Old Town Bluffton Guide
Old Town Bluffton is a town like none you’ve seen before. With a small portion of the bustle of Charleston combined with the rich history of Savannah, Bluffton is the perfect balance of both. It’s the perfect place to get away with your loved ones, reconnecting with them in a way you just can’t do anywhere else.
We’ve gathered a few of our favorite stops to add along your journey. You’ll be in good hands here.

See
The Heyward House Museum
One of the pillars of our distillery is rooted in the history of this town of Bluffton, South Carolina. With the help of The Heyward House & Museum, we were able to research, uncover, and reveal so many mysteries that have been around since the beginning.
At the official Welcome Center for Bluffton; you can tour their house museum built by enslaved people in 1841, find maps and brochures for area businesses, and get a taste of the culture and history of our town. The Heyward House Museum & Welcome Center is owned and operated by the Historic Bluffton Foundation, a non-profit, 501(c)3 corporation, dedicated to the preservation of the culture and history of Bluffton.
Palmetto Bluff
One of the aspects that makes this Lowcountry community so unique is its beautiful landscapes, lush greenery, and authentic southern charm. All of that charm and more can be found in the community of Palmetto Bluff. A vibrant residential and recreational preserve enriched by wilderness and wildlife, Palmetto Bluff allows its residents and visitors to experience the magic of the Lowcountry in its ultimate form.
Take a day trip there to have lunch at Buffalo’s, see the picturesque May River Chapel, enjoy a summer concert on the lawn overlooking the river, and more.
May River Excursions
Looking for an experience that you and your family will never forget? Getting out on the water is the perfect way to get outdoors and make new memories. May River Excursions began as a six-passenger river-tour and has transformed into an eight-boat fleet with a retail store operated by family and friends.
Our friends at May River Excursions find joy in introducing locals and visitors to the beauty of the May River and all it has to offer. Once on the river, their goal is to educate them on the ecology of the water and teach them how to fish, shrimp and crab.
Bluffton Bike Taxi
If you’re more interested in the land rather than the water, Bluffton Bike Taxi will get you around Old Town showing you the sights. This eco-friendly transportation service serves the 1.5-mile radius known as Historic Bluffton and is the most fun way to experience a historical tour, get to dinner quickly and efficiently, or ride to catch up with friends near the May River.
Locally owned and operated by a true Bluffton native, their mission is to provide excellent community service and become fun ambassadors for their guests. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a bike is truly the best way to get around.
Shop
Bluffton General Store
Nestled in the heart of Old Town Bluffton, the Bluffton General Store has just the thing you’ve been looking for. A gift for that person who has everything, the perfect decor addition to your home, locally sourced art, and more.
The General Store is locally owned and operated, and offers true heart and soul for the people in Bluffton.
The Store
Bluffton is full of hidden gems – The Store is one of them. This eccentric and off-the-beaten-path boutique is equal parts antique store, art gallery, and local hangout. At The Store, it’s not necessarily about what you’ll find but who. Local owner, Babbie Guscio, has been a Blufftonian since 1972 and is the secret to what makes Bluffton a state-of-mind.
Society of Bluffton Artists
The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) is a non-profit organization in Old Town which was established to promote a stimulating community environment for the visual arts as well as assisting area students and artists in enhancing their artistic abilities. Operated by Blufftonartists themselves, they also offer art classes and demonstrations for young and up-and-coming artists.
Sip
lot 9 brewing co.
At all the local’s secret hangout spot, lot 9 brewing co, beer is what brings people together. Their vision is to become the most loved, most enjoyed, and most respected brewery. They have a passion for celebrating the culture of beer while delivering quality brews to friends, and having fun along the way.
The taproom is endearingly hidden, their tap list ever evolving, and they host an array of local food trucks that always keep locals coming back for more.
Corner Perk
Owned by Bluffton local, Josh Cooke, Corner Perk has been the best spot to grab a coffee and brunch for years. Rather than going to a Starbucks like you would in the city, Corner Perk is our version of coffeehouse heaven. They take great pride in its house-roasted coffee, homemade syrups, and high-quality service.
Savor
nectar farm kitchen
Nectar utilizes a group of distinguished chefs who thoughtfully prepare every dish using ingredients made and grown throughout the Lowcountry and the South. Paired with a farmhouse atmosphere and local southern charm, you can even enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails using BCD spirits while you’re there.
The Cottage
A breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner staple in Old Town. The Cottage features sophisticated cuisine with unique Lowcountry flair – from fresh baked bakery items to a four-course supper. Do it all inside or out on the porch of this cozy, restored 1868 cottage in the art-rich historic district of Bluffton.
The Pearl
The Pearl Kitchen & Bar is the latest venture from Earl and Alex Nightingale, owners of the beloved ELA’s Blu Water Grille on Hilton Head Island. Located in the heart of Old Town, The Pearl features enticing, contemporary fare with Italian and Asian influences.
Some of their specialties include baked brie with pear and Grapple relish, buttered hazelnuts and salted caramel; coriander-roasted tuna with pancetta, fennel and parsnip puree, upland cress, pickled raisins and orange essence; and flat iron steak with gingered sweet potatoes and ponzu glaze. Mouth watering, yet?
Bluffton Room
At The Bluffton Room, the lost art of dining is being restored. Serving classic American cuisine prepared with only the finest ingredients in an intimate and vibrant atmosphere. Their well-crafted cocktails, gracious service, and table-side preparations evoke the feeling of a lively dinner party.
On Fridays, they serve a special New Orleans style lunch with a creole menu and specially priced martinis.
Pizza Co.
Nothing’s more convenient to the distillery than Pizza Co. right next door! Founded by BCD Co-Founder, Billy Watterson, and restaurateur Marshall Sampson, Pizza Co. offers pizza and chopped salads that are both fast and delicious. Customized just for you, at record speed, all of their ingredients and toppings are fresh and ready for a pie with all the things you love on it. It’s the perfect family-friendly stop for a quick and satisfying bite.
Joe’s Ice Cream & Beverage Co.
Looking for the sweet spot in Bluffton? You’ve found it! Joe’s Ice Cream & Beverage Co. is the artisan of luxury ice cream, using an Italian recipe produced in Wales since 1922. Not to mention their creative signature coffees – what sounds better on the way to your morning meeting than a Lavender Latte? We can’t think of anything.
Stay
Old Town Bluffton Inn
At the Old Town Bluffton Inn, everyone is family. With Old World elegance, the Inn captures the atmosphere of community that defines this small town we call home. It’s richly appointed guest rooms speak of the hospitality that lies at the heart and soul of the Lowcountry.
Known by locals and guests alike as the Heartbeat of Bluffton, the Inn makes it their priority to give you a chance to spend a few days discovering the simple pleasures of this breathtaking slice of the South. And when you find the rhythm of the tide pulling you back, they’ll have a room waiting for you.