Explore South Carolina

Paddle Board through the Charleston Water Ways

Plan Your Trip to South Carolina: Best of South Carolina Tourism

Essential south carolina.

south carolina trip ideas

Trending in the forums

Dmitriy D

South Carolina Is Great For

south carolina trip ideas

The great outdoors

south carolina trip ideas

Shopaholics

south carolina trip ideas

Art & history

south carolina trip ideas

Eat & drink

south carolina trip ideas

linn cove viaduct on blue ridge parkway with early fall foliage, one of the best southern usa road trip itineraries

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.

Jones Street in Savannh GA with a green house in the left foreground and an oak tree on the right. Jones Street is one of the best Savannah photo spots

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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!).

kate storm jeremy storm and ranger storm at craggy pinnacle on blue ridge parkway during 3 days in asheville nc

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!

Kate in a pink dress next to a blue Vespa on Ocean Avenue.

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.

two lane road shaded by spanish moss on jekyll island georgia

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!

rainbow falls smoky mountains, surrounded by green foliage

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.

Kate Storm in a purple dress standing at the top of Cape Lookout lighthouse with the barrier island visible behind her

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.

road lined with trees in mississippi on a deep south road trip itinerary

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.

beach at sunset in mississippi as seen on southeast usa road trip route

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 . 

edmund pettus bridge in selma alabama, important civil rights destination

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.

historic route street signs in montgomery alabama on deep south road trip itinerary

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.

bridges crossing the mississippi river at vicksburg, an interesting stop on a deep south road trip itineraries

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.

Street in NOLA French Quarter at night with neon lights from the bars lighting it up--don't miss a chance to experience the legendary New Orleans nightlife during your 3 days in NOLA itinerary!

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.

woman riding a bike through a path lined with spanish moss on jekyll island, one of the best day trips from savannah georgia

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.

kate storm in a floral dress at rainbow row in charleston sc

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.

south carolina trip ideas

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.

mabry mill on blue ridge parkway, one of the top us south road trip itinerary ideas

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.

south carolina trip ideas

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. 

historic gristmill in pigeon forge tennessee at night, one of the best places to stay down south

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.

view of great smoky mountains sunset from newfound gap road trip south usa

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.

Skyline of Nashville Tennessee at sunset overlooking the river, one of the most romantic getaways in the United States

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.

3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary: St Louis Cathedral

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.

fishing pier in virginia beach va at sunrise

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 .

Kate Storm and Ranger Storm on Jones Street, one of the best places to take pictures in savannah ga

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.

red and white lighthouse and small harbor in hilton head sc, one of the best stops on a deep south usa road trip route

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.

beach at dauphin island alabama southern beach road trip

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.

pensacola beach water tower with beach visible in the background

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.

aerial view of clearwater beach florida, a fun stop on a usa south road trips

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.

promenade along the sand in clearwater beach florida

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. 

Horse and carriage in colonial Williamsburg that is moving away from the camera on a paved road

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.  

Kate Storm in a black dress in front of a brick home on Jones Street during a long weekend in Savannah GA

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. 

view of downtown tampa fl looking up with skyscrapers and palm trees

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. 

aerial view of anna maria island, one of the best unknown vacation spots in us hidden gems

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.

view of black and white cape hatteras lighthouse north carolina

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.

couple walking along the beach at sunset in the outer banks, one of the most romantic getaways in north carolina for couples

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 .

stony man cliffs in shenandoah national park virginia

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.

road through shenandoah national park from above in early fall, one of the best road trips in south usa

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. 

hiker standing on hawksbill crag in northwest arkansas ozark mountains

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.

small waterfall in hot springs national park arkansas

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.

port boca grande lighthouse in florida at sunset, a fun stop on a usa south road trip

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!

dome houses on marco island florida

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.

wild horses on the beach of Chincoteague virginia, one of the best usa small towns to visit

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.

sunrise in the harbor with boats in virginia

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.

2 photos of southern road trips, charleston and anna maria island. black and red text reads "17 epic road trips in the south"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, 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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Newsletters
  • Sweepstakes
  • The South's Best

The Best Islands In South Carolina, According To Our Readers

From celebrated golf courses to unspoiled beaches, these destinations have it all.

south carolina trip ideas

Courtesy Discover South Carolina

South Carolina is often referred to as the Palmetto State, so named for the abundance of the trees in the area, but it could just as easily be dubbed the Barrier Island State. With 34 barrier and tidal islands peppering its shoreline (more than any other state except for Florida ), South Carolina spills over with natural wonders, beautiful beaches , and unique destinations to explore. In our 2024 South's Best awards, readers voted on some of the very best of them. Here are the best islands in South Carolina, according to our readers.

Hilton Head Island

With 12 miles of public beaches, more than 24 championship golf courses, and around 250 restaurants, Hilton Head's numerical stats alone prove why it's one of the state's most beloved islands. But the real magic, of course, belongs to its community—a mix of transplants and born-and-breds who are sure to make you feel right at home, whether you're sampling local oysters at Hudson's on the Docks or watching the boats come in at Shelter Cove Marina .

Isle of Palms

There’s nothing sleepy about this mile-wide destination just a short drive from downtown Charleston, where the activity and restaurant offerings belie its small size. Catch a concert at beachfront venue The Windjammer , play golf or tennis at nearby resort Wild Dunes (where you can book a stay in one of the property’s two inns or numerous vacation rentals), or shake out your towel on a sliver of the island’s six miles of sandy beaches for a leisurely day in the sun.

Kiawah Island

While much of this tree-shaded barrier island is accessible only to those staying at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (either at The Sanctuary hotel or in one of their many rental properties), Beachwalker Park on the island’s west end is home to one of the state’s most beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll find both ocean-fronting shoreline and river views and can rent chairs and umbrellas for a no-fuss beach day. On your way, pick up deli sandwiches from The Station, an old-school convenience store in Freshfields Village , for an easy picnic. 

Edisto Island

This sea island about an hour’s drive from Charleston feels like a throwback in all the best ways. You won’t find high-rise hotels here, and the wildest nights are Tuesdays and Thursdays from the end of May through the beginning of August when the Edisto Island Lions Club hosts bingo (no booze allowed). For seasonally driven fare made with locally sourced ingredients, settle in for a meal at Ella and Ollie's (pictured above). The area’s crowning jewel is Botany Bay , a 4,600-acre nature preserve with nearly three miles of unspoiled shoreline, where erosion has left dead trees in its wake, resulting in a beautiful, otherworldly span referred to as the “boneyard beach.”

Sullivan’s Island

Just two-and-a-half miles long, Sullivan’s is a secret that Charleston locals are keen to keep. First settled in the late 17th century, the island can claim an embarrassment of riches when it comes to both historical significance and natural beauty. The wide beaches are pristine, and there’s nary a trace of touristy kitsch on Middle Street, the town’s main drag—just a handful of memorable eateries (we’re partial to The Obstinate Daughter ’s house-made pastas) and well-curated shops (visit Sandpiper Gallery to peruse the work of local artists). The bitty beach town is big on curb appeal too: thoughtfully maintained historic homes and storybook cottages with flower-swamped trellises line the streets that crawl toward the beach.

Folly Island

About a dozen miles from downtown Charleston, this 12-square-mile barrier island is best known for being home to Folly Beach, a laid-back surf town that departs from the Holy City’s tucked-in approach in favor of flip-flop casual. With the Folly River on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, there’s no shortage of opportunities for waterfront fun: Paddle through tidal creeks with a local outfitter , stretch out on the sand (there are six miles of beachfront here), or cast a line from the historic Folly Beach Pier, which recently reopened after extensive renovations.

Hunting Island

Just a 25-minute drive from downtown Beaufort , explore the seaside charmer's wilder side at Hunting Island State Park (South Carolina's most popular state park). Here, five miles of unspoiled beaches unfurl along the Atlantic and sandy trails wind through dense maritime forest.

Daufuskie Island

As the crow flies, the southernmost of South Carolina’s barrier islands is just miles from Savannah and Hilton Head, but it might as well be worlds away. Daufuskie is accessible only by boat ( the official ferry offers four shuttles from Bluffton a day, five on Fridays), which is likely one of the reasons its 500 or so residents have been able to so carefully preserve its natural environment and its rich Gullah history. And while the island remains untouched in many ways, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see or do here: Tour the island with sixth-generation Daufuskie native Sallie Ann Robinson for an education in Gullah culture; go for a horseback ride on the beach; shop indigo-dyed goods at Daufuskie Blues ; and cap off the day with a plate of deviled crab at Old Daufuskie Crab Company .

Fripp Island

About 20 miles from Beaufort, Fripp Island is a 3,000-acre designated wildlife sanctuary, home to more than 175 species of birds, plus endangered loggerhead turtles who use its beach as a nesting ground. The private island is accessible only to homeowners and those staying in vacation rentals, but once you're here, there's plenty to do, from guided kayak eco-tours to pickleball and golf.

Seabrook Island

Right next door to Kiawah Island, Seabrook has stunning saltmarsh vistas and celebrated golf courses, along with a full-service equestrian center that offers guided horseback rides. Its nearly four miles of beaches are private, accessible only to residents and those renting, though Bohicket Marina (just before the property’s gates) welcomes anyone and everyone to enjoy its river views. Snag a table on the upper deck of Salty Dog Cafe to tuck into fresh seafood with one of the area’s most memorable sunsets. 

