road trip through north and south carolina

17 Spectacular Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

From the peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the sandy beaches of the Lowcountry, and from the music of Nashville to the food scene of New Orleans, there is no shortage of wonderful options when looking for the best southern USA road trip itineraries.

I’ve been taking road trips in the south for my entire life, crisscrossing across the southeast USA visiting cities, towns, national parks, beaches, marshes, and beyond.

And yet, even after all that time, there are still plenty of southern road trip routes on my wish list.

In order to give perspectives beyond my own, I asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite road trips in the south, and the result is a road trip bucket list that would take even the most dedicated road-tripper years to complete!

From weeks-long deep south road trip itineraries to quick weekend getaways, these southeast US road trip ideas cover an enormous variety of landscapes and interests.

No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, we have a southern USA road trip itinerary here for you!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southeast USA Road Trip

Deep south usa road trip itinerary ideas, other multi-state southern usa road trip routes, more single-state southeast road trip itineraries.

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Ideally, take your southern road trip in the spring or fall.

While you can technically take all of these southern USA road trips year-round, the south’s notoriously brutal summer means that it’s best to avoid the months of June, July, and August if you can (unless you plan to spend most of your time on the beach, of course).

Winter, depending on the location, can be gray and rainy, but can also be a joyous time to visit cities, towns, and mountains that see far less tourism in the winter (but don’t underestimate the possibility of snow in the mountains, either: it may be the south, but the Smokies still get snow!).

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your US south road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars  for your southern USA road trip today!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

Don’t underestimate the south’s national parks!

The wide-open spaces and epic landscapes of the American West are often the typical images conjured up when imagining the USA’s national parks–but the south has plenty to offer, as well!

In fact, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is the most-visited national park in the country, and its gorgeous vistas and jaw-dropping waterfalls are well worth exploring.

Other southern national parks to consider adding to your road trip through the south include Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, Everglades National Park in South Florida, and Congaree National Park in South Carolina–just to name a few!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a deep south road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the US south is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop at just one more beach or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Scenic Byway

From Charles of US Gulf Coast Travel

One of the best scenic coastal drives in the United States is the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway (US Highway 90 / Beach Boulevard) in  Coastal Mississippi , where for 11 glorious miles there is nothing between you and the soft sugar sand and Gulf of Mexico water.

The most awe-inspiring section of the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway is from Henderson Point Beach to the Port of Gulfport Mississippi.

Drive this portion, or this entire road trip, in either direction, but we suggest west to east because you are closer to the water.

Start this road trip after an overnight in Bay St Louis or New Orleans (55 miles away).

In Bay St Louis, fuel up at Mockingbird Cafe (try their pulled pork and grits) or Serious Bakery (superb chicken salad).

Drive across the iconic St. Louis Bay Bridge and your senses will activate and heighten with your first Gulf and sand view.

Stop as often as you want because parking is free!

The coastal drive continues through Gulfport and into Biloxi.

Visit the new Mississippi Aquarium, stroll the Biloxi Beach Boardwalk, and eat at White Pillars or The Blind Tiger.

After crossing the Biloxi Bay Bridge, make time to explore the wonderful small town of Ocean Springs.

Stroll the gorgeous oak-lined Washington Avenue, stop at Walter Anderson Museum of Art, and eat at Vestige.

Highway 90 continues through Pascagoula (Jimmy Buffett’s birthplace) and into Mobile, Alabama, where you can turn around and complete this classic deep south road trip again.

Driving Distance

Bay St Louis to Pascagoula is 50 miles. New Orleans to Pascagoula is 107 miles and it is another 35 miles to Mobile, Alabama.

Recommended Road Trip Length

You can drive this coastal scenic drive in a couple of hours but we suggest allowing three or more days to fully experience the spectacular sugar sand, seafood, sunsets, and small beach towns of Coastal Mississippi.

Alabama Black Belt Road Trip

From Lori of Southerner Says

A road trip through the Black Belt region of Alabama is one of the best southern USA road trips around.

Named for the dark fertile soil of the region, the Alabama Black Belt is made up of twenty-three states across central and south Alabama.

This part of Alabama is the place where significant law-changing history was made, where literary giants were born, and is home to some of the best food that can be found in the United States.

For first-time visitors or someone flying in, there’s no better way to start an Alabama southern road trip than by including the capital –  Montgomery.

Plan on visiting important civil rights sites and the renowned Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

Next, drive west approximately fifty miles to Selma, Alabama on Highway 80.

This route is the same route as the important Selma to Montgomery march for voters’ rights that took place in 1965.

See the places that put this small town on the map and made it crucial in the civil rights movement.

Walk the Edmund Pettus Bridge, eat locally caught catfish, and sleep in a hotel that was built in 1837 . 

After saying a farewell to Selma, drive county backroads approximately seventy miles to the literary capital of the south.

As unbelievable as it may seem, Harper Lee – To Kill a Mockingbird and Truman Capote – Breakfast at Tiffany’s were childhood friends in the south.

They both grew up in Monroeville, Alabama – the next stop on this southern road trip. Take a walk around the charming downtown square to spot murals that pay tribute to these well-known books and authors.

From Monroeville, it’s easy to hop on Interstate-65 north to return to Montgomery or take the scenic route for a few more towns and sites on your southern road trip.

Driving Distance 

Recommended road trip length  .

This itinerary would be good for a weekend or long weekend.

Since the Alabama Black Belt is a rather large region there is an abundance of small towns and sites that can be added to a southern road trip.

Visitors could easily spend a week or two in the area.

Mississippi’s Highway 61 (Blues Trail)

From Hannah of HH Lifestyle Travel

A road trip from Memphis to New Orleans down Mississippi’s Highway 61 is rich in music history; and the inevitable river lore that pervades a road trip running parallel to the Mighty Mississippi.

In true road trip style, the road itself is part of the fun of the journey.  

Highway 61 is long and flat and often sits higher than the fields and levees below it.  It is punctuated by quaint southern churches, glimpses of the Mississippi River, and cities rich in blues history. 

Enjoy visiting one of the legendary ‘juke joints’ in  Clarksdale, Mississippi .  

If there is one stop on the road trip to learn about the history of blues music in the area, it’s Clarksdale.  

Visit the Devil’s Crossroads, the Delta Blues Museum, and many more Blues Trail plaques.

Your next stop is Vicksburg.  Brimming with Civil War history, Vicksburg mixes reverence with rejuvenation.  

Pay your respects to meaningful Civil War history, but then enjoy a day spa and quality craft brewpub experience.

Natchez sits on an important bluff on a bend in the Mississippi River with a long history.  

The historic district of Natchez Under-the-Hill has a prime position along the river and was once famous for gambling and river pirates.  

Nowadays it’s a cute place to see the Mighty Mississippi and have lunch in one of the historic buildings.

End your road trip in the vibrant and magnetic city of New Orleans .

Driving Distance  

It takes around 9 hours of non-stop driving time from Memphis to New Orleans, but with time spent in the stops above it would suit a 5–7-day road trip.  

Plan a bit longer if you want to spend time in both Memphis and New Orleans before and after this deep south road trip experience.

Coastal Georgia and South Carolina Road Trip

From Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

One of the fabulous road trips in the southeastern USA travels along the historic coastal corridors of Georgia to South Carolina, finishing in Charleston.

From the Georgia border to Florida, the major artery is Hwy 95, you’ll pass through so many historic and recreational sites along the way to make this a few days or even a longer visit depending on how many places you want to see and experience.

Some of the cool and historic places to visit in Georgia include St. Marys and Cumberland Island, Brunswich and St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island , Tybee Island , and Savannah .

Places to explore around South Carolina’s southern coastline from Savannah include Hilton Head, Beaufort, Edisto Island, and Charleston.

Each of these areas caters to historic sites or recreation getaways that are fun to explore when you have more time to visit each area on this road trip.

Even though you can go directly on Hwy 95 from the Georgia border all the way to South Carolina, it’s the small detour expressways and backcountry roads that will give you a better insight into visiting some of these gems in the region.  

If you only have a few days or longer then the major cities of Savannah and Charleston are memorable cities to prioritize to experience the local lifestyles foods that you’ll enjoy on this southern road trip experience.

Savannah, with its historic squares, fabulous architecture, and historic district that remains intact includes so much to see, do and experience around the historic center of the city.

Charleston on the other hand is more compact and walkable with a tighter historic district to enjoy and explore on your own or with some tour operator sharing the main attractions to see in town.

It’s 107 miles to drive straight from Savannah to Charleston.

If you’re focusing on Savannah and Charleston, 5 days is a comfortable length for this USA southern road trip itinerary.

Add additional days for each city, small town, or island that you’d like to visit.

The Classic Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Route

From Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

The Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, is such an unimaginably epic USA road trip, that veterans almost envy people who are experiencing it for the first time.

There are a lot of reasons it’s the #1 most visited unit in the US National Park system (with more than 15 million annual visitors), including 200 jaw-dropping BRP overlooks that offer stunning Blue Ridge Mountain vistas and provide access to the region’s most incredible hiking trails, landmarks, mountain towns, and waterfalls.

Designed as part of FDR’s New Deal to protect American wilderness and provide jobs in the wake of the Great Depression, construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway began back in 1935.

Most of the scenic route was completed by 1966, but the popular 8-mile stretch around the iconic Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina (including the engineering marvel known as the Linn Cove Viaduct) wasn’t finished until 1987.

The BRP is the longest linear park in the country, taking travelers through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests.

So naturally, there are a lot of exciting things to do along the way. 

At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, with lots of challenging hiking trails and a relatively easy paved path to the observation platform at the summit.

Grandfather Mountain State Park is also home to epic hiking trails (including several with ladders to climb massive boulders), and the neighboring Grandfather Mountain attraction is home to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, a small zoo featuring native North Carolina animals, and myriad picnic areas. 

Virginia’s Mabry Mill is the most photographed spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and one of the region’s many historical attractions.

There’s very little commercial development along the Parkway, with only a few hotels and resorts (including the historic Switzerland Inn in  Little Switzerland NC ,  and the Peaks of Otter Lodge in Bedford VA).

But part of the fun is exploring some of the charming little mountain towns along the way, including Cherokee, Blowing Rock, and Boone in NC, and Bedford, Lexington, and Waynesboro in VA.

You could drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway in as little as 15-16 hours if you wanted, but that would totally defeat the purpose.

Some people like to break it up into weekend getaways, basing themselves in a local town.

But you could also spend a week or two driving the entire route, spending nights in lots of little towns along the way.

Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina

From Kim of Traveling Swansons

A Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina southeast road trip takes you on a tour of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

Chattanooga is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and located along the Tennessee River.

There are many fun things to do here including the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway.

After leaving Chattanooga, your next stop will be Knoxville, Tennessee.

Check out the Sunsphere Tower, which was built for the 1982 World’s Fair.  Walk around Market Square and grab a bite to eat and shop.

After leaving Knoxville, your next stop will be Pigeon Forge. 

Here you find no shortage of attractions including the popular Dollywood. 

Right next to Pigeon Forge, you’ll find the town of Gatlinburg. 

In Gatlinburg, you will also find plenty of attractions including Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg Skybridge. 

Gatlinburg is one of the busiest and most popular gateway towns to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park  has many amazing hiking trails, waterfalls, and views. 

Drive the breathtaking scenic Newfound Gap Road to Cherokee, North Carolina. Jump out along the many turnouts along the way and enjoy the scenery. 

Once you reach Cherokee, explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.  Shop for some authentic Cherokee arts and crafts.

The drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina is 191 miles and takes 3 hrs 51 minutes if driving straight through. 

Since there is so much to do on this southern USA road trip, you will want to spend at least 5 days here in order to take in as much as you can along the way.

NOLA to Nashville Southern Road Trip Itinerary

From Agnes of The Van Escape

The southern USA road trip from New Orleans to Nashville is extraordinary.

Why? Nashville and New Orleans are music cities.

New Orleans – the world capital of jazz and Nashville – the capital of American country music – anyone who likes live concerts will appreciate this combination.

And indeed, in both cities, you can listen to music at every turn!

Concerts, music events, live music in almost every restaurant, bar, and even on the streets – Nashville and New Orleans are alive with sounds.

Moreover, there are many great  things to do in Nashville and in New Orleans.

In Nashville visit Jonny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Grand Ole Opry, reproduction of the Parthenon, and Downtown with famous Broadway Street.

In New Orleans, visit the French Quarter, the Jazz Museum, the Woodoo Museum, the National WWII Museum, explore one of the famous cemeteries, sign up for a swamp tour. Enjoy the best cocktails at the famous Bourbon Street.

Both cities are also known for their excellent cuisine. In New Orleans, you’ll melt at the tastes and smells of Louisiana Creole cuisine, and in Nashville, you’ll delight at the famous juicy BBQ ribs and more.

That’s not all. Both cities are famous for the finest spirits.

New Orleans offers great alcoholic cocktails and in Nashville, you can try classic Tennessee Jack Daniels whiskey , whose distillery is nearby.

The driving time from NOLA to Nashville is about 8 hours, and 4-5 days is perfect for this road trip.

You can cover the distance in one day or split it into two days and spend one night in Birmingham, the largest city in Alabama.

To feel the atmosphere of each city and immerse yourself in its music world, we recommend two nights in New Orleans and two in Nashville.

Virginia Beach, Virginia to Hilton Head, South Carolina

From Alex of Wander With Alex

If you’re planning a road trip from Virginia Beach, VA to Hilton Head, SC, and need a few stops along the way, we’ve got you covered!

While Virginia Beach and Hilton Head are both popular southern beach towns, the experience is very different!

They are both, however, family-friendly vacation destinations with lots of unique things to do and see.

While in Virginia Beach, VA you’ll want to check out the main beach at the Oceanfront.

There are 35 miles of beachfront, an amusement park on Atlantic Ave, and tons of souvenir shops for you to choose from.

If you’re looking for something free to do, check out the Creative ViBE District for murals, sidewalk art, and other creative artwork!

Now that’ll you’ve explored Virginia Beach, it’s time to hit the road!

After being on the road for seven and a half hours, you’ll be nearing Savannah, GA! If you’ve never been to Savannah, consider staying overnight.

You can take a riverboat dinner cruise on the Savannah River or enjoy a low country dinner at one of the best restaurants in Savannah .

And since Hilton Head is only 45-minutes from Savannah, you can stick around for a few hours in the morning and to Tybee Island before heading over to Hilton Head!

Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a laid-back resort town offering beautiful beaches and tons of golf courses.

Additionally, Hilton Head is incredibly bike-friendly.

Head over to Hilton Head Outfitters, rent bicycles for the whole family, and go exploring!

And if you are a seafood lover, you’ll have tons of waterfront restaurant options!

A road trip from Virginia Beach, VA to  Hilton Head, SC  via Interstate-95 is approximately 589 miles.

If you do not want to stay overnight in Savannah, you can make the trip in seven and a half hours.

However, if you prefer slow travel and wish to explore Savannah, you should consider making this a two-day drive.

Gulf Coast Beach Road Trip from Alabama to Florida

From Ashlee of The Happiness Function

One of the best-kept secrets in the South are the sugar-white sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico from Alabama to the Florida panhandle.

If you have never heard of Dauphin Island, Alabama, it is a must-visit southern destination.

Take the ultimate beach road trip from Dauphin Island, Alabama, to Pensacola, Florida!

Dauphin Island, Alabama, is a beautiful place to visit. The island is home to many different wildlife species, including sea turtles, and the scenery is simply stunning.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Dauphin Island is the perfect spot. Plan to stay at least two days.

From Dauphin Island, take the ferry across Mobile Bay to Fort Morgan, where visitors can continue the road trip to Gulf Shores.

Be sure to visit Gulf State Park and enjoy the incredible beaches from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach! Plan at least two days in Gulf Shores.

Gulf Islands National Seashore in Fort Pickens is a popular tourist destination offering a variety of activities such as catching some sun on beaches, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and exploring the historic fort.

Camp at the  Fort Pickens Campground  for a few days to enjoy all the island offers.

From Gulf Shores, continue east into the Florida panhandle towards Pensacola.

A road trip along the southern coast of Alabama into the Florida panhandle makes for an incredible beach road trip any time of year.

We recommend taking about a week to enjoy this road trip in the US south.

This way, road trippers can enjoy each destination for two days.

Savannah, Georgia to Clearwater, Florida Road Trip

From Terri of FemaleSoloTrek.com

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and fun in the sun, plan a short southern road trip route from Savannah to Clearwater.

Plan to start at dawn from Savannah on a Saturday so you can arrive by noon in  Clearwater, Florida .

Google Maps or Waze will offer you the choice of traveling down I-95 toward Orlando and then across to Tampa/St. Pete outposts.

Alternatively, you can drive through Jacksonville and then cut across the state via US-301 S and I-75 S.

The estimated time is 6 hours if you don’t hit bad traffic on I-95.

You will also have time to eat fried grouper at Clearwater Beach for lunch, then hit the Clearwater Aquarium for an afternoon adventure.

Dedicate the evening to drinking margaritas and watching the sunset.

You might want to watch the sunset (while sipping a cocktail) at Pier 60 on Saturday night or delay until Sunday because you will be exhausted from your early morning drive.

Clearwater is also a great place to settle while you plan day trips to Tampa, St. Pete, and Sarasota.

While you can easily make the drive in a day, it’s best to set aside a week for this US south road trip as you will lose two days to travel.

Florida’s Gulf Coast deserves a minimum five-day stay so you can experience different beaches.

Southeast USA Road Trip from Washington DC to Florida

From Keri of Bon Voyage With Kids

One of the best road trips in the southeast US is from Washington, DC to  Anna Maria Island, Florida . 

If you want to break it up with overnights and stops, I recommend going from Washington DC to Raleigh, NC on Day 1.  On Day 2, drive from Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA.  Then on Day 3, drive from Savannah, GA to Anna Maria Island, FL.

Starting in Washington, DC, where there is much to see from the Capitol to the Washington Monument to the Smithsonian Museums, you can begin heading on the road toward Virginia and the Carolinas. 

In Virginia, the historic college town of Williamsburg is well worth a visit. 

In addition to being a beautiful town, home to William and Mary College, it is also where you can step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg and learn a bit about American history. 

From here, head into North Carolina and stop in Raleigh if you plan to spend the night.

Then head into South Carolina, where a drive-through or stop in Charleston is a great thing to do. 

The historic and lavish architecture is well worth a look, and the southern hospitality and walk on the waterfront are worth it even just for a short visit. 

From here, continue into Georgia, where a stop in Savannah is a must. 

If you have a bit of time to spend in this southern city, the hop on hop off trolley, walking tours, and a 90-minute riverboat sightseeing cruise would be worth doing. 

This beautiful and historic city really is a gem on this road trip, so be sure to build in a bit of time, and even book a bed and breakfast for the night.  

Continue on from Georgia into northern Florida, where if you can stop in Jacksonville for a visit to the University of Florida or in St. Augustine for lunch or a walking tour of this beautiful and historic city. 

There is an old town part of St. Augustine well worth visiting, and depending on the time of day, is a great stop for a lunch. Continue on from St. Augustine to Anna Maria Island, Florida.

You may pass through Orlando and Tampa, which if you have time, may want to stop in one of these cities. 

While Orlando is home to many theme parks and activities, you won’t have time on this drive to do many of those unless you build in another day or two to your drive.

Instead, I suggest stopping in Tampa, where you will get to view this fantastic seaside city, where you can enjoy a cruise, walk around Ybor City, or grab a meal at the famous (and delicious) Columbia Restaurant. 

While you are also right at Clearwater Beach, you may want to save that beach visit for Anna Maria Island, just about an hours drive from Tampa, on the Gulf Coast, and renowned for its teal Caribbean-like water, white soft sand, quieter beaches, and home rentals perfect for a beach getaway. 

It’s the perfect destination to such a cultural and historic road trip, and one of the best road trips in the south USA.

Approximately 945 miles (about 14 hours total) one way.

Approximately 945 miles (about 14 hours total) one way, this road trip is at least a two to three-day drive, depending on how much you would like to stop along the way. 

The Outer Banks of North Carolina Road Trip

From Candice of CS Ginger

One of the best Southern USA road trips is driving through the Outer Banks. There are so many fun things to do in the Outer Banks  and its sweeping coastal scenery is gorgeous.

The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast filled with beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and fun beach towns.

A great historic stop in the Outer Banks is at the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

This is where the Wright brothers completed the first controlled flight in December of 1903.

There are a fun visitor’s center, some historical markers, and a replica of the first plane.

The Outer Banks is also home to the tallest brick lighthouse in the world. You can climb to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. There are 257 steps to the top.

The lighthouse and Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a great place to spend the afternoon. The beaches are beautiful and not crowded.

After spending time at Cape Hatteras, you can take the ferry over to Ocracoke Island.

There is another lighthouse on this smaller island, but it is not open to visitors.

There are, however, beautiful beaches making this island a fun spot to explore.

The distance from the northern town of Corolla through Hatteras, the southern point, is about 95 miles.

If you continue to the ferry to Ocracoke, the mileage is longer.

You can easily fill 4-5 days with fun activities during your Outer Banks road trip, and spend even more time in the area if you want to relax on the beach.

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

From Anna of Stuck On The Go

One of the best road trips in the southern US winds through Shenandoah National Park offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

If you drive Skyline Drive straight through it only takes a little under 3 hours but there are so many hikes, overlooks, and small towns to stop and explore. This is the perfect road trip for outdoorsy people.

You can start at the Front Royal Entrance Station and on your first day hike to Compton Peak where you’ll find a gorgeous view as well as unique geological formations that resemble the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland .

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Luray where you can shop in the boutiques along Main Street and visit the famous Luray Caverns.

If you like to camp then stay the night in Mathews Arm Campground, otherwise rent a room at the Skyland Resort inside the park.

For day two you can fit in two hikes – Stony Man and Hawksbill – which both offer stunning mountain views and are 2 of the best hikes in Shenandoah .

Have lunch at Big Meadows and make sure you get the blackberry ice cream pie for dessert!

In the afternoon you can hike Dark Hollow Falls or just head into Elkton or Sperryville.

Visit Sperryville for wineries and Elkton for breweries. Tonight stay at the Lewis Mountain Cabins & Campground.

On the last day of the road trip, hike Doyles River Falls and Blackrock Summit.

Stop for lunch at Blue Mountain Brewery and check out some of the other Waynesboro breweries. Main Street in Waynesboro is also very quaint.

For many people, 3 days is enough to spend in Shenandoah National Park.

However, if you are very outdoorsy and love to hike and explore small towns then you can spend a week in the Shenandoah Valley.

Northwest Arkansas Road Trip Loop

From Lydia of Lost With Lydia

Arkansas is an underrated state with a lot to offer for outdoor adventurers!

The state has beautiful state parks, incredible mountain biking trails, a uniquely historic national park, and much more.

The northwest portion of Arkansas is where you’ll find the most beautiful natural areas along with some fantastic cities. 

This road trip begins in Bentonville, a city known for mountain biking, modern art, and as the Walmart headquarters.

There are miles of mountain biking trails in parks around the city and trails range from beginner to advanced. 

Continue on from Bentonville to Buffalo National River, a beautiful river with epic canyon walls towering above it.

After the National River, enjoy hiking in the Ozark National Forest (the most famous hike is Whitaker Point) and take in the views at Mount Magazine and Mount Nebo. Mount Magazine is the highest point in the state. 

Be sure to not miss the most iconic state park in Arkansas: Petit Jean. This state park is a favorite of many and is home to a 95-foot waterfall, caves, and several unique rock formations. 

Spend some time in Little Rock for great food and interesting history. 

Things to do in Little Rock include visiting the Little Rock Central High School Museum, exploring the vibrant SOMA neighborhood, and hiking at Pinnacle Mountain. 

Finally, end your road trip with a visit to Arkansas’ only national park: Hot Springs.

Hot Springs National Park was a resort destination in the early 1900s and there are a couple of bathhouses still in operation today.

In addition to the spas, you can visit a brewery inside of a bathhouse and enjoy the views from the observation tower. 

A week is the minimum amount of time you’ll want to fully explore the cities and hiking destinations along the way.

Ideally, take 10 days or more to take your time and enjoy this underrated southern USA road trip itinerary.

Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast Road Trip

From Lori of Travlinmad

If you’re looking for an ideal year-round  road trip destination, Florida’s Gulf Coast  offers dreamy beaches, fantastic food, and some of America’s most (in)famous history!

Begin your road trip in Tampa, where you can spend 2 days exploring the city’s Cuban history in Ybor City and enjoy the amazing cuisine before heading south to Sarasota and Siesta Key.

Spend the next day in Sarasota admiring the mid-century architecture and visiting the Ringling Museum.

Shoppers will no doubt stay longer on St. Armand’s Circle, then head to Siesta Key later in the day to take in the new age vibes of the nightly drumming circle on the beach at sunset.

The next day, drive south to Casperson Beach in Venice and rent a “Florida snow shovel” for a few dollars to dig in the sand for prehistoric megalodon shark teeth.

Millions of them wash ashore every day and you just might find a big one to treasure!

Spend the night at Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island, one of Southwest Florida’s most historic towns before heading out the next morning for Fort Myers.

Situated where the Caloosahatchee River meets the Gulf of Mexico, the city of Fort Myers is worth a few days to explore the history and the beautiful beaches on Sanibel and Captiva.

Visit the summer homes of neighbors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, whose mansions are popular tourist attractions today.

The last stop on your road trip is Naples and Marco Island on the southwestern coast. This stunning region is known as the Paradise Coast and it’s easy to see why.

Spend your days on the soft white sand beaches, shopping at the luxury stores and dining downtown, or get out into the Everglades for some adventure.

It is 180 miles from Tampa to Marco Island.

Plan on 7-10 days for this southern road trip route.

There is plenty to see in the major cities of Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, and Marco Island, but you’ll find the real gems in between!

Virginia’s Eastern Shore Drive: Chincoteague to Cape Charles

Recommended by Erin Gifford of Go Hike Virginia

There’s so much to love about  Virginia’s Eastern Shore .

Roll down the windows and breathe in the salt-infused air as you make the 70-mile drive north to south from Chincoteague to Cape Charles.

Get ready to make stops for sandy beaches, ice cream shops, and verdant wetlands just right for a scenic paddle.

Start at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to miles of stroller-friendly hiking and biking trails.

The Chincoteague Lighthouse Trail is a must-visit to ogle the red-and-white striped Assateague Lighthouse.

Take a guided kayak tour or nature cruise across pristine coastal waterways with Assateague Explorer.

Keep your eyes open for wild ponies, as well as native wildlife, like sandhill cranes and eastern mud turtles, that call the wildlife refuge home.

Order up a scoop of Mint Chip or Pony Tracks at Island Creamery.

Spend the night at the Refuge Inn, a mainstay in Chincoteague since 1973. Chincoteague is also home to several camping resorts, including KOA and Jellystone Park.

Continue on to Onancock, a historic waterfront town.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich at Janet’s Café before strolling the hamlet’s tree-lined streets that wow with Victorian-style homes.

Take a tour of Ker Place, a historic Federal-style home.

On the south end of Virginia’s Eastern Shore is Cape Charles, which is home to gentle beaches and vibrantly-colored sunsets.

Spend the day on the beach at Kiptopeke State Park, then order hush puppies at The Shanty.

Cap off the day with a scoop at Brown Dog Ice Cream and settle in at the Sunset Beach Hotel on the Chesapeake Bay.

70  miles.

This trip is best enjoyed over at least 3 days, including one day in Chincoteague, one day in Onancock, and one day in Cape Charles.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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How to Take the Ultimate South Carolina Road Trip

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beaches of Hilton Head Island, what to see and where to stop on the perfect South Carolina road trip.

There are a lot of reasons to embark on a road trip , but the best might be the natural beauty you’ll experience from behind the wheel. The southeastern part of the United States has no shortage of sweeping landscapes, delicious food, and activities en plein air , and South Carolina , in particular, brings together mountaintop vistas, misty salt marshes, subtropical shorelines, and pimento cheese. The small state makes for a perfect drive as you can traverse most of it within the span of a few of hours.  

With scenic mountains to the north, secluded beaches to the east, and charming towns scattered in between, South Carolina accommodates any type of traveler. Pack your seersucker and your Sperrys, gas up the car, and head out into the Palmetto State. Starting in the cultural capital of Greenville, carry on to the coast to discover magnificent waterfalls, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, and fresh seafood along the way all over the course of one weekend.  

