Hilton Head Art Scene: 9 Places Where Lowcountry Culture Comes Alive

Even though this South Carolina destination draws thousands of guests to its beautiful beaches each year, the Hilton Head art scene should not be overlooked. The city celebrates history and Lowcountry culture through dozens of museums, theaters, galleries and other artsy attractions. Looking for an interactive museum or entertainment for the family? The Hilton Head art scene has everyone covered. Find the top cultural attractions in Hilton Head.

Top Hilton Head Art Attractions for Lowcountry Culture

hilton head art museum

Photo: Dan J

Museums Celebrate Hilton Head Art

Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum

Perhaps the most iconic site in Hilton Head is Harbour Town Lighthouse. This attraction has delighted and educated visitors for more than 40 years through exhibits, souvenirs and tours. For less than $5 per person — kids under 5 tour free — guests can wind their way to the top of the lighthouse and visit the gift shop, which houses one of the largest collections of lighthouses in the U.S. Not only is the lighthouse a top culture attraction, it also ranks as a top spot for Hilton Head shopping.

Coastal Discovery Museum

Located on the 68-acre Honey Horn property, Coastal Discovery Museum welcomes all ages to get up-close-and-personal with Lowcountry critters. The museum offers several ways to explore the natural area, including tours of the gardens, grounds and historic buildings.

For added adventure, book a water activity such as a dolphin excursion, shrimp trawling expedition, or a kayak or nature tour. Then check out permanent and temporary exhibits located on site. Guests enjoy learning about historical figures and how the area evolved into the destination for which it’s known today.

The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum

Parents and kids love spending one-on-one time together at The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum. This attraction caters to families with children younger than 8, and offers interactive exhibits and programs. Exhibits include a grocery store, flight simulations, and places where kids can climb and play their way through the museum. On the first Friday of each month, unless otherwise stated, the museum also hosts free family nights open to everyone.

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Visual Arts and Entertainment

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Featuring both live performances and visual arts, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina entertains thousands of visitors annually. The center hosts musicians and vocalists, live theatrical performances, and special events and workshops. Special events range from educational bus rides to food festivals that celebrate Lowcountry culture. While visiting, stop by the on-site galleries that house photography and original works of art.

Art League of Hilton Head Gallery

Art enthusiasts can’t miss Art League of Hilton Head Gallery, which offers year-round exhibits, programs and classes to support visual arts. The Art League is located inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina next to the box office.

One signature event families enjoy is Craft Hilton Head Juried Fine Art Exhibition, which showcases 2- and 3-D media, including glass, wood, ceramic and jewelry. Visitors of all ages also take special classes, such as painting and photography, to enhance their artistic abilities and have fun.

Wine and Design of Bluffton/Hilton Head

Wine and Design of Bluffton offers a different night-out experience where parents can paint and enjoy wine while the kids play in their dedicated area. Individual and groups may attend events, and Wine and Design also offers party packages for couples, girls only and business team building. During summer, kids can enroll in Art Buzz Kids Camp where they create masterpieces and make new friends.

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Live Music and Performances

The Jazz Corner

Named one of the 100 Great Jazz Rooms in the world by Downbeat magazine, The Jazz Corner is a 99-seat venue and restaurant that pairs the best jazz and Lowcountry cuisine.

Visitors step back in time into an energetic nightclub scene focused on exciting music and a sophisticated atmosphere. Live acts include award-winning bands, quartets and pianists. In addition to lively music, guests enjoy an eclectic mix of Southern menu options, including ribs, seafood and filet mignon.

Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra

Guests also enjoy relaxing to live music at Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. This venue hosts performances showcasing Tchaikovsky, Beethoven and the popular Lowcountry Pops!, a Gullah Celebration.

In spring, attend Symphony Under the Stars when the symphony performs at Coastal Discovery Museum. Additionally, younger musicians can enter Concerto Competition to compete for cash prizes and scholarship to Philadelphia International Music Festival.

Lean Ensemble Theater

The crew at Lean Ensemble Theater focuses on celebrating live entertainment through passionate and thought-provoking performances. The theater welcomes visitors to talk back and engage with performers through various shows with comedy and inspirational stories. Past performances have included A Season for Memories and The Glass Menagerie, and season and individual tickets are available.

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