Related Articles

VacationIdea

  • Last Minute

25 Best South Carolina Day Trips

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 9, 2024

24 Best South Carolina Day Trips

  • 1. Savannah

Savannah

Cultural attractions like the Savannah Theatre and the Savannah Ballet present regular performances, while delicious restaurants serve up some of Georgia's best gourmet Southern cuisine. More getaways in South Carolina

Augusta

Unique city tours abound, including Petersburg boat tours through the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area or trolley tours of the city's major landmarks.

  • 3. Beaufort

Beaufort

The city is also acclaimed as one of America's top fishing towns, home to ample spots for redfish, trout, and tarpon fishing.

  • 4. Bee City

Bee City

1066 Holly Ridge Ln, Cottageville, SC 29435, Phone: 843-835-5912

  • 5. Bluffton

Bluffton

Unique attractions include the 18th-century Church on the River, known as one of the American South's most beautiful churches, and the Bluffton Oyster Factory, South Carolina's only operating oyster factory, which hosts oyster roasts throughout the autumn months.

  • 6. Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve

Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve

1066 Botany Bay Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, Phone: 843-869-2713

  • 7. Edisto Island

Edisto Island

42 Station Ct, Edisto Island, SC 29438, Phone: 843-869-3867

Elloree

Each year, the town hosts a number of annual special events, including an Arts and Antiques Festival, a Pork Fest, and a November Festival of Lights.

  • 9. Georgetown

Georgetown

Nearby, Huntington Beach State Park showcases three miles of stunning unspoiled beachfront, along with areas of maritime forest and salt marsh.

  • 10. Givhans Ferry State Park

Givhans Ferry State Park

746 County Rd S-18-30, Ridgeville, SC 29472, Phone: 843-873-0692

  • 11. Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary

Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary

Box 709, Walterboro, SC 29488, Phone: 843-549-2545

  • 12. Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

1950 Rutledge Rd, McClellanville, SC 29458, Phone: 843-546-9361 More South Carolina State Parks

  • 13. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island

The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge protects salt marsh habitats between the island and the mainland.

  • 14. Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park

16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-237-4440

  • 15. Kershaw

Kershaw

Historic Boykin is home to quaint restaurants and historic gift shops, while Camden is known for its lively antique and arts district.

  • 16. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island

4475 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy, Johns Island, SC 29455, Phone: 800-774-0006

  • 17. McClellanville

McClellanville

Each May, the town hosts the annual Lowcountry Shrimp Festival and Blessing of the Fleet. More Day Trips from Charleston, SC

  • 18. Day Trip Near Me: Port Royal

Day Trip Near Me: Port Royal

700 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935, Phone: 843-986-2211

Santee

The city's Town Hall Complex is also home to a fantastic family aquatic center, which showcases water thrill rides.

  • 20. St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island

East Beach is known as a prime spot for swimming and body surfing throughout the summer months.

  • 21. Day Trips Near Me: St. Helena Island

Day Trips Near Me: St. Helena Island

713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902, Phone: 843-525-8500

  • 22. Wadmalaw Island

Wadmalaw Island

6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, Phone: 843-559-0383

  • 23. Walterboro

Walterboro

Each year, the Colleton County Rice Festival celebrates the history and heritage of the city's staple crop.

  • 24. Angel Oak Park

Angel Oak Park

3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, Phone: 843-559-3496

The 25 Best South Carolina Day Trips & Fun things to do near me today:

More features.

Cape Cod

Best East Coast Vacations

Santa Cruz

Where to Go in California

Orlando

Things to See & Do in Florida

VacationIdea

  • About Us/Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary navigation
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Southern Trippers Logo

Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

Botany Bay Plantation is one of the best south Carolina road trips

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!

The Battery in Charleston South Carolina, a street that sits right on the water, at sunset

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!

A street in Historic Charleston with palmetto trees and charming buildings at sunset one of the best south carolina road trips

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.

The pier at Myrtle Beach at twilight all lit up

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.

Campbells Covered Bridge which is a covered bridge that is painted bright red in the fall surrounded by trees with changing leaves one of the best south carolina road trips

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.

An old Texaco gas station that was moved to Walterboro as part of the historic area

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.

The slave quarters at the Boone Hall Plantation on a sunny day on a grassy field one of the best south carolina road trips

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.

The Battery Carriage House Inn which is said to be haunted on sunny day

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.

Issaqueena Falls which is a massive cascading waterfall in South Carolina surrounded by greenery one of the best South Carolina road trips

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.

A road at the Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Area with trees that arch over the road covered in Spanish Moss

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 view of the Nantahala National Forest from one of the many overlooks on the Oscar Wingington Scenic Byway

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.

Drayton Hall the only original plantation structure that has survived in that area of South Carolina

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.

The Old Sheldon Church Ruins on a summer day surrounded by greenery one of the best South Carolina road trips

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?

A street in Savannah

These 15 Amazing Day Trips Will Have You Falling In Love With South Carolina All Over Again

south carolina trip ideas

Gwen Tennille

Gwen is an author, artist, illustrator, graphic designer, mother, wife, and part-time super hero. She loves to tackle her dreams head on and takes life by storm. Coffee is her best friend and a good book cannot be beat! When does she have the time, you ask? Well...do you really need that much sleep?

More by this Author

There is so much to see in South Carolina that sometimes it can be a daunting task to figure out where to start. From the beautiful mountains in the north to the marshlands and beaches in the south, there is so much to cover and if you don’t know what you are looking for you could definitely miss something worth seeing. You can pick and choose what you would like to see from these day trips in South Carolina . With so many choices, I’m sure you will find one or two that will make you want to get in your car.

south carolina trip ideas

Related Stories

The Scenic Drive In South Carolina That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Edisto Beach

The Scenic Drive In South Carolina That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Edisto Beach

The Charming Small Town in South Carolina That's Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

The Charming Small Town in South Carolina That's Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

One Of The Largest Pumpkin Patches In South Carolina Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall

One Of The Largest Pumpkin Patches In South Carolina Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall

south carolina trip ideas

south carolina trip ideas

And to think that this is only a handful of the day trips in South Carolina that you could take! You know what I’m going to do? I’m going to start at the beginning and work my way to the end! What about you?

For more fun day trip ideas, check out this 12-Month South Carolina Day Trip list that will fill your entire year with memorable adventures.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more South Carolina in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around South Carolina!

Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.

An error occured.

More to Explore

Best day trips in south carolina.

What are the most unique things to do in South Carolina?

There are so many things to do in South Carolina that it's truly hard to list them all. If you're looking for something to experience in the state that you won't be able to anywhere else, try some of these unique activities. For example, there is only one tea plantation in the United States, and that's the Charleston Tea Plantation. You can visit it and tour the farm and tea factory. The Congaree National Park, located in Hopkins, has the largest tract of old-growth hardwood forest in the entire state. There are boardwalk trails winding through the trees that'll allow you to explore it in the most beautiful way.

What are the best road trips through South Carolina?

With an immense amount of places to visit in South Carolina, one of the best ways to check a lot of them off your list it through road trips. Luckily, there are quite a few fun ways to travel around the Palmetto State and enjoy some of its best sights. To keep the trip short, try this South Carolina road trip that'll take you to 9 amazing places all on just one tank of gas. You can explore the state's beautiful lighthouses on this South Carolina Lighthouse Road Trip . And if you're feeling brave and up for some spooky encounters, take this South Carolina Haunted Road Trip - if you dare.

What are the coolest attractions in South Carolina?

Experience the best attractions in South Carolina by visiting any one of these places. Lake Jocassee is by far one of the most fun places for summer fun. It has refreshing, blue waters, beautiful scenery, and plenty of ways to enjoy it all. The city of Greenville could be considered a cool attraction all on its own, with plenty of interesting places to visit, great restaurants, and, of course, the beautiful Liberty Bridge over the falls on Reedy River.

Related Articles

  • The Small Town In South Carolina That Comes Alive In The Fall Season
  • The Most Remote Small Town In South Carolina Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All
  • This Unique Dinner Theater In South Carolina Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
  • 5 Incredible South Carolina Day Trips You Can Take By Train
  • The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In South Carolina
  • 14 Unique Day Trips That Show Off Our Fun-Filled State Of South Carolina
  • 12 Unforgettable South Carolina Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
  • Enjoy A Secluded Stroll On A Little-Known Path Along This Protected Freshwater Island

Explore South Carolina

Featured addresses.

Charleston, SC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sam Antonio Photography | Getty Images

south carolina trip ideas

27 Best Things To Do in Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, abounds with museums, restaurants, beaches and boating excursions. This living port city with a deep and complicated past presents endless opportunities for combining fun and frolic with educational – even sobering –

  • All Things To Do
  • 1-Day Itinerary
  • 2-Day Itinerary
  • 3-Day Itinerary

south carolina trip ideas

The Battery The Battery free

Many travelers say you can't leave Charleston without strolling this historic seawall along the city's southern tip, which they call both beautiful and what makes Charleston special. Across the street from the waterfront promenade is Rainbow Row . This clutch of Georgian-style row houses overlooking Charleston Harbor was formerly the heart and soul of the city's merchant and maritime activity. Today, the 13 brightly colored homes attract camera-toting tourists from all over the country.

