The Willcox

Stay

Discover The Willcox in Aiken, South Carolina—a Colonial Revival icon on the National Historic Register and a cornerstone of Southern hospitality. Established in 1898, The Willcox offers luxurious rooms with cloud-soft beds, many featuring fireplaces, complemented by a renowned spa and dining that’s celebrated as one of the best in the South. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a saltwater pool, an intimate salon and spa and a variety of dining options. The hotel’s rich history and commitment to excellence make it a must-visit for those seeking both relaxation and sophistication in Thoroughbred Country.

For guests looking for the privacy of their own home with the concierge services of a luxury hotel, The Willcox also offers vacation rentals.

Pet friendly.

Dine

Savor an exceptional dining experience at The Willcox Restaurant, where Southern charm meets culinary excellence. With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, their menu offers a refined yet approachable selection that celebrates classic flavors alongside innovative creations. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or brunch on Saturdays and Sundays in an elegant setting that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality.

Elevate your next event with The Willcox’s catering services, available both on-site and off-site with their mobile kitchen. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, The Willcox team delivers exquisite cuisine and flawless presentation, tailored to your vision.

#FunFact: Thursday nights at The Willcox are extra special and have been for almost 16 years. Every Thursday night, diners enjoy the jazzy melodies of 4 Cats in the Doghouse. This tradition started when musician and vocalist Scott Ferguson visited the restaurant in 2009. He noticed something was missing and shared with owners Geoff and Shannon Ellis, “You know, what this place could use is some jazz!” The Ellis’ agreed and the Thursday before Christmas that year, Scott’s band 4 Cats in the Doghouse blew away the crowd with their straight-ahead jazz sound. Join in on the tradition every Thursday evening from 7 to 9pm and delight in the wondrous sounds of local musicians.

History

The Willcox got its name from its founders—Frederick and Elise Willcox. Frederick was an immigrant from England and his wife, Elise, had immigrated from Sweden. Together with their son Albert, the family moved from New York to Aiken in 1897. After the fire at the grand Highland Park Hotel in February of 1898, there was a demand for rooms-for-rent. The Willcoxs opened their new home at the corner of Colleton and Whiskey to the seasonal boarders—thus began the Willcox Hotel. Over the decades, the Willcox Hotel would expand multiples times and operate with a Willcox family member at the helm until 1958.

The far-reaching reputation of The Willcox was built on its atmosphere, impeccable service and excellent cuisine. Famous guests included Winston Churchill, Harold Vanderbilt, W.R. Grace, Elizabeth Arden and Count Bernadette of Sweden. The Willcox continues to draw people from all over the world to enjoy superb personal service, gracious accommodations and excellent cuisine.