The Summer House: A Treasure Hunt in the Heart of Lake Hartwell
- Mid-Lake Dock and Hardscape
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 11 minutes ago
When people picture Lake Hartwell, they often imagine bass tournaments, jet skis slicing across the water, or quiet afternoons on a dock with a good book. But beyond the obvious adventures, the area hides small-town curiosities that make it unforgettable. One of the brightest is The Summer House in Hartwell — a place where every corner holds a surprise, every visit feels like a treasure hunt, and every purchase supports the local community.
Step inside this downtown gem and you’ll find a charming adventure for the curious soul — part antique trove, part artisan market, and part creative gathering space. History, artistry, and a dash of delightful clutter await at every turn, making exploring here as thrilling as a day on the lake.
Where History Meets Heart
The Summer House is located at 68 Benson Street, in the Benson Street–Forest Avenue Historic District. Lined with Victorian and Craftsman homes, the area earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. Walking the streets feels like stepping back in time.
The building itself has had many lives — a rooming house and later a rental to name a couple — before Elexis and her daughter, Amelia, transformed it into The Summer House. Their original vision was a boutique with a curated look, feel, and even scent, but over time it became what Elexis fondly calls “utter chaos — a treasure hunt.”
More Than Antiques
While antiques remain the heartbeat of the shop, treasures here take many forms. Explore timeless furniture and collectibles, thrift and name-brand favorites like Capri Blue candles, local pottery, handmade greeting cards, honey from nearby hives, children’s clothing, gifts, and so much more. Every corner offers a mini adventure with heirloom-quality finds, quirky surprises, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs from the Lake Hartwell area.
Creativity Around Every Corner
The Summer House is also a community hub where creativity thrives. Weekly art classes invite kids and adults to try pottery with Nevermore Studio, wreath-making, or watercolor and acrylic painting with talented instructors. Summer art camps spark children’s imaginations through hands-on projects with clay, paint, and design. The bright sunroom hosts book clubs, meetings, and intimate gatherings, while special events like Pet Adoption Day with the Hart County Humane Society show that giving back can be fun.
A Place That Feels Like Home
What makes The Summer House truly special isn’t just the treasures on the shelves — it’s the warmth and care behind them. Elexis and Amelia have created a space where visitors can explore and feel part of the community. Each visit is full of surprises, creativity, and connection. Shopping here is more than buying — it’s celebrating local talent, discovering new stories, and being part of a living tradition that keeps the heart of Lake Hartwell vibrant.
Plan Your Visit
The Summer House is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Located just two doors down from the Hartwell Library, it’s an easy stop while exploring downtown Hartwell — whether you’re boating, camping, or sightseeing around Lake Hartwell.
The Living Story of Hartwell
The Summer House proves that history doesn’t belong only in books or behind glass. Antiques preserve the past, handmade goods showcase today’s talent, and workshops, classes, and community gatherings plant seeds for the future. Step inside, explore the beautiful chaos, and discover your own treasures. When we support local, we don’t just shop — we help write the next chapter in the story of Lake Hartwell.
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