Even though Charleston is considered America’s most historic city and is well-loved by tourists, many other cities and towns within the state are deeply rich in history and the types of experiences awaiting those who visit. The city of Aiken, located in the western part of the state, is one of those places, where the most famous historic hotel in South Carolina has been delighting guests with southern hospitality at its best since 1898.
The Willcox Legend has it that a young Native American Princess in poor health was told by her father to travel to “the land of the rising sun, where whispering pines stand tall…. through which a river of sand steadily flows.” It is here that she would regain her health. Aiken is this type of place, originally a winter colony resort that has attracted and captivated people from all over the world for well over 100 years with its southern charm.
Located at 100 Colleton Avenue, SW, the Willcox was built in the late 19th century for affluent Yankees seeking warmth, light, and high society during the winter season. The area was even considered the Queen of the Winter Colonies because so many came each year.
The Willcox
The Willcox/Facebook It was a time of great entertainment, recreation, and relaxation, with dances held in ballrooms glittered with candlelight, old rivals settling differences with polite, staunch competition on the polo field, and picnics in Hitchcock Woods with silver, crystal, and linen. Politicians, royalty, and industry leaders often visited The Willcox.
Some of the famous people who have stayed at this stately hotel include Winston Churchill, Harold Vanderbilt, and Elizabeth Arden.
Museum of the City of New York / Contributor/Getty Images
It’s the perfect venue for a girlfriend getaway, with a luxurious salon and spa on-site.
The Willcox/Facebook For a more personalized experience, there are custom spa packages available for guests to choose a variety of ways to unwind that best suit their tastes and preferences.
There are also experience enhancements you can select when booking. The Bedtime Bliss Bath Butler is just one of many that includes a doTerra Serenity oil bath in a soothing candlelit atmosphere, accompanied by chamomile tea to help your body unwind for the best night’s sleep.
The Willcox/Facebook Or if you opt for the Love Bath Butler you and your sweetheart will enjoy a tub surrounded by rose petals, rose-scented face towels, and rose massage oil with champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
The Willcox also offers an array of opportunities for your children, including enhancements, a spa experience, and fun activities.
The Willcox/Facebook Ask for details about The Willcox Kids’ Programming if you’re interested in what’s planned during your stay. A great opportunity for them to begin learning about self-care awaits at the spa, where they’ll enjoy an educational and pampering experience, all while having great fun. What a fun mother-daughter weekend this would be!
Pets are welcome and loved at The Willcox, too. From the Family, Friends, and Pets package to the experience enhancements for pets, your furry friend will enjoy this home away from home just as much as you.
The Willcox/Facbook Other categories for the experience enhancements to choose from include welcome amenities, romance, enrichment, turndown amenities, and holiday specials.
The Elf Tuck-In is one of the holiday experiences offered to make your family’s Christmas extra special and memorable.
The Willcox/Facebook
Get the Learn to Play Polo or Polo the Willcox Way package to experience the equestrian history of the area.
The Willcox/Facebook Other types of packages to choose from include The Par-fect Golf Getaway, Yoga Retreat, Babymoon, and the Southern Living Garden Package, just to name a few.
Delicious cuisine has always been just as much a draw for The Willcox as anything else.
The Willcox You can enjoy a meal at the award-winning restaurant, a romantic dining package for a special occasion or just because, a drink from the lobby bar, or even get takeout or delivery or an event catered.
Called “The Home of the Tastiest Cocktail,” The Willcox Restaurant serves several cocktails. The Parisian, made with 42 Below Vodka from New Zealand, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and an orange slice for garnish, is one of the local favorites.
The Willcox/YouTube
Matt Sayer, the restaurant manager, shares in this video how you can make it at home:
The Willcox
Legend has it that a young Native American Princess in poor health was told by her father to travel to “the land of the rising sun, where whispering pines stand tall…. through which a river of sand steadily flows.” It is here that she would regain her health. Aiken is this type of place, originally a winter colony resort that has attracted and captivated people from all over the world for well over 100 years with its southern charm.
The Willcox/Facebook
It was a time of great entertainment, recreation, and relaxation, with dances held in ballrooms glittered with candlelight, old rivals settling differences with polite, staunch competition on the polo field, and picnics in Hitchcock Woods with silver, crystal, and linen. Politicians, royalty, and industry leaders often visited The Willcox.
Museum of the City of New York / Contributor/Getty Images
For a more personalized experience, there are custom spa packages available for guests to choose a variety of ways to unwind that best suit their tastes and preferences.
Or if you opt for the Love Bath Butler you and your sweetheart will enjoy a tub surrounded by rose petals, rose-scented face towels, and rose massage oil with champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Ask for details about The Willcox Kids’ Programming if you’re interested in what’s planned during your stay. A great opportunity for them to begin learning about self-care awaits at the spa, where they’ll enjoy an educational and pampering experience, all while having great fun. What a fun mother-daughter weekend this would be!
The Willcox/Facbook
Other categories for the experience enhancements to choose from include welcome amenities, romance, enrichment, turndown amenities, and holiday specials.
Other types of packages to choose from include The Par-fect Golf Getaway, Yoga Retreat, Babymoon, and the Southern Living Garden Package, just to name a few.
You can enjoy a meal at the award-winning restaurant, a romantic dining package for a special occasion or just because, a drink from the lobby bar, or even get takeout or delivery or an event catered.
The Willcox/YouTube
With such history, charm, and thoughtful offerings, it’s no surprise that The Willcox has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including a Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best award. Visit The Willcox website for a complete list of packages and experience enhancements and to book your stay, and check out The Willcox Facebook page for social updates.
Have you ever stayed at The Willcox? Did you get any of the experience enhancements or packages? Share with us in the comments section below!
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Address: The Willcox Hotel, 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
