What Are Some Things to Do in Anderson, SC?

Downtown Anderson, South Carolina is one of the most walkable cultural hubs in the Upstate, with rooftop dining at UP on the Roof (314 McDuffie Street), art exhibitions at the Anderson Arts Center, live performances at The Market Theatre, hands-on local history at the Anderson County Museum, and handcrafted truffles at CocoBon Chocolatier — all within a few blocks of each other. Whether you’re planning a half-day visit or a full weekend, here’s what to see, where to eat, and how to make a day of it.

For anyone in Anderson, the downtown area offers the perfect escape from day-to-day life. Over the past few years, it has quietly transformed into one of the up-and-coming downtown areas in the Upstate region. The undisputed crown jewel of the downtown Anderson scene is UP on the Roof — perched five stories above the city at 314 McDuffie Street, offering stunning panoramic views and a chef-inspired menu — but the rooftop is just one stop on a downtown day. Here’s the rest.

Quick Facts About Downtown Anderson, SC

• Top attractions: Anderson Arts Center, The Market Theatre, Anderson County Museum, CocoBon Chocolatier, UP on the Roof
• UP on the Roof address: 314 McDuffie Street, Anderson, SC
• UP on the Roof features: Rooftop panoramic views, chef-inspired menu, handcrafted cocktails – including signature bottled cocktails
• Weekend Brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Walkability: All downtown attractions are within a few blocks of each other
• Best for: Day trips, weekend getaways, date nights, family outings, history and arts lovers

Where Can I See Local Art in Anderson, SC?

Start your day with the Anderson Arts Center. Founded in 1972, this creative cornerstone showcases local talent and rotating exhibitions in a beautifully restored historic warehouse — the kind of space where exposed brick and timber beams give the gallery an industrial-yet-welcoming feel. It’s the most natural starting point for a downtown arts itinerary, and admission gives you a feel for the city’s creative pulse before you’ve had your first coffee.

What Live Performances Can I See Downtown?

For those who prefer a live performance, The Market Theatre brings the community together with must-see plays and musicals. One of the three winning organizations of the 2015 Accelerate Anderson Downtown Challenge, the theatre has found its home in the Anderson Arts Center and now offers a year-round main stage with a variety of performances. Check the season schedule when planning your visit.

Where Can I Learn About Anderson’s History?

History buffs can easily spend an hour or more exploring the artifact-packed Anderson County Museum — a free attraction that brings the local past to life. Permanent exhibits include a miniature Sally Abney Rose House and Trade Street, which showcases the history of the mercantile business in the 19th and 20th centuries. It’s an underrated stop and one of the best free things to do in downtown Anderson.

Where Can I Pick Up Local Handmade Sweets?

A chocolate lover’s dream, CocoBon Chocolatier is a cozy local favorite that satisfies sweet cravings with exquisitely rich, handcrafted artisan truffles made fresh right in the heart of downtown. It’s an ideal stop for a midday treat — and the perfect place to pick up a luxurious gift for someone important.

Where Should I Get Drinks and Dinner Downtown?

Once you’ve explored the downtown cultural hubs, head up to catch the sunset at UP on the Roof. The fifth-floor patio offers panoramic views you won’t find anywhere else in Anderson, and the bar menu is built for the kind of evening that turns a regular Saturday into a memorable one. Look for Soaring Handcrafted Cocktails, local and regional brews, and a thoughtful selection of zero-proof mixes — there’s something for every guest at the table.

For dinner, the chef-inspired menu leans into fresh, local ingredients. Order shareable plates to start — fried calamari and nachos are crowd favorites — then build out from there with a heartier course from the Sea, the Farm, or the Ranch sections of the menu. It’s the kind of meal that earns its place as the anchor of a downtown Anderson day.

Plan a Downtown Anderson Itinerary

Here’s how it strings together for a full day:

• Morning: Start at the Anderson Arts Center (and check The Market Theatre schedule while you’re there).
• Late morning: Walk to the Anderson County Museum for an hour of local history.
• Midday: Stop at CocoBon Chocolatier for a sweet break.
• Late afternoon: Head to UP on the Roof for sunset drinks.
• Evening: Stay for dinner — shareables, then a main from the Sea, Farm, or Ranch.

If you’re visiting on the weekend, swap the order and start at UP on the Roof for Weekend Brunch (Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.) before exploring the rest of downtown.

FAQs: Visiting Downtown Anderson, SC

What are the top things to do in Anderson, SC?

The top downtown Anderson attractions are the Anderson Arts Center, The Market Theatre, the Anderson County Museum, CocoBon Chocolatier, and UP on the Roof — all within walking distance of each other in downtown Anderson.

Is downtown Anderson, SC walkable?

Yes. The main downtown attractions are clustered within a few blocks of each other, making it easy to spend a full day exploring on foot.

Where is UP on the Roof located in Anderson, SC?

UP on the Roof Anderson is located at 314 McDuffie Street in downtown Anderson, SC, on the fifth floor with panoramic city views.

Does UP on the Roof Anderson serve brunch?

Yes. UP on the Roof Anderson serves Weekend Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Is UP on the Roof Anderson open every day?

No. UP on the Roof in Anderson, SC is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for regular service. They are open Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays for dinner only (starting at 3pm) and on Saturdays and Sundays, they open early for brunch at 11am and then continue with dinner service at 3pm. If you are interested in hosting a private event at UP on the Roof Anderson, they are available to do so seven days a week – even on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Does UP on the Roof Anderson do group dining and private events?

Yes. UP on the Roof in Anderson offers a one-of-a-kind rooftop setting for corporate events, nonprofit fundraisers, professional happy hours, rehearsal dinners, wedding weekend celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries, and milestone moments of every kind—available for private events seven days a week.

Located in the heart of downtown Anderson, UP on the Roof is convenient for groups coming from Lake Hartwell, Clemson University, Anderson University and the greater Upstate.  It’s the perfect place to bring people together with great food, handcrafted cocktails and rooftop views that elevate every occasion.

Are there free things to do in Anderson, SC?

Yes. The Anderson County Museum is a free attraction with artifact-packed exhibits covering local history, including the miniature Sally Abney Rose House and the Trade Street mercantile exhibit.

What kind of food does UP on the Roof Anderson serve?

UP on the Roof’s chef-inspired menu features fresh, local ingredients. Shareable plates include fried calamari and nachos; heartier mains are organized into Sea, Farm, and Ranch sections. The bar features Soaring Handcrafted Cocktails, local and regional brews, and zero-proof options.

Where should I take out-of-town visitors in downtown Anderson, SC?

The best one-day itinerary mixes culture, history, and food: start at the Anderson Arts Center, walk to the Anderson County Museum, grab truffles at CocoBon Chocolatier, then head up to UP on the Roof at 314 McDuffie Street for sunset drinks and dinner with panoramic city views.