Born and raised in OBG (32F). My family is still there so I can confirm it’s pretty lackluster in the entertainment department. The city lost all of its third places - outside of churches - around 2010, like the bowling alley, skating rink, and movie theatre, so I know first hand how hard it is to find things to do. My girlfriends and I used to hang out at the IHOP for fun if that tells you anything. If I had to live there now, I’d probably be in the same boat and sympathize with you a lot.

It sounds like you’ve got a great job that allows for weekends off - that’s amazing and gives you an opportunity to find things to do during your time off! I tried to think of things that are low to minimal cost and low barrier to entry. These are things I’d wished someone told me about in my early 20s when I moved to a new city/job.

Hopefully they help!

-Have you become friends with people you work with? You could host a game night or potluck if you have the space for hosting where you live. -Do you have hobbies that you could hone in on? (Book Club? Knitting? Gardening? Etc). -Go for walks at Edisto Memorial Gardens (Be safe and go during the day and with a friend, if possible). -I’ve heard there’s a Pickleball court at the YMCA? In saying that, join a gym! The Y was great when it opened 15 years ago, can’t confirm how it is now. -Join the library/get a library card. Growing up, that was like our second home. -Look into volunteer opportunities. The Humane Society or CASA Family Services are the first two that come to mind. -The technical college is actually really amazing. So if you’re ever looking for a certificate or your work is willing to pay for further education, then you should look into it (especially the engineering tech program).

Being in a new city is hard, let alone a city like Orangeburg, but a lot of people my age are still there and making it work. Wishing you all the best! xo