Travelers Rest

Located just outside of Greenville is Travelers Rest (or TR, as it's locally known), a place that once was just that — where travelers stopped along the way to rest. The town largely exploded when the Swamp Rabbit bike trail opened in 2009 and cyclists were looking for a place to grab a bite to eat before turning back to Greenville.

Now, TR is a culinary destination of its own, home to many award-winning chefs including the 2020 James Beard-nominated best chef in the southeast, Adam Cooke of the trendy restaurant Topsoil Kitchen and Market . Other notable culinary stops include Whistle Stop at The American Cafe , where the movie "Fried Green Tomatoes" was filmed, Pink Mama's Ice Cream for Instagram-worthy homemade pink waffle cones, and a weekly farmers market featuring over 70 local vendors.

Settle for the night at Hotel Domestique , a European-style boutique hotel tucked into the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, owned by legendary cyclist George Hincapie. You can get bike rentals, ride-along guides, and on-the-go lunches from the hotel and create your own bike tour through the mountains and trails of South Carolina.

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway

Using TR as a base, explore hundreds of bridges, waterfalls, and state parks nearby, or move on to one of the several rustic mountain towns. A scenic 115-mile drive through Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway (aka Scenic Highway 11) is especially beautiful in the fall.

There are a number of overlooks and historic points along the way worth stopping for as well. Check out Campbell's Covered Bridge, Stumphouse Mountain Park , Issaqueena Falls, Chattooga Belle Farm , Jones Gap State Park , and Jumping Off Rock, to name a few. Depending on the season, you may even get to pick your own apples or peaches while driving through the charming two-lane road.

A South Carolina road trip isn't complete without a stop in the capital city of Columbia. Columbia's small downtown is filled with culture and history. Visit the exhibits at the Columbia Museum of Art that often feature Black voices in the arts, and Immersion SC , an interactive art space with rooms transformed by the brilliant imaginations of local artists. The downtown area is pedestrian friendly and the South Carolina State House and the African-American History Monument are worth a visit. Another good way to learn about the history of the South is by taking a guided walking tour around historic mansions and gardens with educational nonprofit Historic Columbia .

Stay at the art-deco Hotel Trundle , a vibrant boutique hotel built in a former historic Western Auto building to experience the community's arts, crafts, and libations. To get a feel for the local atmosphere, spend Saturday morning at Soda City Market located next door. Here you will find the rich diversity of Columbia exhibited by over 150 vendors selling artisan products, international foods, and handmade crafts.

Kick back with an ice tea and pimento cheese dip, pimento cheese sandwich, pimento cheese pizza, pimento cheese wrap, or a pimento cheese biscuit — they've got it all. Also known as "Carolina caviar" or "Southern pate," pimento cheese originated back in Columbia and you can find all the restaurants that serve the best recipes on the pimento cheese passport .

Congaree National Park

About half an hour outside Columbia in the lush backcountry is Congaree National Park , where you can see the largest intact old growth bottomland hardwood forests in the southeastern United States. Spend a day hiking, canoeing, or kayaking along 25 miles of swamps and forests. If you are at Congaree in late May to early June, you can also watch a magical firefly synchronization mating phenomenon that occurs at only a few spots around the world.

Lake Murray

Many locals from central South Carolina head to Lake Murray to their weekend homes for fishing, swimming, and boating on the 50,000-acre reservoir lake. Rent a lakeside getaway , camp in a tent, and spend some time at Dreher Island State Park .

Here you can also observe one of the biggest purple martin roosting sites in North America. Take a boat tour to Bomb Island on Lake Murray between June and August to see 500,000 to 750,000 purple martins dotting the skies.

Marked by its magnolia- and oak tree-lined streets, Aiken is a picturesque small town in the heart of Thoroughbred Country. The town offers year-round equestrian events, first class polo, and horseback riding lessons for all levels. Ride, hike, or jog through 70 miles of trails that run through Hitchcock Woods , one of America's largest urban forests. Spend an afternoon strolling through the elegant Oak Alley at Hopelands Gardens , take a tour on the Aiken Trolley, and explore the laid-back culinary scene downtown.

Lodging options at Aiken include the romantic Willcox Hotel and the comfortably elegant Carriage House Inn , both located in the heart of historic downtown.

Hilton Head Island

End your road trip across South Carolina at its southernmost family-friendly beach town. The best way to explore the island is on a bike, traversing along 200 miles of pathways, trails, and hard-packed sand beaches. Hilton Head Island is the perfect place for an active outdoor vacation where you can swim, kayak, play tennis, and golf at award-winning championship courses . The relaxed, small town atmosphere welcomes beachgoers at casual waterfront bars and serves sustainable, fresh-caught Lowcountry seafood . Hilton Head's white sand beaches , wildlife-filled marshlands, idyllic marinas, and distinctive sunsets make it one of the prettiest vacation destinations.

You'll find luxury accommodations at one of the area's sprawling resorts like The Inn & Club at Harbour Town or the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

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North Carolina , Road Trips , Travel

The Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary for Families: Top 10 NC Towns to Visit

Planning to Road Trip NC?

Sweet!! You’re going to love NC! We sure do. Follow our ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary to see the best of what NC has to offer.

There are seriously so many family friendly things to do in North Carolina. North Carolina is a state known for its pristine beaches, lighthouses, NASCAR, waterfalls, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and more.

How long does it take to road trip across North Carolina?

To be totally honest, North Carolina is a pretty difficult state to road trip all in one fell swoop. While you can drive north to south in approximately three hours, driving across the state west to east will take you upwards of at least eight hours.

Where should I go on a road trip to North Carolina?

If you’re looking to explore North Carolina a little bit at a time, here are 7 awesome NC road trips to get a real taste of the Tar Heel state:

• Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip – With views for days, hiking, waterfalls, state parks, and cute mountain towns, you can easily spend an entire week exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC.
• NASCAR Highights – Do you feel the need for speed? See all things NASCAR on an NC road trip through Charlotte, Kannapolis, and Moorseville.
• Outer Banks Road Trip – Explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Wright Brothers Memorial, lighthouses, beautiful beaches, and more.
• North Carolina Filming Locations – Did you know North Carolina is a hotspot for filming? Check out famous movie locations from The Hunger Games, Dirty Dancing, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Talledega Nights, and Nights in Rodanthe. Wilmington alone has been home to many tv series including Dawson’s Creek, East Bound and Down, Sleepy Hollow, and One Tree Hill.
• Fall Foliage Road Trip – North Carolina is beautiful all year long, but in the fall the western half of the state really puts on a show. Road trip through Blowing Rock, Boone, and Asheville during October to see peak fall foliage. We highly recommend visiting some of NC’s epic waterfalls during this road trip as well.
• NC BBQ Trai l – There’s no shame in my game. We’re all about searching out the best places to eat when we travel. And North Carolina knows how to do BBQ! Our favorites are Prime in Knightdale, B’s Barbecue in Greenville, and
• Coastal North Carolina – Hit up some of the lesser known beaches along the incredible NC coastline. We suggest Wrightsville Beach , Sunset Beach, Kure Beach, and Topsail Beach.

NC Road Trip

If you’re trying to hit all the highlights in one big NC road trip, I’ve put together this ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerar y for your family. But, because I’m also a realist, I’ve split up this itinerary into two seven day itineraries for those of you who can’t swing a two week trip.

If you can do it all at once, rock on. If you only have one week of vacation, choose the eastern 7 day North Carolina itinerary one year for a summer vacation and choose the western 7 day itinerary the following year for a fall vacation.

Are we there yet? Check out our epic list of 250 road trip questions to keep the whole car entertained along the way!

The Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

So…without further ado, here is my ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary including my top 10 picks of cool cities to visit in NC:

• Day 1: Raleigh
• Day 2: Rocky Mount
• Day 3: Outer Banks: Kill Devil Hills
• Day 4: Outer Banks: Nags Head
• Day 5: Outer Banks: Ocracoke
• Day 6: Wilmington
• Day 7: Wilmington
• Day 1: Charlotte
• Day 2: Charlotte
• Day 3: Asheville
• Day 4: Asheville, Cherokee
• Day 5: Asheville
• Day 6: Boone
• Day 7: Boone, Depart for Home

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Outer Banks, soak up some sun along our amazing National seashore, see epic North Carolina waterfalls, or have been planning a road trip to the Biltmore Estate or scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, then we have got you covered. We’re hitting all the best things to do in North Carolina in one ultimate NC road trip.

Ready? Let’s get this road trip party started!

Road tripping is the perfect family vacation!! Need help planning? Don’t forget these road trip essentials or simply grab our free printable worksheets below!

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Best Cities to Visit in North Carolina on a NC Road Trip

We’ll be highlighting some popular cities in NC but also some of the best small towns along the way!

We’re kicking off this road trip in Raleigh or Charlotte . Why? Well, because if you’re flying into the area, you’re likely to start your road trip from one of our major international airports: RDU in Raleigh or CLT in Charlotte.

Raleigh, NC

Welcome to the state capitol, Raleigh, North Carolina! Head downtown to check out the shopping and art scene , Fayetteville Street, museums, and Marbles Kids Museum .

Want to get outside? Check out Pullen Park, Umstead Park, or the NC Farmers Market. If you have time, be sure to catch a Hurricanes hockey game or one of our epic college sports match ups! There are so many fun things to do in Raleigh , you could easily spend a few days here.

Raleigh is an up and coming foodie destination! Wondering what to eat and drink in Raleigh? We recommend:

• The Pit Authentic Barbecue or Cowfish
• Brewery Bhavana , Vidrio or Poole’s Diner for an adult dinner.
• Fresh Local Ice Cream or Bittersweet for drinks and dessert.

(If you’re road tripping with kids here are a few more ideas of things to do in Raleigh with kids and family friendly restaurants .)

Rocky Mount, NC

Rocky Mount, NC is the perfect stop for any road trip through North Carolina! Situated conveniently at the intersection of Interstate 95 and Highway 64 there are a ton of fun things to do in Rocky Mount!

Since you only have one day, you cannot miss visiting the Rocky Mount Mills, a restored cotton mill now housing five craft breweries, three restaurants, and the cutest coffee shop you ever did see! There’s also a ton of room for kids to run and play to get out some of that energy.

Love the outdoors? Spend some time exploring the trails at Battle Park. For a completely unique experience, make sure to spend the night stay at River & Twine , the world’s largest tiny house hotel!

Want more details? Read more in my family friendly guide of things to do in Rocky Mount, NC , extensive guide to the Rocky Mount Mills , and find out our top choices of where to eat in Rocky Mount .

NC’s Outer Banks: Kill Devil Hills, Nags, Head, & Ocracoke

Pack up the car, it’s time to head 2.5 hours to the OBX! With over 200 miles of coastline, you’ll never cover the entire Outer Banks in just a few days, but you can certainly see some of the highlights. The Outer Banks is a must on any NC road trip.

We recommend staying in the centrally located Kill Devil Hills or Nags Head so that you can make the most of your visit. In just two days your family can visit the Wright Brother’s National Memorial, Jockey’s Ridge State Park (the tallest active dune system on the east coast of the USA), Bodie Island Lighthouse, and spend some time on the beach. If you’re up for a little more driving, head north an hour to Corolla to see the wild horses, an absolutely unforgettable experience!

Need more ideas of what to do in the Outer Banks? Read my family friendly guide to the Outer Banks and Corolla .

OBX : What does OBX mean? OBX is simply a local abbreviation for the Outer Banks. From hang gliding, to history, to getting your foodie fix there are endless options in the Outer Banks!

Last on our Outer Banks tour, you’re going to head south to Ocracoke. Make sure to set your alarm as you’ll have to catch the ferry to get to this picturesque North Carolina destination. Ocracoke definitely belongs on any NC bucket list . Slow down and savor this tiny island’s pristine beaches, cute shops, and friendly locals. But if slowing down really isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can also choose to spend your day surfing, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, fishing, or kayaking. The village wide speed limit is 20 mph and you’ll see most people walking, biking, or using a golf cart to get around!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO : Make your ferry reservation in advance during the busy summer months so you don’t miss out on precious time on the island!

Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out these awesome family friendly AirBnB’s in the Outer Banks and our family favorite place to stay: The Saturday House .

Wilmington, NC

Get up bright and early because today will consist a lot of travel time! The ferry to Cedar Island from Ocracoke takes around two hours. Enjoy your time on the ferry soaking in the beautiful views because you’ll have another three hours in the car driving the rest of the way to Wilmington. Not to worry though, you’ll have plenty of options for small cute NC towns to stop for food, to stretch your legs and find some fun things to do!

Once you’ve arrived in Cedar Island, we recommend driving one more hour to Beaufort, NC for some lunch. Spend some time wandering this absolutely adorable small NC town! It will steal your heart, I promise. Already been to Beaufort? Try stopping in one of these other unique small towns in NC on your way to Wilmington: Morehead City, Surf City, or Topsail Beach.

Since you’ll be arriving in Wilmington later in the day, we’d go straight downtown to explore the Riverwalk area, maybe take a carriage tour, and grab dinner.

Fill your second day in Wilmington with a visit to the Battleship North Carolina, historical Fort Fisher, Carolina Beach State Park, more water sports, or just lounging on the beautiful beaches.

Need more ideas of fun things to do? Read our family friendly guide to Wilmington, NC , Wrightsville Beach , and Carolina Beach, NC !

Trying to decide where to eat in Wilmington? Our quick picks of where to eat in Wilmington:

• K38 Baja Grill (Best Mexican on the face of the planet.)
• Dockside (Waterfront dining)
• Indochine (Thai/ Vietnamese)
• Circa 1922 (Tapas and sushi)

For a full list, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Wilmington .

Need somewhere to stay? We recommend the Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront and the Courtyard Wilmington Downtown .

Charlotte, NC

On the road again…drive 3.5 hours to Charlotte, NC! Here are some fun things to do in Charlotte depending on the time of year you are visiting:

• US National Whitewater Center – check out the whitewater rafting, ropes course, or the many mountain biking trails.
• Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame or catch an actual race!
• Love a theme park? Spend the day at Carowinds .
• Get your art on at The Mint Museum.
• Find some family fun and learn something too at Discovery Place.
• Soak up the beauty of Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.
• Catch a pro football game at the Bank of America stadium, a show at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, or even a concert at the Spectrum Center.

Need somewhere to stay? We really love the AC Hotel by Marriott if we’re looking to stay downtown and the Courtyard Charlotte Concord if we’re staying near the racetrack.

Pro-Tip: If you’re into fall foliage…then these next three stops are where it’s at! But make your plans in advance, this area gets super busy in October for peek leaf peeping!

Asheville, NC

Hop into the car for your two hour drive this morning to Asheville, NC! Asheville is one of the coolest cities in NC with a ton of unique things to do! Don’t miss a visit to The Biltmore Estate , Chimney Rock State Park , Sliding Rock, and diving head first into the amazing food and beer scene! If you’ve been planning a road trip to the Biltmore Estate or wanting to see some North Carolina waterfalls, here is your chance!

There are a ton of unique places this area of the state like fun mountain cabins and these cool North Carolina treehouses . If you’re looking to stay in downtown Asheville, we highly recommend the Renaissance Asheville Hotel .

Need more details? Check out our guides to visiting Asheville and The Biltmore Estate.

Cherokee, NC

Although we recommend staying in the Asheville area as your home base for this North Carolina road trip (to minimize switching accommodations every night) a day trip to Cherokee, NC is a must! Cherokee is your gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here you can spend your time hiking, biking, or swimming and learn about the Cherokee Indians! And if gambling is your thing, then make sure to check out one of the best casinos in the Southeast: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.

This morning’s scenic drive is about an hour and a half to get to Grandfather Mountain . Spend the morning here before driving on a half an hour to Boone, North Carolina! Check out the views on the Blue Ridge Parkway , enjoy some serious family fun at Tweetsie Railroad , go gem mining, and check out the adorable town of Blowing Rock! Fit in a trip to Linville Gorge and Linville Falls your final morning before heading back home.

Insider Tip: Visit to the Mast General Store and the Daniel Boone Inn for a unique North Carolina experience!

What is the best time of year to travel to North Carolina?

North Carolina is beautiful year round, however there are pros and cons to each area and travel season.

• SUMMER in NC : We love to recommend travel to NC in the spring and fall but if you’re really looking to enjoy our amazing beaches, you may want to travel during the summer. But beware! Most of the state gets very hot and humid throughout the summer. Our beaches are insanely popular during the summer so make sure to plan in advance so you don’t miss out!
• FALL in NC : If you’re looking for incredible fall foliage and more mild beach weather, then consider traveling in autumn. But beware! We are smack dab in the middle of hurricane alley. There is always a chance of a hurricane in late summer, early fall. The mountains are also very popular this time of year so book early to guarantee you get a reservation.
• WINTER in NC : Winter is generally very mild in NC but you may have a chance of snow in the western half of the state. Pack a warm coat and you should be just fine.
• SPRING in NC : Finally spring is lovely time to travel the entire state as long as you can handle the pollen! The temperatures are warming up, the flowers are blooming, but you the ocean may be a little too cold still for swimming.

Share your epic road trip on social media with these inspiring road trip captions and quotes !

Bonus 10 Day NC Road Trip Itinerary

IF you’ve been around a while, you’ll know our family loves a ten day vacation. For some reason that amount of time works for us. So…I put together a fun 10 day NC road trip itinerary . You won’t see as much of the coast but you can still see many of the highlights.

• Day 1: Rocky Mount
• Day 2: NC’s Outer Banks
• Day 3: NC’s Outer Banks
• Day 4: New Bern, Wilmington
• Day 5: Wilmington
• Day 6: Charlotte
• Day 7: Asheville
• Day 8: Asheville
• Day 9: Boone
• Day 10: Raleigh

Fun Things to Do in North Carolina

So… have we provided enough ideas for you to figure out what to do in North Carolina?? We’re proud to call NC home and love exploring our state. We’re always discovering new and fun things to do! Are you ready to start planning your ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary? We love trip planning and are happy to help create an itinerary that fits your travel needs and wants. Feel free to reach out by leaving a comment below or DM me on Instagram with questions.

What’s the first thing you’re going to do during your NC road trip?

Pin this Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary!

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27 comments.

Goodness you have sooo many fun sounding ideas. I have to admit, I am not a big fan of cities, so I might adjust it to spend more time on the island and then loooads of time hiking in the mountains and searching for waterfalls!

Still, however you split your time, NC looks like great fun, especially in the summer!

There are so many great places in NC to enjoy the outdoors and the cutest small towns too!!

Asheville has been on my wish list for years. Pinned your post and I hope to plan a trip to NC in the future!

Asheville is amazing!! Definitely worth a visit!!

This road trip looks awesome! I would love to ride the white water and see Biltmore Estate and see all of the other sites you mentioned. I’m bookmarking this for later this year!

I just moved to North Carolina in February and am very much looking forward to exploring. My hubby and I love road trips – so your post is perfect!

Welcome to NC!! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!!

I have never thought of North Carolina as a travel destination. But this itinerary is such a fun way to experience the best this state has to offer. Very impressive. Thank you!

I think NC is overlooked a lot as a travel destination!! So much to discover!!

The whitewater center looks especially fun! I’ll definitely keep this guide handy when I visit NC. Thanks for this! 🙂

North Carolina looks so beautiful! In addition to New Hampshire, North Carolina is also a state I still haven’t explored on the east coast. My two top travel destinations in NC are Charlotte and Asheville. I’m definitely keeping this post handy. 🙂

This sounds like an amazing road trip! I’ve been to Raleigh but haven’t had the chance to see the rest of the state. I’d love to visit Charlotte, Asheville and the Outer Banks. Great tips and route info!

I haven’t been to NC in a couple years, but I’ve been to Raleigh, Wilmington, Charlotte, and Asheville! <3 Loved the beaches in Wilmington and loved pretty much everything about Asheville–I'd love to go back again someday! *-*

Thanks for this wonderful guide! North Carolina is somewhere I’d love to visit so I’m going to keep your post handy for a future visit!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

North Carolina is one of the best states in the Eastern part of the US. So diverse. Great ideas here for sure!!

Your road trip itineraries are THE BEST! I get done reading and want to go…like now! Thanks for sharing these details and for making this trek feel totally do-able!

NC Is my happy place! My family is in Cary, so we spent alot of time there. Last summer we went to Kure Beach, it was so great! I love the OBX too. Have not explored more to the west.

So many beautiful places to explore in NC. Asheville and Outer Banks are on my list. Saving this!

I’ve never been to NC but this post just made me put it in my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

So many places to visit. I haven’t been to this area so looking forward to trying some of your suggestions.

This is wonderful! I just added a ton of notes to my Roadtripper Itinerary for our SE Road trip. The restaurants in Wilmington look amazing! I’m already drooling! 🙂 – Linzey @thefamilyfuntour

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The Perfect USA Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 57 Comments

One of the trips in the US that we had always wanted to do was a “Deep South” road trip. We think the USA is the perfect country for road tripping in, and we’ve already done a number of road trips here, including iconic Route 66 , the Pacific Coast Highway , and the Oregon Trail.

The Deep South was a part of the USA that neither of us had fully explored, so we decided to spend five weeks crossing five states to find out what it was all about. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your own perfect USA Deep South Road Trip, including what to eat, what to see, and where to go!

Where is the Deep South of the USA?

First things first. If you’re going to road trip somewhere, you should probably know where it is, right? Well, the Deep South of the USA is usually defined as covering the following states: South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.

This Deep South road trip itinerary covers a road trip across all five of those states, covering key sights and attractions along the way. We’ve personally done this itinerary, and can definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fantastic road trip across America’s Deep South.

Why Should You Visit the Deep South of the USA?

The Deep South is a fascinating part of the USA, a land with its own culture and history. The people are known for their friendliness, the food is legendary (so are the portion sizes!), and there is a huge amount of history here to learn about, from the native peoples through to the American Civil War and civil rights movement.

There are lovely old towns, stunning wilderness areas, sumptuous plantation homes, spooky old cemeteries and fun events – like the world famous Mardi Gras parades. To be honest there’s something for everyone. And what better way to experience all of this than by taking a classic road trip across the Deep South?

We’d argue there isn’t a better way. So let’s take a look at our idea of a perfect Deep South road trip itinerary.

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

This is a one way road trip itinerary. We find this makes the most sense for this road trip, as it saves you driving all the way back to the start.

If you rent a car for the trip, be aware that most car rental providers charge a one-way fee. As is often the case with our road trips, we booked our hire car directly with Enterprise who offered the best value for our trip.

We can also recommend comparing prices across a range of providers using a website like Discover Cars . If you decide to rent an RV, then we recommend Motorhome Republic to compare and book.

The timings below are for a three week trip, however you can adjust the days to suit your own schedule, and we have some suggested itineraries in the section on timing further on in the post.

Days 1-3: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is the perfect place to start this road trip. It has a food scene that is one of the best in the country, and there is a lot to see and do here – plus the airport is fairly large, so it’s easy to get to.

We’d suggest spending at least two days in Charleston. Spend some time exploring the downtown area – a good way to do so is to take a carriage ride through the historic part of town.

There are also a number of museums and old houses that are worth visiting, including Charleston Museum – the oldest in the US, and the Old Slave Mart Museum , which will help you learn about a darker part of US history.

If you’re interested in naval or military history, the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point is well worth a visit – a retired US aircraft carrier which you can lose a whole day exploring. A trip out to Fort Sumter is also well worth it – this was where the first shots were fired in the American Civil War.

You’re going to be encountering a lot of civil war sights and information on this road trip, so starting with Fort Sumter will get you up to speed quickly. You can get your tickets for Fort Sumter in advance here .

If you’ve got time, I’d also suggest heading out of town and visiting some of the old plantation homes around Charleston.

We visited four of these, and can definitely recommend adding at least one to your itinerary. There are four within a twenty minute drive of the city: Magnolia Plantation , Boone Hall Plantation , Middleton Place Plantation and Drayton Hall .

See our complete guide to the Charleston Plantations for more information and to help plan your visit.

For more on Charleston, take a look at my detailed guide to visiting Charleston , which has everything you need for getting the most out of your stay. We can also recommend the Charleston Tour Pass (also check price here ) for saving money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in Charleston : We’ve stayed in and can recommend both the Mills House Wyndham Grand and the Francis Marion Hotel . Other recommended options are the Days Inn by Wyndham , the NotsoHostel and Barksdale House Inn .

Days 4 – 6: Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah has a totally different vibe to Charleston – and there’s plenty to see and do here as well.

For that reason, you’ll want to spend at least a day or two in Savannah. I’d also suggest on your way down that you take the time to pop out to Botany Bay Island – there’s a beautiful beach here full of driftwood trees that is worth visiting.

Once you get to Savannah, you won’t be short of options for signt-seeing, eating and drinking. From learning about the town’s history and the civil war and civil rights movement at the Savannah History Museum , through to taking a trolley tour and exploring the beautiful waterfront, you’ll find your days full in no time.

If you’ve got time, we also recommend heading out of town to Tybee Island – an old seaside resort, where you’ll find a lengthy beach and historic lighthouse. On the way there, you’ll also be able to visit the civil war era Fort Pulaski , and the excellent Oatland Island Wildlife Centre , home to everything from mountain lions to birds of prey.

Finally, don’t miss the incredible Bonaventure Cemetery , and, as you head out of town, we also suggest visiting Wormsloe Historic Site . Read more about what to see and do (and some great food ideas!) in Savannah in our Savannah guide .

Savannah also has a pass that can save you money, the Savannah Tour Pass (compare price here too), which is worth looking into if you plan on visiting some of the attractions it covers.

Where to stay in Savannah : We stayed in and can recommend the  Quality Inn in downtown Savannah. Other options to consider include the Olde Harbour Inn , The Alida , and the Fairfield Inn & Suites .

Days 7 & 8: Atlanta, Georgia

Next stop on our Deep South road trip is the capital city of Georgia – Atlanta.

If you have time though, I’d recommend taking the time to head a bit further south of Savannah to Jekyll Island. There’s a beautiful driftwood beach at the north end of the island, perfect for watching the sunset or sunrise, and the island itself has a relaxed laid back feeling.

Then, rather than the interstate, cruise up the quieter country roads from Brunswick to Macon, and the onto Atlanta.

Atlanta is the capital city of Georgia, and has a definite city feel. We didn’t spend a lot of time here, but we did visit the World of Coca Cola , where we learnt all about the history of this iconic soft drink (and drank a lot of it too!).

Other highlights in Atlanta include the Georgia Aquarium , the Atlanta Zoo , CNN Studio Tours , the Centre for Civil and Human Rights and the Fernbank Museum of National History .

If you’re planning on visiting a number of these locations, we recommend checking out the Atlanta CityPass , which can save you over 40% on ticket prices.

Once you’re done with Atlanta, it’s time to head to a new state – Alabama!

Where to stay in Atlanta : Options to consider in Atlanta include the AC Hotel Atlanta , Loews Atlanta Hotel ,  the Springhill Suites by Marriott and the Clarion Inn & Suites .

Days 9 & 10: Birmingham, Alabama

The Civil Rights movement in the USA existed across the nation, but many of the key events in the march towards equal rights for all happened in Alabama.

One of these events was the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, which killed four African-American girls, and injured at least 14 others.

It was also the home of the Birmingham Campaign , one of the key movements that focused the attention of the country, and the world, on the civil rights movement.

One of the best places to learn about these events is at the excellent Birmingham Civil Rights Institute , which forms a part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , alongside other key civil rights locations in the city.

These include the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park, both of which are just over the road from the Institute, as well as the Bethel Baptist Church and the A.G. Gaston Motel.

As well as learning about Civil Rights, Birmingham has a number of other attractions. This was a major mining town and there are a number of sights you can visit to learn about this history. The old Sloss Furnaces , now a National Historic Landmark, offer an insight into the industrial past of the city.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined. Today, the mountain is topped by a giant statue of the Roman god Vulcan – the largest cast iron statue in the world. This statue is the symbol of the city, and from the top of the hill you can get a wonderful view of the city and surrounds.

Finally, before continuing your adventure, a food recommendation. We ate a lot of great BBQ across the South, and Saw’s BBQ in Birmingham was definitely among our favourites. If you like BBQ – check them out.

Where to stay in Birmingham : Options to consider in Birmingham include the historic 3* Cobb Lane B&B , the 3* Redmont Hotel and the 4* Elyton Hotel . For more budget options, consider the Red Roof Inn or the Quality Inn & Suites , just be aware that these are a short drive out of the city centre.

