Clemson City Guide

The food scene mixes Southern BBQ and comfort food with some international choices like Mexican and Asian. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Many places stay open late near campus.

Nightlife centers on downtown bars and pubs with sports and live music, busiest during the university term.

Developing coffee scene with national chains and local shops favored by students. Specialty coffee is growing.

Tipping is expected in the US. Restaurants and services normally get 15-20%.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Best Buy. Both prepaid and postpaid plans exist; ID needed for postpaid.

Clean streets and good sanitation services, especially around downtown and university areas.

Limited 24/7 services. Gas stations and some stores open late. Late-night food mostly fast food or delivery.

Supermarkets like Publix, Bi-Lo, and Ingles offer groceries with some international options. Farmers' markets provide fresh local produce.

Most places accept card payments. Cash is rarely needed but useful for small vendors and tipping.

ATMs are easy to find in banks, gas stations, and stores like Wells Fargo and Bank of America. Out-of-network fees run $2.50 to $5 per withdrawal.

Clemson University dominates higher education here. Local public schools serve K-12. International schools are only nearby in bigger cities.

Small digital nomad presence. University events and local groups offer some community but no formal meetups.

Excellent access to parks and green areas including botanical garden and Lake Hartwell.

Popular running routes include university campus, botanical garden, and Lake Hartwell trails. Running safety is generally good.

Various gyms, including university and commercial options, support fitness routines.

Many tennis courts at the university and parks, often first-come, first-served or reservable.

Padel courts are not common in the area.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Training available in Taekwondo, Karate, BJJ, and boxing with English-speaking instructors.

No local skiing; closest resorts are several hours away.

Lake Hartwell offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and wakeboarding with rental facilities.

No surfing; city is inland.

No diving or snorkeling nearby; Lake Hartwell offers swimming but no diving sites.

Oconee Memorial Hospital in nearby Seneca serves the area. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common. English-speaking staff are standard.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Parks, kid-friendly cafes, and nature spots like the South Carolina Botanical Garden offer family activities.

Moderately LGBTQ+-friendly due to university influence with support resources. Broader scene is limited.

Pet-friendly with parks like Clemson Paw Park and pet services available. Check ahead for pet policies at accommodations.