Ninety Six National Historic Site
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Ninety Six National Historic Site, located about 60 miles south of Greenville, SC, preserves the original site of the town of Ninety Six, SC. Established in the early 1700s, Ninety Six quickly became a thriving settlement and was an important strategic point for the British during the American Revolutionary War. The first land battle of the war was fought at Ninety Six in 1775, and the town was later fortified and served as a British stronghold until the end of the Revolutionary War. Ninety Six National Historic Site contains the remains of the original star fort that the British used to defend the area from a siege by the newly created Continental Army. The site also provides an in-depth dive into the history and culture of a place that was founded before the United States of America existed.
Things To Do Near Ninety Six National Historic Site
This site is primarily dedicated to preserving the history and culture that surrounds the town of Ninety Six, SC. The historic site sits on the location of the original town of Ninety Six, and RV travelers can enjoy landmarks rich in history. From fortifications dating back to the Revolutionary War to pleasant nature trails, Ninety Six National Historic Site has something that makes it worth everyone’s visit.
Hiking Trails
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Historic Interpretive Trail
This paved trail takes visitors on a scenic stroll past the most well-known features of Ninety Six National Historic Site. Visitors can see the stockade fort, siege works, and the site of the original town of Ninety Six. Maps are provided with details about each landmark, and most visitors will find this trail to be an easy walk.
Location
Ninety Six National Historic Site, 1103 Highway 248 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
Length
1 mile
Intensity
Easy
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The Cherokee Path
This trail is a point-to-point route once used extensively by Native Americans, traders, trappers and settlers. This path preserves the history of its former users while providing visitors with a scenic wooded hike. The trail is a dirt path through woodland, and the terrain can become muddy or slippery.
Location
Ninety Six National Historic Site, 1103 Highway 248 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
Length
1.5 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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The Star Fort
The must-see landmark at Ninety Six National Historic site is undoubtedly the original 1781 star fort used by the British to defend the town of Ninety Six. The 14-foot-high earthen walls of the fort are formed in the shape of an eight-point star. This configuration allowed cannon and musket fire in all directions, and the fact that the fort remains today speaks to its durability. Visitors can examine the site and imagine what it would be like to defend or attack this foreboding structure.
Location
Ninety Six National Historic Site, 1103 Highway 248 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
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The Mine
Having nothing at all to do with mining in a traditional sense, the Mine at the Ninety Six Historic Site gives a rare glimpse into the major battle fought at Ninety Six during the Revolutionary War. The Mine is a colloquial name given to a tunnel that was being constructed by soldiers from the Continental Army during the siege of Ninety Six’s star fort in 1781. The tunnel, which was never completed, would have been dug directly under the British star fort. According to the original battle plan, once the tunnel was completed, gunpowder would have been placed at the end of the tunnel and ignited, collapsing or severely damaging the fort above.
Location
Ninety Six National Historic Site, 1103 Highway 248 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
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Lake Greenwood State Park
Located just outside of Ninety Six, SC, Lake Greenwood State Park features hiking, fishing, swimming and geocaching. Situated on nearly 1000 acres of pristine South Carolina nature, visitors will find numerous recreation opportunities. The park is open from dawn to dusk daily, and camping for both RVs and tents is available with a full set of amenities.
Location
302 State Park Road, Ninety Six, SC 29666
Museums
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The Museum and Railroad Historical Center of Greenwood
This local museum houses everything from and interactive exhibit of local rocks and minerals to restored locomotives. Small group tours of six different train cars are available for a fee, and visitors can explore the fully-restored vintage trains and hear about their history. Additional exhibits focus on the city's development and growth at the turn of the 18th century and include short films and an interactive general store.
Location
106 Main St N, Greenwood, SC 29646
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Fortner Outdoors and Hardware
This locally owned establishment has everything a traveler needs for camping, RV treks, and outdoor excursions. Visitors can stop in here to get stocked up for the great fishing on the nearby Lake Greenwood and Saluda River. Visitors can also pick up some camping supplies for their overnight stay in Lake Greenwood State Park.
Location
3409 Highway 246 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
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96 Pecan Company
This family-run business in Ninety Six is well known among pecan lovers. This local hot spot features pecans aplenty, all prepared on-site into candied pecans, chocolate-covered pecans, pecan turtles, and other pecan creations. Even if you’ve never considered yourself a fan of pecans, 96 Pecan Company is worth a stop just for the unique ambiance of this business.
Location
234 W. Main Street, Ninety Six, SC 29666
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Derick’s Café
New to the Ninety Six area, Derick’s Café is the area’s latest family-owned burger bar. They serve burgers and a wide range of entrees at reasonable prices. Derick’s is known for friendly service and is already gaining a reputation as one of Ninety Six’s premier restaurants.
Location
118 Saluda Street, Ninety Six, SC 29666
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Mig’s of 96
This local pizza parlor serves staples like subs, chicken strips, and of course, pizza. A Ninety Six favorite, Mig’s offers yummy foods at cheap prices. Whether dining in or taking out, Mig’s fresh ingredients and quick service makes them a great choice.
Location
113 E. Main Street, Ninety Six, SC 2966
How To Get To Ninety Six National Historic Site
From Augusta, take Interstate 20 East to the exit for South Carolina Highway 230. Follow Highway 230 for 29 miles until reaching US 25 North. Follow US 25 until it intersects with Highway 178, and then turn left. After 3 miles on Highway 178, turn right onto Highway 248, and follow this road to the historic site.
From Greenville, take Interstate 385 South to Exit 19 for South Carolina Highway 14. Follow Highway 14, and turn right onto US Highway 221 South after 14 miles. Follow Highway 221 for 16 miles, and turn left onto Highway 246. Follow this road for 9 miles to the historic site.
The Ninety Six National Historic Site grounds are open from dawn to dusk daily. The park is busiest during the summer and during the annual battle reenactment in November.
Address
1103 Highway 248 S, Ninety Six, SC 29666
Fee: Entry fee $0
Ninety Six National Historic Site gives visitors an opportunity to learn about Pre-Revolutionary America in a hands-on way. The landmarks show the historical significance of the site, and visitors can get an in-depth look into the old town of Ninety Six. An RV trip is a great way to visit the historic site while taking in every opportunity for nature, history and exploration South Carolina has to offer.