Days 11 & 12: Montgomery, Alabama

Heading south from Birmingham now, and our road trips takes us to Alabama’s state capital – Montgomery. Again, there’s a lot to see and do here.

We really enjoyed visiting the free Museum found in the Alabama Department of Archives and History , which took us through a whole history of the state, from the native people through to the civil war, civil rights movement and on to modern day Alabama.

Just opposite this is the First White House of the Confederacy, also worth a visit, which was where the President of the Confederate States was based during the period of time that Montgomery was the capital city of these states in early 1861.

There are some other fascinating museums in and around Montgomery if you’re feeling like learning. There’s the Mooseum , which will teach you everything you didn’t know about the beef industry.

Then there’s the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum , found in one of their former homes, which, as the name suggests, is all about the life of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald – Scott being particularly famous for penning the Great Gatsby .

Finally, there’s the excellent Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts , showcasing fine art from both American and International artists.

Don’t worry, there’s more to Montgomery than museums of course. We loved visiting Chris’ Hot Dogs , a staple Montgomery diner, which has been serving up classic American fare since 1917!

Finally, there are some lovely locations just to wander. Montgomery has some wonderful historic districts that are worth exploring on foot, and the riverwalk area (also home to the visitors information centre), is a pleasant spot for a stroll.

Where to stay in Montgomery, AL : Accommodation options to consider in Montgomery include the Lattice Inn , the Red Bluff Cottage B&B , the Hampton Inn & Suites . Nearby budget options include this Red Roof Inn and this Extended Stay America .

Day 13: Selma, Alabama

From Montgomery, it’s a short trip across to Selma, which is well worth visiting. We had recently seen the movie Selma when we visited, which had helped with some of our understanding of the importance of this town.

It was in Selma that the famous Selma to Montgomery march took place, with marchers including Dr. Martin Luther King. The march met with violent resistance on Edmund Pettus Bridge on a day that became known as Bloody Sunday, and was unable to continue.

The march was attempted again two days later, but again was forcefully stopped. Finally, on the 21st March 1965, the march was allowed to proceed, and made it all the way to Montgomery, arriving on the 25th March 1965.

Today, Selma is worth visiting to get a feel for the town where these key civil rights events took place. You can walk across the bridge, visit the National Voting Rights Museum & Institute , and the Selma Interpretative Centre, to get eye witness accounts and first hand information on the civil rights movement.

Once you’ve finished seeing Selma, our next destination will be Mobile, but we definitely recommend taking the 20 minutes to drive out to the Old Cahawba Archaeological Site .

For five years, from 1820 to 1825, Cahawaba was the state capital of Alabama. This is hard to believe today, as the town is entirely abandoned, known instead as Alabama’s most famous ghost town. Some buildings have survived, and it is eerie to drive or walk around what was once a large town that is now silent.

Where to stay in Selma, AL : Selma is a relatively small town so there is not a huge choice. This Holiday Inn Express Hotel is the best rated of the options available.

Day 14: Mobile, Alabama

Time to head for the coast now, and the last stop in Alabama – Mobile. In Mobile you’ll notice that famous style of French architecture that the old quarter of New Orleans is famed for, this is because Mobile was the original capital of French Louisiana. It was subsequently colonised by the British and then the Spanish, before joining the United States in 1813.

Again, there’s a lot to do in Mobile, with plenty of museums, historic attractions, parks, not to mention restaurants and bars. However, our real interest in visiting Mobile was to learn about the roots of the Mardi Gras Carnival, because it was in Mobile that the first organised Carnival celebrations took place, leading to the huge parades and celebrations that we now associated with Mardi Gras in the south.

We were in Mobile for their Mardi Gras festivities, and very much enjoyed seeing the night time parade. We also visited the Mobile Carnival Museum , which is a great way to get up to speed with the history of the Carnival in the USA.

Where to stay in Mobile, AL : Good central options in Mobile include the Candlewood Suites , Hampton Inn and Suites and the Forte Conde Inn . Value options a little way out of the city centre include La Quinta by Wyndham and Wingate by Wyndham .

Days 15 & 16: Biloxi, Mississippi

From Mobile, it’s time to leave Alabama and head west, into Mississippi. I’ll be honest – time constraints meant that we didn’t have time on our trip to do a lot of sight-seeing in Mississippi. Which is a shame, because this is a state with a lot to offer, and it’s somewhere we fully intend to return to.

On the route across to Louisiana we mostly just drove through, but we think if you have time, you might want to add in some sight-seeing in Mississippi.

Most logically, the city of Biloxi falls on the route and is a good stopping point.

Other highlights of the route include the INFINITY Science Centre – a 72,000 sq foot NASA visitor and science museum which forms a part of the John C. Stennis Space Centre. If you like space, rockets and science, this is a must visit.

After Biloxi, you’ll be crossing the border and into Louisiana, the final state of your deep south road trip!

Where to stay in Biloxi, MS : There’s a wide range of great value accommodation in Biloxi, including several casino resort hotels. These can be fantastic value if you resist the temptation to gamble. Some examples include the Golden Nugget and the IP Casino Resort and Spa . There’s also a good value Suburban Extended Stay just outside the city.

Days 17 & 18: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is the State Capital of Louisiana, and again, there’s plenty to do here to fill two or three days of exploring and eating time.

A highlight for us was a trip to the State Capitol building . This incredible construction towers over the city, and you get incredible views from the top floor – plus you can visit the House of Representatives, and the State Senate, to see politics in action.

Whilst you’re at the State Capitol, you should also visit the old Baton Rouge Arsenal, originally a powder magazine, and now a museum about its history. Capitol Park Museum , which covers a full history of the state of Louisiana, is also well worth a couple of hours of your time at least.

Other highlights of Baton Rouge include the castle-like Old State Capitol Building , which has a stunningly beautiful interior, the Old Governors Mansion , and the USS Kidd – a naval museum on an old warship anchored in the Mississippi.

For more information on what to do on your time in Baton Rouge, including advice for visiting during Mardi Gras, check out our post on the top Things to Do in Baton Rouge .

Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, along the mighty Mississippi river, is the famous “river road”. This was once home to hundreds of plantation homes and some of the wealthiest people in the country, who made their money predominantly growing sugar cane and through slave labour.

Today, a small number of these plantation homes survive, mostly as visitor attractions. There are a good many to choose from, all of which offer a slightly different experience to the visitor, including some which let you stay overnight.

Helping you choose which one to visit is a post in itself – thankfully Jess has already written one. Check it out for the definitive guide to the Plantations of the Louisiana River Road , based on our experiences visiting 12 of these plantations.

Where to stay in Baton Rouge, LA : We stayed at the very central Hampton Inn and Suites in Baton Route. Other options to consider include the Holiday Inn Express Baton Rouge , the 4* Watermark Baton Rouge and the Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge . For budget out of town options, try Sleep Inn South , Microtel Inn & Suites or SureStay Plus .

Days 19 – 21: New Orleans, Louisiana

Last stop on our epic road trip across the Deep South of the USA is New Orleans . Famous for its huge Mardi Gras celebrations, there is a lot to see and do here – so much so that we happily spent a week exploring the city.

Of course, if you want to experience a huge Mardi Gras, then New Orleans is the place to come. The parades are massive, the crowds are gigantic, and the atmosphere is tough to beat.

We had a lot of fun visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras and would happily recommend it. That said, there is a lot more to the city than Mardi Gras.

We suggest visiting Mardi Gras World to get a handle on the carnival, heading to the French Quarter to admire the beautiful old balconied buildings, eating Beignets at Café Beignet , sipping coffee at Cafe du Monde , and taking a tour of one of the old cemeteries.

We also took a river boat cruise on the steam powered riverboat the Natchez , which was a wonderful way to end our Deep South adventure.

For more on what to see and do in New Orleans, check out our guide to visiting  New Orleans during Mardi Gras , which has lots of information on activities, plus advice on visiting during Mardi Gras.

We can also recommend the New Orleans Pass to save money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in New Orleans, LA : There’s a huge amount of choice in New Orleans, although if you visit during Mardi Gras, expect prices to be high. Some options for you to consider are: Bourbon Orleans Hotel , La Quinta by Wyndham , Hotel Mazarin , Hotel le Marais and French Market Inn .

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the above route to help you plan your own trip.

Well done – you made it! And so did we. Now, let’s answer some questions you might have, and then cover some practicalities for your trip.

How Long Does a Deep South Road Trip Take?

We spent five weeks road tripping from Charleston to New Orleans, although we spent almost a week at either end, and we travelled fairly slowly, taking our time and really savoring the adventure.

We’d suggest that a two week deep south road trip would be the minimum amount of time we’d recommend, and if you have time, try to stretch it to three weeks so you can fit more in.

As an example of how each of these might look, we have put together suggested timings for a two week deep south road trip itinerary and a three week deep south road trip itinerary below.

2 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 & 2: Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 3 & 4: Savannah, Georgia
• Day 5: Atlanta, Georgia
• Day 6: Birmingham, Alabama
• Day 7: Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 8: Selma, Alabama
• Day 9: Mobile, Alabama
• Day 10: Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 11 & 12: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 13 & 14: New Orleans, Louisiana

3 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 – 3 : Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 4 – 6 : Savannah, Georgia
• Days 7 & 8 : Atlanta, Georgia
• Days 9 & 10 : Birmingham, Alabama
• Days 11 & 12 : Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 13 : Selma, Alabama
• Day 14 : Mobile, Alabama
• Days 15 & 16 : Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 17 & 18 : Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 19 – 21 : New Orleans, Louisiana

Of course, there’s a lot more to see in all the states we’ve mentioned, so you could easily extend this itinerary for as long as you wish!

When to Visit the Deep South

We visited in January, when the temperatures were pleasant for the most part – although we did experience light and brief snowfall in Birmingham, Alabama! We’d definitely suggest Winter or Spring / Fall would offer the most reasonable temperatures. In the summer this part of the USA gets very hot and humid, which can make sight-seeing uncomfortable.

If you’re interested in attending the Mardi Gras festivities, these vary in timing as they are based around Shrove Tuesday, a religious date which changes every year. It usually falls somewhere in February or March.

If you’re not interested in Mardi Gras, it’s best to avoid cities that celebrate it during this time, particularly places like New Orleans, Mobile and Baton Rouge, as accommodations will be both expensive and hard to find.

What to Eat in the Deep South

Fair warning, don’t come to the Deep South expecting to lose weight. Portions are large and the food is definitely waist expanding.

There are a lot of foods to try, but some of our favourites were:

Gumbo – A soup which can be made with seafood or meat and is either cajun or creole in style

Jambalaya – A Louisianan rice dish mixed up with various meats, usually including smokey sausage

Fried Chicken – No round up of Southern food would be complete without mentioning fried chicken. Usually battered, this is an absolute must-try when journeying through the south. We had it presented in all kinds of forms, from the classic no frills fried chicken, through to fried chicken on waffles with bacon and maple syrup. Amazing.

BBQ – Of course, the Deep South doesn’t have a monopoly on BBQ (Texans in particular would have something to say about this I suspect), but the origins of BBQ are definitely in the south. Different regions have different BBQ sauce styles, with the classic meat being pork.

Grits – I’d never had grits before visiting the Deep South, and was I missing out! Served generally as an accompaniment, they are made from ground corn which is boiled. Tastier than they sound!

Where to Stay in the Deep South

There are a lot of lodging options in the USA, truly something for pretty much every budget. On our trip, we did a mix of motels, hotels and AirBnB stays, generally booking online using booking.com as we found that was cheaper than turning up at the property.

Often we’d arrive at hotels and ask if they would price match, but we were usually told by the reception staff to book through booking.com for the best deal! So we did.

For your convenience, here are direct links to all the city pages on booking.com that we used for our deep south road trip. Each section of the article also has recommended lodgings.

• Baton Rouge
• New Orleans

Practicalities for your Deep South Road Trip

Travelling in the Deep South of the USA is relatively easy. People are generally friendly, you can ask for help, and the infrastructure is good. There are a few things to be aware of, so here’s a run down of some of the most important.

The USA uses a 120 Volt electrical system, which means if you’re coming from Europe you need to check if your equipment is supported. Most laptops and phone chargers will work (the adapter will have 100 – 240V marked on it), however high powered items like hair dryers and travel kettles may not. You can buy voltage convertors, but these tend to be heavy – my advice would be just to pick up a cheap version of whatever it is you need in the country from somewhere like Walmart.

The plugs are for the most part a narrow two pin plug, if you’re coming from abroad you’ll need a travel adapter . See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

I also advise travelling with a power strip – often motels / hotels don’t have enough outlets to charge all those gadgets we travel with. Something like this would be good.

Internet Access

Internet access is relatively easy to find in the US. WiFi networks can be found at most bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels, and there are also free networks in some public areas. So getting online isn’t too hard.

If you need to be permanently online with data on your phone, you have a number of options. First, check if your cellphone provider has some form of overseas roaming policy. If the prices are unreasonable, you have a number of other options.

First, if your phone is unlocked, you can pick up a SIM card locally. One of the better value deals in the USA I found was the Straight Talk plan, which offers 5GB of data for $45, and can be picked up at any Walmart. There are lots of other PAYG options to choose from, see an overview here .

For more information on the various options you have for getting online, see our complete guide to getting online when you travel .

Health / Insurance

The USA has a great healthcare system, with the huge caveat that it’s mind-bogglingly expensive. I cannot stress the importance of good travel insurance enough that will cover your medical fees if the worst should happen.

Depending on where you live in the world there are numerous travel insurance companies, so do shop around for a good policy.

We have a full guide to travel insurance for UK travellers here.

Safety Tips

The USA is a safe country to travel in for the most part, however, sensible precautions should apply. Don’t leave valuables alone or in plain sight, especially in parked cars. Take advantage of the safe in your hotel or motel. Don’t travel with large amounts of cash – use your credit card or debit card instead, and just keep small bills for tips and instances where cards aren’t accepted.

Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if travelling alone or in an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Check with locals, like your AirBnB host, if there are neighbourhoods to avoid.

Finally, take a look at your governments travel advice page for the latest information that may apply to you – for example, the UK Foreign Office has some helpful information for travellers to the USA here , which applies to both UK and non UK nationals.

The USA uses the US dollar bill. These are all green, and come in seven denominations – $1, $2, $5, $20, $50 and $100. They are all the same size, with only the number and illustration being different, so they can be a little hard to get used to at first. There are also coins, running from 1 cent through to $1.

Credit cards are widely accepted, and are usually the easiest way to pay. At gas stations in particular, it’s most common to pay at the pump with a credit card rather than at the till.

One thing to be aware of – prices in the USA are usually displayed without sales tax or tip included. Sales tax varies state to state, from 0% to around 10%. This is something to keep in mind, especially in restaurants, as everything on the menu will be a bit more expensive than indicated once tax is added.

Tipping is also a part of the culture in the USA, especially in the service industry. Tips average 15%, but can vary between 10% and 20%. You can either add the tip to the credit card, or leave cash. It’s always helpful to have some $1 bills for tipping purposes.

For an idea of how much to budget for a road trip like this, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA .

Driving in the USA is quite easy – the roads are large, well-signed and the vehicles are usually automatic which gives you less to worry about.

There are definitely a few quirks to be aware of though if you’ve not driven here before – things like turning on a red light and the rules at STOP intersections. It’s a lot to cover, so I wrote a whole post on tips for driving in the USA which will answer all your questions.

Otherwise, take a look at car rental prices here to compare the best deals from a number of providers and get yourself booked for your adventure!

Further Reading for your Deep South Road Trip

We’ve written a fair amount about travelling in the USA , plus we have some resources that we think you will find useful for a trip like this. These are:

• A guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA
• Tips for Driving in the USA
• A comprehensive guide to the River Road Plantations of Louisiana
• City guides for New Orleans , Baton Rouge , Savannah and Charleston
• For more road trip inspiration, take a look at our two week California road trip , our two week  Route 66 itinerary , our Pacific Coast Highway guide , our 1 week Route 66 itinerary , and our two week Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and California road trip itinerary
• This is my South – a travel blog focused on what to see and do in this part of the world
• Lonely Planet’s guide to Louisiana and the Deep South
• Our guide to the best Airbnb Alternatives , to help you get the best lodging, whatever your budget
• Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our guide to the world’s best road trips for more ideas!

And that pretty much sums up our post on the perfect USA Deep South Road Trip! Have you ever done a trip like this? Anywhere you’d suggest adding to the itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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Lee & Sue says

1st January 2024 at 9:44 am

Hi guys…

We really enjoyed reading about your trip… We are doing a trip in April 2024 for 3-4 weeks but we are starting in Dallas Texas & possibly finishing in Miami (Haven’t fully decided yet)…

I have one question that hopefully you may be able to answer… With car rental, say we Start in Dallas are we able to return the vehicle to a totally different place & is there anything we should know about this ??? I’m in my mid 50’s & this will be a new experience for me…

Laurence Norah says

1st January 2024 at 4:05 pm

Hi Lee & Sue

You can definitely book a hire car one way. The only thing to be aware of is that pretty much every car rental company we know of does charge a fee for this, known as a one-way fee. This fee varies by company and where you are returning the car to. Some very popular routes don’t always have a fee (for example we once did a trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco and there was no one way fee when we did it), but that’s the exception.

The fee is normally displayed at the end of the booking process, and you should just be aware the rental car comparison sites don’t always include this fee. So it’s best to get a quote direct to ensure the fee is included.

I hope this helps, have an amazing road trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

Stewart says

1st November 2023 at 11:04 am

Excellent post on a Southern road trip, just wanted to saw we found it very helpful!

1st November 2023 at 1:20 pm

Thanks very much Stewart, I hope you have a great time!

James Messenger says

22nd May 2023 at 5:11 am

May 2023. My wife and I followed your guide virtually to the letter. Starting with Charlestone. We skipped Atlanta due to time. And you were spot on with all your destinations. However for future travellers. Skip Mobile totally. Very little to see and for us a total bust as we arrived on Saturday. On Sunday & Monday most museums, houses and tourist sites are closed. The city Trolley Tour of 90 minutes doesn’t operate those two days. We went to Visitors Centre at 1pm for guidance. It never bothered to open. After 12 days Road Trip this was the most severely disappointing city. We hope this is the only let down as we continue for another 20 days on our 9th US Road Trip.

12th June 2023 at 7:05 pm

I’m delighted to hear you guys have had a great time in following our Deep South road trip itinerary! Interesting to hear your feedback on Mobile, I am sure that will help other travellers. I hope the rest of your adventure also went well 🙂

Safe travels!

Michelle says

14th September 2021 at 6:15 pm

Hello, a friend and i are driving from CT to TX and back all along the south and middle states on way home. CT, NY, PA, WV, KY, TN, Alabama, Miss, Lousiana, Tx. We are looking for places that are not just the tourism attractions, but the places that are a WOW experience – views etc. from PA to TX is there any places that you would say are you have to go to…. Thank you in advance for any guidence on this.

I am looking forward to staying in an amish comunity – yes i am sure it is touristy but they are truley facinating.

17th September 2021 at 11:27 am

Hi Michelle!

Wow, that sounds like a fantastic road trip! I have to be honest that I’ve not visited the first states on your list in sufficient depth to be able to give solid recommendations. For Alambama I can definitely recommend Huntsville, it’s an awesome town with tonnes to do (see our guide to things to do in Huntsville here ). There are also some excellent civil rights trail stops in AL, including in Birmingham, Montgomery and Selma. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park outside Selma is really interesting as well. Further south you can learn about the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, although you might have crossed into Mississippi by then. In Louisiana, Baton Route is definitely worth some time exploring, and the river road plantations along the way into New Orleans are definitely worth visiting.

I can definitely recommend Amish country. My wife is from Ohio and we’ve visited Amish country a number of times. The food is always a highlight of a visit 😀

Have an amazing trip, let me know if I can offer any further insights!

Jon parker says

15th July 2021 at 6:42 am

Hiya, could I do a Deep South trip over 3 months using a backpack, travelling without a car? Would look to travel from end October for 3 months, what would the weather be like?

15th July 2021 at 11:42 am

You certainly could do that, the locations mentioned in this deep south itinerary are all linked by Greyhound bus, so that would be achievable. The weather is definitely cooler at that time of year, particularly around November and December. In Alabama we were there in January, and we had a few flakes of snow and the temperatures were just above freezing. However it can warm up a bit more. I’d definitely dress warmly though!

Have a safe trip!

Kristin Arnone says

27th May 2021 at 3:26 pm

Hello – I have loved reading several of your itineraries and have gotten several great trip ideas these past few days! Where is the lovely plantation located that is in the photo at the beginning of this Deep South Road Trip article? Thank you so much!!!

28th May 2021 at 1:23 pm

Hi Kristin! That’s Oak Alley Plantation 🙂 You can read all about it in our blog post all about Oak Alley here 🙂

Jessica L Chann says

29th January 2020 at 8:21 pm

Thank you for sharing! These are all fantastic cities. I must admit I am sad to see Tennessee get left off of the list. Nashville and Chattanooga are two amazing cities to visit! Also North Carolina deserves some love! Nothing like the mountains!!

30th January 2020 at 7:29 am

Hi Jessica!

My pleasure. I agree, there are some wonderful stops not on the list – unfortunately I couldn’t include everywhere. Seems I will have to make another itinerary!

Carolyn says

8th July 2019 at 12:27 am

Hey! Great article. I would have loved to read more on your site, but the ads were super frustrating. I know writers have got to make a living, but I actually found it very difficult to read because videos were playing and graphics were flashing beside and at the bottom of my screen.

9th July 2019 at 3:39 pm

Hi Carolyn,

Thanks for your feedback! Unfortunately there are few ways for us to monetize the site beyond ads, most people aren’t willing to pay for content on the internet these days, so the ads are the only option we really have to pay the bills and allow us to travel and write about destinations. We’re not massive fans of ads either, but it’s just the reality. For the ad unit at the bottom you should be able to press the “X” to close it out at least.

Johan Lupander says

20th May 2019 at 10:07 am

Very informative and a great help in planning for a visit in early 2020!

The price advantage for an European in arriving and departing in/from the same airport (ATL) is compelling but naturally means a round-trip itinerary. Your trip suggestion does not include the up-river area Baton Rouge – Natchez – Vicksburg. Any particular reason why?

20th May 2019 at 10:33 am

Hi Johan – thanks very much!

It’s largely just a question of time – there are large chunks of every state that have been left out, such is the nature of a road trip across states. We’re often just as happy spending weeks exploring one state as we are travelling between them. The trip certainly isn’t meant to be prescriptive though, feel free to adjust to your own interests 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:17 pm

Great little guide to the South! My girlfriend are from the UK and I are planning a road trip in September-October (six weeks total). Right now our plan is to do it in 2 legs (a Western states leg and a Southern States leg).

Perhaps something like this….

1st leg: Hire RV in San Francisco, then…..Yosemite – Death Valley – Las Vegas – Grand Canyon – Monument Valley – back to Las Vegas (to drop off RV and fly out).

2nd leg: A bit more undecided at the moment. I’ve got some friends just south of Nashville so would like to visit them for a couple of days. But would also love to see New Orleans so perhaps makes sense to fly into there from Vegas and work our way up? I’ve been to Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville on a previous trip so perhaps keen to see some other places with good food and music in the south! Also thinking perhaps better to hire a car in the south and stay in motels, as could be more economical/easy than RV-ing everywhere?

We fly out from New York at the end of the 6 weeks so will plan to spend at least 2-3 days there at the end.

Any advice would be welcome!

Thanks Miles

23rd April 2019 at 2:27 pm

First, thanks very much!

So your first section sounds great, it’s an itinerary that is very popular and is something we hope to write about soon on our blogs 🙂

For the second leg, I’d say flying in NOLA makes sense, and then you can build your itinerary around what you are most interested in. There are lots of cities and attractions (as you can see from this itinerary), and you won’t have any problem filling in your route.

I would say that for this stretch it will likely be more economic to rent a car and stay in budget motels rather than renting an RV. RV’s are great, but they are pretty expensive to rent, and then you often have to pay for campsites anyway. So it makes sense out in the west as there are many areas where you can camp, but in more populated areas it is less logical I think.

I hope this has helped a little bit at least 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:34 pm

Hi Laurence,

Thanks a lot for the speedy reply. And you’ve confirmed what I was thinking already, which is great! Just one more question. Do you think 6 weeks is fine for this sort of itinerary?

Thanks again Miles

23rd April 2019 at 3:06 pm

I’d say so yes. Of course, the more time you have the more you can see (the States is a big place!) but you will definitely be able to see a lot in six weeks for sure!

Jeremy says

8th March 2019 at 7:32 pm

Hey, just a quick correction to the Montgomery section of your trip. Cahawba was only the capital city temporarily from 1820 until 1826 – not for over 100 years. Huntsville was the first temporary capital after Alabama became a state in 1819 (200 years ago on December 14 of this year), then Cahawba (as I said, until 1826), then Tuscaloosa until 1846 which is when it moved to Montgomery in an attempt to have the capital be a more centrally located city in the state. Love the blog, My wife and I are heading to Savannah for our anniversary this year and thanks to your blog, we are going to take a couple of extra days to go to Charleston. I’ve been there but it was long ago and I had forgotten how beautiful it was. Thanks.

8th March 2019 at 7:44 pm

Hi Jeremy! Thanks for the information, I’m not sure how I got that so wrong – I must have misread a date somewhere along the line. I’ve updated that. Interestingly, some sources say that Selma was the state capital from 1825 – 1826, wheras others seem to indicate it went from Cahawba to Tuscaloosa. Anyway, I have corrected it in the post to be more accurate! Thanks again, and have a wonderful trip – we loved Charleston, and we hope you do too 🙂

Richard Sullivan says

12th February 2019 at 2:25 pm

This all looks very interesting indeed. I am hoping to do a family road trip, either deep-south, or West to East coast. But blimey, the food does not look at all appealing! Gosh is all food either brown or covered in cheese in America?

12th February 2019 at 5:29 pm

Hi Richard,

Definitely not – there’s pretty much everything you could imagine, from healthy options to more cheese covered dishes 😉

I’m sure you’ll find something you enjoy

Keith & Ann Garner says

21st January 2019 at 12:36 pm

Hi Laurence & Jessica Love your web page, we live in the UK and are thinking of planning a trip to the south for two weeks and looking for advice for the best route to take for us to see the most interesting places. We are thinking of going in May is this a good time? We are planning to arrange the trip ourselves, rather than an agent so is it wise to book hotels/motels or airbnb in advance here in the UK. Any advice would be much appreciated.

many thanks

Keith & Ann

21st January 2019 at 1:12 pm

Hey Keith and Ann,

Thanks very much. It’s a fantastic trip and we’re sure you’ll have a great time. May is a great time for this trip, temperatures will be pleasant but not unbearable, likely in the 20C – 30C range.

For your hotels, I would say that generally you will be ok not to book far in advance at this time of year, the only exceptions would be if there any any events happening in any of the locations you are headed to that you need to be aware of. I can’t think of any off the top of my head. May should also not be too busy in general, so availability should be reasonable. We have not normally had a problem just booking a day or two in advance on trips like this, but if you prefer peace of mind and greater choice, then you can always book in advance. One idea is to book using a platform like booking.com at properties that allow for cancellation, and then you can switch it up as you go if you prefer, whilst having a fallback option.

Have a fantastic trip, and do drop by and let us know how it goes – either here, or in our facebook group 🙂

https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

7th January 2019 at 12:04 am

I found your blog, while I was trying to figure out where to go for my 50th birthday. My wife said that we can go anywhere I want, as long as we stay inside the USA. We have up to four weeks, of vacation, ready to go. But we do have two elementary age children. So the trip will have to be between mid June and late August. Over the past 12 years, we’ve taken road trips to West Virginia, across the Northern states. Traveled all around the Mid-West (Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kentucky). Road trips down the Oregon and California coasts, And we’ve spent a week (give or take a day or two) in each of the following: Hawaii, Miami, New York, Washington D.C, Las Vegas, Phoenix and San Francisco. But I’ve never spent any time in the Deep South. After reading your blog, that may change. You made the Deep South sound like a great place to go with our kids (especially since I’m into American history). The only part I’m worried about, is its weather and the humidity. We’ll be coming from the Seattle area, where the weather and humidity is the exact opposite from the South. So the Summer weather, kind of worries me.