As you explore this picturesque neighborhood, save time for a break beneath the old live oaks in nearby White Point Garden where several Civil War relics and memorials commemorate the city's role in the battle. Start your tour of the Battery at the 8-acre Waterfront Park (home to the giant pineapple fountain featured on many Charleston postcards), then follow the walking paths on East Battery Street for the nearly mile-long stroll to White Point Garden.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston Walking Tours Charleston Walking Tours

With its centuries-old mansions and cobblestone streets, Charleston is a living museum. One of the best ways to learn about its history (and its ghosts) and the significance of its best-known landmarks is on a walking tour. There are a variety of options available, ranging from broad tours of the city's historic downtown district to more niche tours that explore the city's  paranormal presence , pirates and art galleries.

Recent visitors praised operators like  Charleston Footprints ,  Walks of Charleston  and  Two Sisters Historic Walking Tours . To see a more complete directory of available walking tours, check out our list of the Best Charleston Walking Tours .

south carolina trip ideas

Waterfront Park Waterfront Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After visiting Waterfront Park, cross East Bay Street to the corner of Broad Street for a late lunch or glass of wine at Brasserie La Banque , an elegant French restaurant inside a former bank dating to the 1700s. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Spanning over 8 acres and located less than a mile north of The Battery , Waterfront Park has become a beloved Charleston fixture since opening in May 1990. It is home to one of the city's most photographed sites: the pineapple fountain. In Charleston's scorching summer months, visitors (especially children) can be found cooling off in the shallow water of the fountain.

south carolina trip ideas

Popular Tours

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

(6961 reviews)

from $ 50.00

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

(1448 reviews)

from $ 39.22

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

(169 reviews)

from $ 87.60

south carolina trip ideas

Rainbow Row Rainbow Row free

One of Charleston's most iconic points of interest, Rainbow Row comprises more than a dozen brightly painted historic homes perched along The Battery 's East Bay Street, near Waterfront Park . Dating back to the mid-1700s, the structures hold an important place in Charleston's history. After the Civil War, the previously dilapidated area underwent a significant revitalization, starting with the homes of Rainbow Row. Initially, Susan Pringle Frost, founder of the Preservation Society of Charleston, bought six homes to restore. Though financially incapable of completing the project, she fostered the initiative to reinvigorate the area, an undertaking later accomplished by Dorothy Porcher Legge. In the 1930s, Dorothy and her husband, Judge Lionel Legge, bought a section of the houses and painted them pastel pink to attract people back to the area. Soon enough, other homeowners began painting their properties in bright colors as well, transforming the neighborhood into a premier locale as some of Charleston's most expensive real estate.

Today, these homes mostly serve as an ideal Instagram opportunity for Charleston vacationers. Many recent travelers say a trip to the quaint South Carolina city would be incomplete without a visit to Rainbow Row, but others felt underwhelmed by a visit and wondered what all the hype was about. To add value to your time here, some recommend walking by at sunset to enjoy views along the water after or stopping for a drink in one of Charleston's oldest bars: the Tavern at Rainbow Row which dates to 1686. If you choose to explore by foot, you can head to the area on your own or sign up for a Charleston walking tour that includes a stop at these colorful structures. The homes are also easy to spot by car, if you'd prefer to drive by for a quick peek.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston Boat Tours Charleston Boat Tours

To get a better view of the Charleston harbor (and maybe even spot some dolphins), consider signing up for a boat tour. Not only will you enjoy some time on the water, you'll also have the chance to learn more about the city's maritime history (many boat captains provide historical commentary throughout their tours). Along the way, you'll likely see some of Charleston's top landmarks, including The Battery , Waterfront Park , the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and  Fort Sumter .

There are a variety of tours and operators in Charleston that offer a bevy of experiences for all types of travelers. Adventure Harbor Tours receives high praise from previous visitors for its Morris Island tours and sunset cruises. If you're looking for a narrated experience, sign up for a Charleston Harbor Tour : its daily harbor tours pass more than 75 sights while the captain shares stories and facts about the area. For an intimate experience, Boatsetter , a mobile app for on-demand boat rentals, lets you book a slew of options whether skippered or bareboat sailboats, fishing boats or catamarans.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston City Market Charleston City Market free

While some may say that the Charleston City Market is a bit of a tourist trap, others call it a great glimpse into life in the Old South. It has been a shopping hub since the 1800s and is one of the country's oldest city markets. The market buzzes with residents and visitors alike, perusing stalls loaded with toys, clothes, art, leather goods and regional souvenirs. There are plenty of locally made products for sale at the market, which you can distinguish by a "Certified Authentic: Handmade in Charleston" tile displayed on vendor stations.

Visitors to the market will also observe a noticeable African American influence reflected through the different food and product vendors. Past visitors recommend heading straight to the "basket ladies." These Gullah artisans have been weaving baskets for centuries – this craft originated in West Africa and has been passed down through the generations – using local materials, such as sweetgrass and palmetto leaves.

south carolina trip ideas

Angel Oak Angel Oak free

Visitors will find one of Charleston's most photographed icons on Johns Island: the Angel Oak. It is said to be the largest live oak east of the Mississippi. The gorgeous tree is 65 feet high, with a circumference of 25.5 feet. It's estimated that the tree shades an area of nearly 20,000 square feet and is between 300 and 400 years old. Visitors in the hundreds of thousands flock to the tree to pose next to its long limbs.

Recent visitors said the tree is worth a quick stop to take a photo of the magnificent natural wonder. Others warned that there are lots of rules to be observed and noted that you'll want to make sure to keep a sharp eye on your kids, who will naturally be tempted to climb the tree.

south carolina trip ideas

Sullivan's Island Sullivan's Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If food is a priority, Sullivan's Island offers the widest and best assortment of restaurants of Charleston's three main beaches. For Caribbean vibes, try The Longboard ; for local seafood, catch Sullivan's Fish Camp ; and for wine slushies and kid-friendly bites, stop by Co-Op Frosé and Eatery . – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Comprising only 3.3 square miles, Sullivan's Island may not seem like a must-see for Charleston visitors. But this beachfront town proves that good things come in small packages. Sitting at the mouth of the Charleston harbor – a little less than 10 miles east of the downtown area – Sullivan's Island boasts beaches, tasty restaurants and unique shops. Many visitors say the beach is ideal for families. You'll also find a bevy of vacation rental properties here – a worthy alternative if you want a little more seclusion than some of downtown Charleston's hotels and bed-and-breakfasts can provide.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston Food Tour

(121 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Historic Charleston

Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Historic Charleston

(2054 reviews)

from $ 49.95

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

(1908 reviews)

south carolina trip ideas

Isle of Palms County Park Isle of Palms County Park free

If several days in Charleston proper have you longing for a do-nothing day at the beach, Isle of Palms might be just the ticket. Located just 16 miles east of the city, visitors will find about 7 miles of shoreline, ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing or sunbathing. If you're having trouble deciding between Charleston's two closest shorelines (don't forget about Folly Beach ), your fellow beach bums might help you decide: Isle of Palms is known to attract more families than Folly Beach.

Recent beachgoers praised the wide, clean beach and said it's a beautiful place to relax. Isle of Palms also boasts a few more beachfront vacation rentals, plus the sprawling Wild Dunes Resort . What's more, you don't have to be a guest to enjoy the two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses at Wild Dunes: both courses are open to the public. However, keep in mind Isle of Palms doesn't offer as many bars or restaurants compared to Folly Beach.

south carolina trip ideas

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

While Middleton Place 's gardens attract visitors who appreciate manicured order, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens appeals to lovers of wilder spaces and romantic-style gardens. Visitors come to enjoy camellia and azalea season in early spring and wildlife throughout the year. Observe the gators, herons and turtles in the Audubon Swamp Garden, look for local birds at the waterfowl refuge, don your helmet and bike one of the several trails, or stroll the Ashley river path shaded by graceful live oak trees. The house is worth an hour of your time to see its interior. Recent travelers agreed that the Wildlife Center and nature center make this a great place to bring the kids.

Despite its aesthetic appeal, the plantation has a deep-rooted history in slavery. It was once home to many enslaved families, who resided in the property's four cabins from 1850 until the late 20th century. The cabins have been preserved, and each illustrates a significant period in history. The plantation offers a 45-minute "From Slavery to Freedom" tour where travelers can visit the cabins and learn more about the people who were forced to live and work on the property. Recent visitors said the tour guides were well-versed and knowledgeable about African American history. Plus, the tour is included in the cost of a general admission ticket.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston Food Tours Charleston Food Tours

Considered one of the best foodie cities in the USA , Charleston is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and bevy of trendy restaurants. For a crash course in the city's best eats, consider spending a few hours on a Charleston food tour. Popular tour companies include Undiscovered Charleston , Bulldog Tours , Secret Food Tours Charleston and Charleston Culinary Tours .

Past visitors raved about the city's food tours and noted that most of the guides were friendly and knowledgeable. According to reviewers, this is a great activity if you're interested in the Holy City's food scene as well as its history. Just make sure you go hungry – Lowcountry cuisine can be quite heavy, and a few travelers have made the mistake of eating before their tour and walked away stuffed.

south carolina trip ideas

Folly Beach Folly Beach free

After a few days exploring Charleston's historic sites, take some time to kick back, relax and enjoy the Southern sun. Overlooking the Atlantic – less than 15 miles south of downtown Charleston – this 6-mile stretch of coastline makes for a great daytrip away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come here for the nature and the surfing, or head to the pier to sit and fish. Folly Beach's friendly atmosphere attracts a variety of travelers: most of the families stick to the shore, while adults traveling sans kids tend to congregate in the many bars nearby. If you're hoping to lay claim to some fine beach real estate, you better get here early: Past visitors said the beach can get crowded as the afternoon progresses, though crowds diminish the further you go from Center Street. If you didn't bring your own beach chair, you can rent one near the beach, along with umbrellas and nonmotorized water sports equipment.

