Florence City Guide

Southern comfort food is popular with BBQ, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken. You’ll find Mexican, Italian, and Asian options too. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Most places close by 10–11 PM.

Nightlife is modest with local bars, pubs, and some live music venues.

Local coffee shops and some chains offer decent coffee. Specialty roasters are emerging but no big coffee events.

Tipping is expected for most services at 15-20%.

SIM cards can be bought at major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, or at Best Buy. Prepaid SIMs usually don’t need ID. eSIMs are increasingly available.

Generally clean streets and good waste services, though some variation exists.

Limited 24/7 options. Some pharmacies and convenience stores are open all day. Late-night clinics are rare.

Supermarkets like Publix, Harris Teeter, and Food Lion carry a wide range of products. Stores usually open 7 AM to 10 PM and are open most Sundays and holidays. Bargaining is uncommon.

Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily expenses.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Local schools include Florence 1 Schools. Most education is in English. No prominent international schools are listed.

Florence has a small digital nomad scene with few dedicated meetups. Networking is more through general business groups.

Parks like Timrod and Freedom offer good green space. Rail Trail adds shaded walking routes.

Good running routes includes the Rail Trail and city parks. Air quality is good and the area is generally safe for runners.

Several gyms offer standard memberships and fitness classes.

Tennis courts at public parks and clubs. Equipment rentals are rare.

Padel courts are not common in Florence.

Several yoga studios offer classes with English-speaking instructors.

Options include Taekwondo, Karate, BJJ, and Muay Thai. English instructors are standard.

No skiing options near Florence or in South Carolina.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available on local rivers. Coastal sailing and windsurfing more common by the ocean.

Surfing spots are along the coast about 1.5-2 hours away. Good for beginners and advanced surfers. Best in fall and spring.

Limited diving locally. Coastal areas may offer wreck diving but visibility varies.

Good quality care at McLeod Regional Medical Center and MUSC Health Florence Medical Center. English-speaking staff are common. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are plentiful with many offering drive-thru service.

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

Several parks and trails are kid-friendly like Timrod Park and Florence Rail Trail. Baby supplies and family restaurants are easy to find. Attractions include Florence County Museum.

Acceptance varies and safe spaces are limited. State protections are minimal. Events like Pride are not prominent.

Pet parks and veterinary services are available. Most accommodations allow pets. Outdoor pet seating at restaurants is limited.