7th January 2019 at 11:16 am

The south is definitely a wonderful place to travel, but you are correct, that time of year is more challenging when it comes to the weather. It’s hot and humid, and it’s also the rainiest time of the year! There are some upsides though – it tends to be less busy, and hotel rates are better! It’s going to be a personal decision of course, I’d say if you do go just make sure to prepare with lots of sunscreen, loose clothing and a hat 🙂

Have a great trip wherever you go!

Larry Spielman says

5th January 2019 at 8:51 pm

Wow, what a gift to discover your post! You have expanded my vision of the deep south. We have visited Charleston, Alanta, and Savannah and loved these locations. Planning this summer going from San Antonio to Mobile with extended time in New Orleans. Obviously we need to plan more time in the Mobile area. Any other words of wisdom for us?

5th January 2019 at 10:30 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 We were in Mobile during Mardi Gras, and we can definitely recommend a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum which is very good. However, we didn’t see much else during our time there. We were also just in San Antonio, I’m not sure if you’re from San Antonio or just starting there, but we did just publish a guide to San Antonio as well 🙂 Of course, if you’re from San Antonio I’m sure all this will be familiar to you!

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/things-to-do-san-antonio-texas/

Have a great trip!

5th January 2019 at 11:35 pm

Thanks – we will check out your suggestions, flying into San Antonio, train to New Orleans, then rent a car for Alabama. Thanks again.

5th January 2019 at 11:41 pm

My pleasure! Sounds like it’s going to be a great trip 😀 Let us know if you have any more questions!

Connie Fidler Glassford says

17th November 2018 at 4:47 am

I’ve been to a number of cities on your list and loved them all. My town Fairhope, across the bay from Mobile is a gem.

Larisa says

2nd November 2018 at 3:36 am

Great read as we are planing to come over in Dec next year for a road trip as a family of five and we need to do as much research as possible! Our itinerary will be ideally a 7 night Cruise from Galveston then Houston-Lafayette-Slidell-Tallheusee-Orlando-Savannah- Montgomgery-Jackson-Dallas and back to Houston. Excuse the mis-spellings.!

3rd November 2018 at 9:01 am

Sounds like an awesome trip Larisa!

Sherryl Rivers says

10th October 2018 at 7:32 pm

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mind.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined.

*****Ore was MINED…not MIND******

12th October 2018 at 3:41 am

Fixed! Thanks so much 🙂

David Shows says

15th August 2018 at 1:11 pm

As a Mississippian who grew up in Long Beach (next to Biloxi) and living in North Carolina let me complement you on your excellent choices. You nailed Charleston and Savannah, two of my favorite towns. For ship watchers, Savannah is one of the busiest ports in the United States, part of a railroad corridor that stretches across the U.S. to San Diego.

I’ve also lived in Mobile and Montgomery and they are two hidden gems. Montgomery has live music on the weekends and a Baseball park built on top of an old confederate barracks. Dauphin Island is near Mobile and it has miles of white sand beaches. If you are a seafood lover btw, I would try our oysters on the the Gulf Coast, in my very prejudiced opinion, some of best tasting anywhere. They can be fried, in a broth, or you can have them char-broiled, cooking in the half-shell with garlic.

I grew up two blocks from the beach, even moved back after Camille, and love the Gulf Coast beaches, where you can get a sunrise and a sunset! On the Coast we have a small town vibe but we have visitors year round, and there are two big military bases in Gulfport and Biloxi that contribute to the big net we cast.

Thanks for the great article! As we say on the Coast, don’t be a stranger! Come back when you can!

15th August 2018 at 8:23 pm

Thank you very much David, it’s always wonderful to hear from a local that we’ve managed to put something together that showcases their part of the world 😀 We certainly do want to come back sometime soon for the amazing food & people, not to mention all the scenery 🙂

12th August 2018 at 11:41 pm

We spent two weeks driving from California to visit the deep south. We stopped in New Orleans, Tallahassee, Savannah, and Charleston. We drove the backroads through deep Georgia and it was amazing! The people in the deep south are straight out of a character novel. They are warm and friendly and some of them say the quirkiest things! The food is phenomenal!! I gained 5 pounds over our trip and I do not regret one bite! We visited in July and the humidity definitely takes some getting used to but after about 3 days, my skin seemed to love it. The architecture, history, plantations, and culture are beautiful and fascinating. The cicadas and the sounds of the insects were truly magical and the lightning bugs!! Seeing the lightning bugs was definitely on my bucket list! So beautiful, like little twinkling fairies. We originally made the trip because we were considering moving out there in 2 years. After the trip, we pushed up our move to next year. We completely fell in love with the deep south. It was everything that I had hoped it would be!

13th August 2018 at 9:05 pm

I am so pleased that you had a wonderful time. The food really is amazing isn’t it? And you are so right about the people. Love that you are moving there a year early too – I hope it all goes well for you!

Have a great journey

Vanessa Perumal says

24th June 2018 at 12:30 pm

Such generous sharing thank you. From New York where would you start your road trip please

24th June 2018 at 10:45 pm

Hey Vanessa – are you thinking of flying from New York or driving? It’s quite a long drive from New York (11 or 12 hours straight driving), so you might prefer to fly to Charleston and start there 🙂

Martha Mason says

26th April 2018 at 7:39 pm

I’m born and raised in Alabama – with a few sojourns in California, New York and Chicago. If you come to Alabama again, make sure you hit Fairhope, a quaint, beautiful town across Mobile Bay from Mobile, AL. If you come this far, also visit Gulf Shores on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico – one of the secrets we keep from beach lovers so it stays pretty and white.

I enjoyed your article on the deep south trip and although I’ve been to all of the places you mentioned, your info. will send me back to those places again better informed.

26th April 2018 at 7:42 pm

Thanks Martha! We’re actually going to be in Alabama this September most likely, visiting Huntsville and some of the space related sights 🙂 Not sure how much time we have, but I’ll definitely keep your tips in mind – thanks very much!

Stephanie says

16th March 2018 at 12:04 pm

Wow this is awesome! I work in the school system So unfortunately summer is the only time my boys and I can travel. We live in Charlotte so we will hit the road this summer. I’ll be sure to prepare for the unbearable heat! We will have about 3 weeks! Thank you for sharing!

16th March 2018 at 4:30 pm

My pleasure, and thanks Stephanie. I’m sure you’ll be fine and are probably used to the heat anyway 🙂 Have a fantastic trip – three weeks is the perfect amount of time for it 😀

9th March 2018 at 8:03 pm

Just wondering how many days total did you spend on this trip:) thanks

9th March 2018 at 8:06 pm

Hi Susy 🙂 We spent five weeks doing the trip, but we spent a week of that in New Orleans at the end. For the suggested itinerary, we’d suggest a minimum of two weeks, and ideally three weeks if you can spare the time. You can see more in this section of the post: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/#How-Long-Does-a-Deep-South-Road-Trip-Take

11th February 2018 at 6:24 am

Thank you so much for this really informative itinerary! My boyfriend and I are doing a deep south road trip this summer and you’ve given us some great ideas which move away from the typical cities.

11th February 2018 at 10:51 am

My pleasure – have a really wonderful trip and do shout if you have any questions!

Melissa says

25th January 2018 at 8:20 pm

I LOVE THIS! I live in Hawaii, but doing a Road Trip around the South is on my bucket list. Thank you so much for the info and suggestions.

26th January 2018 at 12:39 am

Thanks Melissa! Have an awesome trip when you do it – we sure did 😀

Linda Aksomitis says

26th February 2017 at 5:22 pm

Love your article. There are so many of my favourite deep South destinations on it. As a Canadian, I need to get my Gulf Coast “fix” on a regular basis.

Laurence says

27th February 2017 at 2:48 pm

Thanks Linda! And we still feel there’s so much more to see down here 🙂

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Rolling Through the Carolinas: An RV Road Trip Guide

Embarking on a road trip through the charming states of North and South Carolina, especially in an RV, promises a journey filled with diverse landscapes, historic cities, Southern hospitality and some gorgeous natural beauty. For me personally, the Carolinas were never very high up on my list of places to visit in the US. But earlier this year, a variety of life circumstances suddenly led me to Raleigh, North Carolina, where I ended up settling for a bit. While based in Raleigh, I began to explore my new surroundings and the more places I visited in this region, the more I wanted to see.

It didn’t take long for me to realize that a road trip through North and South Carolina is an excellent way to make the most of this beautiful part of the country.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why the Carolinas are the perfect road trip destination, the best times to visit, the advantages of traveling via RV and how to easily rent one with RVshare , plus some itinerary suggestions to help you enjoy a genuinely rewarding adventure.

Why Road Trip Through the Carolinas? 

Diversity of landscapes.

The Carolinas boast a striking diversity of landscapes, from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, endless untouched State Parks and lush forests to the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks. There are hiking and biking trails everywhere, peaceful lakes and small riverside towns that offer a serene experience. A road trip allows you to experience the full spectrum of natural beauty these states have to offer.

Rich History and Culture

Steeped in history, the Carolinas are home to charming towns, historic landmarks and vibrant cities. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stop in every town you reach, simply to understand its past and learn about its culture. Stopping at a cafe or diner in any town will often allow you to uncover local stories directly from the people who live there.

Southern Hospitality

Known for their warm hospitality, the people of the Carolinas welcome travelers with open arms. From quaint bed and breakfasts to friendly locals eager to lend a hand, a road trip here is not just about the destinations. It’s most certainly about the people you meet along the way, wherever you may go.

Best Times to Road Trip in the Carolinas

Spring (march to may ).

Spring brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers and the perfect conditions for outdoor activities. It’s an ideal time for hiking, exploring gardens, wandering through cities and enjoying the coastal breeze.

Fall (September to November)

Autumn paints the Carolinas in hues of red, orange, and gold. The weather remains pleasant, making it a great time for scenic drives, fall festivals and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to September)

While the Carolinas are beautiful year-round, it’s a good idea to be a little more cautious during the summer, unless you truly love heat and humidity. If the heat isn’t for you, I’d definitely stick with the Spring or Fall.

The RV Advantage

Flexibility and freedom.

Renting an RV through RVshare allows for unparalleled freedom. You’re not confined to strict itineraries. Instead, you have the flexibility to change your plans on a whim, follow spontaneous detours and stay in the heart of nature.

Cost-Effective Accommodations

An RV eliminates the need for nightly hotel stays, saving you money in the long run. Modern RVs offer comfortable amenities, allowing you to bring the comforts of home wherever you go. If you park at a campground, the fees associated with such a stay are generally much less than paying for a hotel.

Experience Nature Up Close

With an RV, nature becomes your backyard. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping, enjoy a cup of coffee with a mountain view or stargaze from your campsite. It’s an immersive experience that hotels can’t match.

Choose the Right Type of RV

Consider the size of your travel party, your budget and the level of comfort you desire. Options range from compact camper vans to spacious motorhomes with all the amenities. Luckily, it’s easy to rent an RV these days and you’ll find a variety of options.

If you’re flying into the region, you’ll most likely fly to Charlotte (the biggest hub), where RVshare lists plenty of Charlotte RV rentals to choose from.

RV rentals can be in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan and book your RV well in advance to secure the best options and prices.

Essential Gear for Your Road Trip

Camping equipment.

If you plan to camp as well, ensure you have a reliable tent, sleeping bags and a camping stove. Portable chairs and a table can enhance your outdoor experience as well.

Outdoor Essentials

Hiking boots, backpacks and a first aid kit are essential for exploring nature. It’s worth having good, reliable gear as you don’t want to find yourself in a situation where your gear is not suitable.

RV Essentials

Stock your RV with necessary supplies like kitchen utensils, bedding and toiletries. Don’t forget leveling blocks, hoses for water and sewage and a toolkit for minor repairs.

Entertainment

Pack plenty of books and board games, and download plenty of movies for cozy nights in the RV.

Road Trip Tips and Advice

Plan your route, but stay flexible.

Have a rough itinerary, but be open to spontaneity. It’s so important to maintain the flexibility to embrace unexpected discoveries along the way. Some of the best discoveries happen off the beaten path. Also, you can start almost anywhere, with RV rental locations in most Carolina cities.

Embrace Slow Travel

The Carolinas are meant to be savored. Don’t rush from one destination to the next. Instead, take the time to appreciate the journey, knowing that wherever you end up, you’re bound to have a rewarding experience.

Connect with Locals

Engage with locals as much as possible in order to gain insights into the culture and history of each region. Ask questions, all the time. Locals often provide the best recommendations for dining, activities and scenic spots.

RV Etiquette

Respect campsite rules, dispose of waste responsibly and be mindful of noise levels. RVing is about enjoying nature and respecting fellow travelers, so leave no trace and follow leave-no- trace principles.

Maintenance Checks

Regularly check your RV’s mechanical and electrical systems, especially before long drives. Ensure tires are properly inflated, brakes are functional and all systems are in good working order.

The Carolinas represent a very manageable area to cover on a road trip. As a result, you can really cover a lot of ground depending on how much time you have. The other good thing is that there really isn’t one perfect route that you must take. Have a look at the wonderful destinations below, knowing that you can put them in almost any order you wish.

Asheville, North Carolina:

• Why visit: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for art, music and outdoor enthusiasts. The city exudes a bohemian vibe, with a rich cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings. There are also many Asheville RV rentals available in the area.
• Major highlights: Explore the opulent Biltmore Estate, stroll through the River Arts District and enjoy the eclectic shops and restaurants in downtown Asheville. There are also dozens of great hikes, lookout points and beautiful nature spots in the mountains around the town.
• Restaurant recommendation: Tupelo Honey – Indulge in Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey, known for its inventive dishes and warm ambiance.

Charlotte, North Carolina:

• Why visit: Charlotte is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern attractions and cultural gems. It’s a hub for sports, arts and business.
• Major highlights: Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, explore the vibrant NoDa arts district and take a stroll in Freedom Park.
• Restaurant recommendation: The Fig Tree Restaurant – A refined dining experience in a beautifully restored 1913 Craftsman-style bungalow.

Raleigh, North Carolina:

• Why visit: TRaleigh, the The capital of North Carolina, combines Southern charm with a thriving arts and technology scene. It’s known for its green spaces and diverse cultural offerings. It’s also another great city to start from, with no shortage of available RV rentals in Raleigh.
• Major highlights: Explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, visit the historic City Market and relax at Pullen Park. Within 30 minutes of Raleigh, you’ll also find beautiful hiking trails at places such as the expansive William B Umstead State Park, Lake Johnson Park and the North Carolina Art Museum’s vast hiking area.
• Restaurant recommendation: Poole’s Diner – A beloved downtown spot offering contemporary comfort food.

Hendersonville, North Carolina:

• Why visit: Also in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a quaint town known for its apple orchards, vibrant downtown and scenic beauty.
• Major highlights: Explore the Historic Johnson Farm, stroll along Main Street and visit the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site.
• Restaurant recommendation: Never Blue – A quirky restaurant with eclectic decor, serving globally inspired dishes.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Why visit: This string of 4 barrier islands seems like a world far, far away from the rest of the state. With wild horses, gorgeous unspoiled beaches, the tallest sand dunes, wildlife refuges and so much more, it is well worth the visit.
• Major highlights: Beach hopping from one untouched beach to another, visit the many laid-back villages and climb the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park .
• Restaurant recommendation: Sam & Omie’s – Savor Outer Banks’ charm at Sam & Omie’s, a legendary diner offering classic seafood dishes and a laid- back atmosphere.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina:

• Why visit: A picturesque mountain town, Blowing Rock is known for its stunning views, outdoor activities and attractive village atmosphere.
• Major highlights: Visit The Blowing Rock, explore Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and stroll through the charming downtown.
• Restaurant recommendation: The Best Cellar – A cozy restaurant with European flair, offering a diverse menu and an extensive wine list.

Brevard, North Carolina:

• Why visit: Located in the Appalachian Mountains and surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls, Brevard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its natural beauty and vibrant arts scene.
• Major highlights: Visit Pisgah National Forest, explore the Brevard Music Center and discover the unique Brevard White Squirrel.
• Restaurant recommendation: The Square Root – A farm-to-table restaurant emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients.

Charleston, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Charleston is a charming city steeped in history, known for its well- preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and Southern hospitality.
• Major highlights: Take a carriage ride through historic downtown, visit the iconic Battery promenade and explore the lively King Street shopping district.
• Restaurant recommendation: Husk – A celebrated restaurant offering modern Southern cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.

Greenville, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is a dynamic city with a picturesque downtown, endless outdoor options and a burgeoning culinary scene.
• Major highlights: Enjoy Falls Park on the Reedy, stroll along the Swamp Rabbit Trail and explore the vibrant downtown Greenville .
• Restaurant recommendation: Husk and Vine Restaurant – Offering farm-to-table Southern cuisine in a chic setting.

Columbia, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, combines historic charm with a lively cultural scene. It’s a city of parks, museums and notable landmarks.
• Major highlights: Explore the South Carolina State House, visit the Columbia Museum of Art and relax at Finlay Park.
• Restaurant recommendation: Motor Supply Company Bistro – A trendy eatery in a restored engine supply building, offering a diverse menu with local ingredients.

Beaufort, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Beaufort is a coastal gem known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, historic charm and waterfront beauty.
• Major highlights: Explore the Historic District, take a carriage tour and visit the scenic Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
• Restaurant recommendation: Breakwater Restaurant – A waterfront eatery offering fresh seafood and Low country-inspired cuisine.

Mount Pleasant, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Located near Charleston, Mount Pleasant offers a blend of history, coastal charm and outdoor recreation.
• Major highlights: Explore Boone Hall Plantation, stroll along the Waterfront Park and visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.
• Restaurant recommendation: Shem Creek Bar and Grill – A waterfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere, known for its seafood and scenic views.

Aiken, South Carolina:

• Why visit: Aiken exudes Southern charm with its equestrian culture, historic downtown and beautiful gardens.
• Major highlights: Visit Hopelands Gardens, explore the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and stroll through the vibrant downtown.
• Restaurant recommendation: Malia’s – A refined eatery serving a blend of Southern and Mediterranean cuisine in a historic setting.

In the end, RV road trips are an unbeatable way to travel, with comfort, flexibility and value that is hard to find with any other style. Visiting North and South Carolina almost requires such a method of travel as there is simply so much to do – nature trails to explore, history to learn about, culture to soak up, excellent food to eat, museums to visit, beaches to wander and both tranquil small towns and pulsating cities to spend time in.

So, rev up your RV, or rent one through RVshare, and hit the road and let the allure of the Carolinas unfold before you on this unforgettable adventure.

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The Coastal Carolina Road Trip Route You Need

Our Coastal Carolina Road Trip Adventure

We found Lowcountry, lighthouses, beaches, and more on our April 2019 North and South Carolina road trip . In eight busy days, we road tripped from Norfolk, VA to Charleston, SC and back again via the Outer Banks . Along the way, we visit one of America’s oldest cities, dipped our toes in the Atlantic Ocean , drank Pepsi Cola in its original store, saw iconic lighthouses , and visited the birthplace of flight .

If you want to explore North and South Carolina’s coast but can only get away from work for a week, this is the Carolinas road trip itinerary you’re looking for. We covered approximately 1200 miles total. This worked out to a little less than three hours in the car each day.

Although we did book all our night’s accommodations in advance, this road trip itinerary gave us plenty of flexibility to spontaneously find the Carolinas’ very best restaurants and things to do. Read on for our day-by-day travels on this North and South Carolina road trip, including our top eats, drinks, and adventures.

This post may contain affiliate links. When you purchase something through these links, I receive a small commission that helps me create this blog’s content. There’s no extra cost for you.

Can’t stick around? Pin now for planning your only Carolina road trip!

Who should go on a Coastal Carolinas Road Trip?

Three specific types of travelers would enjoy a Coastal Carolinas Road Trip : foodies, families, and history buffs. We did this trip in our mid-thirties. With the exception of Wilmington, NC , we felt a little young for many of the Carolina destinations we hit up.

I really dislike the term “foodie.” While I’d never call myself one, there’s no denying that all three of us enjoy a good meal. From gourmet donuts to unforgettable grits, we thoroughly noshed our way through the Carolinas. If you enjoy seafood and barbecue, you’re in for a treat on a Carolina road trip.

We found so many family-friendly activities on this road trip. When you consider opportunities like touring a historic battleship in Wilmington and beach combing the Outer Banks, I think this would be such a fun road trip to take with older elementary school aged kids. With a nice balance of educational and just-for-fun activities, the Carolinas make a perfect family destination. 

Pirates. Shipwrecks. The Civil War . You’ll find fascinating, complicated history in the Carolinas that will appeal to any history buff. On this road trip, you’ll visit where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. You can tour beautiful plantations and learn about the Lowcountry’s legacy of slavery. It’s also where the Wright Brothers successfully tested their plane prototype. Also, pirates. Shipwrecks.  

When’s the best time of year to do a Coastal Carolinas Road Trip?

Mid-April proved a great time to visit North and South Carolina. For a trio of landlocked Minnesotans, we enjoyed weather warm enough for t-shirts and beach lounging, but not so hot that we turned into sweltering little puddles.

However, April falls firmly in spring break season . As popular a family destination as the Outer Banks is, if you chose to travel this time of year you don’t want to dilly-dally when it comes to booking lodging. Yet, despite its springtime popularity, we discovered many Outer Banks businesses still closed for the winter.

I suspect the sweet spot for visiting the Outer Banks when all restaurants and shops are open falls somewhere in mid-May before Memorial Day weekend.

As a popular family beach vacation spot, high season in the Outer Banks correlates with schools’ summer breaks. We actually hit Charleston’s during one of its busy seasons. Most people prefer to visit southern citie s like Charleston and Savannah in the spring or fall, when temperatures are warm, but not unbearable.

Fall also sounds like a beautiful time to visit the Carolina coast and a good option for avoiding crowds.  However, we were leery of scheduling our trip during hurricane season , which peaks from late August – early October. While the Carolina coast certainly isn’t as prone to hurricanes as say, the Florida panhandle, they’re not an uncommon occurrence. The Carolinas often escape hurricanes’ destructive winds, but they remain prone to massive rain events and flooding as storms work their way up the Atlantic coast.

Our Coastal Carolina Road Trip Map

Carolinas Road Trip Planner

 Day One: Norfolk, VA to Charleston, SC

Outer Banks might be the birthplace of flight, but you’re in for a road trip if you want to fly into a major airport when visiting OBX. The closest airport to the Outer Banks is Norfolk, Virginia – about a 1.5 hour drive from the barrier islands. We took an early morning flight out of Minneapolis/St. Paul to Norfolk, grabbed our rental car, and made the seven-hour drive down Interstate 95 to Charleston, SC.

In hindsight, I wish we’d paid a little more for a multi-city flight and one way car rental. This was a long travel day. If we’d flown into Charleston, we’d have had another half day to explore.

Eat: We swung into the Swig and Swine BBQ joint near our West Ashley Airbnb for some al fresco dining. The roadside restaurant had a laidback vibe and delicious barbecue.

Waypoints: If you plan more carefully than us, you could make the drive from Norfolk to Charleston less of a grind with a few fun roadside stops. Averasboro Battlefield , a North Carolina Civil War battlefield , is located just eight miles off of I-95. Another absolute spectacle along the I-95 corridor is South of the Border . We didn’t stop, but this well-advertised theme park right as you cross into South Carolina gave me major Wall Drug vibes.

Day Two: A Day in Charleston’s Historic Downtown

We spent all day in the historic downtown district of Charleston and barely scratched the surface. You can read all about our day in Charleston’s Historic Downtown .

Drink: After spending all day on our feet in the increasingly hot sun, we happily put our feet up for happy hour at The Rooftop at Vendue . We also heard good things about The Gin Joint.

Eat: If you can only eat one thing in Charleston, make sure it’s the grits at Fleet Landing . Although this large waterfront restaurant doesn’t have much personality, the food was phenomenal.

Waypoints: There isn’t much to see once you reach the island, but I still recommend taking the ferry to Fort Sumter . While you might think the main draw is seeing the starting point of the American Civil War, I liked the ferry ride even more. You’ll enjoy great views of Charleston and have a chance to spot dolphins .

A horse carriage tour will take you past Charleston favorites such as Rainbow Row and the Pineapple Fountain .

Don’t forget to swing into the Historic Charleston City Market .

Day Three: Charleston, SC to Wilmington, NC

After lingering in the Charleston area for the morning, we slowly worked our way north to Wilmington, NC . Sometimes too slowly. We got stuck in stop and go traffic on our way to Myrtle Beach .

Tired of sitting at stoplights, we grabbed iced coffees and abandoned our attempt to actually see sand in Myrtle Beach. We pulled into Wilmington just in time for dinner.

Downtown Wilmington has a definite party vibe . . .  mixed with a hippie demeanor. Bars, breweries, and CBD dispensaries lined Front Street near our Airbnb. Since it was Friday night, we spontaneously embarked on an epic pub crawl . . . at least epic for three ladies in their 30s.

Drink: The first official stop on our pub crawl was the Platypus and Gnome – mostly because Leah liked their logo and wanted a t-shirt. We grabbed pints at Slainte Irish Pub . Our final stop was the Ironclad Brewery to soak up their industrial, exposed brick vibe and craft brews.

Eat: The seafood restaurant (Dock Street Oyster Bar) where we ate supper has since closed permanently. However, we enjoyed late night snacks at Front Street Brewery .

Waypoints: To start the day, we took a southerly detour to the Angel Tree,  the largest live oak tree east of the Mississippi River. (If you’re a Harry Potter fan , it’ll give you major “Whomping Willow” vibes.) The tree’s owned by the City of Charleston and operated as a city park. While it’s pretty lacking in any interpretative information, there is a gift shop!

We also swung by Boone Hall Plantation . Best known (today) as a movie setting for The Notebook , this plantation gives slavery era interpretation a stab, but the big house only dates back to the 1930s.

Day Four: A Day in Wilmington, NC

I didn’t know anything about Wilmington, NC before our visit. Located just inland on the Cape Fear River , this port city has been of strategic important since the American Revolutionary War. A small city with a population of approximately 115,000, Wilmington’s economy has historically been tied to the sea.

In recent years, it’s transformed into a tourist destination, in part because of its aforementioned nightlife. The town’s known both for its examples of antebellum architecture, including Bellamy Mansion , and its access to Cape Fear beaches.

Millennials may know Wilmington as the setting of the WB’s One Tree Hill series. Michael Jordan grew up here. The city also has a nasty legacy of racism, including a racial massacre in 1898.

Eat: Donut lovers, don’t miss Wake N Bake Donuts for interesting flavor combinations like Carolina Sand – maple iced donuts sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. They also have a key lime pie donut that will give you all the Key West, Florida vibes ! 

We grabbed brunch at The Basics in the Cotton Exchange.

Wanting to shake up our dining experiences, we headed to Little Dipper Fondue for a three-course meal. If you want a table (and it’s Saturday night), make a reservation. We ended up at the bar. Long lines and delicious ice cream greeted us at Kilwins Chocolates afterwards.

Waypoints: Wilmington’s most obvious tourist attraction is the USS North Carolin a, a WWII battleship that saw action in the Pacific. The ship has been moored in Wilmington since 1961 and is accessed from the south shore of Cape Fear River. Back on the city side of the river, we explored the River Walk and the Cotton Exchange shopping complex. We also snagged some local produce and eggs at the Riverfront Farmers Market .

Day Five: Wilmington, NC to Outer Banks, NC

A full day was more than enough time to explore Wilmington. Provisioned with caffeine from 24 South Coffee House , we hit the road bright and early. We intended to have a beach day and slowly make our way to our final destination: North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

Eat: Today wasn’t a spectacular eating day. We found limited dining options in Manteo and ended up at Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar . In Nags Head, Pirate’s Booty Ice Cream was a fun and extremely busy after-dinner stop.

Waypoints: We swung into Airlie Gardens on our way to Wilmington Beach . Hazy, cool weather cut our beach day short. Instead we pulled into Wrightsville SUP to enjoy an hour of paddleboarding on the sound. On our way north, we broke up the drive with a stop in New Bern to grab an ice-cold Pepsi at the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola .

Day Six: Southern Outer Banks

We headed over the Highway 64 bridge from our Airbnb in Manteo and turned south. When we couldn’t drive any farther, we caught a ferry to Ocracoke Island and drove a little farther.

Drink: We hit up 1718 Brewery in the village of Ocracoke Island for some brews and a delightful seafood stuffed pretzel.

Eat: I had my heart set on eating a hot dog at the beach, so we tried Fattys Treats and Tours in Buxton . We expected standard greasy spoon fare, but both the food and service was exceptional. Worn out by a long day in the car, we pulled into Café Pamlico in Buxton for dinner. The higher end dining was good, but somewhat lost on us.

