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Visit the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center

Article by Kelly Hughes, Capital City/Lake Murray Country

Photography by Provided

Originally published in Lake Murray Lifestyle

The Lake Murray Country Visitors Center, that eye-catching white plantation house near the Irmo side of the Lake Murray Dam, is your gateway to exploring Columbia and the four surrounding counties of Lexington, Richland, Newberry, and Saluda. As the region's hub for fun and adventure, it's the perfect starting point for locals and visitors to begin their journey around Lake Murray.

Step into History

The Visitor Center is located in the historic Lorick Plantation House, which was built in the 1840s and is a survivor of the Civil War. Donated by the Love family in 1994, the house was relocated from the site of the current Irmo Library to its permanent home on North Lake Drive. The 34-foot-wide house was moved intact, taking seven hours to travel along Old Bush River Road.

 

Resources for Lake Murray and Beyond

The center offers information and brochures on local attractions, hotels, events, dining, recreation, relocation, and more. The welcoming staff is always happy to provide advice and guidance on the region's best places to visit and explore. Make sure you take time to explore the museum. It features the history of the Lake Murray Dam, historical artifacts, in-depth maps, and more! Plus, don't miss the Lake Murray Gift Shop, featuring a great selection of Lake Murray and South Carolina items. Stop in and shop away!  

Upcoming Open House

Speaking of stop and shop, the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center will host its Annual Holiday Open House & Gift Shop Sale on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Just in time for the holiday season, the gift shop will feature a wide selection of the best Lake Murray merchandise, including seasonal clothing, ornaments, and more! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for details regarding item discounts, attending local vendors, and more!

Did you Know?

Capital City/Lake Murray Country produces an annual Visitors Guide magazine and regional map, serving as the official tourism guides for the region. They are distributed to travelers, potential visitors, and individuals looking for relocation and retirement information. They are also available at all of the South Carolina Welcome Centers! Free copies of the magazine and map are available at the Lake Murray Country Visitor Center or view the digitized version online at LakeMurrayCountry.com.

 

Visit us at 2184 N. Lake Drive, Columbia, check us out online at LakeMurrayCountry.com, or call us at (803) 781-5940. Our hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 AM-4:30 PM, Friday from 9 AM-4 PM, Saturday from 10 AM-2 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM-2 PM.

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