of the region. Generous portions and hospitable service make it a memorable stop for seafood lovers.
D&H Bar-B-Que
D&H Bar-B-Que has been serving Manning for decades with buffet-style Southern cooking. Guests enjoy pulled pork, fried chicken, and homestyle sides in a family-friendly atmosphere that highlights traditional barbecue flavors.
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant is a casual dining spot in Manning serving a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes, from sizzling fajitas and chimichangas to seafood platters and fresh-made salsas. Known for generous portions, fast service, and affordable daily lunch specials, Jalisco is popular with both locals and travelers. The menu also features house margaritas and combination plates.