Waypoints: By far the most popular thing to do as an Outer Banks first timer is visiting the islands’ five lighthouses . We hit up three: Bodie, Cape Hatteras, and Ocracoke. On Pea Island, we stopped for some beachcombing and did a little people watching at Rodanthe Pier . We got a crash course in Outer Banks history at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum .

Day Seven: Northern Outer Banks to Norfolk, VA

After spending the day before exploring the southern Outer Banks, we headed north today. This part of the Outer Banks is much more developed than what we explored the day before. You’ll find a pretty dense concentration of businesses and homes north of Nags Head. It feels like there’s a Super Wings (a t-shirt and beach supply shop) every couple miles. At times we hit heavy traffic.

Drink: We swung into Morning View Coffee House to caffeinate for the day. This colorful, independent coffee shop’s conveniently located next to a Forbes Candies shop. If you need to stock up on coffee and salt water taffy (we did), you’re in luck!

Eat: We couldn’t visit the Outer Banks and not get Duck Donuts ! The made to order donuts didn’t disappoint.

I firmly believe you should end every road trip with pizza. We stumbled upon a local favorite, Pembroke Pizza , to close out our trip in Norfolk.

Waypoints: I found the Wright Brothers National Monument surprisingly fascinating. We finished our tour of Outer Banks lighthouses at Currituck . Despite our best attempts to book a wild horse tour in Corolla, all companies were booked several days out. Before hitting the road one last time, we soaked up some sunshine at Currituck Public Beach and got some beach reading in. We also visited a Corolla Volunteer Fire Station to pick up souvenir t-shirts. We were happy to support this fundraising effort!

Day Eight: Fly home from Norfolk to Minneapolis

We caught an early morning flight out of Norfolk and I was home by dinnertime. To be honest, I remember this trip being much longer than eight days. We saw so much in just a few days!

Lessons Learned on Our Coastal Carolinas Road Trip

If I could it again, I’d probably opt for a multi-city flight rather than the round trip flights we booked in and out of Norfolk, VA. If we’d avoided the seven-hour drive from Norfolk to Charleston on Day one, we might have been able to sneak Savannah, GA into this itinerary.

While I thoroughly enjoyed our chill day in Wilmington, NC, I’d say this small city just warrants an overnight. By far the most memorable thing we did in Wilmington was a pub crawl. None of us were in any condition to repeat that on our second night in town!

I’m not sure what I would do with that extra day the itinerary gains by letting go of a full day in Wilmington. I really loved the Outer Banks and hope to return for a longer visit sometime soon. But I’d probably advise using that time for another ½ day in Charleston and an honest to goodness visit to Myrtle Beach.

I could also be convinced to spent some time exploring Norfolk, VA instead of just flying in and out of it.

Can I add Savannah, GA to this Carolina road trip itinerary?

We hemmed and hawed about whether we wanted to include Savannah, GA on our coastal Carolinas road trip itinerary. Even though Savannah is only a two-hour drive from Charleston, Jenny finally concluded that we simply didn’t have enough time to swing that far south. I think she was absolutely correct.

We didn’t cover much mileage on this road trip, but had so much fun exploring our destinations that any time in the car really dragged. I’m glad we didn’t cram Savannah in since it would have meant we’d have cut our time short somewhere else.

My long weekend in Savannah in December 2021 proved the perfect amount of time to explore the southern city. With its great restaurants and excellent Civil War sites , Savannah deserves more than a cursory visit. 

If you’re looking to turn this coastal Carolina itinerary into a farther reaching USA Atlantic Coast road trip, you absolutely could add Savannah. However, to achieve a day in Savannah, you’ll want to add two full days, especially if you’re planning to fly in and out of the same airport. Remember, if you’re doubling back to where you started, adding Savannah will increase your driving time by four hours.

Another option for extending this road trip would be to go farther north in Virginia and visit Colonial Williamsburg and the state capital, Richmond . 

Hi! I’m Ada, a travel writer based in northern Minnesota, on a mission to see the world. I use this travel blog to provide practical, no-nonsense travel tips and itineraries for both domestic and international travels.

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Have you explore the Carolina coasts? Do you like road tripping?

Road trip like this sounds pretty amazing to me! There is so much I would like to visit in the US and I’m dying to go there soon! Thank you for sharing this.

The Carolinas look so beautiful – great post! A bit too far from where I live in Canada but you never know where life will take you. Will save for a possible future trip 🙂

I absolutely love Charleston and Savannah! This would be a perfect vacation for me! I haven’t been to the Outer Banks – so you have given me some great tips.

Outer Banks is one of my favorite places in the world since my family vacations but I do want to try Cape Fear beaches. I am so impressed you did all this in 7 days!

What a great road trip itinerary!! We live in the Outer Banks and have explored all these destinations, all excellent stops!

It has been a long time since I spent time in North or South Carolina. So a coastal Carolina road trip sounds like a perfect trip to plan. I will certainly save this post. This history of this part of the U.S. does fascinate me so our day trips would cover that off. Chocolates and fondue both will help fuel our travels.

I went to North Carolina briefly when I was 18 and have been longing to go back ever since! I bet this road trip was stunning. Spring sounds like a good suggestion on when to go, before it gets too humid, but warm enough for those of us that are accustomed to cooler weather. I like that you didn’t add too much on so you could enjoy the places you saw.

That is an epic road trip – 1200 miles is AWESOME. I love road trips and in my travel blog i have written extensively on road trips across India and can really appreciate your efforts.

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Beautiful Carolinas Road Trip: Asheville To Myrtle Beach

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• Destinations
• Myrtle Beach
• North Carolina
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• South Carolina
• Types of Travel
• United States

Travel from the mountains to the coast on a road trip from Asheville to Myrtle Beach. You’ll start your journey in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, surrounded by the highest mountain peaks along the Eastern Seaboard. Enjoy fresh mountain air and wide-open spaces before traveling south with stops in cities in both North and South Carolina to end at Myrtle Beach with its 60 miles of beautiful coastline.

The best times to take this road trip are during the spring and fall for stunning foliage colors and cooler temps. Or, go in the summer to take full advantage of the beach.

This road trip takes a scenic route from Asheville to Myrtle Beach, winding through Fairview and Chimney Rock in North Carolina before heading into South Carolina to visit Spartanburg, Columbia, and Florence, and ending at Myrtle Beach.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is known for its mountaintops and remote locations to experience zen moments. One way to explore this mountain escape is with a tour. Namaste in Nature tours take you to hidden waterfalls and peaceful spots for yoga in nature. With Asheville Wellness Tours , you can experience a forest-bathing experience with a certified forest therapy guide, plus essential oil archetype readings, tea and tarot cards, and stand up paddleboard yoga tours.

Take a hike to discover mountain balds — open spaces void of trees with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, reminiscent of the picnic scene in The Sound of Music . The peaks of Southern Appalachia are known for rolling greenery and layers of misty blue. Amongst it all, dotting the landscape are these mysterious mountain balds. The closest bald to Asheville is Bearwallow Mountain Trail . The hike to this bald is less than a mile. Take a picnic and enjoy the views.

Explore nearby waterfalls with a scenic drive. The Blue Ridge Mountains that surround Asheville are home to winding mountain roads and thousands of beautiful cascading waterfalls. Discover the six waterfalls that can be enjoyed from the road — no hiking required.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

After you’ve had your fill of hiking and waterfalls, there’s plenty to do in town. With 50 breweries in the region, there are a variety of options to try. Sip a beer in the meadow at Highland Brewing Company , sit on the back porch at New Belgium’s Liquid Center , or stop by Turgua , a small farmhouse brewery.

Asheville is hailed for its chef-driven and award-winning restaurants. Enjoy memorable meals at restaurants such as The Dining Room at the Biltmore; Curate , a hip place for small plates; and Rhubarb , a chef-driven restaurant downtown.

There’s a mix of lodging options in Asheville, with everything from glamping and retreats to luxury hotels and log homes. If you’ve wanted to try glamping, at Asheville Glamping you can stay in a skylight dome, an Airstream, a safari tent, a tipi, or even a treehouse. For a retreat experience, OM Sanctuary provides renewal through personalized wellness programs — yoga, sound therapy, forest bathing, meditation, and more — all set on a scenic 52-acre campus just above the French Broad River. Or stay in a secluded Cliffside log home at Paradise on Cliffledge .

Check out our guide to the best Airbnbs in Asheville for more options.

If you have more time in town, check out our recommendations for a weekend getaway in Asheville, North Carolina: eight things to do .

Fairview, North Carolina

Just south of Asheville, you’ll find the farm community of Fairview with its pastoral views and on-your-honor farm stands for grabbing local produce for the road. Stop to sample award-winning cheese at Looking Glass Creamery , a top spot on the Western NC Cheese Trail , before heading on to Chimney Rock.

Chimney Rock, North Carolina

Continue south to Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park for the 75-mile views over Lake Lure (featured in the film Dirty Dancing). It’s a haven for hiking and birdwatching as falcons and hawks often soar around the massive monolith rock face.

Visit Chimney Rock, for which the park is named, a 535 million-year-old monolith — considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. If you’re adventurous, you can hike to the top of the 315-foot rock formation on Outcroppings Trail . An easier route is the elevator that will get you close to the top and leaves just 44 steps to walk to the breathtaking view.

If you’re interested in additional hiking, the Hickory Nut Gorge area is home to Wildcat Rock and the surrounding trails, wildflowers, caves, and a waterfall. The newest trail in the area features a stunning waterfall, spectacular views from a rock outcrop, plus a picturesque ridgeline meadow. It’s a strenuous three miles out to the ridgeline meadow and back for a six-mile hike. If you’d like a shorter hike, it’s one mile to Little Bearwallow Falls, or two miles to Wildcat Rock.

Kevin Ruck / Shutterstock

Spartanburg, South Carolina

Once you’ve had your fill of hiking, head south another 45 miles to enter South Carolina and arrive in Spartanburg. Learn about history with a visit to the Walnut Grove Plantation , where volunteers and staff recount how free and enslaved people settled the South Carolina Backcountry, fought for independence, and worked to build a new nation.

Spartanburg has a diverse arts scene boasting South Carolina’s most respected, progressive, and diverse art communities. There’s ballet, symphonies, and opera, plus street performers, graffiti, and dance mobs. In the cultural district downtown, walk and explore art galleries, music venues, breweries, culinary arts, local publishers, museums, and more.

Southern-style eats are a specialty, so stop by one of the barbecue huts or fish camps to experience authentic Southern-style dining. Try Bubba’s BBQ and Bash for award-winning barbecue or Carolina Barbecue for Lexington-style juicy pork barbecue. For crispy Southern fried chicken, try Flavorshack .

Stay for the night at a bed and breakfast, hotel, or campground. The AC Hotel Spartanburg provides Southern hospitality in a beautiful 10-story hotel in downtown Spartanburg.

Columbia, South Carolina

Whether you’re interested in open-air artisan markets, craft beer, or more outdoor activities, Columbia’s small-town charm serves up a variety of Southern favorites. Artwork is visible throughout the city, with murals and sculptures woven into the scenery.

Food writer Kim Jamieson ( @eatinSC on Instagram ) shares food finds across the state. She recommends these must-hit food spots in Columbia: Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe ; Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles for soul food; The Gourmet Shop , an upscale grocery, and her favorite; and True BBQ , which she says is a must-visit.

The Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel puts you in the center of downtown life in a landmark hotel.

Julia Belle’s Restaurant

Florence, South Carolina

Reasons to visit Florence are many and include its recognition as the birthplace of barbecue. It also has a 43-mile trail system, an active live music and arts scene, and oodles of Southern hospitality. Enjoy plenty of Southern specialties, such as Southern fried chicken at Maryland Fried Chicken served with another specialty, fried okra.

Mac ’n’ cheese is celebrated in Florence with Mac Madness Day in July. Try the mac ’n’ cheese with a shrimp po’boy at Julia Belle’s Restaurant . Florence is also the hub of the South Carolina Pecan Trail , so get your fill of pecan-inspired dishes and creations at more than 20 participating restaurants.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

What better place to end a road trip than at the beach? In Myrtle Beach, you’ll enjoy 60 miles of coastal activities. Often called the golf capital of the world, you’ll find some 88 courses where you can spend the day. When you’re not enjoying relaxing on the beach (or golfing), there’s plenty to do. Take in the undersea world at Ripley’s Aquarium , enjoy a show at the Carolina Opry or the Alabama Theatre , or visit the upside-down house known as WonderWorks , where you’ll find an amusement park for the mind with more than 100 hands-on exhibits.

You can get your fill of seafood at the many seafood buffets, beach bars, and fine dining restaurants. Crabby George’s seafood buffet has 120 items to choose from — everything from fried oysters to white clams and stuffed flounder. Or visit Drunken Jack’s for fresh seafood. Start with the shrimp and crab fondue served with toasted ciabatta, then satisfy your seafood craving with the sesame encrusted ahi tuna. Or really get your fill with the Drunken Jack’s Sampler, which includes bacon-wrapped crab, stuffed shrimp, bacon-wrapped sea scallops, blackened beef tips, and mini crab cakes topped with a bearnaise sauce.

For something different, spend a few nights at the Waikiki Village Motel just steps from the beach. You’ll have a vintage Myrtle Beach experience with a modern twist at the National Historic Register retro motel. Or stay in an upscale luxury resort: the Anderon Ocean Club and Spa . Enjoy a full-service spa, views of the Atlantic Ocean, and an oceanfront tiki bar while staying in a condominium.

Want more road trip inspiration? Consider this Blue Ridge Parkway road trip: the perfect five-day itinerary .

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

Summer Road Trip: 10 Best Places To Visit In The Carolinas In 2023

North and South Carolina intertwine in an enchanting road trip, where captivating vistas, rich history, and a tapestry of diverse experiences await.

Setting off on a road trip holds endless allure, and one of the greatest pleasures lies in experiencing the mesmerizing natural beauty that unfolds from behind the wheel. Within the southeastern region of the United States, the Carolinas emerge as an enticing destination where enchanting vistas, delectable cuisine, and an abundance of outdoor activities converge harmoniously. These neighboring states, intricately linked by scenic highways, welcome travelers to partake in an unforgettable journey. A road trip through the Carolinas offers a wonderful opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities. Discover charming towns steeped in Southern hospitality, delve into the region's cultural heritage, and savor the flavors of local cuisine .

From thriving urban centers to coastal paradises to historical landmarks to serene mountain retreats, the Carolinas offer a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. Whether it's exploring the cobblestone streets of a historical town or relaxing on pristine beaches, each stop on this road trip will unveil unique treasures and create lasting memories. Get ready to hit the open road and embark on a remarkable adventure through North and South Carolina.

Please note that while the accommodations recommended in this article have been carefully selected based on extensive research, including user ratings of 8.2 or higher and favorable amenities, it is important for readers to independently verify all information and prices before making final decisions for their trip to the mentioned cities in North and South Carolina.

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In Charlotte: Complete Guide To North Carolina's Queen City

The Palmetto Hotel, Charleston

The residences at biltmore - asheville, the casso, raleigh, a tribute portfolio hotel, residence inn by marriott charlotte city center, springhill suites by marriott wilmington mayfaire, the westin poinsett, greenville, courtyard by marriott hilton head island, cambria hotel columbia downtown, the vista, four points by sheraton spartanburg, marriott greensboro downtown, charleston, south carolina.

Charleston, South Carolina, known for its rich history and Southern charm, captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and cultural heritage. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the historic plantations, the city showcases stunning architecture and cobblestone streets that transport you to another era. Explore the bustling downtown area or venture to nearby charming communities like Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Folly Beach , each offering their own unique charm and attractions. With its vibrant culinary scene, picturesque waterfronts, and warm hospitality, Charleston invites travelers to immerse themselves in its captivating ambiance and create lasting memories in the heart of the Lowcountry.

Experience more than 300 years of history on a guided carriage tour of Charleston.

Tour : Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Cost: From $50.00 USD

Duration: 1 hour (approx)

Includes: 1-hour horse & carriage sightseeing tour of Charleston with a certified driver/guide

Book This Tour

194 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, captivates visitors with its artistic atmosphere and natural splendor. Its diverse downtown area entices art lovers with galleries, shops, and lively music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the breathtaking beauty of the nearby Pisgah National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway. A visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate , with its grand architecture and sprawling gardens, is a must. Asheville's vibrant food scene, craft breweries, and artistic vibe make it an alluring destination for travelers exploring the Carolinas. Nearby towns like Saluda offer a mountain oasis, while a trek to Tryon reveals a charming community and the childhood home of Nina Simone .

Ticket prices for the Biltmore vary by season; please review dates and prices on their website . Reservations are required every day for all guests for entry to Biltmore House. Please reserve house entry time online or over the phone when purchasing tickets.

The Biltmore Company

700 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville, NC 28803

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh, North Carolina, welcomes with its eclectic mix of history, modern culture, and natural beauty. Visitors will enjoy the thriving arts scene at the North Carolina Museum of Art , featuring exclusive exhibitions and installations. The rich heritage of the state can be explored at the North Carolina Museum of History , where interactive exhibits bring history to life. For book lovers of all ages, the James B. Hunt Library is a testament to Raleigh’s innovation, offering a truly immersive library experience. Family-friendly fun can be found at Pullen Park, with rides on the historic carousel and paddle boats. Neighboring Cary is a culinary paradise, boasting a plethora of new and delectable restaurants. To truly experience the essence of the region, venture beyond Raleigh and discover the vibrant Triangle area, encompassing Chapel Hill and Durham, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

Check out the best Raleigh has to offer on this two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl.

Tour : Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

Cost: From $45.00 USD

Duration: 2 hours (approx)

Includes: Two hours on the trolley pub, cooler, tours are BYOB

603 West Morgan Street, Raleigh, NC 27603

Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina, embodies a vibrant spirit and diverse offerings that make it a standout destination. The city pulses with energy and creativity, evident in the eclectic NoDa district, known for its art galleries and live music venues. The Mint Museum showcases captivating art collections, while adrenaline lovers can satisfy their cravings at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. For racing enthusiasts, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a thrilling tribute to the sport's legends. And let's not forget the exhilarating thrills of Carowinds amusement park . Charlotte's unique blend of culture, adventure, and entertainment creates a dynamic and memorable experience for all who visit.

220 East Trade Street, Suite 1400, Charlotte, NC 28202

Wilmington, North Carolina

In the coastal gem of Wilmington, North Carolina, an array of attractions await road trippers. History enthusiasts can wander the decks of the World War II-era Battleship NORTH CAROLINA , a proud recipient of the esteemed title "Best Museum Ship" by USA TODAY 10 Best. For those seeking knowledge and discovery, the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science offers a captivating experience. Meanwhile, the Wilmington Railroad Museum delights both young and old with model trains and a 100-year-old steam locomotive. Thrills and spills can be found at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park , hailed as the "Best Water Park in Eastern North Carolina." And, of course, there are the beaches that beckon with their beauty and charm - Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach - offering tranquil escapes and sun-soaked adventures.

1014 Ashes Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405

Greenville, South Carolina

In Greenville, South Carolina, adventure and delectable flavors await around every corner. The Gorge Zipline Canopy Tour offers exhilarating treetop experiences, while Falls Park on the Reedy, with its iconic Liberty Bridge, mesmerizes visitors with breathtaking views. Green River Adventures beckons thrill-seekers with whitewater kayaking, swimming hole hikes, and daring Waterfall Rappel adventures. But it's not just about adrenaline; Greenville's food scene has garnered prestigious acclaim. Zagat hails it as the "#1 Under-the-Radar Southern Food Destination," Esquire names it the "Next Big Food City of the South," and Southern Living celebrates it as one of "The South's Tastiest Towns." Discover the electric spark of Greenville, a city that captivates hearts and palates alike.

120 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is a beautiful coastal paradise with world-class golf courses and a vibrant cultural heritage. The island's pristine beaches beckon sun-seekers to unwind on soft sand and bask in the tranquil ocean breeze. Golf enthusiasts will find their paradise on the island's championship courses, where lush fairways and stunning views create an unforgettable experience. For a deeper understanding of the island's history, the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island provides a nuanced exploration of the vibrant Gullah culture, preserving their traditions and stories. Hilton Head Island invites visitors to immerse themselves in its coastal charm, indulge in outdoor activities, and discover the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage.

79 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

RELATED: 10 Things To Do On Hilton Head Island: Complete Guide To South Carolina's Charming Coastal Getaway

Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, welcomes visitors to delve into its local history and cultural offerings. From the South Carolina State House to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden , there's something for everyone. Located on the banks of the Congaree River, Columbia offers outdoor activities like kayaking and scenic trails. Food enthusiasts will delight in the vibrant culinary scene, including the annual Columbia Food and Wine Festival. Sports fans can cheer on the Columbia Fireflies, while those seeking unique flavors can indulge in the city's array of restaurants and breweries. Columbia is a city of warmth, heritage, and delectable pimento cheese, inviting visitors to explore its charm.

Choice Hotels

1000 Lady Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Spartanburg, South Carolina

Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a hidden gem brimming with charm and an array of exciting attractions. The city's dining scene is a true delight, offering menus bursting with farm-to-fork options that cater to diverse palates. Outdoor enthusiasts will find solace in Croft State Park , boasting over 20 miles of scenic biking and hiking trails, along with a playground perfect for picnicking and camping. For those seeking adventure, the BMW Performance Center provides thrilling driving experiences. Meanwhile, The Rail Yard Community Park is a vibrant hub, home to the Panthers Play 60, where children can embrace active play. Spartanburg truly offers a nuanced blend of natural beauty and community spirit.

9027 Fairforest Road, Spartanburg, SC 29301

RELATED: 10 Truly Underrated Towns In North Carolina That Deserve To Be Explored

Greensboro, North Carolina

In Greensboro, North Carolina, history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine to offer an enriching experience. Travelers can delve into the city's significant Civil Rights history by exploring the International Civil Rights Center & Museum , where the powerful stories of the movement come to life. For a touch of wonder, the Greensboro Science Center captivates with its fascinating exhibits, and the Greensboro Arboretum offers a tranquil stop with its serene botanical gardens. History buffs will enjoy the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, and outdoor enthusiasts can relish in the city's abundant parks and trails. The diverse culinary scene, from tantalizing barbecue to globally inspired flavors, promises a delectable journey. Consider venturing to neighboring High Point and Winston-Salem for even more vibrant and captivating experiences.

304 North Greene Street, Greensboro, NC 27401

Who decided to split North and South Carolina?North and South Carolina's “split,” decreed from the British Crown , was complete by 1729.

Travel With Me 24 X 7

Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

Perfect South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary 7 Days With Map

Are you looking for a South Carolina Road trip itinerary? Read this article on one of the best road trips in South Carolina. This road trip through South Carolina offers diverse experiences, from historic cities to beautiful coastal areas and picturesque countryside.

ALSO READ : 6 Best Scenic Drives In North Carolina With Scenic Stopovers & Hotels

South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s a detailed 7-day South Carolina road trip itinerary with stopovers, scenic routes, things to do, overnight stays, and valuable tips to help you plan your journey: 

South Carolina Road Trip Map – Road trips in South Carolina

Day 1: Charleston – South Carolina Day Trips

Where To Stay Overnight

• Stay at The Vendue or The Mills House Hotel .

• Start your day  early in Charleston , one of South Carolina’s most charming cities.
• Explore the  historic district,  including Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, and the Charleston City Market .
• Visit the iconic  Boone Hall Plantation  for a glimpse into Southern history. Or Visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens for beautiful gardens and wildlife.
• Enjoy Lowcountry cuisine at a local restaurant like  Husk or Poogan’s Porch.
• Take a relaxing stroll along the  historic Battery  and White Point Garden.
• Dine at one of Charleston’s renowned restaurants.

Day 2: Charleston to Myrtle Beach

• Depart Charleston and head  northeast towards Myrtle Beach .
• Myrtle Beach is 2 hr 10 min (97.9 mi) via Hwy 17 N from Charleston, SC.
• Enjoy scenic views along the way, including the  Francis Marion National Forest .

ALSO READ :  11 Best Beaches Near Charleston SC (Things To Do)

• Stop in  Georgetown  for lunch at River Room or Buzz’s Roost.

Late Afternoon:

• Arrive in Myrtle Beach and explore the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade.
• Visit  Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum  or the SkyWheel for some entertainment.

Where to Stay Overnight 

• Stay at Ocean Reef Resort or Marina Inn at Grande Dunes .

Day 3: Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head Island

• Check out of your hotel and start your drive  south to Hilton Head Island .
• The total  commuting time and distance  would be  3 hr 49 min  (221.4 mi) via US-378 W and I-95 S

• Stop in Beaufort  and dine at a charming waterfront restaurant like Plums.
• Explore the Beaufort historic district and take a carriage tour.
• Continue your  drive to Hilton Head Island , known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or renting bikes to explore the island.

Where To Stay In Overnight

• Stay at  The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa   or the  Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort .

Day 4: Hilton Head Island

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Spend your morning exploring the Coastal Discovery Museum or playing golf.

• Grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant like the Sea Pines Beach Club.
• Visit  Harbour Town in Sea Pines  for shopping, sightseeing, and climbing the iconic lighthouse.
• Explore the  Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge  for nature walks and birdwatching.

Day 5: Hilton Head Island to Columbia

• Check out of your hotel on Hilton Head Island and start your drive  west to Columbia .
• The distance and commuting time from Hilton Head Island to Columbia is  2 hr 31 min  (152.0 mi) via I-95 N and I-26 W.
• Stop in Lexington for lunch.
• Explore the South Carolina State Museum or stroll through Columbia’s beautiful Riverbanks Botanical Garden.

Dinner and Overnight Stay:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the  Vista district .
• Stay at the Hilton Columbia Center or Wyndham Garden .

Day 6: Columbia to Greenville

• Depart Columbia and head northwest towards Greenville.
• The distance and commuting time from Columbia to Greenville is  1 hr 35 min  (103.5 mi) via I-26 W and I-385 N.
• Stop for  lunch in Newberry  at a local spot like Figaro the Dining Room.
• Checkin to  Westin Poinsett  or the  AC Hotel Greenville .

Late Afternoon & Evening:

• Explore the  charming downtown of Greenville , including  Falls Park on the Reedy River .
• Visit the Greenville Zoo or take a walk on the Liberty Bridge.

Dinner 

• Dine at one of the excellent restaurants in downtown Greenville.

Day 7: Greenville to Charleston (via Scenic Route)

• Check out your Greenville hotel and head back towards Charleston via a scenic route.
• The total distance and commuting time from Greenville to Charleston is  3 hr 10 min  (212.9 mi) via I-26 E.

• Stop for lunch at a roadside café along the way.
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the  rolling hills of the Upstate region.
• If time permits, visit a winery or orchard along the way.
• Arrive back in Charleston and enjoy a final dinner at one of your favorite restaurants from Day 1.

👉🏼7 Best South Carolina Islands + Route, Things To Do, Beach Resorts, Pet-Friendly & Parking Tips

Useful Tip – South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

• Plan your accommodations, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check the opening hours and availability of attractions and restaurants, as they may vary.
• Carry a paper map or use a GPS navigation system, as some areas may have limited cell coverage.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Be prepared for variable weather, as South Carolina can be hot and humid in the summer and cool in the winter.

FAQs – Day Trips In South Carolina

• What’s the best time of year for a road trip in South Carolina?

South Carolina is great for road trips year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild.

• Do I need any special permits or passes for national parks or attractions in South Carolina?

Most attractions and parks in South Carolina do not require special permits or passes. However, some state parks may charge an entrance fee.

3. How should I prepare for the weather in South Carolina?

• Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Summers are hot, so bring sunscreen and light clothing, while winters can be cool, so pack layers.
• Are there any toll roads in South Carolina?

South Carolina does have some toll roads, including the Southern Connector in Greenville and the Cross Island Parkway in Hilton Head Island. Make sure you have cash or a compatible electronic toll payment system if you use these roads.

• What must-visit attractions for families on a South Carolina road trip?

Family-friendly attractions include Myrtle Beach, the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry in Charleston.

• Are there any scenic routes I should consider for my road trip?

Yes, consider driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Upstate region for stunning mountain views or the scenic Lowcountry Highway  (Route 17)  along the coast for coastal beauty.

• Can I find vegetarian or vegan options at restaurants in South Carolina?

While South Carolina is known for its seafood and barbecue, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in larger cities like Charleston and Greenville.

