Blythewood
Located about 25 minutes north of the city center, Blythewood is deeply rooted in Southern tradition and celebrates the spirit of family. Originally named Doko (hence the use of Doko in many of the town’s newer developments), Blythewood has a long history with agriculture and equestrianism. Traditions that have been carried through to today with the town’s local farmer’s market and more than 50 equestrian and stables facilities.
While we’re on the topic of things that are equine in nature, Blythewood is home to the University of South Carolina’s Equestrian center and has also served as the training ground for the US Olympic equestrian teams. Plus, for more than a decade, folks have been gathering ‘round each year for the Blythewood DOKO Rodeo. Yee-haw!
When it comes to Blythewood’s social center for outdoor recreation, music and arts, look no further than Doko Meadows Park. Featuring an open-air market, six miles of walking trails, a 2,500-seat amphitheater, playground, soccer fields, skating facilities, lake views and more, it’s just the spot for concerts, sunny weekend afternoons or annual festivals like the Doko Ribfest.
Some other signature events that get the creative juices flowing outside of the smoker include the Doko Film Fest each March and the month-long J. Gordon Coogler Poetry Festival in April.
When it comes to satisfying your stomach, Blythewood’s local flavor can hold its own. Start your day off on the right foot with a coffee from Bloomin Bean Coffee Bar. For quality bites in casual settings, you can’t go wrong with Doko Smoke BBQ, Scott Benny’s, Chubby’s Burgers & Brewhouse or Doko Station Pub & Eatery. For a more elevated eating experience, golfers can tee off at top-ranked Cobblestone Park Golf Club before popping into Alexander’s at Cobblestone Park for lunch, dinner or a post-round beverage.
The recent surge of progress in Blythewood is far from over. Looking toward the future, the town aims to continue working toward its vision of becoming a thriving village. They’re going to build out a Main Street and further emphasize unique boutique businesses, art galleries and local restaurants.