Anderson's main draw for visitors is Lake Hartwell, a massive reservoir on the Georgia-South Carolina border a few minutes from downtown, with public boat ramps, fishing, and swimming areas. Downtown Anderson has a well-preserved historic district along Main Street with independent shops and restaurants worth a browse.
The Anderson Arts Center and the Chrissy Express Children's Museum provide family options in town, while the surrounding upstate region has strong hiking in the Blue Ridge Foothills and waterfalls accessible as easy day trips.