• How do I book accommodations in advance for my road trip?

It’s a good idea to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. 

• Are there any safety tips for driving in South Carolina?

Follow standard safety practices such as obeying speed limits, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding distractions while driving. Be mindful of wildlife, especially in rural areas, and watch out for occasional severe weather, like summer thunderstorms.

• Can I bring my pet on the road trip?

Many hotels and campgrounds in South Carolina are pet-friendly, but checking their pet policies and making reservations is essential. Ensure your pet is safely restrained while driving.

• Is there a South Carolina road trip map or app I can use for navigation?

Several GPS navigation apps, like Google Maps and Waze, work well for navigating South Carolina. You can also find detailed road trip maps and resources from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism.

• What’s the best way to explore the historical sites in South Carolina?

To explore historical sites, start with Charleston’s historic district, but also consider visiting plantation homes, forts, and museums throughout the state. Join guided tours for a deeper understanding of South Carolina’s rich history.

• How can I find local events or festivals during my road trip?

Visit the official tourism websites of South Carolina or local event listing platforms to find information about upcoming events, festivals, and cultural activities during your visit.

Remember to plan your South Carolina road trip itinerary carefully, stay informed about local conditions, and have a great adventure exploring this beautiful state!

This South Carolina road trip itinerary or beautiful day trips in South Carolina offers diverse experiences, from historic cities to coastal beauty and scenic drives through the Palmetto State. Enjoy your journey!

Read More on Charleston Travel Planning – Sc Day Trip

• Thanksgivng In Charleston SC – Things To Do + Activities
• Best Things To Do In Charleston With Kids
• Charleston vs Savannah – Which Best City To Visit In 2023
• 29 Interesting Facts About Charleston Sc
• Best Things To Do In Charleston SC This Weekend (Complete Charleston Travel Guide)
• 9 Best Day Trips from Charleston SC Weekend Road Trips (Within 2 Hours)
• Plan A Trip To Charleston SC – Epic Charleston Travel Guide
• 24 Hours In Charleston Tour – The Best Itinerary

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Ankita Poddar

North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary 

Fuel your car and heart because we are going on a North Carolina to South Carolina road trip. 

Hitting the roads has always been equated with experiencing happiness in the rawest and most endearing forms. 

Interstate drives like a road trip to North and South Carolina taking only 3 hours 28 minutes without any stops. 

However, stopping in between and enjoying the place makes the journey stand out. I have spent time living in North Carolina and traveling to the south to meet my cousins.

 I always wanted to move to North Carolina , so this itinerary is tried and tested. The dog-friendly beaches , Abandoned places , and Beach towns always intrigued me.

Without exploring the incredible places, soaking the local energy, tasting foods, enjoying Christmas , or following offbeat hiking trails, the North and South Carolina Road trip is incomplete.

if in winter you’re in South Carolina you have to visit my favorite places. SC is equally gorgeous.

So, here I am sharing a minimum 3-4 days North Carolina to South Carolina road trip itinerary that offers to explore the cities, towns, and best sites in a unique way. 

However, if you have time you can adjust the days to suit your schedule and extend my North and South Carolina Road trip itinerary for 10-12 days. 

So, let’s start.

Read: 11 Best Christmas Towns In South Carolina 2022

North and South Carolina Road Trip – 12 Stops

I will take you through unique road trips, magnificent waterfalls, a variety of landscapes, equestrian traditional food, and plenty of opportunities to explore.

So, look ahead and enjoy the ride. Here goes the North Carolina to South Carolina road trip itinerary. 

Stop 1: Chapel Hill – North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Chapel Hill is a beautiful college town in North Carolina that is well known for its gorgeous gardens, greenways, romantic parks, festival lining, and offbeat attractions. 

Picture courtesy- unc.edu

The antebellum vibe here is so worth visiting. Travel.us news ranked Chapel Hill as 17th in Best Places to visit in the Carolinas.

In your North Carolina road trip, Chapel Hill is a hidden gem. Spend a few hours (4-5 hours) and have mouth-licking delicious food before starting the journey. 

Soak in the beauty of witnessing beautiful azaleas, tree-covered walkways, and the romantic downtown in Chapel Hill.

Things to do in Chapel Hill 

• Stroll around the oldest public university in North Carolina. You can explore the elegantly restored gorgeous walkways and majestic premises watching the dogwoods. I would recommend you to come to the north campus and take the Wormhole trail. 
• Right outside the campus sits Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Morehead Planetarium is home to the largest full dome planetarium in the southeast and a great place to visit in North Carolina with kids. At the Science Center, there are educational programs narrating stories of Starry Nights and Skywatching.
• Seek some blessings at The Old Well and drink the lucky water from the fountain before starting the North and South Carolina road trip. Click pictures and experience unique art in downtown Chapel Hill. The painted murals on the walls by Michael Brown and Scott Nurkin are awe-striking.
• Have Indian food at Vimala’s Curryblossom Café, the most unique and beloved restaurant in North Carolina. Vimala Rajendran is an Indian and he will offer you tandoori chicken, pork vindaloo, kofta curry, uttapams, Kerala beef, and more. I can bet, you have never had such food in your life. They are the best!

Stop 2: Raleigh- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Raleigh, the most incredibly beautiful city in South America, is the capital town of North Carolina, and also has been ranked as #9 in Best Places to visit in the Carolinas.

Not limited to that, Raleigh is also called the “Smithsonian of the South”. This is mostly smart modern meets historic destinations filled with passionate minds.

Here you can explore a lot of free museums filled with extraordinary world stories. Yes, I mean it, when I say “a lot of museums”. Also, Raleigh has some good cafes!

Therefore, Raleigh should be there in your North Carolina Road trip itinerary. You can pack some dry foods from the local market. Spend 3-4 hours at Raleigh. 

Things to do in Raleigh:

• You are never too old to visit Marbles Kids Museum and revive your thrilling childhood memories filled with fun and love. 
• Enlarge your knowledge and learn the fascinating history of Raleigh from The Mordecai House. Take a photo against the heavy yellow color making it one of the most remarkable photos of your life.
• Enjoy time at JC Raulston Arboretum among the Muku tree, golden chain train, twin-flowering abelia, twisted tongue agave and so much more. 
• Go on a tour to the North Carolina Executive Mansion which was home to the State Government from 1891 and on.
• Have food at Tazza Kitchen, the modern, stylish kitchen that serves the best sizzling meat in Raleigh.

Stop 3: Emerald Isle- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Emerald Isle is the crystal coast of North Carolina that is famous for excellent fishing, abundant aquatic activities, heritage sites, and a laid-back atmosphere. 

In your north and South Carolina road trip, this 12 miles coastline of North Carolina is a must. It is also ranked #13 in Best places to visit in the North Carolinas. 

Emerald Isle offers you the chance to soak your toes in the white sand, enjoy the moist air of the Atlantic Ocean, meet people, and indulge in a vast number of water activities.

Things to do in Emerald Isle:

• Come to Emerald Isle Woods Park, walk along nature, smell the sweet yet moist flowery scent in the air, and enjoy the bird chipping and chill in the atmosphere. 
• Explore the 17th-century fort at Macon State Park and enjoy the vistas surrounding it. You can also spot dolphins swimming offshore.
• Emerald Isle is a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina offering stunning views of ocean vistas. At The Point, you can look for shells like conch, sand dollar, or many
• Kayak to Hammocks Beach State Park for a more intimate experience with your partner in the North Carolina Road trip itinerary . 

Stop 4: Wilmington- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

On the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean sits the most thrilling and exciting Wilmington city that needs to be included in your North Carolina itinerary. 

How can you skip Wilmington, the evergreen riverfront city and Hollywood’s favorite location? It is also called “Wilmywood” and “Hollywood East”. 

Also, there are always some events happening in Wilmington starting from garden tours, food events, and coastal competitions to craft beer festivals and beach music. 

Things to do in Wilmington city:

• Come to Wrightsville Beach and test your running stamina here. The biggest attraction is The Loop which offers gorgeous views and the best sunset views
• Just two miles from Wrightsville Beach sits Airlie Garden which is surrounded by a blanket of tranquillity and wildlife. You can see a 500-year-old Airlie Oak, azaleas, spellbinding lakes, and plenty of butterflies. 
• Enjoy the retro vibe, remarkable trolley and carriage rides at Historic District
• You can also drive to Carolina Beach State Park to explore varied terrains, and witness Venus Fly Trap in the wild.

Stop 5: Fontana Lake- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Fontana Lake is renowned for its gorgeous location which sits eastward to Bryson City. This escape point awaits for you to unfold many water adventurous activities.

The gorgeous shoreline with emerald green water beneath scenic surroundings and a backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains is the most exotic sight to witness. 

Fontana Lake is one of the must-visit places on the North Carolina road trip itinerary. You can spend the night at Lakeview at Fontana , with accommodation and a shared kitchen. 

Things to do in Fontana Lake:

• Take a walk along the iconic dam which was featured in Bill Bryson’s book – A Walk in the Woods”. The dam and the panoramic views are media-worthy.
• If you want some adrenaline rush, take a zip-line adventure in the Smoky Mountains. 
• Say bye to your stress by taking a guided cruise tour or fishing tour in Lake Fontana. 

Stop 6: Myrtle Beach- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Enjoy the gorgeous 60 miles of coastline of the Atlantic Ocean at Myrtle Beach which is a must in your South Carolina road trip itinerary. 

Also, this is a quiet fishing village surrounded by tree-lined paths making it one of the best places to walk in the morning. 

Things to do in Myrtle Beach:

• If you can, try to be at the beach during the sunrise. Relax at the beach, the beautiful stunning white sand is perfect to play Frisbee at the beach.
• Come to Plyler Park and Promenade to enjoy lush green surroundings with a view of the rustic deck at the bay. 
• Bring your children to Pavilion park and let them enjoy high-energy thrill rides. 

Stop 6: Huntington Beach State Park- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Just 17 miles southeast of Myrtle Beach sits Huntington Beach State Park, a jewel of the Grand Strand. Here, you get a taste of beaches, trails, woods, sands, and marshes. 

Picture courtesy: visitmyrtlebeach

The beautiful 3 miles of Huntington Beach coastline are suitable for boating, fishing, and bird watching. Yes, it is also home to 300 bird species. 

Also, do not miss the chance to explore the guided tour of Moorish-style Atalaya Castle, the home of the famous sculptor Anna Huntington and her husband. 

Things to do in Huntington Beach State Park:

• The most obvious but the best thing is to hit Huntington Beach and enjoy the most air of the Atlantic Ocean.
• For your road trip north and South Carolina a visit Atalaya Castle is a must. The iron grates on the window, arches, and the design of the courtyard are so worthy of visiting. 
• You can hike at Kerrigan Nature Trail, a 0.30 miles nature trail into the woods. 

Stop 7: Fort Moultrie- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

On Sullivan’s Island stands Fort Moultrie, the oldest fort along the Eastern Seaboard that can never be skipped from your north and South Carolina road trips itinerary.

Also, Fort Moultrie is a place for history lovers as they can unfold stories from the Revolutionary War. Apart from this, the view of the gorgeous landscape from the top is unforgettable. 

Things to do in Fort Moultrie, Sullivan Island:

• Fort Moultrie is an inspiration for South Carolinas to design their flag. It has also earned a name as “The Palmetto State”.
• Come to Fort Sumter. 
• Meet the pop and seek blessing from Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church, the oldest catholic church in the Charleston area
• Explore the modern Light House called “Charleston Lighthouse”

Stop 8: Charleston- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Charleston is appealing to every soul, every mood, and every appetite. The welcoming nature of this oldest historic town in South Carolina is unbeatable. 

In the Colonial and Antebellum eras, Charleston was one of the wealthiest cities. The cobblestone streets, the main market, and Folly beach are some of my favorites. 

The historic architecture, progressive artistic works, and charming vibe to date keep Charleston one of the most visited places in South Carolina.

Spend the night here at the Holiday Inn Charleston-Riverview, one of the amazing hotels in South Carolina. 

Things to do in Charleston:

• Look at the 1500 years old massive oak tree that stretches 65 feet at the top and 25 feet in circumference.
• Learn about World War II aircraft carrier history from Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
• If your North and South Carolina road trip is in January, then do not forget to attend the Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation. 

Stop 9: Columbia- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Columbia is South Carolina’s capital city and also called the Soda City is a must in your South Carolina road trip stops. 

However, it received the name not because the soda was invented here but because it’s an abbreviation of Columbia to “Cola”. 

Moreover, with its fueling economy and presence of High-Tec and pharmaceutical companies, Columbia is a great place to move to South Carolina. 

Things to do in Columbia:

• Take a free tour of the South Carolina State House which was constructed in 1851
• You cannot miss paved paths at Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park.
• Enjoy the architectural style of Classical Revival elegance at Robert Mills House and Garden.

Stop 10: Clemson- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Clemson is a beautiful cliff town that sits on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains against the shores of Lake Hartwell. 

My sister did her college at Clemson University and I can guarantee you this place are so amazing. It is filled with a lot of adventurous activities for you to unfold.

You can stay here at night and in the morning go for outdoor adventures in the Sassafras Mountains. 

Things to do in Clemson:

• Come to my favorite All In Coffee Shop that offers such fresh brewed coffee. Come here and enjoy the city vibe and a cup of coffee.
• Stroll around the University campus and their historic grounds
• Come to Lake Hartwell State Park and enjoy boating
• Hike to see gorgeous Issaqueena Falls, a 200-foot cascading waterfall
• Have food at Pixie and Bill’s. Order the classic prime rib and the famous steak

Stop 11: Asheville- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

Do you know Asheville is known as the “Paris of the South”? Its rich architecture, creative communities, and gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are picturesque.

Asheville’s streets received national attention because of their beauty. I am glad I stopped at Asheville; it was the best road trip in South Carolina.  

Things to do in Asheville:

• Get a new perspective from hundreds of feet above the ground on a zipline tour in Asheville
• Take a miles away from ordinary life to the fresh mountain air
• Visit Biltmore Estate, a 178,926-square-foot mansion 

Step 12: Greensboro- North Carolina to South Carolina Road Trip

After Charlotte and Raleigh, Greensboro is the third largest city in North Carolina. This is your last stop on your road trip to north and South Carolina.

Greensboro in Guilford County has earned the nickname “Gate City” as it sits between North-South and East-West routes. 

I would suggest you go to Elm Street’s Crafted The Art of Taco and enjoy NC staples. Also, celebrate your North and South Carolina road trip!

If you want to explore Carolina’s hidden gems, then the list of spots is perfect for your North and South Carolina road trip . Start from Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina. Next, you will want to soak in the beauty of Chapel Hills, Emerald Isle, and Fontana Lake. 

From there, head to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina and enjoy several beaches and historical sites. Come to Clemson, and enjoy the cliff climate here. End your trip partying at Greensboro. If you haven’t taken the North to South Carolina road trip, it’s time you pack your bags and start your journey. 

How many hours of the journey is from North Carolina to South Carolina?

The distance from Raleigh, North Carolina to Columbia, South Carolina is 206 miles via US-1 S which will take you around 3 hours 42 minutes with a driving speed averaging 60 mph. 

How long does it take to drive through South Carolina and North Carolina?

From Columbia, South Carolina to Raleigh, North Carolina along US-1 S will take you around 3 hours 42 min with driving speed averaging 60 mph. However, if you drive from Charleston on the east coast to Raleigh then it will take around 4 hours and 20 minutes. Therefore, it depends on the location of the two places.

How long does it take to get from North Carolina to South Carolina by car?

If you are taking the US-1S route from Raleigh, North Carolina to Columbia, South Carolina it will take you 3 hours 43 minutes with a driving speed averaging 60 mph. If you take the SC-1435 S route to reach North Carolina from South Carolina then it would take 3 hours 49 minutes.

Is there a train from North Carolina to South Carolina?

From Raleigh, North Carolina to Columbia, South Carolina there is no direct train service. However, in total 4 trains are running among 11 destinations between North and South. You can take the train from Raleigh Union Station to Florence Amtrak Station via Selma. Remember, that Amtrak in South Carolina has more coverage. 

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A Black history road trip through North and South Carolina

Road trips haven't always been my preferred means of travel, but as I have leaned into slow travel over the past few months, I've begun to appreciate the freedom, depth and natural beauty that exploring by car can afford.

Each February during Black History Month , Americans commemorate Black achievements and historical challenges — contributions that should be honored and celebrated in destinations across the country throughout the year.

My own personal road trips, of late, have led me to some beautiful destinations throughout the South where I have learned more about Black history, culture and untold stories of our ancestors.

While I didn't follow any particular route from state to state or city to city, here are some of my favored stops for exploration (and a few that are next on my list).

Black history in the Tar Heel State

My hometown, Greenville, is ground zero for exploring Black history in North Carolina.

Though small, the African American Cultural Trail is an impactful journey through the city. Even as a person who grew up here, I learned a lot from visiting the sites that preceded the Sycamore Hill Gateway Plaza. This site marks the original location of one of the state's most prominent Black churches, Sycamore Hill Missionary Baptist Church, founded in 1860 with just 22 members. The church is still open today.

Greenville is known for two things, one of which is its healthcare system. This cultural trail acknowledges the contributions of Black healthcare professionals. In 1923, resident Frances Hopkins, a nurse, began to care for Black patients in her home. With the help of the Greenville Kiwanis Club, the St. Frances Hospital for Colored People was opened the following year.

The other thing the city is known for is its college, East Carolina University, formerly known as East Carolina College. On the cultural trail, you'll wander through the arts district and learn about the work and life of Johnny Wooten, who used entertainment to pioneer desegregation on campus.

"The Block" was a hub for Black entertainment and culture in its heyday. The stretch of businesses along Albemarle Avenue was home to The Roxy Theater , barbershops and restaurants. Some of these, like Bell's Restaurant, were listed in The Green Book — a guidebook for Black roadtrippers. The Roxy is still an operating performing arts center. As you tour the area, stop at the best spot in town, The Breakfast Bar , for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

There were 327 business listings in The Green Book for North Carolina — 66 of the buildings are still standing, some of them operational, including Dove & Son's Auto Services in Kinston and Greensboro's Historic Magnolia House , a hotel that played host to legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Jackie Robinson and Tina Turner.

If you only have time for one thing in Wilmington, North Carolina, it should be the WilmingtoNColor tour. The shuttle bus will take you through Green Book locations (like the Murphy Hotel), influential Black-owned businesses, prominent educational institutions and monumental medical facilities. Most importantly, it tells the story of the only successful government overthrow on American soil, which occurred as a result of a racially charged massacre in November 1898 that demolished Wilmington's robust Black community.

Astonishingly, at the time, more than 100 elected government roles (lawyers, city clerks, treasurers and more) were held by Black residents. Following the massacre, over 100,000 registered Black voters left Wilmington, and every Black person serving in an elected government role was forced to relinquish their duties. It was more than 75 years before another Black person served in public office. The tour does a stellar job of identifying the effects of the massacre and coup through the years.

North Carolina's Research Triangle area is synonymous with invention, ingenuity and innovation and is rich with Black history. In the Triangle, you'll find the city of Durham, home to the beloved North Carolina Central University , a historically Black university. Founded to provide Black people with educational opportunities after the Civil War, the university was the liberal arts college where Blacks were state-supported in the U.S. You can ride through the campus or schedule a tour with the administration staff.

It was in Durham's Black Wall Street district that John Merrick founded the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company in 1889, the largest and longest-standing Black-owned life insurance company in the country. In 1907, the district also became home to Mechanics & Farmers Bank , the second-oldest minority-owned bank in the nation — it's still in operation over 100 years later.

Many civil rights leaders passed through the Triangle area, including Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who visited five times. However, every city has its formidable group of activists and leaders who brought change.

For Durham, one of those leaders was Pauli Murray , an advocate of racial and gender equality and the first woman ordained as a priest at the Episcopal Church. Immortalized in several murals across the city, she was the first Black person to become a Doctor of the Science of Laws from Yale Law School and was a part of movements in Virginia to end segregation of public transportation. She was also one of the founding members of the Congress of Racial Equality , which taught and used nonviolent tactics in protests.

Murray made an indelible impact on every community she was a part of. Her childhood home is a National Historic Landmark and now operates as the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice . It's one of the most inspiring places to spend an afternoon in Durham.

On the Western side of the state is Asheville . Travelers flock here for the breathtaking mountain views and lively breweries, but you'll find plenty of Black influence here, too, starting with the Biltmore . Whatever you need for the ultimate staycation or getaway can be found on-site. At over 125,000 acres, the estate, built by the Vanderbilt family, was one of the largest private estates in the county. To amass that many acres, the Vanderbilts purchased acres from Black landowners in the Shiloh community who primarily used the land for farming.

Over the years, the Biltmore became a household name for entertainment and hosting, with many Black celebrities among the guests. Poet Langston Hughes wrote about his stay in his autobiography, The Big Sea , after his visit in 1931. In 1941, Marian Anderson sang in the estate's banquet hall for more than 2,500 people. Another singer, Ethel Waters, visited in 1956 and performed at a benefit concert for the United Negro College Fund.

You can also tour the property to marvel at its grand architecture and charm. It is one of North Carolina's treasures. However, I wish the tours did more to highlight the Black celebrities and politicians who visited the estate.

There's plenty more to explore and learn in Asheville, and the city's architecture is the main attraction. James Vester Miller is the master brick mason behind many of Asheville's historic buildings from the late 19th century until the early 20th century.

On a self-guided walking tour curated by Andrea Clark, Miller's granddaughter, you can marvel at a slew of impressive buildings like the Asheville Municipal Building, Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Scottish Rite Cathedral and Masonic Temple, and Hopkins Chapel AME Zion Church.

Another self-guided option is the Asheville Black Heritage Cultural Trail . It connects you to stories of unsung heroes and landmarks throughout the city. If you're staying at The Foundry Hotel (a Black-owned hotel in the center of Asheville's oldest African American business district), there are trail markers just outside the door. For a guided experience , DeWayne Barton is the go-to person for authentic narratives of the Black Ashevillians who lived and worked on The Block.

Black history in the Palmetto State

My adventure in Black history in the Palmetto State started in the Olde English District , which spans seven counties. The first stop was Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Like many other communities, Rock Hill also had a Black Wall Street. This community was home to Black-owned businesses like churches, hair salons, grocery stores and restaurants. At the corner of Black Street and Dave Lyle Boulevard lies the African-American Business District , a monument that pays homage to the businesses that once were.

In a 1-mile radius is The Mural Mile , where art, history and freedom of expression meet. There are a total of 10 murals painted on the sides of buildings by local artists. Some of the murals reinforce the spirit of community with a reminder that Rock Hill is for everyone. Others share the importance of being a dreamer. I couldn't pick a favorite. The artists are wildly talented.

Brattonsville

Throughout the South, you'll find that plantations have been turned into wedding spaces and event venues, romanticizing the property and leaving out the sordid truth that happened to enslaved people on those grounds. So, ordinarily, I do not recommend plantation tours or visit them myself.

However, I find Historic Brattonsville in York County to be one of the exceptions. You won't find any glorification of the past here, only a commitment to telling the stories of enslaved people forced to call this land home, such as the "seven sacred families" whose lineage can be traced to Brattonsville.

I had the privilege of meeting one of those people, Wali Cathcart . His great-grandmother Lila was one of many enslaved here. Cathcart is a local historian involved in community education at Brattonsville; he also was a pitcher for the Joe Black National All-Stars, a Negro Baseball League team, in 1959.

The property sits on 800 acres with more than 30 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Of those buildings, there are two original structures on the plantation, one of which is former slave quarters. As you tour the inside of this small structure, you can still see the fingerprints of the slaves who built it, another reminder of the stark difference between the day-to-day lives of the enslaved and their enslaver.

Brattonsville was also a battlefield site in the Revolutionary War, and you can experience reenactments throughout the year. One of the things I value the most about this tour is learning about the living history programs used to educate the public on life in the Carolina backcountry from the 1750s to the 1850s. It is among the few living history sites with African American interpretation.

Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site

Another site that does an excellent job at preservation and education is the Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site . It is the home of former Gov. William Henry Gist, leader of South Carolina's secession movement.

At about 2,000 acres, the plantation had the second-largest enslaved population in Union County, South Carolina, and was an active plantation for 125 years. Five original and historic buildings are still standing, including the Gist Mansion.

Tour guides are very knowledgeable in sharing what day-to-day life might have been like for the Gist family, the enslaved people, the free people of color and the sharecroppers who lived there. The rooms have period furnishings, decor and table settings. It's one thing to read about history or see pictures, but structures like this put you face-to-face with reality in a jarring way. I think that component is needed to truly reinforce the horrors Africans and African Americans contended with in this era.

I spent the most time in one of the rooms downstairs, which might have been a sitting room or smaller bedroom. I was intrigued by two things in this room. Although they shared the stories of the enslaved and free people, the tour guide pointed out that the 1860 census did not list the names of any occupants outside of the family. Instead, it vaguely listed age and gender.

The other thing that held my interest was the labor contracts from 1865-1866. Essentially, labor contracts were documents between formerly enslaved persons and their previous enslavers. They outlined things such as their work and wages. However, many of the formerly enslaved could not read, so the contracts were not to their benefit in any way. It was disheartening but a reminder that even in gaining freedom, Black people often were not treated fairly.

An African American cemetery with more than 200 headstones was discovered a little over three years ago a few miles from the historic site in the Sumter National Forest. While little information is currently available, the state plans to have the space identified and made accessible.

Tours of the area are insightful and can be the catalyst for conversations about race relations and injustices, but know that it can be emotionally taxing. Whether you visit the site alone or with someone, spend some time along the Tyger River or one of the walking trails to decompress.

Continuing the journey

These cities and sites are part of a bigger story of Black history in North Carolina, South Carolina and America.

Each state offers tours and information that celebrate the uniqueness of Black history. Check out the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism websites for more places to add to your cultural road trip through the Carolinas.

The Green Book of South Carolina features several hundred sites specific to Black heritage throughout the state.

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The Best North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary – An Ultimate Guide

• September 9, 2023

Are you planning an exciting North Carolina road trip? If so, you’re in the right place! This ultimate North Carolina road trip guide and itinerary will take you on an unforgettable adventure along the East Coast.

North Carolina is home to some of the most  incredible places on the East Coast . It’s a state steeped with history, it’s home to the infamous Blue Ridge Parkway (which offers unmatched views), and its coast features pristine beaches.

With its endless gorgeous scenery, delicious food, kind locals, and excellent hikes, it can be tough deciding exactly where to go in N.C. However, since I’ve spent time living and travelling here, I put together this article to share all the best spots along the route.

Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or both, North Carolina has it all. So get ready for the ultimate N.C. road trip to 8 unique cities along with their best sites and activities. 

Let’s get to it and check out the ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary.

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

How Long for the Best North Carolina Road Trip?

I recommend  1-3 weeks for your N.C. road trip. To complete the exact itinerary below, I suggest having at least 2 weeks. Of course, time will vary depending on how much you have and how you like to travel.

I prefer slow travel to fully enjoy the experience and avoid tiring out. Whereas, I know many travellers prefer hopping from place to place to see as much as possible. 

This North Carolina itinerary pictured above features stops that are all within two to five hours from the next. This makes it easier to skip a couple of places if you’re short on time or just make a quick stop.

If you have more than a few weeks for your road trip, you may want to settle in and hang out in one place for a while. You can also add in some other stops since North Carolina is home to  many remarkable cities .

North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

Are you ready for the fun part? Let’s take a look at the ultimate North Carolina itinerary for an epic road trip! 

1. Charlotte: A Great Starting Point

Allow: 1-4 days – Charlotte, North Carolina’s most populous city, is the ideal starting point for your road trip. 

If you’re flying in, you can land at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. But, don’t stop there because Charlotte is also an awesome city to explore before you head off to see North Carolina’s natural beauty. 

While Charlotte is a business and financial hub, it lives up to its tagline: “Charlotte’s got a lot.”

You can find a lot to see and do in Charlotte – award-winning cuisine and beer, diverse neighbourhoods and activities, a deep history, and excellent shopping. 

This 3-day Charlotte itinerary is perfect for seeing the very best that the city has to offer. 

Things to Do in Charlotte:

• NoDa:  the arts and entertainment district where you can find local fare, music venues, breweries, trendy galleries, and more.
• Freedom Park:  a large lakeside park with trails, sports courts, and events.
• NASCAR Hall of Fame:  one of Charlotte’s most iconic sites.
• Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary:  lush gardens and bird sanctuary.