Along with the casual beachfront bars and eateries, you'll also find a few hotels near the shore, as well as restrooms and foot showers for cleaning off sandy toes. Away from the beach sit several casual eateries, including traveler favorites like Taco Boy and Lost Dog Cafe. Surfers and locals hit Chico Feo for beer and tacos or Lowlife for tasty cocktails and shrimp rolls seasoned with Old Bay.

south carolina trip ideas

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens holds festivals throughout the year. Check its calendar for events like the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in January, the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival in March and April, the Christmas Tree Festival in November and Wine Under the Oaks in December. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Founded in 1681, Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens is one of six plantations in the Charleston area. Considerably larger than Magnolia Plantation & Gardens , this 738-acre property is best known for its Avenue of the Oaks: a lengthy corridor of 1700s-era live oak trees that form a picturesque canopy over the path leading up to the historic mansion. If the grounds look familiar, it's probably because they've been featured in a number of films and TV shows, including "The Notebook" and the long-running soap opera "Days of our Lives."

south carolina trip ideas

Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

(572 reviews)

from $ 75.33

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

(1025 reviews)

from $ 110.00

Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

(4014 reviews)

from $ 26.50

south carolina trip ideas

Middleton Place Middleton Place

U.S. News Insider Tip: Historically, Charleston's famous azaleas blossom between late March and early April. However, with shorter, warmer winters, flowers peak earlier in spring. If you time your trip right, Middleton Place offers the most glorious spectacle of synchronous blooms, notably along the "azalea hillside," a bank rising from the rice mill pond that was planted almost a century ago with around 35,000 bushes. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

If there were ever a place to stop and smell the roses, this house would be it. Built in 1755, this mansion was once the home of Arthur Middleton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Today, Middleton Place houses an impressive collection of historic furniture and portraits (all originally owned by the Middleton family), plus a stable with heritage-bred animals. The gardens are a highlight of Middleton Place, according to visitors. Modeled after traditional English and European gardens, the 65-acre grounds are peppered with camellias, azaleas, magnolias and myrtle throughout the year. The property also boasts a full-service restaurant serving seasonal Lowcountry fare for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. But aside from its photogenic landscaping, Middleton Place also serves as a sobering reminder of Charleston's connection to slavery.

south carolina trip ideas

White Point Garden White Point Garden free

White Point Garden, also known as White Point Park, is a nearly 6-acre historic public park located at the tip of the Charleston Peninsula overlooking Charleston Harbor and Cooper River. The park entrances visitors with its beautiful water views, graceful live oak trees, and historic monuments. The park dates to 1837 when the land was acquired by the City of Charleston. Originally, the park was used as a fortification during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and several cannons from both eras remain o-site as a reminder of the city's military past. The park was also used as a public garden during the 19th century and was the site of many social events and gatherings. Today, White Point Garden attracts both locals and tourists to its historic monuments and markers, shaded benches and its gazebo, which hosts weddings and other events.

Recent visitors welcomed the park as a respite from the sun on a hot summer day, while others felt bewitched by the setting after dusk. Many felt White Point Park provided a focal point for their walking tours downtown and a good place to rest or have a picnic after walking all afternoon.

south carolina trip ideas

The Aiken-Rhett House Museum The Aiken-Rhett House Museum

According to many, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is a unique and educational place to learn about life in Charleston during the 19th century. Originally built in the early 1800s and then expanded by Gov. William Aiken Jr. and his wife in the 1830s and 1850s, much of the house's original style has been preserved.

Before touring the house, spend some time exploring the grounds, which host the stables, the kitchens and the slave quarters. The slave quarters, which feature original paint and flooring, have remained untouched over time and serve to illustrate the harsh living conditions for at least 14 of the property's enslaved workers. Past visitors appreciated seeing the quarters first, so they could better understand how the house operated.

south carolina trip ideas

Drayton Hall Drayton Hall

Dating back to 1738, Drayton Hall is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses left in the South and remains an exquisite example of Palladian architecture. In fact, Drayton Hall was America's first and best example of the style. Wander the red-brick main house, noting details like decorative windows and doors added for symmetry.  The house hasn't changed much from when it was originally built, including a lack of air conditioning, electricity and heat. After watching the orientation video, guests can opt for a 45-minute audio tour – at no additional cost – that helps explain the role enslaved people played on the plantation. Past visitors said the stories they heard on the audio tour, as well as the information from the knowledgeable staff members, helped paint a picture of the day-to-day realities enslaved workers faced on the plantation.

After touring, you can wander along the walking trails that follow the Ashley River and the marsh, or pay your respects at the on-site African American Cemetery. Archaeological artifacts and objects from the Drayton family are also on display in the on-site Gates Gallery.

south carolina trip ideas

McLeod Plantation Historic Site McLeod Plantation Historic Site

At the McLeod Plantation Historic Site, visitors can learn important information about Gullah and Geechee heritage. This plantation was established in 1851, and by 1860, it was home to 74 enslaved people housed in 23 cabins. It operated mainly as a cotton plantation until the last crop was planted in 1922. The property has been restored to reflect its original form, and visitors can tour the McLeod family home as well as the slaves' living quarters. They will also learn about the relationships between those who lived on the plantation and the property's importance in the Civil War. The plantation stretches for 37 acres and features a dairy and kitchen area, a worship center, a cemetery, a cotton gin house, a riverside outdoor pavilion and a tree known as the McLeod Oak, which is believed to be more than 600 years old.

Past visitors praised McLeod Plantation for its accuracy in conveying the true history of enslaved people in the South. Reviewers appreciated that the tour guides didn't shy away from the grim realities of slavery nor try to cover up the difficult details; they also said the guides were open to answering their questions. Many went as far as to say McLeod is the most educational and precise plantation tour in the area.

south carolina trip ideas

90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

(766 reviews)

from $ 37.10

Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

(551 reviews)

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

(2299 reviews)

from $ 44.00

south carolina trip ideas

Heyward-Washington House Heyward-Washington House

Built in 1772, the Heyward-Washington House earned its moniker for two men who figured prominently in its history, Thomas Heyward Jr. and President George Washington. Heyward, a Revolutionary War officer and South Carolina delegate to the Continental Congress in 1776, is best known for contributing his signature to the Declaration of Independence. In 1791, the city of Charleston rented Heyward's home for President George Washington's weeklong stay in the city. The association with America's first president has persisted ever since. The architecture of the three-story red brick double reflects the Georgian style that spread widely through English colonies for its order and symmetry. The Charleston Museum acquired the property in 1929 and opened it to the public a year later as the city's first historic home museum. 

Recent travelers enjoyed the home's collection of antique Charleston-made furnishings and formal gardens, as well as the chance to see an original kitchen from the 1740s. The kitchen and carriage shed are relics from the Milner family who developed the lot before Heyward purchased it in 1770. Furniture buffs appreciated the 1770 Chippendale-style Holmes Bookcase, considered a stunning example of American craftsmanship.

south carolina trip ideas

Fort Sumter National Monument Fort Sumter National Monument free

You probably remember Fort Sumter as the place where the first shot of the Civil War was fired back in 1861. Today, you can see for yourself where all the action happened by taking a ferry to the actual fort. Take your time exploring the thick stone caverns, which still house several Civil War-era cannons. You should also stop by Fort Sumter's small, yet informative museum, which provides more in-depth information about the fort's role in the war. According to most Charleston visitors, Fort Sumter is a must-see, especially for kids and history buffs.

Fort Sumter National Monument is perched on a small island in Charleston Harbor several miles southwest of the city. Ferries to the monument depart from the Fort Sumter visitor center (in Charleston) and from Patriot's Point , which sits just opposite of the harbor in USS Yorktown State Park (parking is available at both departure points). Though the ferry ride is not the main attraction, most enjoyed it, calling it relaxing and a great way to see some of the area's dolphins. Both ferries to the fort and ranger talks take place daily, but hours vary depending on the season. Guided tours aren't available at Fort Sumter, but you can listen to a 10-minute, ranger-led history discussion before heading out on your own self-guided tour; rangers and volunteers are available to answer any questions you may have.

south carolina trip ideas

South Carolina Aquarium South Carolina Aquarium

Home to more than 5,000 animals, the South Carolina Aquarium is a fun attraction for those traveling with young children. The aquarium is located on the Charleston Harbor downtown and boasts views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, meaning it must pass a rigorous animal welfare check annually. Therefore, visitors can rest assured that the aquarium's many residents – ranging from alligators to eels to otters – are treated with the utmost care. Keep in mind that the South Carolina Aquarium does not house any dolphins, whales or manatees in accordance with the Marine Resources Act of 2000, which bans facilities from placing marine mammals on display in South and North Carolina.

