Located at the heart of South Carolina, Clemson offers a mix of outdoor adventures and places to visit that are sure to captivate visitors. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a sports fan, or just looking for the next great spot, Clemson has something to offer everyone. Let’s dive into some of the top things to do and places to see in this vibrant city.

Whether delving into Earth’s ancient secrets, basking in the serenity of lakeside retreats, or unleashing your competitive spirit, Clemson invites you to immerse yourself fully. So come, embrace the spirit of tradition, the warmth of hospitality, and the beauty of nature in this enchanting city.

Discover how you can Prepare for Empire’s New Home Releases, and Try Culinary Delights in Clemson, SC. 

Explore our Sunrise community in Pendleton, South Carolina, just minutes from Clemson.

With the Carolinas’ abundance of parks and trails, lakes, and enchanting gardens, us locals are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to see and do outdoors on a beautiful afternoon. To help you get out and explore the best hidden gems and must-see spots, we’ve rounded up a list of the best outdoor adventures close to home.

Setting out on your outdoor adventure in the Carolinas? Share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging @empire_thecarolinas. Next, check out these 4 celebrity-owned restaurants in the Carolinas or 5 must-visit fairways for golf lovers in Charlotte.

Images courtesy of: Charlotte’s Got a Lot (Lake Norman, UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens); Conde Nast Traveler (Little Sugar Creek Greenway); DPR Design (Reedy Creek Park); Pacer (Four-Mile Creek Greenway); Catawba Lands Conservancy (Seven Oaks Preserve); Anne Springs Close Greenway (Anne Springs Close Greenway); Lake Wylie Marine Commission (Lake Wylie); Greenville, SC (Table Rock State Park); South Carolina Lakes Database (Paris Mountain State Park); Greenville Journal (Jones Gap State Park). 

Home to over 350 miles of sand dunes, quaint coastal towns rich in character, and adventure-filled activities both on and off the water, a life on Texas’ Gulf Coast never bores. Read on to discover some of the region’s biggest hotspots and how to spend your time here, according to the locals.

Interested in living near Texas’ Gulf Coast? Explore our housing opportunities at Coastal Point. Next, learn why so many people are moving to Texas and discover our coastal-inspired communities, where you can experience what it’s like to live by the water.

Images courtesy of: Ryson Vacation Rentals (Galveston Island); Backpacker Magazine (Texas Hill Country); Galveston (Grand Galvez Hotel) and Big League Dreams (Big League Dreams).

Whether you live in the Niagara region or you’re just visiting, we’re sure you want to experience the best of what it has to offer. And when it comes to food, locals and newcomers alike are spoiled for choice. The Niagara region may be known for its wine, but once you visit these top 11 restaurants, you’ll be coming back again and again to experience its incredible food scene. Read on to discover some of the most coveted restaurant reservations in the Niagara region.

1. Treadwell Farm-to-Table Restaurant

This farm-to-table restaurant located in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake has been the recipient of many awards and industry accolades since its opening in 2006. With menu and wine offerings that are sourced locally, it’s here that restaurant goers are able to experience the fruits of Niagara’s labour.

2. Kitchen 76 at Two Sisters Vineyard

A popular restaurant in one of Niagara’s top wineries, Kitchen 76 is inspired by Italian fare. Their offerings are designed to pair perfectly with their award-winning wines and feature items like homemade focaccia bread, grilled octopus and truffle pizza. Whichever produce isn’t sourced locally is grown right on the property.

3. The Yellow Pear Kitchen

Calling all lovers of brunch — this farm-to-table restaurant in St. Catharines is adored by all who visit. Their menu fuses the best of breakfast and lunch, featuring dishes like fried chicken and waffles, smoked salmon benny, and avocado toast. They’re also the winner of Opentable’s 100 Best Restaurants in Canada.

4. Root & Bone

Fresh from the root and fresh from the bone, this Fonthill restaurant’s menu offerings will leave a memorable taste in your mouth. Taking a farm-to-table approach, this dining destination sources fruits and vegetables that are organic and local. Fun fact: Head Chef, Raymond Taylor, has worked at numerous award-winning restaurants in Canada and was selected to cook for the royal wedding reception of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

5. Pearl Morissette

A reputable french-inspired restaurant in Jordan, Pearl Morissette offers an ever-changing blind prix fixe menu, leaving all of its patrons eager to come back and try more culinary creations. All dishes are made from the region’s highest-quality ingredients and have drink pairings available too.

