Uyun Al-Jiwa — literally "the valley’s ponds" — is often referred to as the oasis celebrated by Arab poets for its significance in several poetry collections known as the Suspended Odes (Mu’allaqat). The area is known for the ancient Banu Abs communities that lived here since prehistoric times. Depicting the lifestyle of ancient people, several Thamudic rock paintings can be found in the Al-Jiwa region — particularly in Al Hanadir, 15 km outside the city. Be sure to visit the mud-and-adobe Al Margab Watchtower. Take a walk through the Old Uyun — a collection of houses built of clay and mud. Get souvenirs from the vibrant Old Souq and take a photo of the Antarah Rock. Also known as the Lovers' Rock, this precariously perched boulder is rumoured to be the place where the celebrated poet Antarah bin Shaddad met with his sweetheart Ablah.

Castle Pinckney is one of America's oldest intact forts that has witnessed a long and storied past from Colonial times through the Confederate period. While it remains closed to public access, boat tours offer a glimpse of this historic landmark.

Open to the public since 1870, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens offers boat tours, train tours, a zoo and a nature center. It's America's last large-scale Romantic-style garden, and is the perfect place to host a wedding or other events.