Although the aquarium is on the smaller side, recent travelers reported it was chock-full of interactive exhibits and interesting things to see and do. Most reported getting through the full attraction in about 60 to 90 minutes. Highlights for visitors include the Sea Turtle Care Center – where injured and sick turtles are rehabbed then released back into the wild – and the "touch" exhibit, where travelers can get up close and personal with select wildlife like hermit crabs and Atlantic stingrays.

south carolina trip ideas

The Charleston Museum The Charleston Museum

Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is said to be the country's first museum, and with a focus on the South Carolina Lowcountry, it's a perfect place to learn about the area. There's a gallery devoted to natural history, a Civil War exhibition, a historic textiles gallery, and the interactive "Kidstory" area. There's also the "Lowcountry History Hall" exhibit, which displays materials related to the Native Americans who inhabited the South Carolina coast prior to colonization, as well as the enslaved African Americans responsible for the region's agricultural wealth.

Recent visitors were impressed with the museum's historical overview and said it is definitely worth a few hours of your time (especially if you're visiting in the summer and need a place to cool off). Reviewers were particularly impressed with the artifacts on display from the Revolutionary and Civil wars.

south carolina trip ideas

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Opened in 1976, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum serves to educate visitors on war history. The USS Yorktown aircraft carrier – which was used by the United States Navy in World War II, then again in the Vietnam War – sits in the harbor as the attraction's centerpiece. Other notable artifacts and exhibits at this Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, museum include two historic ships, a Medal of Honor Museum, 28 aircraft and a 2.5-acre "Vietnam Experience," which recreates a Navy base complete with a mess hall, a fire control bunker and a river patrol boat to simulate what it was like for soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Recent travelers said visiting Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum was both educational and fun. They said American history buffs will love seeing the warships, submarines and aircraft, and many highly recommended taking the captain's tour aboard the USS Yorktown for a more in-depth experience. Almost all visitors agreed the attraction was worth the cost of admission. 

south carolina trip ideas

Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)

(53 reviews)

from $ 35.00

Private Luxury Sailing Charters, BYOB & Dolphins

Private Luxury Sailing Charters, BYOB & Dolphins

(294 reviews)

from $ 499.00

Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard

Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard

(2167 reviews)

from $ 32.50

south carolina trip ideas

The Nathaniel Russell House Museum The Nathaniel Russell House Museum

Constructed at the turn of the 19th century by Nathaniel Russell – a wealthy Southern merchant – this historic home is known for its spiraling staircase, detailed furnishings and landscaped gardens. In fact, The Nathaniel Russell House has the only 3-story, free-flying cantilever staircase on the Charleston Peninsula. Unlike the Aiken-Rhett House , parts of the Nathaniel Russell House Museum has undergone architectural and interior restoration. Recent visitors were impressed with the detailed restoration and said the house helped them gain insight into the daily proceedings of Russell and his family. The family brought nearly 20 enslaved men and women with them to the property, and the house was constructed at the hands of the enslaved people. The kitchen area and slave quarters are in the process of being restored, so visitors can eventually get a better understanding of the house's enslaved men and women. Travelers are welcome to walk over to the site during restoration.

Previous visitors said they learned a lot thanks to the self-guided audio tours, which are available via smartphone app. They also complimented the knowledgeable staff members who were on hand to bring the house's history to life.

south carolina trip ideas

Edmondston-Alston House Edmondston-Alston House

Fans of Charleston's 19th historical homes will enjoy visiting the Edmonston-Alston House. Located in a favored spot on the High Battery , it's one of the sea wall's oldest residences dating to 1825. Built in late Federal style by Charles Edmondston, the home changed hands a mere decade later when the Scottish shipping merchant suffered financial woes. Charles Alston, a wealthy Lowcountry rice planter, acquired the home and updated its architecture in Greek Revival style. Today, the well-preserved property remains in the Alston family. Visitors can see this blend of design styles in the home's public rooms and outdoor piazzas, as well as the extensive collection of period pieces from furniture and mirrors to portraits and Alston family silver. Integral to the story of the home and the fortunes of the Alstons is the story of the enslaved people who lived and labored in the home. You'll learn more about these men and women during the tour. 

Previous visitors said the Edmondston-Alston House was a highlight of their trip for its architectural details, waterfront location, and knowledgeable docents who shared insights into 19th-century life for both the families and enslaved in Charleston. Some travelers felt it expensive, however, for the handful of rooms they could visit, as the family occupies the top floor.

south carolina trip ideas

Spoleto Festival USA Spoleto Festival USA

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your interests fall closer to the culinary arts than the performing arts, book a trip for the Charleston Wine & Food in early March. The festival packs dinners, seminars, workshops, brunches, street fairs and interactive experiences (like boat trips to working oyster farms) into five days. Local and international food, wine and cocktail talent host the events.  – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti, Charleston's annual Spoleto Festival USA showcases music, theater, dance and opera performances. The festival draws its name from the city of Spoleto in Italy where Menotti previously founded an arts festival. This 17-day annual event (which runs from late May through early June) draws tens of thousands of visitors, both domestic and international, who come for the festival's unique blend of world-class performances and Southern charm.

south carolina trip ideas

H.L. Hunley Submarine H.L. Hunley Submarine

Originally built in 1863 for the Confederate Army, the H.L. Hunley became the world's first successful combat submarine. It was suddenly lost at sea in 1864 and remained so until 1995 when it was discovered off the coast of Sullivan's Island with the help of thriller author Clive Cussler. In 2000, the Hunley and the remains of its crew were brought to the surface for a detailed restoration at the old Charleston Naval Base.

Today, you can visit the base and tour the submarine; an experience that many recent visitors said is well worth your time, especially if you're interested in naval history. The experience features interactive exhibits and activities, which recent visitors found fascinating. Many also praised the expert guides. After a 20-minute overview, visitors can explore on their own.

south carolina trip ideas

Things to Do in Charleston, SC FAQs

Explore more of charleston, sc.

The Charleston Place

Best Hotels

World Map

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

south carolina trip ideas

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

south carolina trip ideas

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

south carolina trip ideas

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

south carolina trip ideas

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

south carolina trip ideas

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes

16 Best Things to Do on Hilton Head Island — From Golfing to History Tours

Planning a trip to one of the Lowcountry's most beautiful and welcoming islands? Here are 16 of the best things to do in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

south carolina trip ideas

Ever a contender among the best islands in the United States as ranked by Travel + Leisure readers, Hilton Head beckons with historical and cultural learnings dished up alongside culinary and beach delights.

Venture to these shores to be surrounded by water and waves, miles of biking trails, great golf courses, Gullah/Geechee culture, and much more. With something for every type of traveler, here are 16 of the best things to do in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Say bonjour (with a southern twang) at this cute breakfast spot.

Welcome a beautiful Lowcountry day with sparkling marina views on Shelter Cove while enjoying a breakfast of sweet and savory pastries with authentic French flair (plus American flavors) at Hilton Head Social Bakery . Fair trade organic coffees and teas are the perfect complement to a flaky croissant, mango tart, or croque monsieur. There are even French hot dogs on the menu, cradled in baguettes and topped with a dollop of Dijon mustard, bien sûr.

Dive into Gullah history on a heritage tour.

Traditions, customs, and art from West Africa make up an important part of Hilton Head's cultural fabric, which you can discover through tours with Gullah people who are the descendants of enslaved people and comprise one of the island's oldest communities. All of the guides with Gullah Heritage Trail Tours were born and raised on Hilton Head before the island was connected by a bridge to the mainland. Seeing the island through their eyes offers a singular view into the Creole Gullah language, traditional foods, music, and more.

Get your golf on.

Golfers know Hilton Head as one of the best spots in the southeast for a year-round game, even if springtime and autumn tend to usher in the most appealing temperatures for teeing off. Whether you're in it for putting lessons, some driving range action, or to win against friends, your options include championship courses like the oceanfront Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Resort, Pete Dye's legendary Heron Point by Pete Dye at Sea Pines Resort, and Sea Pines' epic PGA Tour course, Harbour Town Golf Links , to name just a few.

Pedal a bike along a scenic trail.

More than 60 miles of public trails crisscross Hilton Head, which is only 12 miles long. You can cover a lot of ground here — and get some exercise with ocean breezes while you're at it — by renting a bike. The trails winding through Sea Pines Forest Preserve are particularly lovely and include wetland boardwalks over marshes full of wading birds, as well as scenic bridges and places to stop for a picnic or toss out a fishing line from a dock.

Explore a popular beachfront park.

With roughly 12 miles of uninterrupted beachfront to explore, Hilton Head doesn't want for sandy spaces to roll out your beach towel or go for a stroll. Families flock to Coligny Beach Park , a short walk from a playground and The Sandbox Children's Museum . The beach is wheelchair accessible and has great amenities including chair and umbrella rentals, free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and shaded gazebos. Across the street, Coligny Plaza offers a wide array of restaurants and shops.

Board a boat in search of dolphins.

Nothing brings on the warm and fuzzy ocean vibes like seeing dolphins in the wild. And with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins making the waters around Hilton Head home, you've got a great chance of seeing them any time you're out on the water (and oftentimes right from the beach, too). Dolphin Discoveries Nature Tours runs daily trips with a maximum of six guests onboard to spot resident dolphins with names like Blackbird, Gary, and Little Baby Stripes that dwell in the local waters.

Sink your teeth into some South Carolina 'cue.

You haven't been to the Carolinas until you've sampled some of the best barbecue in the land. The island favorite, Bullies BBQ slow smokes its briskets, pork butt, and ribs over hickory and mesquite chips for hours to render a flavor you'll want to bottle up and bring home. If you order just one thing off the menu, make it the Pulled Pork Sandwich (with a side of savory collard greens). Pick up your favorite barbecue sauce or rub here, too, for a souvenir anyone would be stoked to receive.