6. Casa Mia Ristorante

Founded by a mother and son, this Italian restaurant was born out of a love for cooking. It was recognized for having one of the best dining experiences in all of Niagara. From its intimate European-like dining room to the alluring wine libraries you can eat in, there’s many reasons to visit. Plus, it’s also home to a grand piano which is used for live entertainment.

7. Cannery Restaurant

Located in Niagara’s famous Pillar and Post Inn & Spa, this romantic dining destination is the perfect place to indulge in a glass of fine wine, a juicy steak, or signature desserts. Wondering what the atmosphere is like? The ceilings are decked out in chandeliers, there’s beautiful historic brick walls, and natural wooden beams exposed for all to see.

8. The Drawing Room at the Prince of Wales Hotel

Interested in high tea? This is an experience unlike any other in the Niagara region that transports you to the Victorian era. Picture the finest china you’ve ever seen, decadent desserts, and the highest quality of service that’ll leave you feeling like a king or queen.

9. The Oaklands at the Riverbend Inn

Equally as impressive as its sprawling property, the Oaklands offers a blend of French and Canadian dishes. Its breakfast, lunch and dinner menus change every season, but what keeps people coming back is the restaurant’s mesmerizing and unobstructed vineyard view.

10. The Gate House

The Gate House is one of the newest restaurants in one of the most historic buildings in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Before most of it burnt down in 1849, the building was a meeting place for all of the town’s residents before and after the War of 1812. Their brunch and all-day menus change seasonally, featuring dishes like pizzas, pastas and salads.

11. Megalomaniac

This Vineland-based winery is known for having the best view in wine country and it’s one of the reasons why it’s frequented by those near and far. It rests at the highest point of altitude in the Niagara escarpment, rewarding all of its patrons with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Come to dine and experience dinner with a view.

Next, explore some of Niagara’s top hot spots and learn why you’ll love living in this beautiful region. Already well acquainted with the Niagara area? Discover some of the best weekend getaways in Ontario.

One of the perks of city living is the ability to walk to all the best spots — and that couldn’t be more true with a home at Empire Maven. Everything you need is just steps from your front door, allowing you to travel around with ease, and with the nearest subway station just an 11-minute bus ride away, you’ll be able to easily reach your destination of choice. So whether you’re new to the neighbourhood or an Avenue and Lawrence native looking to discover something new, we’ve got you covered. Explore these 10 places that are a short 10-minute walk, or less, from Empire Maven.   

While we’re on the topic of all things local, explore even more hot spots around Empire Maven we think you’ll absolutely love. 

Images courtesy of: Retail Insider (Maker Pizza); Mosaic Outfitters (Mosaic Outfitters); Uber Eats (La Bamboche); Canada247 (Dana Jordan); Streets of Toronto (Dave’s Genuine Deli); Skip the Dishes (Lee’s Dumpling House); Canada247 (Brookdale Park).

Brimming with charm, Ontario is home to a number of picturesque small towns, perfect for a weekend getaway or an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pack your bags, start the car and explore our top five staycation destinations in Ontario.

29 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

If you’re looking to plan a getaway that’s equal parts relaxing and activity-filled, the city of Port Colborne in Niagara’s south coast is the perfect spot to put on your radar. Steeped in marine heritage, this city boasts historic shopping districts, a variety of restaurants, a beautiful beachfront and a selection of natural attractions. Visitors can stroll along the Welland Canal and take in the scenic view. 

24 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway. Get the full experience by planning your stay at a bed and breakfast in one of the area’s beautifully-restored homes from the 19th century. Spend your days strolling down Picton Street and grab a coffee or lunch on a patio. Looking for an alternative mode of transportation? Take the scenic route and rent bicycles along the Niagara Parkway. End off your evening watching one of the many shows playing at the Shaw Festival Theatre.

29 minute drive from Empire Legacy and Empire Calderwood.

Whether you’re travelling with your family or planning a weekend trip with friends, Lincoln is filled with must-see places and things to do. Compromised of a few smaller townships that are packed with cozy cafes, shops, and farms throughout the region, there’s truly something for everyone in Lincoln. If you’re planning an overnight visit, check out some of the area’s charming bed and breakfasts, like Bonnybank. 

18 minute drive from Empire Wyndfield.

If you’re looking to spend time outdoors and enjoy an action-packed weekend, then Paris might be the perfect spot for you. Located along the Grand River, you can partake in activities like river rafting and tubing, or if relaxing is more your speed, enjoy some R&R at Pinehurst Lake. 

2 hour and 40 minute drive from Empire Maven.

