Dreher Shoals Dam

Near the Dreher Shoals Dam, there are several excellent dining options. The Bistro offers a casual atmosphere with American comfort food and live music, perfect for a relaxed evening. Tavern on 6 is another great choice, known for its cozy setting and diverse menu options, including vegan dishes. For those looking for a brewpub experience, Old Mill Brewpub provides a historic setting with a wide selection of beers and burgers. LongHorn Steakhouse is ideal for steak lovers, offering a casual dining experience with a ranch-style ambiance. Lastly, CAVA offers Mediterranean cuisine with customizable bowls and a trendy atmosphere.

These restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors to the Dreher Shoals Dam area have plenty of options for dining out. Whether you're in the mood for comfort food, steak, or international flavors, there's something for everyone nearby.

Each of these restaurants provides a unique dining experience, from casual and cozy to more upscale settings, making them suitable for both family gatherings and solo dining.

For accommodations near the Dreher Shoals Dam, several hotels offer convenient and comfortable stays. Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison provides modern rooms and amenities like an indoor pool and free WiFi. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Columbia offers modern rooms and an outdoor pool, along with freebies like WiFi and parking. Hampton Inn Columbia I-26/Harbison Blvd. is another great option, featuring free hot breakfast and an outdoor pool. Lastly, Wingate by Wyndham Columbia / Lexington offers straightforward lodging with an outdoor pool and free hot breakfast.

These hotels cater to different budgets and preferences, providing amenities like pools, gyms, and free breakfast to ensure a comfortable stay for visitors to the area.

Each hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience, making them ideal for both business travelers and families on vacation.

The Dreher Shoals Dam area offers a variety of amenities for visitors. Lake Murray Public Park provides restrooms, picnic facilities, and fishing docks, making it a great spot for outdoor activities. The park also features a boat launch ramp and allows pets on leashes. Additionally, the walkway along the dam offers stunning views and is perfect for walking or jogging.

For those interested in water activities, the park's beach area is ideal for swimming during the warmer months. However, starting in 2025, visitors will need to make reservations to access the park, which will no longer accept cash payments.

The surrounding area also includes restaurants and shops, providing everything needed for a day out or a longer stay.

The Dreher Shoals Dam area is rich in activities for visitors. Lake Murray Public Park offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The park's beach is a popular spot during the summer months, and the nearby picnic areas are perfect for family gatherings.

For those interested in history, the dam itself is an engineering marvel and offers insights into the region's past. The walkway along the dam provides a scenic route for walking or jogging, with beautiful views of Lake Murray.

Additionally, the nearby Dreher Island State Recreation Area offers further opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching, making the area a great destination for nature lovers.

The Dreher Shoals Dam area offers several accessibility options for visitors with disabilities. The walkway along the dam is designed to be accessible, providing a smooth path for wheelchairs and strollers. Additionally, many of the nearby restaurants and hotels, such as The Bistro and Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison, offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, including entrances, restrooms, and seating areas.

However, it's always advisable to check with specific locations for the most current accessibility information to ensure a smooth visit.

Parking near the Dreher Shoals Dam is generally convenient, with several options available. At Lake Murray Public Park, parking is available for a fee during the peak season, and season passes can be purchased. The park is open year-round, but parking fees apply only from April to Labor Day.

For those visiting the dam itself, there are designated parking areas, including the Dreher Shoals Dam Parking Lot, which provides easy access to the walkway and scenic views.

Overall, parking is readily available, though it's advisable to plan ahead during peak times to ensure a smooth visit.

One of the most interesting facts about the Dreher Shoals Dam is its historical significance as the largest earthen dam in the world when it was completed in 1930. The dam was named after the Dreher family, who were prominent landowners in the area. The construction of the dam led to the creation of Lake Murray, which is now a major recreational spot.

During World War II, the area was used as a military training site, with bomber pilots using the lake's islands as targets. Today, remnants of this history can still be seen underwater, including old airplanes and communities that were submerged during the dam's construction.

The dam's engineering feat and its role in the region's development make it a fascinating piece of history for visitors to explore.

The Dreher Shoals Dam area is surrounded by several attractions. Lake Murray Public Park is a major draw, offering a beach, picnic areas, and opportunities for boating and fishing. The nearby Dreher Island State Recreation Area provides additional outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.

The dam itself is an attraction, offering stunning views of Lake Murray and a glimpse into the region's engineering history. Visitors can also explore the surrounding towns of Irmo and Lexington, which offer a mix of local shops and restaurants.

For those interested in exploring further, Columbia, the state capital, is nearby, providing access to museums, historical sites, and cultural events.