Beachcomb at Driessen Beach Park.

Driessen Beach Park , on the island's southern end, is a good bet for filling your shell bucket and can be reached via a long boardwalk over a salt marsh. This vast sandy beach is ideal for playing volleyball or taking long walks (bring shoes to protect your feet) while spotting sand dollars and nesting crabs.

Shop like a Lowcountry local at the farmers market.

Head to the Coastal Discovery Museum on Tuesday mornings to browse the delicious local pickings at the Hilton Head Farmers Market , where you can shop alfresco for local seafood to grill on the beach, sip a cup of She Crab soup, or perhaps sample a Lowcountry rice dish from food trucks. This is a great place to pick up the freshest seasonal Carolina produce, too.

Enjoy some peace and quiet at Fish Haul Creek Park.

Those looking for an alternative to Hilton Head Island's popular beaches will find it at the lesser-known Fish Haul Creek Park . This 31-acre nature preserve is located on Port Royal Sound and has a shaded trail through a maritime forest and a boardwalk that leads to the Barker Field Observation Deck. Though it's not a swimmable beach, it's great for bike rides or long walks (including those with your pup in tow).

Go paddling through a salt marsh.

It's a balancing act paddling a SUP through Hilton Head's languorous tidal salt marshes. But the experience gives new meaning to the word Lowcountry while allowing you a unique vantage point on the saltwater marshes and endemic wildlife. Saltmarsh Paddle Tours offers SUP tours at high or low tide and kayak tours throughout the day. A naturalist guide shows you the way through spectacular estuaries where you might encounter dolphins, blue crabs, all manner of wading birds, and sometimes even sea turtles, too.

Charter a yacht for a Calibogue sunset cruise.

Charter a yacht with Hilton Head Yacht Charter and sail into the sunset. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are served on board as you cruise a mellow route around Calibogue Sound aboard a luxury yacht, where the joy is most definitely in the journey.

Slurp oysters with scenic views.

Right on the site of a historic oyster cannery that dates to 1925, the Old Oyster Factory Restaurant is the spot to settle in for a long, delicious meal of locally harvested South Carolina oysters from Bluffton and Beaufort , plus other flopping-fresh fish sourced just offshore. When it's not too hot for dining alfresco, the most coveted tables are out on the sprawling deck overlooking the salt marshes, where breezes bend the tall grasses and the water laps gently under your feet.

Lounge with the locals at Islanders Beach.

Islanders Beach is a favorite among Hilton Head residents, who roll up with coolers in tow to use the grills and picnic pavilions (between dips in the Atlantic Ocean, of course). You'll also find an accessible boardwalk, playground, and other amenities like free beach wheelchairs, outdoor showers, and beach chair rentals.

Take a day trip to Daufuskie Island.

Accessible by passenger ferry from Hilton Head (45 minutes one way), Daufuskie Island is a beautiful barrier island just to the south that can only be reached by boat. Once on the island, rent a golf cart to explore on your own or, better yet, book a guided tour with the Daufuskie Island Gullah Heritage Society to see fascinating historical sites hidden among the live oak trees with sixth-generation Gullah native, Sallie Ann Robinson. You can try horseback riding, rent a bike to pedal the beach, or make a stop for coastal-inspired art at The Iron Fish Gallery . Daufuskie is full of surprises down every winding lane.

Go birding along the Atlantic Flyway.

If it's a winged thing, you might spot it at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge , a spectacular protected area that lures in thousands of migratory birds each year as they make their way north and south along the Atlantic Flyway. During the late spring and early summer, Ibis Pond is a hotspot to see species of breeding herons and egrets. Wood storks and painted buntings also arrive in the summer months, and large alligators can be seen at the refuge year-round.

south carolina trip ideas

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

The Family Vacation Guide

The Family Vacation Guide

south carolina trip ideas

The 25 Best Things To Do In South Carolina With Kids

posted by Elana Anthony on May 10, 2023 // last updated on May 16, 2023

If you’re thinking of heading to South Carolina with the family, but want to know exactly what the Palmetto State has to offer for kids before you set off, look no further. 

SC is filled to the brim with activities for kids of all ages – whether they’re budding history buffs, log flume lovers, or at their happiest in the great outdoors surrounded by animals, you’re guaranteed to find something they love.

Let us point you in the direction of the best things to do in South Carolina with kids, to make it a fun-filled, memorable family vacation.

1. EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia

2. south carolina state museum, columbia, 3. mckissick museum, columbia, 4. the children’s museum of the upstate (tcmu), greenville, 5. patriots point naval & maritime museum, mount pleasant, 6. coastal discovery museum, hilton head island, 7. north charleston fire museum, 8. children’s museum of the low country, charleston, 9. gibbes museum of art, charleston, 10. fort mill history museum, more south carolina attractions you won’t want to miss, 1. devils fork state park & lake jocassee tours, salem, 2. alligator adventure, myrtle beach, 3. the beach and boardwalk, myrtle beach, 4. riverbanks zoo, columbia, 5. riverbanks botanical garden, columbia, 6. columbia canal and riverfront park, 7. the center for birds of prey, charleston, 8. nature and wildlife boat tours, charleston, 9. conestee nature preserve, greenville, 10. treetop quest, greenville.

  • 1. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Myrtle Beach

2. Family Kingdom Amusement Park & Splashes Water Park, Myrtle Beach

3. carowinds, fort mill, 4. frankie’s fun park, 3 sc locations, 5. otter creek waterpark, greenville, time to pack – south carolina is waiting, where is the best place for a family in south carolina, is south carolina family-friendly, is charleston or myrtle beach better for kids, is myrtle beach good for small children, where are the best family-friendly hotels in south carolina, the 10 best museums in south carolina.

EdVenture is a unique Columbia-based museum famed for its 40-foot centerpiece, Eddie. Eddie AKA the world’s largest child – has been turning heads for 10 years and kids can do more than just stare up in awe from his sneakers. Eddie has a working brain, heart, a set of lungs, and more, which the curious among your family can see up close by climbing through an impressive 3-story structure inside his body! This interactive exhibit teaches kids about the human body in a way that really grabs their attention.

Once they’ve mastered anatomy, kids can learn about the magic of flight from a real Boeing cockpit, prepare food in the Cooking Lab, or care for some stuffed four-legged friends by role-playing as a vet or pet owner.

south carolina trip ideas

While EdVenture may have the world’s largest kid on display, South Carolina State Museum can proudly say it’s the state’s largest museum overall. With more than 70,000 artifacts on display, you’re guaranteed to find something to interest everyone!

Space lovers of any age can choose to journey into the stars without having to leave the museum. Simply step inside the 55-foot dome planetarium to watch an immersive astronomy show and you’ll be transported to the farthest reaches of the galaxy.

If that isn’t enough, you can also access the only 4D theater in South Carolina, that pairs 3D movies with physical features. But don’t forget your umbrella, because this cinema is loaded with water sprayers along with air blasters, snow, scents, and more being set off in time with the images on the theater screen. Wow!

south carolina trip ideas

Located on the famed University of South Carolina Horseshoe, McKissick Museum brings rich Southern history to life in a way that guests of all ages can enjoy. This free-to-visit museum has a broad range of pieces, including an antique toy exhibit, so the kids can see what South Carolinian children used to play with long before the introduction of the iPad.

south carolina trip ideas

TCMU is targeted at kids around 12 and under, with an emphasis on play-based learning. It’s so engaging, that your kids won’t even realize they’ve been taken somewhere educational! The museum was opened back in 2009 by a group of moms who put their heads together to create a world-class learning and play environment for children.

They have 30 interactive exhibits designed to appeal to young minds, whether you have a water-loving toddler who wants to splash around in the lily pond or a voracious reader who’d love to get lost in a forest-themed book nook, complete with an imaginary fireplace.

They can even learn chess on a lifesize board, or try to get a hole-in-one at the STEM-based mini golf course. What’s more, there’s no need to pack more than a light snack; with a cafe and patio on the lower level serving sandwiches and refreshments, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

south carolina trip ideas

Patriots Point is a must-see if you’re heading to the historic Charleston Harbor. Your family can walk in the steps of national heroes by climbing aboard the USS Clagamore Submarine, USS Laffey Destroyer, and USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier. It’s a history lesson like no other. 

Find out first-hand exactly how sailors and other military personnel experienced daily life aboard navy ships – however, be sure to wear comfy shoes so you can explore every nook and cranny.

south carolina trip ideas

Unlike most museums on this list, the Coastal Discovery Museum sits on a majestic 68-acre property, which means there’s as much to explore outdoors as there is indoors. It’s designed to inspire people of all ages to care for the world around them by drawing attention to precious pieces of natural history within their walls, such as ancient cedars and giant live oaks.

In the Discovery House, you can find hands-on exhibits like seashell tables, which you can use to learn all about the shells that wash up on local beaches. You can also find answers to questions like “Why are there so many alligators on Hilton Head Island?”

south carolina trip ideas

What kid hasn’t played with a fire truck at one point in their lives, or listened in awe at firefighters’ day-to-day lives? The North Charleston Fire Museum further sparks that interest, with the largest collection of restored fire equipment and vehicles in the entire country on display. Their firefighting vehicles date as far back as 1780 and every one of them still runs! And, if needed, they could still fight fires today.

