Hotels in Darlington

Darlington: Where Thrilling Races Meet Serene Lakeside Retreats

Darlington, South Carolina, is a charming blend of rich history and thrilling excitement, making it a captivating destination for all types of travelers. Known for the iconic Darlington Raceway, it’s a haven for motorsports enthusiasts, offering high-speed action and a taste of Southern hospitality. Explore the Darlington Museum for a glimpse into the city’s storied past, or unwind at local parks and the serene Lake Darlington, perfect for picnics and nature walks. With its small-town charm and vibrant community spirit, Darlington invites you to experience a unique Southern adventure that’s both exhilarating and relaxing. For the best hotel rates in Darlington, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Darlington

Some of the best places to stay in Darlington are Florence, Hartsville and Cheraw. Florence, Hartsville, and Cheraw each offer unique attractions for travelers exploring South Carolina. Florence is known for its vibrant arts scene and shopping, while Hartsville boasts beautiful parks and a charming downtown. Cheraw, rich in history, features scenic views and outdoor activities. Hotel accommodations in these areas include a mix of budget-friendly options and comfortable mid-range hotels, often with amenities like pools and free breakfast. For first-time visitors, Florence is the best choice due to its diverse offerings. Here are some of the best hotels in Darlington that our travelers love:

1. FlorenceOpens in a new window: Florence is an excellent destination for family-oriented travelers, offering a blend of entertainment, shopping, and educational opportunities. The Florence Civic Center hosts various events, while Magnolia Mall is perfect for shopping enthusiasts. Francis Marion University adds a cultural touch to the area. For accommodations, consider TownePlace Suites by Marriott FlorenceOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers and pet owners, featuring amenities like a 24-hour business center and meeting spaces. Another option is Staybridge Suites Florence - Civic Center, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel with similar business facilities and a pet-friendly policy. SpringHill Suites by Marriott FlorenceOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, focuses on business travelers with essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. HartsvilleOpens in a new window: Hartsville is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans, highlighted by the famous Darlington Raceway and the family-friendly Neptune Island Waterpark. Coker College adds a cultural charm to this vibrant town. For lodging, The Mantissa HotelOpens in a new window offers a 3.0-star experience with free breakfast and fitness facilities, making it a convenient choice. Alternatively, Oak Manor InnOpens in a new window is a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for business and golf travelers, while Hampton Inn & Suites HartsvilleOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
3. CherawOpens in a new window: Cheraw is a haven for outdoor lovers, featuring the scenic Cheraw State Park and golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Cheraw State Park Golf Course. This picturesque location is ideal for relaxation and adventure. For accommodations, Baymont by Wyndham CherawOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel that allows pets, making it a great option for travelers with furry companions. Quality Inn CherawOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star hotel, ideal for business travelers, offering accessible business amenities and a pet-friendly policy. Additionally, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Rockingham, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window provides essential business facilities, making it suitable for corporate guests seeking comfort and convenience.

Things to do in Darlington for first time

A three-day visit to Darlington offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and exhilarating activities. Travelers can enjoy scenic parks and tranquil lakes, perfect for boating or hiking, alongside thrilling motor racing experiences and vibrant arena entertainment. This charming destination promises adventure and relaxation for every visitor. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Darlington:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Palmetto Shores Lake, where you can enjoy the serene waters and perhaps indulge in some light fishing or a relaxing walk along the shore. Next, make your way to Columns Plantation, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the region's rich past and stunning architecture. You can take a guided tour to learn about its significance and the stories of those who lived there. Wrap up your day at the Florence Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on local history, art, and culture that provide a deeper understanding of the area.
• Day 2: Start with a morning stroll in Florence Veterans Park, a beautiful tribute to those who served. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and reflect on the park's significance. Afterward, head to Kalmia Gardens, known for its stunning botanical displays and tranquil walking paths—perfect for some quality nature time. Finish your day with a visit to Lee State Park, where you can hike the trails or simply relax amidst the natural beauty, keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lynches River State Park, where you can hike or bike the scenic trails, enjoying the lush surroundings. Next, visit The Bean Market, a charming spot to grab a bite and experience local flavors—perfect for lunch. Conclude your exploration at Woods Bay State Park, where you can take a leisurely walk along the boardwalks and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the cypress swamps and wildlife. This day offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure and local culture.

5 tips to find a great Darlington hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Darlington is from October to December, when hotel rates drop significantly. To get the most out of your trip and explore the city’s main attractions, it's best to stay for at least 1-2 days. Key highlights in Darlington include the stadium, racetrack, and beautiful parks, offering great value for money for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Darlington, you could find great savings on Hotels.com. Start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover competitive prices on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about special promotions and flash sales. This way, you’re more likely to find excellent rates and good availability for hotels in Darlington without missing any chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Darlington.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central neighborhoods, balancing your budget with the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Darlington and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Darlington

Darlington experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 45.1°F (7.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.1°F (27.3°C). August is usually the wettest month. July to September are the peak travel months in Darlington, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.