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The Pee Dee Region is in northeastern South Carolina and was named after the Pee Dee Native American tribe. You can enjoy the city life in Florence, or head for the Grand Strand to hit the beaches, which stretch from the North Carolina state line to the Winyah Bay in Georgetown County.

Whatever your pleasure, the area has something for you: from fresh produce and flowers at the Pee Dee State farmers market to hand-hewn cabins built by slaves, from antiquing to the Marion Opera house, from a dozen car racing arenas to the Florence art trail or the 35 acre Kalmia Nature Gardens. There's always a meal coming up, so head here for the wide variety of restaurants. And who hasn't seen those South of the Border signs? That's here too, showing off a new reptile exhibit.

The area is popular for retirees, in part because of its low cost of living, but also for the many golf courses. It is also known as a center of medical and dental care.

Inland Pee Dee is more rural, with rivers, marshes, Carolina bays and sandy rises where forestry is predominant, with pine plantations and bald cypress timbering. And yes, there is still farming for tobacco, cotton, soybeans and produce.

Florence (or you may call her Flo) was founded as a railroad center and is now a small but growing center of production of pharmaceuticals, and other light industry. The Pee Dee Region also produces paper, steel, and recreational vehicles.

Conveniently located at the intersections of I-95 and I-20, Flo's the perfect place for you, It's a good pit stop when driving from North to South or South to North. Florence, SC offers a wide range of dining, including several national franchises, and delish local cuisine which can be International: Japanese, Greek, Chinese, Italian, Thai or steaks, seafood and BBQ.

There's always something going on at Francis Marion University, whether it's an art exhibition or a film screening, and the Florence Little Theatre is a premier theatre with a full schedule of shows. Live bands entertain nightly, and the Florence Civic Center brings in the hottest shows, such as Disney on Ice and Tyler Perry. While you're in Florence, plan to spend a day in the sand at Myrtle Beach, just an hour away, or check out the excitment at the famous Darlington Raceway, just a few minutes away.

Once you take a peek at all she has to offer, you'll realize why her friends call her Flo! She's always energetic and lively, and she'll continue to surprise.