What’s more, kids can learn about fire safety through their in-house theaters and shows, complete with live smoke. They can also handle firefighters’ equipment, including lifting gears and hoses.

south carolina trip ideas

This Charleston children’s museum is more suited for children under 10 years old; its mission is to engage their potential by having them explore environments that stimulate their natural curiosity and further their imagination. One place your kid’s imagination can run absolutely wild is the Art Room, where they can channel their inner Jackson Pollock at the Painting Place station or create something that is uniquely them from materials such as egg cartons over at the Creation Station. Once they’ve created their masterpiece, they can utilize all five senses over at the kids’ garden by exploring and playing in the seven organic plant beds.  If they prefer being up in the air to being down in the dirt, they can head to air air everywhere to learn how something as heavy as a jumbo jet stays in the air, all while trying to balance their own objects in mid-air.

south carolina trip ideas

Got any future Picassos, or art appreciators in the family? If so, you might want to head to the Gibbes Museum of Art . The museum offers fun programs tailored to children and families, helping them to explore national art and culture from the 18th century to the present day.

As well as being able to explore the main exhibitions, kids can work with practicing artists and museum teachers to create their own artwork. They also have a calendar full of summer camps and workshops!

south carolina trip ideas

Fort Mill History Museum is a town treasure that offers free admission to visitors. The building houses more than just items relating to big historical events; they have items big and small that have made up – and continue to make up – the fabric of their community, including individual stories and childhood memories.

They host several events for the entire family throughout the year , including free crafts sessions with adults dressed up as pioneers, and strawberry scavenger hunts, which take you on a journey through the town as you follow the clues.

south carolina trip ideas

Although the following places aren’t technically museums, they still deserve an honorable mention as some of the best things to do with kids in South Carolina!

The Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville is a place for kids of any age to get involved with all things science. The center has a dinosaur adventure trail, a marine ecology lab, a living history farm and butterfly garden, and, an impressive observatory.

The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens in Charleston County serves as a reminder of South Carolina’s rich and troubled history. It’s a place of incredible natural beauty, and also one of cultural and historic significance. This is a site for older children to visit, so they can learn an important history lesson about slavery and African American culture in both South Carolina and the United States as a whole.

south carolina trip ideas

The 10 best outdoor spaces and activities in South Carolina

Experience one of the most breathtaking areas of natural beauty that South Carolina has to offer. See where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet the clear and calming waters of Lake Jocassee , go on a boat ride to discover hidden waterfalls, or walk the Oconee Bell Nature Trail. Whilst you’re there, try to spot the endangered flowers the trail is named after.

south carolina trip ideas

If you’re in Myrtle Beach, be sure not to miss this exciting reptilian animal park . The whole family can (safely) come face-to-face with some of nature’s fiercest and most beautiful animals.

Why not catch a live show? Your kids are always going to remember watching a 15-foot alligator jump out of the water to clamp their jaws down on their dinner!

south carolina trip ideas

It goes without saying that if you visit North Myrtle Beach , you’re probably going to the beach. There’s no shortage of fun things to do with the entire family, whether you want to see panoramic views of the beach and the Grand Stand from 200 feet in the air on the SkyWheel, or appreciate them from ground level as you stroll along the promenade. If you fancy grabbing a souvenir or a sweet treat before paddling in the ocean, you can head to the boardwalk’s unique shopping district to grab anything from gummy bears to sharks’ teeth.

south carolina trip ideas

If you and your family are zoo lovers, you’re sure to enjoy the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia. This vast 170-acre site is home to over 2,000 diverse and fascinating animals. The zoo acts as an oasis for animals and people alike, and is divided into eight “districts”: the African Savanna, the Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center, the Birdhouse, the Farm, Gorilla Base Camp, Koala Knockabout, the Ndoki Forest and the Saluda Factory Interpretive Center. You can even register for the kids to help out with feedings!

south carolina trip ideas

Also on the site of Riverbanks Zoo is a breathtaking botanical garden , which showcases nearly 6,000 native and exotic plant species. It acts as a living classroom- both you and your kids will surely see something completely new.

On a hot day, you can all cool off at Waterfall Junction, or escape the sun with some shade-loving plants in the Shade Garden. You can even stop and (literally) smell the roses at the Old Rose Garden, where the largest collection of South Carolinian Noisettes give off their sweet perfume.

south carolina trip ideas

The Riverfront Park is much beloved by locals and tourists alike, and for good reason. The paved trail takes you between the river and the canal, with beautiful views on either side. See if you can spot the world’s first electrically operated textile mill – of which, is still in operation today.

There’s no shortage of animals in the park either, with many visitors spotting turtles, deer, and more. It’s an easy walk for families, with plenty of picnic tables and benches if any little feet get tired!

south carolina trip ideas

It’s a highlight of any trip to be able to watch hawks, falcons, owls, eagles, kites, and vultures up close as they perform their hunting and flying techniques. Hour-long demonstrations are on every week at the center , where animals soar and glide in close proximity to their audience.

Once you’ve been wowed by raptors out in the open, you can visit the aviaries, which house nearly fifty birds of prey species from all over the world.

south carolina trip ideas

Charleston’s coastal wildlife is abundant and beautiful- where better to see it than from a boat on one of the city’s many wildlife tours ?

Spot dolphins on the starboard side as you meander through rivers and creeks on your way to an uninhabited island. Local experts will be on hand to explore Morris Island beach with you to point out the fascinating sea life all around you.

south carolina trip ideas

Conestee is best described as an accessible oasis, located just a few miles from downtown Greenville. There are many trails to choose from, paved and unpaved, and they’re all signposted, so you can wander without getting lost!

You can’t visit Conestee Nature Preserve without seeing the abundance of wildlife it protects, including otters, turtles, herons, ducks, and fish. When they’ve had enough of otter-spotting, the kids can run wild on the large playground.

south carolina trip ideas

For the more adventurous travelers, Greenville has a large, family-friendly aerial adventure park ! Maneuver in between the trees, over obstacles, and through zip lines on any chosen course. There’s a special course for the younger kids, so even the youngest kids don’t have to miss out.

Gloves and comfy clothes are a must! If you don’t remember a pair of gloves you don’t need to worry; they’re available at Treetop Quest for $3 a pair.

south carolina trip ideas

The 5 best amusement attractions and water parks in South Carolina

1. ripley’s believe it or not , myrtle beach.

Want to see something weird and wonderful on your trip? It doesn’t get much weirder than the iconic Ripley’s. Their Myrtle Beach oddity is actually made up of 5 attractions, with more coming soon:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium
  • Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
  • Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze
  • Ripley’s Super Fun Zone
  • Ripley’s Crazy Golf (coming soon)
  • Ripley’s Illusion Lab (coming soon)

There isn’t enough time in the day to experience all of the family fun contained within the Odditorium’s walls, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it your best shot. The kids can test their bravery in the haunted house (8+), or challenge their senses to navigate the family through a labyrinth of miraculous mirror illusions!

south carolina trip ideas

Myrtle Beach has no shortage of seaside attractions. Within Family Kingdom alone, there are 37 rides to choose from, including thrill rides, family rides, go-karts, and more. This waterfront amusement park has it all!

south carolina trip ideas

Straddling both North and South Carolina, Carowinds amusement park boasts over 60 rides, as well as live entertainment and an on-site hotel and campground. Access to the waterpark is also included with admission. What’s more, it has a three-acre children’s area, so there’s definitely no shortage of fun to be had!

south carolina trip ideas

Whether you’re thinking of visiting Greenville, Charleston, or Columbia, you’ll never be too far from a Frankie’s Fun Park . Baseball fans can grab a helmet and hit the batting cages, or if you’d rather start with Laser Tag you can compete as a family to see who will emerge from the arena victorious (ages 6+). If retro gaming is more your family’s thing, you can head to the arcade where there are a mind-blowing number of games to play.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head down to Frankie’s Cafe to grab a tasty treat, whether you’re more of a hot dog lover or pepperoni pizza fan there’s something for everyone.

south carolina trip ideas

Cool off at the Otter Creek Waterpark , which is open from late May to early September. There are 4 waterslides in total, suitable for kids of varying ages, and all are as fun as each other.

Kids will love the interactive water features, whether they’re playing and running under the jets and sprays, or trying to miss the tipping bucket that could turn upside down at any moment!

south carolina trip ideas

There you have it – a comprehensive list of the best things to do in South Carolina with kids. Hopefully, this guide has shown you why The Palmetto State is the right choice for your family vacation and you’ve got a clearer idea of which direction to take the car in when you head off. Now the only thing left to do is pack!

With its world-class beaches, delicious Southern food, rich history, and amusement attractions, you can’t go wrong with any of sunny South Carolina’s cities and towns. For some sun and sea, maybe head to Myrtle Beach. To step back in time, Charleston is your best bet. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in Greenville, or hands-on learning opportunities in Columbia. Another of our guides is categorized by the best places within South Carolina to vacation with kids , so you can see which destination jumps out at you the most if you’re unsure!

Short answer: yes! Whether you’re heading to the coast or the mountains, for the rollercoasters or aquariums, South Carolina is the perfect place for a family vacation.

You’ll know best what kind of trip you and your kids will love the most, so it depends! For that typical sea, sand, and attractions kind of holiday, head to Myrtle Beach. Charleston is definitely the more niche of the two, but as you’ll have seen above it has plenty for kids to do, while also being educational for the whole family.

If you’re heading to SC solely for the seaside, you can explore the best beaches in South Carolina with this guide.