For those in need of a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city, consider visiting Prince Edward County for your next getaway. Located on Lake Ontario, you’ll fall in love with the food, wine, nature, art and charming community. ‘The County’ is home to artists, entrepreneurs, farmers, wine makers, and talented chefs, allowing you to enjoy activities suited to all interests. 

Looking for fun-filled activities closer to home? Check out our list of things to do along Southwestern Ontario’s waterways and the best parks in Toronto.

City of Port Colborne (Port); Time Out (Town); Trip Advisor (Waterfall); Travel Blog (Town); Blog TO (Beach). 

Kick this long weekend off with a bang by exploring all the festivities North Carolina has to offer this 4th of July. From fireworks to parades and so much more, gather all your friends and family to celebrate this quintessential American holiday. 

Now’s the time to relax, so take a break from the grill this holiday long-weekend and explore a few authentic spots for the best Southern barbeque around Charlotte. 

Images courtesy of: Visit York County (Carowinds); Harrisburg NC (The Town of Harrisburg); Charlotte’s Got A Lot (City of Gastonia).

If you’re as much of a foodie as we are, you’re practically guaranteed to appreciate this blog. We don’t know about you, but when we find a restaurant with a mouth-watering menu and foods that we enjoy, we end up frequenting the same spot. But why not try something new in Charlotte? Here are 6 new restaurants you’ve got to try in the Queen City.

Next, try these 4 celebrity-owned culinary destinations spread across the Carolinas or explore some of the region’s most-favorited barbecue spots.

Images courtesy of: Spice (Spice); Secret Charlotte (Yunta); The Real Review (Bar a Vins); Yelp (Sixty Vines); Axios Charlotte (Summerbird).

In case you haven’t heard the news, we’re bringing three brand new communities to Atlanta in some of Intown’s most well-known neighborhoods. Well-situated in West Midtown, Reynoldstown and Chosewood Park, you can enjoy the very best of what the city has to offer with a home at Longreen, Stein Steel or Zephyr.

To get a feel for whether or not one of our newest communities is right for you, we encourage you to get out and explore the many hot spots that are steps away from your potential home. Whether it’s by grabbing a coffee at one of the neighborhood’s local shops, attending a yoga class in the area, or going on a walk with your dog, you’ll be able to get a sense of what the community has to offer before even purchasing a home. Here’s what’s within 5 miles of our three new communities in Atlanta.

Interested in learning more about what our three new Intown communities have to offer? Register now to be among the first to receive information on floor plans, pricing and more when it becomes available.

Atlanta Eater (The Works: Fox Bros Bar-B-Que, Forza Storico); Atlanta Magazine (Marcel, Westside Provisions); JCT. Kitchen (JCT. Kitchen); Atlanta Curbed (The Works, Proctor Creek Greenway); Twitter (The Interlock); Reporter Newspapers (Westside Paper); Westside Park (Westside Reservoir Park); Proctor Creek Greenway; Atlanta Coffee Shops (Con Leche); Trip Advisor (Muchacho); Revolution Doughnuts (Revolution Doughnuts); Nina & Rafi (Nina & Rafi); Atlanta Luxury Rentals (Parkgrounds); Atlanta Magazine (Home Grown); Biz Journals (Wonder Kid); Trees Atlanta (Stumpery Garden); Onthegrid.city (Cabbagetown Park, Carroll Street Cafe); Unique Venues (The Eastern); Perkins+Will (Bacchanalia, Atlanta Dairies); Atlanta Journal-Constitution (MARTA); Zomato (Carroll Street Cafe); Three Taverns Brewery (Three Taverns Brewery); The House (Eventide Brewing); Atlanta BeltLine (Red’s Beer Garden); What Not Atlanta (Bennett’s Market & Deli); Open Table (Mediterranea); Discover Atlanta (Grant Park); Curbed Atlanta (The Beacon); Atlanta Intown Dwellings (Chosewood Park); 11Alive (Atlanta Non-Paved BeltLine).

One of the best parts of living in Atlanta is that there’s never a shortage of fun events to attend. Whatever your interests are, you’re bound to find something that suits your unique tastes. To ensure you never miss out on the best events in the city, we’ve rounded up a few happening this season we think you’ll enjoy. 

If you’re interested in what else there is to see and do in Atlanta, explore a few hot spots around the city we love.

Images courtesy of: Atlanta Parent (Georgia Renaissance Festival); North Georgia Living (Chastain Park Arts & Craft Festival); Eventeny (Taste of Alpharetta).