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on  Get Your Guide :

2. Brevard: Land of the Waterfalls

Charlotte to Brevard: about 2.5 hours; 130 miles 

Allow: 1-3 days –  The waterfalls in North Carolina are unmatched, and Brevard is where you can find many of them.

Brevard is referred to as ‘Land of the Waterfalls’ and boasts  over 250 waterfalls . Some are popular destinations, while others are hidden gems and offer a secluded getaway. 

What else makes Brevard such a special place? It’s a mountain biker’s paradise that’s home to the unique white squirrel. Not to mention it has some of the best hikes in North Carolina. 

Things to Do in Brevard:

• Looking Glass Falls:  60-foot waterfall off of U.S. 276, popular amongst travellers.
• Rainbow Falls:  moderate hike to a gorgeous waterfall on Horsepasture River.
• Bracken Preserve: peaceful city park with biking and hiking trails. 
• Oskar Blues Brewery:  popular brewpub with free tours and good beer. 

Tip : If you have extra time, take a detour on The Blue Ridge Parkway for lookout points and jaw-dropping scenery.  

Related Read

3. Bryson City: Nantahala National Forest

Brevard to Bryson City: about 1.75 hours; 90 miles

Allow: 1-4 days – On your way to Bryson City, a nature enthusiast’s paradise, you’ll pass by Asheville (which you’ll come back to). 

Bryson City is a small town but has no shortage of outdoor activities. Known for a popular stop off the Appalachian Trail and a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s the perfect place to spend a couple of days. 

If you’re into camping, you’ll love Bryson City. If you prefer not to camp, there are plenty of other  accommodation options . 

What to Do in Bryson City:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  stunning national park with lush forests, vast wildflowers, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rivers.
• Juney Whank Falls:  moderate 0.8-mile trail to a 90-foot waterfall.
• Swinging Bridge Quiet Walkway Trailhead:  bridge with breathtaking views; perfect sunset spot.
• The Nantahala River Gorge:  enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, ziplining, fishing, and many more outdoor activities. 

4. Asheville: Craft Beer and Outdoor Adventures

Bryson City to Asheville via The Blue Ridge Parkway: about 2 hours; 90 miles

Allow: 2 – 5 days – I recommended taking a whole day for your journey to Asheville to allow for time to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

This infamous drive alongside beautiful mountains offers many stopping points, such as  Grandfather Mountain  (with a swinging bridge and museum) and other scenic overlooks.

Once you arrive in Asheville, you’ll find an exciting mix of city and nature. Asheville is an energetic mountain town with so much to see and do.

There is tons to see and do in Asheville for every kind of road tripper. From fantastic food and beer and gorgeous architecture to outdoor adventures and a vibrant art scene, Asheville is a must-see for any North Carolina road trip. 

What to Do in Asheville: 

• Downtown Asheville:  a hip area that boasts galleries, food stores, boutiques, and breweries.
• Biltmore Estate:  a charming, gorgeous historical landmark, where George Washington Vanderbilt II lived in the 1800s.
• Craggy Gardens:  magical mountain scenery (especially at sunset) with hiking trails.
• Pisgah National Forest: an outdoor slice of heaven with mountains, waterfalls, and trails.
• The French Broad River:  tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting with mountain views.

5. Blowing Rock: Picturesque Scenery

Asheville to Blowing Rock via The Blue Ridge Parkway: 2.75 hours; 94 miles 

Allow: 2-5 days – The jaw-dropping mountain panorama continues in the cosy mountain town of Blowing Rock. 

Blowing Rock is one of the best little mountain towns in North Carolina ! Here’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, spend time in nature, and explore outstanding sites and views.

Blowing Rock is often overlooked for Boone, a nearby, similar city. If you’re looking for a larger-in-size destination, you may want to check out Boone instead. 

Or, if you have the time, explore both! They’re only 15 minutes from one another. 

What to Do in Blowing Rock: 

• Grandfather Mountain State Park:  huge mountain park that boasts picturesque scenery, various-levelled trails, rocky cliffs, and camping.
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park:  a country estate on gorgeous grounds with a stunning mansion, lake, and trails.
• The Blowing Rock: a million+-year-old rock that juts out 3,000 feet above the Johns River Gorge.
• Downtown Blowing Rock:  quaint area with unique boutiques, shops, and galleries. 

6. Raleigh: Cultural Hotspot

Blowing Rock to Raleigh: about 3 hours; 200 miles

Allow: 2-5 days – Raleigh is a small city with huge charisma. While Raleigh has grown over the years, it still offers a small-town southern charm. It’s also one of the most cultural cities in the area, which is why I love it so much!

What to Do in Raleigh:

• Downtown Raleigh:  booming area with parks, historic neighbourhoods, diners, shops, and more. 
• Brewery Bhavana:  a trendy brewery that serves craft beer and dim sum.
• State Farmers Market:  large market featuring tons of local entrepreneurs (open 7 days a week).
• William B. Umstead State Park:  a perfect spot for campers, hikers, bikers, and anyone who enjoys time outdoors. 
• Goodnights Comedy Club:  fabulous venue for stand-up comedy.

7. Cape Hatteras: Tranquil Beaches

Raleigh to Cape Hatteras: about 4 hours; 240 miles

Allow: 1-3 days – If getting away from the hustle and running away to the beach sounds up your alley, don’t skip Cape Hatteras. This long, narrow barrier islands stretch offers peace and quiet alongside the ocean.

Honestly, I’m happy to spend my entire time at Cape Hatteras on the beach and relaxing, but there’s also even more to enjoy. And, if you’re camping, you’ll be happy to hear there are several campgrounds around Cape Hatteras.

What to Do in Cape Hatteras: 

• Beach activities:  fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: 1800s lighthouse (and the tallest in the U.S.!) you can climb for panoramic views of the ocean and scenic vistas.
• Buxton Woods Nature Trail: 3/4-mile trails through Buxton Woods (begins near the lighthouse).

8. Wilmington: History and Beaches

Cape Hatteras to Wilmington: about 5 hours; 275 miles

Allow: 2-4 days – Let the beaches continue, and take a trip to Wilmington to add some history and culture to the mix. 

This lively riverfront city is a superb final stop on your North Carolina road trip itinerary and offers something for everyone.

What to Do in Wilmington: 

• Arlie Gardens:  gorgeous botanical gardens with colourful flowers and tons of old oak trees.
• Wilmington Riverwalk:  scenic boardwalk filled with iconic landmarks, artwork, shops, and restaurants.
• Historic District:  a downtown area with eclectic beer pubs, local restaurants, and intricate architecture. 
• African-American Heritage Tour:  sites that honour and share stories of African-American history ( check out this self-guided tour ).
• Wrightsville Beach:  a beautiful, large beach in a laid-back beach town next to Wilmington. 

Other Places to Include on a N.C. Road Trip

You’ve made it to the final stop of your North Carolina itinerary! Want to make your trip longer or switch up some stops? Here are some other worthy places to visit in NC:

• Waynesville:  quaint, quiet mountain town (near Asheville).
• Fayetteville:  rich history and culture (between Wilmington and Charlotte).
• Greensboro:  parks and sporting events (near Raleigh).
• Kitty Hawk:  small, popular beach town (above Cape Hatteras).
• Little Switzerland : An East Coast hidden gem with loads of things to see and do . 

Tips for Your North Carolina Road Trip

Road-tripping offers a memorable experience no matter how you do it. But, if you’re new to road trips or visiting N.C., these tips can take your adventure up a notch.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

You’ll find that this North Carolina road trip itinerary takes you along the Blue Ridge Parkway en route to a few stops, and I highly recommend you take time to stop and explore. This adventure is like no other! 

While you can take the highway to save time, I don’t recommend that as you’ll be missing out on something special. For this part of your trip, it’s best to start your travel day in the morning so that you can take the entire day to enjoy the journey.

This scenic winding road stretches almost 500 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. It takes you past long-range vistas, rocky mountains, and charming towns. 

Most of the parkway in N.C. runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of stops to make along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for one-of-a-kind viewpoints that provide epic photography opportunities.

When to Go Road Tripping NC

North Carolina is a beautiful place to visit all year round. While I recommend taking your North Carolina road trip any time of year except for Winter, some may also want to avoid summer.

Winters in N.C. can get very cold, and there’s a good chance you’ll catch some snow. The snow is beautiful but not the best for driving. This is why I didn’t mention the skiing opportunities the Western North Carolina destinations have to offer. 

If you want to go on a road trip in Winter and are prepared to stop and settle should you happen to get snowed in, go for it!

On the other hand, North Carolina summers can get hot – which as a Southern girl, I’m totally okay with. It allows you to check out the beaches and rivers and enjoy the water activities. 

For the most pleasant weather, I suggest taking your trip in the fall or spring. If you can swing it during autumn, you’re in for a treat! 

North Carolina’s fall foliage is stunning.

For the most amazing foliage colours, plan your trip for mid-October, and don’t skip the Blue Ridge Parkway!

Where to Stay

In North Carolina, you can find several options for stopping and resting for the night or even a few days. There are accommodations for all kinds of travellers, including campgrounds, hotels, vacation rentals, and parking for  vanlifers .

During my road trips, I enjoy finding unique campsites. With so many parks in North Carolina, you can find many paid sites at campgrounds and via Vanlife apps like Hipcamp. 

If you prefer free self-contained vehicle camping, you can use the  Free Campsites website   or the iOverlander app. 

If you’re interested in hotels or vacation rentals, you can certainly find these options during your North Carolina road trip. I love to use  booking.com for the best deals! 

Get the best deals on travel insurance!

If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Or perhaps you have your bag stolen, or a flight cancelled.  Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected. 5% Discount for our readers using the button below! (discount applicable for non-American citizens).

Enjoy Your North Carolina Road Trip!

There you have it – the ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary. It’s been fun sharing all of my favourite N.C. spots with you, and I hope you’re excited about the journey! 

Which destination are you most excited about checking out? Let us know! You can reach out to us in the comment section below. 

Stay adventurous and happy travels.

Check out the rest of our North Carolina articles in our  East Coast USA Series  to help you with your travel planning.

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Great post! Thanks for the info, can’t wait to visit

Hello Kristenn, thank you for taking the time to comment! We hope you have a great trip to North Carolina!

Absolutely amazing article love to read such Great Content which provides quality Knowledge as well as interesting facts.

Hello Hamed, thank you for the compliment! We hope you have a great trip to North Carolina, all the best!

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South Carolina’s best road trips: Upcountry, Lowcountry and everything in between

Aug 31, 2022 • 5 min read

South Carolina's beautiful and diverse landscapes make each road trip a completely different experience © JamesReillyWilson / Getty Images

You could zigzag through South Carolina  –  and back again – taking in totally different landscapes and cultural facets with each route.

South Carolina is loaded with seamless road trip options; bustling and flat interstates, tree-draped scenic byways through the Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlantic coast-hugging routes are among its most memorable.

Hitting the road in South Carolina equates to experiencing its southern charm in its most raw and endearing form. While you may have a starting and end point to any intrastate road trip, the in-between makes a journey stand out.

So, don’t second-guess snagging a bite at that roadside pecan stand, taking a pitstop to admire the fall foliage or opting for an off-the-cuff detour to explore a quaint downtown.

Where life may zoom by in other states, things move and feel pleasantly slower in South Carolina. Here are the best road trips for making your own unique memories in the Palmetto State.

Interstate 26

Best road trip to experience south carolina’s cities.

Spartanburg to Charleston, 213 miles (343km)

Resembling a diagonal line and running southeast through the state, I-26 showcases the entire spectrum of South Carolina’s geographic experiences. In addition to Upcountry mountain views and Lowcountry colonial architecture bliss in Charleston , you can experience the bulk of the Palmetto State’s cities along the way.

Stop in Spartanburg, where  Hub City Bookstore and its Little River Coffee neighbor are a must for a fresh-roasted caffeine fix and chatting with locals. Don’t leave town without a stroll around its nearby squares, Morgan Square and Denny’s Plaza (named for being adjacent to Denny’s corporate headquarters).

Heading south, check out the Newberry  Opera House with its elegant balconies and red velvet seats. It's a great place to enjoy a show if you happen to pass through the quaint town of Newberry at night. 

Columbia is the capital city worthy of a few days to explore. It's home to the very green and accessible University of South Carolina campus and museums, including the South Carolina State Museum , South Carolina Military Museum  and the city’s Museum of Art . 

On the homestretch to Charleston, make a pit stop at Dukes Bar-B-Q in Orangeburg , which  has become a regional phenomenon for its buffet-style offerings.

The 7 best places to visit in South Carolina

Interstate 95

Best road trip to off-the-beaten-path cities.

Florence to Hardeeville, 162 miles (261km)

Beyond the endless billboards advertising the super-kitschy South of the Border and the newly opened mega-gas station Buc-ee’s in Florence, there are other places you’ll want to stop along I-95 as well. 

In Florence, you'll find a marker recognizing the spot where  an atomic bomb was accidentally dropped in the county in 1958, j ust off I-95 and US-301. Shards from the explosion are on display at the Florence County Museum alongside other fascinating pieces of history, art and science.

Save an appetite along your I-95 journey to stop in Santee for Lone Star Barbeque & Mercantile, a buffet-style establishment that's been around for over 25 years. Situated on the southern edge of Lake Marion, Santee is also popular for its fishing and golf facilities statewide.

Near South Carolina’s border with Georgia  and just a 30-minute drive from Hilton Head Island , Hardeeville is the destination for recreation. The  Savannah River National Wildlife Refuge is a 29,000-acre playground with a four-mile wildlife drive and more than 20 trails for taking in marsh and hardwood forest landscapes. 

Interstate 85

Best road trip for a gateway to unexpected cultural gems.

Kings Mountain National Military Park to Fair Play, 103 miles (166km)

Yes, there’s a place named Fair Play in South Carolina. Rumor has it the town was named in the early 1800s following an altercation between two pioneers, which sparked someone watching to yell, “Play fair!” 

Beyond the town's welcome sign ("Our name says it all"), this is where your I-85 journey in South Carolina should begin before driving northeast to the North Carolina line.

Easy stops along the way include Greenville , with the rapids of  Falls Park on the Reedy  flowing through the middle of town and arguably the best cup of coffee in the state at Methodical Coffee .

No trip to South Carolina is complete without a peach orchard excursion along I-85 – the Palmetto State produces more peaches than Georgia, contrary to popular belief. 

Abbott Farms has multiple Upcountry outposts for a sweet treat, including one in Gaffney . While you’re there, snap a photo with the Peachoid, a 135-ft water tower resembling the beloved fuzzy fruit.

Best route for taking in ocean vistas

Sheldon to Little River, 182 miles (293km)

If you're looking to unwind on South Carolina’s white-sand beaches and meander around its oceanside towns, US-17 provides jumping-off points galore.

Once a principal route for north-to-south vacationers, it has taken a backseat to the more heavily trafficked I-95. Those seeking a multi-beach excursion will relish this slower, laid-back route with stoplights and intersections dotting the way.  

To the south, the federal mansion-clad town of Beaufort, the historic inns of Charleston and the massive USS Yorktown docked in Mount Pleasant are easily accessible. 

In some instances, US-17 is tucked away like the beaches themselves. Your best bet for seamless beach access is between Pawley’s Island and North Myrtle Beach, where you can hit the popular family-friendly destinations of Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach along the way.  

The top 6 beaches in South Carolina offer luxury, privacy and family fun

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway

Best route to experience the upcountry and fall foliage.

Fair Play to Gaffney, 120 miles (193km)

Call it South Carolina Highway 11 or the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway – either way, it’s absolute bliss come autumn, decked out in spectacular fall foliage. From the south, you can access Route 11 from Fair Play as soon as you cross into South Carolina from Georgia.

For a quaint town with a nature-loving vibe, hit Walhalla.  In addition to aptly named haunts like Mountain Mocha , Trailhead Tavern  and The Hungry Hiker , it is home to the Museum of the Cherokee , where you can learn about the highway's namesake.

Heading northeast to Gaffney, you'll find it a nature-infused playground of wilderness areas and state parks, with highlights such as  Table Rock 's  furnished cabins and Devils Fork adjacent to the trout-filled Foxaway River. 

History buffs can’t skip out on a visit to Cowpens National Battlefield , approximately 10 miles north of Gaffney. A Revolutionary War site, its grounds have an auto loop that is open until 4:30pm daily.

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9 Road Trips To Take In South Carolina For Great Ways To Tour The State

Robin Jarvis

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The Palmetto State has more than enough attractions, landmarks, mountain trails and beaches to discover a new one every weekend for the next few decades and still not hit them all. This tour of South Carolina will take you to all of your favorites, and some new ones, too!

We’ve packaged up the similar attractions and created nine unforgettable road trips to take in South Carolina. From a road trip to the most haunted spots in the state, to the ultimate waterfalls road trip, you’ll discover some truly amazing sights and have unforgettable experiences along the way in these nine road trips in South Carolina. Who wouldn’t love to learn these wonderful new things about our great state?

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Take This Road Trip Through South Carolina’s Most Picturesque Small Towns For An Unforgettable Experience

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There are SO many great places to go in South Carolina – why not get started on seeing some of them this year? Would you take this tour of South Carolina by completing these fun and amazing road trips? Let us know in the comments below!

To learn more about one of the lighthouses in the first road trip above here are 9 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Morris Island Lighthouse In South Carolina .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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When is the best time of year to do a road trip through South Carolina?

Spring and fall are both fabulous times to do a road trip through South Carolina. You won’t be stuck in the heat in the car if you hit traffic, and you may just hit the off season at some of the big attractions around the state.

How long does it take to drive the length of South Carolina?

South Carolina is 207 miles long, and at an average speed of 60 mph on 1-95, you can expect to complete the drive in around three and a half hours.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

11 Fun South Carolina Road Trips For Your Bucket List

February 25, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for a list of fun South Carolina road trips that are perfect for your bucket list? Then look no further! This list is full of unique road trip ideas that let you explore the Palmetto state.

South Carolina is often forgotten when it comes to visiting the Southern United States. But there are some really awesome things to do there and if you have the opportunity to explore the state you should.

Many of these fun South Carolina road trips you can do in a day because the state is fairly small. So if you are planning to spend a few days in South Carolina , then you can take a day-to-road trip and still have time to see everything else on your list. Some of these road trips will probably even include places you already want to try and see.

So, lets take a look at the 11 Fun South Carolina Road Trips For Your Bucket List!

Charleston to Savannah

• Stroll along the Battery
• Enjoy a night of Jazz
• Explore Historic Savannah

The drive from Charleston South Carolina to Savannah Georgia is only about 2 hours long. Because it’s not a long drive, you’ll spend most of your take the time to explore Charleston and Savannah.

In Charleston you’ll want to stroll along the famous Battery and stop into the shops. If you’ve got the time, stop into one of Charleston’s many interesting historic bars for a night of Prohibition-era Jazz. Continue South towards Savannah.

When you reach the city, you’ll want to explore the historic areas like Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery. This is truly one of the Best Weekend Getaways In South Carolina!

Beaches of South Carolina

• Myrtle Beach
• Folly Beach
• Hilton Head Island

Start your journey to the best beaches of South Carolina in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle beach is well known for it’s tourist attractions, fun boardwalk, and beautiful beaches. Don’t forget to check out some of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach during your visit!

It is the perfect starting point for any South Carolina beaches road trip. Next you’ll continue South to Folly Beach. This is truly one of the best beach towns in South Carolina!

Folly Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach that has a large pier, lighthouses, and plenty of unique shops and restaurants. If you have the time, you may want to consider staying a day or two at an amazing Airbnb to explore the area. Finish your road trip at Hilton Head Island, one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina. There you’ll find more beautiful beaches, cool museums, and so much more.

Cherokee Foothills Byway

• Sassafras Mountain
• Campbells Covered Bridge
• Strawberry Hill USA

The Cherokee Foothills Byway is a beautiful scenic byway in South Carolina that is full of unique stops. Start the trip in Walhalla, a charming small town. From there, travel on to Sassafras Mountain. On your way there you’ll pass several State Parks and scenic overviews that you can choose to stop at.

From Sassafras Mountain, head to the historic Campbells Covered Bridge. It is a small bright red covered bridge surrounded by South Carolina woods. End your trip at Strawberry Hill USA. It is a massive farm that is full of beautiful fruit orchards where you can buy some fresh local fruits.

Cute Small Towns

• McClellanville

There are so many charming small towns in South Carolina and this road trip hits the highlights. You’ll start your journey in Clemson, which is home to Clemson University. There you’ll find small-town college town charm, a botanical garden, and more. From there, head the Cheraw. Cheraw is often called ‘the prettiest little town in Dixie’ and is the birthplace of Dizzy Gillespie.

Next, you’ll head to Walterboro. It used to be a vacation spot for wealthy plantation owners looking to escape the heat. Now you can find historic buildings and plenty of antique shops. End your trip in McClellanville, which is the smallest town on your drive. It has a charming historic district and is perfect for walking around and exploring.

Coastal South Carolina

• Brookgreen Gardens
• Rice Museum
• Boone Hall Plantation
• Fort Moultrie

If you want to drive down South Carolina’s coast, start your adventure near Murrels Inlet at the Brookgreen Gardens. There you’ll find a beautiful garden on the land of four former rice plantations. Continue South to Georgetown. There explore the unique rice museum where you can learn about the areas history of rice cultivation.

From there, head to the Boone Hall Plantation. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Black experience in the Antebellum South and Gullah culture. It is an excellent plantation if you are interested in learning more about the history of Africans who were forced into slavery. Finish your road trip at Fort Moultrie and learn about South Carolina’s involvement in the Revolutionary War.

Haunted South Carolina

• Graniteville Cemetery
• The Tomb of Julia Legare
• Jacksonboro Light
• Battery Carriage House

Start your Haunted South Carolina road trip in the state’s most haunted cemetery, the Graniteville Cemetery. Hang out for a bit and see if you spy any ghostly apparitions walking through the grounds. From there, head to the Tomb of Julia Legare on Edisto Island. Julia Legare was accidentally buried alive, and rumor has it, she still haunts her grave.

Continue your haunted journey to the railroad tracks in Jacksonboro. For years locals have claimed to see a loan lantern light bobbing along the tracks in the middle of the night, with no one there. Finish your trip in Charleston at the notorious Battery Carriage House. You can stay the night in the Inn and see if you feel any phantom touches or hear any ghostly sounds.

South Carolina Waterfalls

• Wildcat Wayside Falls
• Issaqueena Falls
• Reedy Falls

If you want to see the best waterfalls in South Carolina, you’ll want to take this road trip. You’ll start at Wildcat Wayside Falls which is a 30-foot waterfall that you can see from the highway. You can park and get out to get a closer look before continuing on to Twin Falls. Twin Falls is often considered the number one falls to see in the state, so you’ll definitely want to make a stop.

Next, hike a short distance to see the stunning Issaqueena Falls. It is a massive 200-foot cascading waterfall that you absolutely will want to experience. End your road trip at the Reedy Falls, a 25-foot cascading waterfall in the middle of downtown Greenville. One things for sure, if you take the South Carolina Waterfalls road trip, you’re in for a treat.

Low Country Road Trip

• Pawleys Island Pier
• Francis Marion National Forest
• Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area

South Carolina’s Lowcountry is a beautiful part of the state that you absolutely need to explore. Start your road trip by exploring the Pawleys Island Pier. It is a massive fishing pier where you can relax, enjoy the ocean views, and even see people fishing and crabbing. Continue on to the Francis Marion National Forest. There you can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more before you head to your next stop.

As you get near the end of your trip, you’ll want to make a stop at the Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area. The wildlife preserve is on the land of a former plantation and is now home to all kinds of wildlife, historical buildings, and hiking trails. You’ll finish your trip in one of the Lowcountry’s most popular cities, Bluffton. Enjoy charming beach town life before heading back home.

Oscar Wingington Byway

• Nantahala National Forest
• Bad Creek Overlook
• Foothills Trail

The Oscar Wingington Scenic Byway is the perfect way to explore South Carolina’s natural beauty. Begin your drive with a stop at the Nantahala National Forest. You’ll be able to take some time to go hiking or even just have a quick picnic before heading out on the road.

There are several scenic overlooks you can stop at along the way, but you’ll definitely want to admire the Bad Creek Overlook. It offers a birds eye view of the Bad Creek rushing through the mountains. Just like there are plenty of overlooks, there are plenty of hikes along the way. If you want a bit of an adventure, hike the 4.3miles of the Foothills Trail and find yourself in the Oconee State Park. Its a perfect way to end your scenic byway road trip.

The Revolutionary War Road Trip

• Drayton Hall
• Battle of Musgrove’s Mill State Historic Site
• King’s Mountain National Military Park

South Carolina is the state that saw the most activity during the Revolutionary War, so there are plenty of places to stop and learn. But this road trip is just going to hit some of the highlights. You can start in Charleston, or at Drayton Hall. Drayton Hall is the only surviving plantation and is an icon in South Carolina’s architectural history. Continue on to Columbia, where you can visit museums that highlight South Carolina’s War past.

From there, head to the Battle of Musgrove’s Mill State Historic Site. There, you can learn about one of the Revolutionary War’s most unique battles. You can explore the visitors center and then walk around the battlefield itself. End your journey at the King’s Mountain National Military Park. Explore the large museum, watch a reenactment film, or walk the loop on the battlefield.

Hidden Gems of South Carolina

• the Devil’s Kitchen at Caesars Head State Park
• Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden
• Old Sheldon Church Ruins
• Old Slave Mart

If you want to explore South Carolina’s hidden gems that may not be the typical tourist spots, then this list is perfect. Start out by exploring the Devil’s Kitchen, a unique rock formation in the Caesars Head State Park. Next you’ll want to check out the Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden. It is full of topiaries all created by one man in the small town of Bishopville.

From there, head to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. The church suffered multiple fires, but the bones of the beautiful building are still standing. It is a beautiful place to relax and wander the grounds. End your trip in Charleston with a stop at the Old Slave Mart. It is the last remaining slavery auction building and is an important part of Charleston’s history as a slave port.

Have you gone on any of these road trips through South Carolina? If you have, we’d love to hear about your trip in the comments. If you haven’t, which one of these amazing South Carolina road trips are you adding to your bucket list?

Calling all explorers, nature lovers, and history buffs! Are you ready to hit the miles of road on a South Carolina road trip that’ll leave you saying “WOW!”?  Road trip ideas from the majestic US 76 in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sparkling beaches of Hilton Head. The Palmetto State is bursting with incredible places to visit on a road trip. Today, we’ll help you inspire a road trip itinerary where memories will be made.

• FirstHeading

Jones Gap South Carolina State Park

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Today’s post was inspired by a recent road trip through South Carolina for no other reason than my wanting to avoid Atlanta Georgia traffic.  I’m so glad I did.  It was an amazing journey through scenic bypasses that offered lovely views and fun things to discover.

First stop for road trips and inspiration: US 276 / 11 Adventure awaits in the mountains! Hike through lush forests in Jones Gap State Park , kayak down sparkling rivers, or climb to the top of Jumping Off Rock for breathtaking views. Don’t forget to snap a pic with a real covered bridge at Campbell’s Covered Bridge – it’s like stepping back in time!

Save room on your road trip to US Route 278 destination  Hilton Head where it’s time to hit the beach! Build sandcastles on Hilton Head Island’s shores, splash in the waves, or go on a dolphin-watching tour.

Charleston is one of the most popular destinations in the State of South Carolina.  Feeling hungry? Charleston’s famous seafood and sweet tea will hit the spot! This historic city is full of colorful houses, horse-drawn carriages, and offers fascinating museums. Explore Mount Pleasant for more beaches, delicious food, and charming shops.

When planning your ultimate South Carolina Road Trip, set extra time aside for visiting Charleston, SC.  I recommend at least 3 days on this stop.  Tourists love Charleston for all its history, amazing places to eat, and excellent hotel accommodations.

Travel Tip: Ride over to Shem Creek and Mount Pleasant , for a less touristy trip.

Nature lovers: Buckle up Interstate 77! Congaree National Park is a wonderland of towering trees, swampy forests, and hidden waterfalls. Hike along the boardwalk, rent a canoe, or keep your eyes peeled for amazing wildlife. Feeling creative?

For More great South Carolina State Parks Check out Dreher Island State Park on Lake Murray for a fun water adventure.

