Aiken, SC (April 9, 2018) - Aiken locals are in a state of celebration today- particularly our Woodside residents who chose to call a Southern Living Inspired Community home- and it’s no surprise why. Yesterday, news broke that our charming city had been named by Southern Living Magazine as the 2018 “South’s Best Small Town,” confirming what 30,000 people living here already knew to be true. Said Southern Living: “Spend a weekend in this town, and you’ll see what makes it so special. One word of caution: Some of Aiken’s visitors have been known to come for the weekend and never leave, so you shouldn’t pack light.”
What you may have missed in the excitement of receiving the “Best Small Town” award was that Aiken was recognized four times in the “South’s Best” edition of the magazine! In addition to taking home this prestigious accolade, Aiken also took home the second “Best Food Town” in the South and “Friendliest Town in the South,” in addition to the second “Best Hotel” in the South awarded to The Willcox, whose far-reaching reputation was built on its atmosphere, impeccable service and excellent cuisine.
Aiken, SC is packed with charm. It’s the reason that the canopy of oaks on South Boundary Avenue will grace this year’s cover of Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best” edition, and the reason that so many who visit are captivated with its natural beauty. From the historic architecture, tree-lined streets and wooden bridges, to our bustling downtown shopping and dining district, Aiken is a beautiful setting we feel lucky to call home.
The thriving downtown is the gem of our town that cannot be missed during a Woodside Discovery Visit. With more than thirty restaurants all within walking distance, in addition to antique shops, boutiques, and performance venues like Aiken Center for the Arts and Aiken Community Playhouse.
While Southern Living has touched on an array of qualities that would make our hometown deserving of this award on their own, one article simply cannot capture the essence of what makes our town so special. In addition to the facets of life covered by the brand, Aiken also boasts six major medical providers in the area (three of whom have onsite offices in The Village at Woodside) and a surprisingly low cost of living.