Bonus adventure near the US 76 scenic byway.  Discover hidden gems in South Carolina’s charming small towns. Visit Greenville’s lively downtown, explore antique shops in Beaufort, or wander through the art galleries in Pickens. Each town has its own unique personality and local treats waiting to be discovered!

Off the beaten path must-see location, Symmes Chapel is known as the pretty place near Caesars Head State Park.  Important: You are strongly encouraged to call or check ahead before visiting Symmes Chapel or you may make the drive for nothing.  Limited visiting times.

When driving through South Carolina, spend a day or two in Columbia.

There are so many things to do in Columbia, SC   for travelers of all types to enjoy. The city’s rich history is evident in its historic districts. The Main Street District is home to some of the best restaurants in the state. And, there’s lots for families to enjoy, too, including the beautiful Riverwalk along the Congaree. 

Discover the crumbling walls of Old Sheldon Church on St. Helena Island. Explore its moss-covered secrets and whisper with ghosts of the past.

Find the cool waters of ACE Basin Healing Springs on Edisto Island. Legend says these magical waters heal. Listen to the whispering trees and get lost in nature.

Tired of crowded beaches? Sneak away to Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island.

South Carolina has hidden mountains too! Hike through the jungle-like forests of Congaree National Park , paddle through a swamp filled with cypress trees taller than pirate ships, or climb to the top of Table Rock State Park for a view that stretches forever (just like the ocean!).

Plan a date afternoon in SC’s most romantic gardens.  Magnolia Gardens location is near Charleston.  This road trip stop is a photographer’s paradise with blooming flowers, reflecting pools, and beautiful sculptures.

Today’s travel post is meant to inspire.  Plot your course based on starting point whether, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, or beyond. 

Travel Tip: Purchase an inexpensive map on Amazon for hidden routes and planning.  Phone service is often limited when you’re off the beaten path exploring.  Plus GPS is going to take you the fastest route, not the most scenic. 

State Parks: South Carolina has amazing state parks for swimming, camping, fishing, and more! 

Planning to travel often this year to South Carolina State Parks and road trips?  Consider becoming a member of an All Park Passport.  

Packing Tip: Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure!

Ready to start planning?

P.S. Don’t forget to share your trip photos and stories online using #InspiringSCRoadTrip!

Happy exploring!

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11 Most Scenic Road Trips to Take in South Carolina

South Carolina is a US state located on the southeast coast of the country and is shaped like an inverted triangle. The state is bordered by North Carolina to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the East, and Georgia to the southwest. It is affectionately referred to by the nickname The Palmetto State, because of the many palmetto trees, which are the official state tree. Travelers planning a visit to South Carolina are likely to find themselves flying into Charleston, but beyond this historic city, there is much to explore. See more of the Palmetto State by embarking on an epic road trip with these most scenic route options to choose from!

Charleston To Hilton Head Island

The route from Charleston to Hilton Head Island is approximately 98 miles and is a beautiful road trip option with coastal views and photo-worthy scenery. Travelers can stop along the way to enjoy peaceful beaches in Hunting Island State Park or spread out a blanket for a picnic at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Before arriving at Hilton Head Island, you might want to book a night in Beaufort, South Carolina, which is a hidden gem of the Lowcountry. 

North Myrtle Beach To Georgetown

The drive from North Myrtle Beach to Georgetown, South Carolina , is approximately 58 miles and offers scenic coastal views along US-17. This beautiful road trip option starts with relaxation and tranquility in the vacation town of North Myrtle Beach and ends in the state’s third-oldest city, founded in 1729. The drive is never dull, with many seafood restaurants and beaches to stop at in Garden City, Litchfield by the Sea, and Pawley's Island. Plan to spend an evening in Myrtle Beach proper to enjoy the restaurants on the boardwalk and promenade, such as Banditos Cantina or Art Burger Sushi Bar.

The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway

The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway is a 17-mile, two-lane road that makes for a lovely afternoon drive through the Palmetto State. The byway runs through the southernmost portion of SC 174, providing scenic views of the Lowcountry. More than 50% of Edisto Island’s land area is protected, making it a haven for endangered species and plant life. Attractions along the way include several churches, the Dawhoo River Bridge (McKinley Washington Jr. Bridge), and the Edisto Mystery Tree.

Kings Mountain National Military Park To Fair Play

The Kings Mountain National Military Park in South Carolina marks an important site, the Battle of Kings Mountain, during the Revolutionary War in 1780. It’s located near Blacksburg, South Carolina, and is the starting point for a lovely road trip through the Palmetto State ending in Fair Play. The route is around 110 miles and passes through charming towns like Spartanburg, Valley Falls, and Greenville . 

Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway

If you’re in South Carolina, the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway is worth adding to your itinerary. This rewarding road trip is around 15 miles long and follows a winding, two-lane road through upstate South Carolina. You’ll drive along SC 107 through Sumter National Forest, with opportunities to stop at hiking trails, campsites, and waterfalls along the way. Walhalla Fish Hatchery, Moody Spring, and the Chattooga River are some of the most beautiful water attractions en route. 

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway

The Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway through South Carolina travels through the northwestern part of the state. The Blue Ridge Mountains are a highlight of the route, visible from the byway along with crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls. Along the byway, there are access points to more than 120 waterfalls and 150,000 acres of public land. This is a perfect road trip for outdoor enthusiasts who want to see the natural beauty of South Carolina. Points of interest to stop at include Caesar's Head State Park and Campbell's Covered Bridge.

Ashley River Road

The Ashley River Road is a worthwhile road trip for anyone visiting South Carolina. It is an 11-mile stretch of road on South Carolina Highway 61, which runs parallel to the Ashley River. The drive is scenic and has several points of interest to make stops at along the way. You will get to see the St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Fort Bull Confederate Earthworks, Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Middleton Place as part of this South Carolina road trip. Dramatic, old trees arching over the roadway add to the beauty. 

Savannah River Scenic Byway

Another must-drive route on the list of scenic byways in South Carolina is the Savannah River Scenic Byway. The byway is 110 miles long, running from south of Clarks Hill, north on South Carolina Highway 81. The landscape isn’t the only scenic part of this road trip; there are many beautiful towns to pass through along the way as well, including Clarks Hill, Modoc, Parksville, McCormick, and Willington. For natural beauty, stop at Hickory Knobb State Park and Lake Strom Thurmond Reservoir along the drive. On the Highway 28 Bypass, you’ll also want to grab a freshly baked pastry at the Swartzentruber's Bakery.

Sheldon To Little River (Via US-17)

There are many routes for driving from Sheldon to Little River, South Carolina, but the most scenic option takes you right along the Atlantic Coast. The drive via US-17 is approximately 185 miles and can be completed in close to 3.5 hours when driving straight through. However, you’ll want to break up the drive over a few days to provide enough time to stop and enjoy attractions along the way. Spend a night in Myrtle Beach, a few days in Georgetown, and even stop in Charleston. 

Florence to Hardeeville

The drive from Florence to Hardeeville is one of the best road trips in South Carolina, taking you 162 miles via I-95. The route crosses Lake Marion, but that’s not the only beautiful scenery to witness on this cross-state drive. Attractions to see along the way to Hardeeville, which is near the border with Georgia, include Santee State Park and the Edisto Memorial Gardens in Orangeburg. 

Journey To The Blue Ridge Mountains (Greenville To Asheville)

Go beyond the scenery of South Carolina by starting in the Northwest part of the state and venturing into neighboring North Carolina . The charming city of Asheville, North Carolina, is the final destination on this route, which spans approximately 62 miles via US-25 and I-26. Although you can drive the route in just over an hour with no stops, it is worth dedicating an entire day to the adventure to see some of the major attractions along the way. Sites to see include the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, the North Carolina Arboretum, and the Biltmore Inn.

South Carolina is a gorgeous state with many different landscapes, from the Lowcountry to the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Foothills, to explore. Road-tripping through South Carolina towards Georgia or North Carolina is a fun experience with many natural wonders and historic sites, no matter the route.

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North Carolina to South Carolina drive

North carolina to south carolina road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from North Carolina to South Carolina. If you're planning a road trip to South Carolina, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

9:00 am  start at North Carolina drive for about 1 hour

10:10 am   Sanford stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:10 am drive for about 38 minutes

11:48 am   Pinehurst (North Carolina) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:48 pm drive for about 39 minutes

1:27 pm   Rockingham stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:27 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:27 pm   The Vista stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:27 pm drive for about 1 hour

5:33 pm   Elgin (South Carolina) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:33 pm drive for about 41 minutes

7:14 pm  arrive at South Carolina

driving ≈ 5 hours

North Carolina to South Carolina questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Sanford Pinehurst (North Carolina)   (4 answers) Rockingham The Vista Elgin (South Carolina)     questions about Elgin (South Carolina):         Closes airport to Elgin, Sc.

What are some things to do in South Carolina?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about South Carolina. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to South Carolina.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a South Carolina to North Carolina drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of North Carolina? Try searching for places within 3 hours of North Carolina .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from North Carolina to South Carolina . Or get a full North Carolina to South Carolina flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know North Carolina well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about North Carolina!

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10 Scenic North Carolina Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

• The Tar Heel State offers endless options for scenic drives, from the stunning mountains to the amazing beaches and diverse landscapes.
• The Sandhills Scenic Drive showcases North Carolina's diverse ecosystems, with longleaf pine forests, glistening lakes, and charming historic downtowns.
• The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as "America's Favorite Drive," stretches 469 miles through the lush Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and access to mountain trails.

The Tar Heel State is a road-tripper's paradise with its stunning azure ridge-lined mountains, miles of North Carolina's amazing beaches , and diverse landscapes. From the ancient Appalachian peaks peppered with North Carolina's charming mountain towns in the west to the islands of the Outer Banks in the east, this Southern state has endless options when it comes to scenic drives.

The variety of environments and ecosystems to explore could keep visitors cruising the back roads for weeks. No matter what part of the state travelers drive through, they will surely be awestruck by the beauty around each bend.

For those looking to experience the Tar Heel State's scenery, the following scenic North Carolina drives should be on the bucket list. Ranging from mountain valleys to sandy coastlines, these scenic road trip routes in North Carolina showcase the diversity and splendor that has made the entire state a hotspot for road-tripping and sightseeing in the South.

Related: View From The Road: 10 Of The Most Beautiful Highways In America

The Sandhills Scenic Drive

Wandering through the sandhills region, this 46-mile drive showcases the state's diverse ecosystems.

Wandering through the Sandhills region in the heart of North Carolina, this drive showcases the state’s diverse ecosystems. Travelers cruise through longleaf pine forests, around glistening lakes, and by quaint small towns with charming historic downtowns.

Highlights include the towering trees at Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve and the rolling hills dotted with pine trees, farms, and ponds surrounding the university town of Chapel Hill.

• Distance : 46 miles
• Drive Time: 1 hour
• Scenic Spots: Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve , Chapel Hill

Sauratown Mountains Scenic Byway

This 72-mile loop treats road trippers to breathtaking vistas of the sauratown mountains.

Located in the northwest Piedmont region, this loop treats road trippers to breathtaking vistas of the Sauratown Mountains. As they encircle the range, travelers take in the sloping forested ridges surrounding the mountains and rolling rural countryside blanketed in lush green meadows.

Must-see stops include Hanging Rock State Park, where hikers climb to the summit for views that stretch for miles, and the Eno River Gold Mining District, where visitors learn about North Carolina’s gold mining history while exploring a fascinating 19th-century mining village.

• Distance: 72 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hr 10 min
• Scenic Spots: Hanging Rock State Park , Eno River Gold Mining District

The Alligator River Route

Cutting through the quiet coastal plain, this 71-mile drive offers a look at the state's pristine wetlands.

Cutting through the quiet coastal plain of North Carolina’s northern Outer Banks, this drive offers a look at pristine wetlands and undisturbed nature. Cruising along the Marsh Causeway past some of the Outer Banks towns that are perfect for a weekend getaway , road trippers can spot wildlife like alligators, otters, bobcats, deer, and over 200 species of birds.

The route also passes through rural coastal towns and leads to nature preserves like the Alligator River and Pea Island National Wildlife Refuges, home to some of the East Coast’s most diverse ecosystems.

• Distance : 71 miles
• Drive Time: 1.5 hours
• Scenic Spots : Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge , Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Colonial Heritage Byway

History buffs will love this 92-mile scenic route connecting new bern, bath, and edenton, three of north carolina's most important colonial settlements.

History buffs can relish this scenic drive connecting New Bern, Bath, and Edenton, which are three of North Carolina’s most important colonial settlements, so it can rival any of the best road trips in North Carolina State .

In New Bern, visitors can explore historic architecture, stroll pretty streets lined with stunning Georgian and Federal-style buildings, and visit interesting sites like Tryon Palace, the historic home of Royal Governor William Tryon. Neighboring Bath delights travelers with its quaint riverfront setting and pirate lore. Edenton’s downtown is filled with charming original 17th and 18th-century homes and stores that make visitors feel like they're stepping back in time.

• Distance : 92 miles
• Drive Time : 2.5 hours
• Scenic Spots: New Bern , Bath , Edenton

Related: Dark Secrets About Jamestown, America's First Colonial Settlement

The Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway

Meandering through north carolina's wine region, this 79-mile drive offers beautiful vistas of vineyards and orchards.

Meandering through the gently rolling countryside of North Carolina's wine region, this picturesque drive offers beautiful vistas of vineyards, orchards, and cozy small towns. Road trippers cruise past fields of grapevines and stop at numerous wineries and tasting rooms to sample fruity Chambourcins, full-bodied Cabernet Francs, and lively Muscadine wines.

The artsy town of Mount Airy delights visitors with its charming main street, unique shops, and scenic mountain views.

• Distance : 79 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hours
• Scenic Spots: Mount Airy , Yadkin Valley vineyards

The Waterfall Byway

With some of the most stunning cascades in the south, this 98-mile mountain route is perfect for waterfall chasers.

Home to some of the most beautiful cascades in the South, this mountain route is one of the scenic drives and hidden gems in North Carolina that should be on any waterfall lover's list.

As it winds through the dense forests and along the slopes of western North Carolina, travelers can soak in the mesmerizing views of falls like Upper and Lower Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Looking Glass Falls. Road trippers can pull over frequently to hike to the falls' bases and feel the refreshing spray as cascading waters thunder over rocky cliffs to the pools below.

• Distance: 98 miles
• Drive Time: 3.5 hours
• Scenic Spots: Cullasaja Falls , Dry Falls , Bridal Veil Falls , Looking Glass Falls

The New River Valley Byway

Paralleling the ancient new river, this 35-mile peaceful drive offers mesmerizing vistas of the clean, clear river.

Paralleling the ancient New River in northwest North Carolina, this tranquil scenic drive offers beautiful vistas of the New River as it winds through the valleys and gorges of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plentiful opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and tubing on the gentle river currents.

Quaint river towns like Todd, Glendale Springs, and West Jefferson delight visitors with their historic buildings, thriving arts scenes, and cozy small-town feel.

• Distance: 35 miles
• Drive Time : 1.25 hours
• Scenic Spots : New River , Todd , Glendale Springs , West Jefferson

Related: For Vibrant North Carolina Nightlife, Check Out Wrightsville Beach

The Nantahala Byway

This 43-mile drive cruises along the steep gorge surrounding the rushing nantahala river in the mountains of western north carolina.

This drive takes travelers along the stunning but steep gorge surrounding the rushing Nantahala River in the mountains of western North Carolina. Travelers can experience the river up close as they journey along its winding course, with opportunities to view the famous Nantahala Gorge and take in the river's spectacular whitewater rapids.

Visitors can also stop to hike through the dense forests, visit waterfalls, including Whitewater Falls and Dry Falls, and partake in popular mountain activities like ziplining, rafting, and rock climbing in the Nantahala National Forest.

• Distance : 43 miles
• Drive Time : 1.5 hour
• Scenic Spots : Nantahala River, Nantahala Gorge , Whitewater Falls , Dry Falls

The Forest Heritage Scenic Byway

This 65-mile scenic route through pisgah national forest pays homage to the important role of forests in north carolina.

This scenic route through Pisgah National Forest pays homage to the role of forests in the state's history, qualifying it as one of the unforgettable road trips to take in North Carolina . As they cruise through heavily wooded hills and valleys, road trippers pass remnants of historic logging railroads, towns built around the timber industry, and educational sites explaining forest ecology.

Stops include the education center at the Cradle of Forestry in America, the small village of Edneyville with its charming logging-era buildings, the Pink Beds' rare pink azalea displays, and the 1,859-foot summit of Looking Glass Rock, which offers panoramic mountain vistas.

• Distance: 65 miles
• Drive Time : 2 hours
• Scenic Spots : Cradle of Forestry , Edneyville , Pink Beds , Looking Glass Rock

The Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue ridge parkway stretches 469 miles through the lush appalachian mountains.

Often called "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the lush Appalachian Mountains as it connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park . It's filled with countless scenic overlooks, refreshing waterfalls, swimming holes, and access to mountain trails where visitors soak in never-ending vistas blanketed in vibrant natural colors, especially in the fall.

\\highlights include the 6,684-foot summit of Grandfather Mountain and the stunning cascade of Linville Falls. Plus, Craggy Gardens is a scenic spot along the route that travelers don’t want to miss. Whether experienced from a car window or a bike seat, the Blue Ridge Parkway encapsulates the quintessential beauty and adventure of the North Carolina mountains.

• Distance: 469 miles
• Drive Time : ~12-15 hours
• Scenic Spots : Grandfather Mountain , Linville Falls

Watch CBS News

The Joro spiders are coming – and these photos from people along the East Coast show what you can expect

By Li Cohen

Updated on: June 6, 2024 / 7:48 PM EDT / CBS News

The massive yellow-and-black-bodied critters known for parachuting through the air with their spidey strings are headed north, researchers say. And people across the East Coast are sharing images of what the Joro spider invasion looks like from their own backyards. 

Joro spiders were first spotted in Georgia in 2014, but experts believe they may have arrived as early as 2010. Since then, they've rapidly spread across the South, with observations reported across more than half a dozen states. Researchers believe they are bound for the Big Apple, and that "it is a matter of when, not if" these arachnids land in New York and New Jersey — but don't worry, they're super shy and will likely freeze up for more than an hour if you disturb them, giving ample time to get away from their four-inch leg span. 

Here are photos of what people are seeing across the U.S.   

Georgia is where Joro spiders — an invasive species from Asia — were first detected in the U.S. But since their discovery, they have hopped on human transportation and used their silk to parachute through the sky and land far from this origin. 

• North Carolina

There isn't anything itsy-bitsy about this spider. Females can grow to have a leg span of up to 4 inches — nearly the size of the average woman's hand. 

South Carolina

Joro spiders may be big, but their webs are even bigger. One researcher said he's seen webs as wide as six feet , while others have said their webs can be more than 10 feet wide. 

Most of the Joro spiders people have documented appear to be females, which are bigger than adult males and more brightly colored, with vivid yellow and gray bodies with yellow bands on their long legs. They are also known to lay 400 to 500 eggs in a single sac , with spiderlings emerging around June, according to PennState Extension. 

"Ballooning spiderlings can travel tens to hundreds of miles, especially if they are picked up by strong winds and storms," PennState says. 

West Virginia

Joro spiders do have venom, but so far, there is no evidence showing that they are dangerous to humans or pets. Researchers say it's likely that their fangs can't even pierce the skin if given the chance, and that when disturbed, they're known to freeze for more than an hour. Researchers at Clemson University have even noted that this species is among the "shyest" of spiders. 

Li Cohen is a senior social media producer at CBS News. She previously wrote for amNewYork and The Seminole Tribune. She mainly covers climate, environmental and weather news.

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Three boys find a T. rex fossil in North Dakota

(AP) - Two young brothers and their cousin were wandering through a fossil-rich stretch of the North Dakota badlands when they made a discovery that left them “completely speechless” - a T. rex bone poking out of the ground.

The trio announced their discovery publicly Monday at a Zoom news conference as workers at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science prepare to begin chipping the fossil out of its rock cast at a special exhibit called Discovering Teen Rex. The exhibit’s opening on June 21 will coincide with the debut of the film “T.REX,” about the July 2022 find.

It all started when Kaiden Madsen, then 9, joined his cousins, Liam and Jessin Fisher, then 7 and 10, on a hike through a stretch of land owned by the Bureau of Land Management around Marmarth, North Dakota. Hiking is a favorite pastime of the brothers’ father, Sam Fisher.

“You just never know what you are going to find out there. You see all kinds of cool rocks and plants and wildlife,” he said.

Liam Fisher recalled that he and his dad, who accompanied the trio, first spotted the bone of the young carnivore. After its death around 67 million years ago, it was entombed in the Hell Creek Formation, a popular paleontology playground that spans Montana, Wyoming and the Dakotas. The formation has yielded some of the most well-preserved T. rex fossils ever. Among them is Sue, a popular attraction at the Field Museum in Chicago, and Wyrex, a star at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

But none of them knew that then. Liam said he thought the bone sticking out of the rock was something he described as “chunk-osaurus” — a made-up name for fragments of fossil too small to be identifiable.

Still, Sam Fisher snapped a picture and shared it with a family friend, Tyler Lyson, the associate curator of vertebrate paleontology at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Initially, Lyson suspected it was a relatively common duckbill dinosaur. But he organized an excavation that began last summer, adding the boys and a sister, Emalynn Fisher, now 14, to the team.

It didn’t take long to determine they had found something more special. Lyson recalled that he started digging with Jessin where he thought he might find a neck bone.

“Instead of finding a cervical vertebrae, we found the lower jaw with several teeth sticking out of it,” Lyson said. “And it doesn’t get any more diagnostic than that, seeing these giant tyrannosaurus teeth starring back at you.”

A documentary crew with Giant Screen Films was there to capture the discovery.

“It was electric. You got goosebumps,” recalled Dave Clark, who was part of the crew filming the documentary that later was narrated by Jurassic Park actor Sir Sam Neill.

Liam said his friends were dubious. “They did not believe me at all,” he said.

He, Jessin and Kaiden — who the brothers consider to be another sibling — affectionately dubbed the fossil “The Brothers.”

Based on the size of the tibia, experts estimate the dino was 13 to 15 years old when it died and likely weighed around 3,500 pounds (1,587.57 kilograms) — about two-thirds of the size of a full-grown adult.

Ultimately, a Black Hawk helicopter airlifted the plaster-clad mass to a waiting truck to drive it to the Denver museum.

Lyson said more than 100 individual T. rex fossils have been unearthed, but many are fragmentary. It is unclear yet how complete this fossil is. So far, they know they have found a leg, hip, pelvis, a couple of tailbones and a good chunk of the skull, Lyson said.

The public will get to watch crews chip away the rock, which the museum estimates will take about a year.

“We wanted to share the preparation of this fossil with the public because it is a remarkable feeling,” Lyson said.

Jessin, a fan of the Jurassic Park movies and an aspiring paleontologist, has continued looking for fossils, finding a turtle shell just a couple days ago.

For other kids, he had this advice: “Just to put down their electronics and go out hiking.”

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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Horry County Schools providing free lunches for students through the summer

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - Horry County Schools will once again provide lunches for students throughout the summer as school lets out across the area.

HCS announced that its summer feeding program will begin on June 11. The meals are only available to children 18 and younger and must be eaten on-site. Families are also encouraged to visit their child’s school or the closest location based on the sites listed below.

Meals will be provided at the following locations from 10:45 a.m. until 11:15 a.m.:

THROUGH JULY 10

• Carolina Forest Elementary School
• Homewood Elementary School
• Loris Elementary School
• Myrtle Beach Elementary School
• Midland Elementary School
• Ocean Drive Elementary School
• Forestbrook Elementary School

THROUGH JULY 16

• Conway Middle School
• Forestbrook Middle School
• Myrtle Beach Middle School
• North Myrtle Beach Middle School
• SOAR Academy
• Ten Oaks Middle School (open June 17-27 only)

THROUGH JULY 18

• Carolina Forest High School
• Conway High School
• Loris High School
• North Myrtle Beach High School
• Socastee High School

HCS added that elementary and middle school sites will be closed on July 4, while high school sites will be closed July 1-5.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

Copyright 2024 WMBF. All rights reserved.

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BMW Charity Pro-AM scheduled for this week with five new celebrities. What to know.

Golf enthusiasts will tee off with some of their favorite celebrities at the annual BMW Charity Pro-Am this weekend.

The Carolina Country Club in Spartanburg and the Thornblade Club in Greer will host the tournament for professional and amateur golfers to raise money for eight causes.

Activities will run from Thursday, June 6 through Sunday June 9.

The highlight of Thursday evening will be the winner of American Idol's Season 11, Phillip Phillips, who will perform in downtown Spartanburg for the golf event on June 6.

"We are excited for the BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX to return to Spartanburg and look forward to welcoming spectators to The Carolina Country Club as well as Thornblade Club in Greer," said Bob Stegner, president of South Carolina Charities, Inc. "Our free Thursday night concert on Morgan Square will also be a fun way to bring the Spartanburg community together as we raise money and awareness for Upstate charities."

What you need to know for the BMW Charity Pro-Am

The event has become a staple of community engagement, raising funds for charities while showcasing the sport's finest talents. Since 2001, the BMW Charity Pro-Am has distributed nearly $16 million to Upstate nonprofits.

Carolina Country Club, 2355 Carolina Country Club Road, in Spartanburg, and Thornblade Club, 1275 Thornblade Blvd., in Greer are hosting the events from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. June 6 through June 9.

Tickets are available for purchase on the BMW Charity website .

Tournaments will only to be hosted at Thornblade Club after June 7.

The proceeds from the 2024 BMW Charity Pro-Am will support eight highlighted charities:

• Folds of Honor Palmetto State Chapter
• Friends of the Reedy River
• Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute
• The Hispanic Alliance
• Mobile Meals of Spartanburg
• Neighborhood Cancer Connection
• PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well Spartanburg
• Upstate Warrior Solution

The Pro-Am tournament will feature 160 Korn Ferry Tour teams, 160 armature teams, and five new celebrities. New celebrities include Brice Butler, Ryan Leaf, Phillip Phillips, Roger Steele and Vince Young.

Here is a list of all celebrities that are scheduled to participate in the tournament June 6 at Carolina Country Club and Thornblade Club on June 7 :

• Brian Baumgartner , Television Actor – The Office
• Alexis Belton , World Long Drive Competitor
• Brice Butler, Former NFL Wide Receiver
• Don Cheadle , TV and Film Actor
• Larry the Cable Guy, Comedian
• Michael Collins , ESPN Golf Analyst
• Seth Curry , Current NBA Shooting Guard for the Charlotte Hornets
• Marcus Jones , Current NFL Cornerback for the New England Patriots
• Ryan Leaf , Former NFL Quarterback
• Phillip Phillips , American Idol Winner and Musician
• Ben Rector , Pop Singer-Songwriter and Record Producer
• Gary Sheffield , Former MLB Outfielder
• Roger Steele , Golf Social Media Influencer
• David Wells , MLB World Champion
• Vince Young , Former NFL Quarterback and College Football Hall of Fame Inductee

Here is a list of all celebrities that are scheduled to participate in the tournament June 6 at Thornblade Club and Carolina Country Club on June 7 :

• Captain Danny Brown , On Patrol: Live PD
• Connor De Phillippi , Gold Rated BMW Motorsport Works Driver
• Joe Don Rooney , Country Pop Musician – Rascal Flatts
• Debbe Dunning , Actress and Model – Home Improvement
• Matt Hamilton , Olympic Curler and Gold Medalist
• Matt Iseman , American Ninja Warrior Host
• Ann Liguori , Sports Radio and Television Personality
• OG Lott , Golf Social Media Influencer and Founder of RNG Golf Club
• Will Lowery , Golf Channel Contributor and Podcast Host
• Ben Soffer , Social Media Influencer and Founder and CEO of Spritz Society
• D.B. Sweeney , TV and Film Actor
• Justin Wheelon , Emmy Award-Winning Director and Actor
• James Wisniewski , Professional NHL Defenseman
• Danny Woodhead , Former NFL Running Back

If you're a guest, here's where you can park: At Thornblade Club – Michelin North America, 1 Parkway South, Greenville. At The Carolina Country Club – Dorman High School, 1050 Cavalier Way, Roebuck. There will be shuttle buses every 15 minutes to and from the course entrance.

In case of weather delays, spectators can check the Korn Ferry Tour website or on their official app. Updates will also be communicated via BMW Charity Pro-Am social media accounts.

Joanna Johnson covers community news and education for the Herald-Journal. Reach her via email at [email protected].

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