There’s no shortage of things to do with toddlers in the Myrtle Beach area. It’s safe for them to do classic beach activities like building sandcastles, and they can also accompany you on the SkyWheel and most of Ripley’s attractions at any age (2 years and under go free). They can, of course, also grab a souvenir or some candy at the Boardwalk’s shopping district.

Whether you’re going on a day trip with your young ones, or staying for a few nights, there’s plenty to do!

Read our full travel guide on Myrtle Beach!

  • If you’re planning to stay in Charleston with kids, we recommend these top spots .
  • If you’re heading to Myrtle Beach with kids, why not check out the most family-friendly resorts .
  • If your family outing is taking you to Columbia, you might consider staying at the Staybridge Suites Columbia , with its kid-friendly buffet and indoor pool, or the colorful Hotel Trundle .
  • Over in Greenville, some of the best-reviewed family hotels include the Hampton Inn & Suites Greenville-Downtown-Riverplace and the Cambria Hotel Greenville , which is just 1.4 miles from Frankie’s Fun Park.
  • Doing a day trip to Fort Mill? It could be worth staying at the Carowinds’ on-site hotel or campground .
  • Hilton Head is full of beautiful resorts that both you and the kids can enjoy .

More about our TFVG Author

south carolina trip ideas

Elana Anthony

south carolina trip ideas

Camping Kiddos

The Ultimate South Carolina Waterfalls Road Trip

T his South Carolina waterfalls road trip itinerary takes you through 4 beautiful counties in the Upstate as you explore incredible natural features of all shapes and sizes.

You’ll visit some of our favorite state parks, hike along streams, and discover a few hidden waterfalls, too!

I spent several years of my childhood in this part of South Carolina and then returned to it for college. My in-laws also live here, so we’ve spent many wonderful days hiking around this area.

I’m sharing all of my insider knowledge in this huge South Carolina waterfall guide in the hopes that you’ll hit one of these trails with your family soon.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan the ultimate day out waterfall chasing, including how difficult each trail is, the location of the falls, and other tips.

I’ve also included a map of these South Carolina waterfalls so your entire road trip is easy to plan and follow.

SC Waterfalls Road Trip Map

All waterfalls marked on the map have detailed descriptions in the post below. You can also click each waterfall icon for quick facts about the trail.

SC Waterfalls Road Trip, Stop-by-Stop

Waterfall trails and road trips are two of my favorite things, so you can imagine how I feel about this itinerary.

I’ve included only waterfalls that can be accessed on foot on public property and trails. There are many more waterfalls in this area that are on private property, but I can’t condone trespassing just to get to a waterfall.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can kayak or boat to a couple of the falls below. While I haven’t included all of the standard information, I have still noted where these falls are located on the road trip if you want somewhere to kayak or canoe.

Where possible, I’ve also included trail information, recommended places to camp, and anything else I thought would be helpful for you and your family.

Start: Greenville, South Carolina

We are starting our waterfall road trip in downtown Greenville, which is one of the fastest growing areas in South Carolina. Downtown Greenville is a bit of a revitalization star student as this downtown went from uninspired and unloved to thriving in less than 20 years.

At the heart of the downtown Greenville revitalization is Falls Park on the Reedy, where you can easily access Reedy River Falls .

Reedy River Falls: Quick Facts

Rating : Easy

Total distance : 0.25 miles

Type of trail : walk-up in park

Registration required : no

Walk down through the grassy lawn of the park, or see the falls from above on Liberty Bridge.

If you’re hungry, Smoke on the Water restaurant is less than a block from the falls and serves up incredible salads.

For a longer hike, visit the falls, then head south out of the park to access the Swamp Rabbit Trail on Furman College Way.

If you have time, I’d encourage you to linger in Greenville for a day or two as there is so much to enjoy about this area.

Stop 1: Jones Gap State Park

After you’ve had your fill of the city, it’s time to head to one of South Carolina’s prettiest state parks, where you’ll be able to take your first couple of real waterfall hikes.

While there are many hiking trails here, you’re going to want to focus on the 2 that offer up significant waterfalls.

First of all, Jones Gap Falls is the park’s namesake, and it’s well worth your time.

From the park’s headquarters, pick up the Jones Gap Trail by going left on the service road and crossing a small bridge to the trailhead.

Jones Gap Falls: Quick Facts

Rating : moderate

Total distance : 3.5 miles

Type of trail : out-and-back

Registration required : yes

You’ll stay on this trail for about half a mile, when you’ll see the turnoff for Rainbow Falls (more on that hike below). Keep on Jones Gap Trail for another half-mile or so, when you should see the sign for Jones Gap Falls.

To access the falls, turn right at this sign. You’ll quickly see the falls.

The falls aren’t huge, but they are pretty. There’s no swimming hole here, though you can easily access some of Cox Camp Creek below the falls.

You won’t have to look far for your next waterfall as Rainbow Falls is also accessible off of Jones Gap Trail.

From Jones Gap Falls, return to Jones Gap Trail, and turn to your left, heading back towards the visitors center and park office.

Rainbow Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 4.6 miles

You’ll find the Rainbow Falls turn-off from the Jones Gap Trail about halfway between the Jones Gap Falls spur and the visitors center.

The Rainbow Falls spur does have a fairly continuous incline on the way to the falls, so be prepared for that.

The waterfall itself is worth the trouble, though.

The trail takes you to the base of the falls, so you can see the Upper Falls up close. The less impressive Lower Falls is right below. There’s no swimming area here, but you’ll get a quick spray of water as you get close to the falls.

NOTE: You can also access Rainbow Falls from the YMCA Camp Greenville campus (which is how I first saw this waterfall when I was 11!), but it’s private property.

There’s one more waterfall you should explore in this area before you move onto the next stop: Wildcat Branch Falls .

Wildcat Branch Falls is on the southern end of Jones Gap State Park just outside of the park’s border.

Wildcat Branch Falls: Quick Facts

Rating : easy

Total distance : negligible for lower falls; 1 mile nature trail to upper falls

From the Jones Gap State Park visitors center, head out of the park on River Falls Road, then turn right onto Highway 276.

Wildcat Branch Falls will be on the left side of the road about 3.2 miles from that intersection. Park at the Wildcat Wayside Park, where you’ll be able to see and hear the lower falls almost immediately. On a hot day, you can jump in the pool at the base of the falls.

If you’d like to see the upper falls as well, you can hop onto the nature trail to the left of the lower falls. The upper falls are 1 mile on the out-and-back trail, but, honestly, the lower falls are a lot more impressive.

Stop 3: Caesars Head State Park

Silver steps falls: quick facts.

Total distance : 1 mile

Interestingly, Jones Gap State Park joins up with Caesar Head State Park to create the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, which is packed with hiking opportunities.

On the other end of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area , but still on the Jones Gap Trail is the small but picturesque Silver Steps Falls .

Also known as Dargan’s Cascade, you can access this waterfall from Jones Gap State Park on the Jones Gap Trail or from the Silver Steps Falls Trail off of Highway 276.

If you’re hiking on the Jones Gap Trail, Silver Steps Falls is roughly 3 miles past the turn-off to Jones Gap Falls.

If you’re hiking in on the Silver Steps Falls, the cascade is just before the white-blazed Silver Steps Falls Trail intersects with the blue-blazed Jones Gaps Trail (about 1 mile).

Raven Cliff Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, plunging 400 feet over a cliff.

Located inside Caesars Head State Park, this waterfall is at the end of 4 mile out-and-back trail.

Raven Cliff Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 4 miles

While the trail is largely flat and easy, the distance does push this into the moderate category for my family. There is a slight elevation loss towards the beginning of the trail (so you’re hiking uphill the last quarter-mile to your car), and there are stairs on the observation tower.

While you can’t get close to the base of the falls on this hike, you will be treated to spectacular views from the observation tower at the end of the trail.

See if you can spot the trail’s namesake birds in this area—there are more than 150 species of ravens that have been identified here!

The parking area off of Highway 276 in the park is well marked as is this entire red-blazed trail.

If you have time to linger near Caesar’s Head State Park, I would. In addition to the waterfall hikes above, the area has several other of the best hikes near Greenville , including the kid-friendly Frank Coggins loop trail .

Stop 4: Rocky Bottom, South Carolina

Rocky Bottom is a tiny, unincorporated area in Upstate South Carolina, but it has a couple of interesting waterfalls.

You’ll see the parking area and trailhead for Beech Bottom Falls off of F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway (also known as Sassafras Mountain Road).

NOTE: If you continue on Sassafras Mountain Road, there’s a great overlook at the highest point in South Carolina!

Beech Bottom Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 1.7 miles

Beech Bottom Falls trail crosses Abner Creek a couple of times on the way to the fall. My kids love a foot bridge on hikes, and there are a couple rustic-style ones here.

Overall, the trail is easy enough for my kids and other younger hikers to handle, though there are a few sections of dirt and wood stairs along the way.

The falls are located in a section where the banks are very steep, so you’ll need to use the wooden observation tower to safely see them. Stay on the path and at the tower as it would be unwise to try and get closer to the falls.

Another note: in the last decade, the waterfall’s name has changed inexplicably from Pinnacle Falls to Beech Bottom Falls, so if you see older literature calling it another name, that’s why.

Our next waterfall on the road trip isn’t far. From the Beech Bottom Falls parking lot, take Sassafras Mountain Road west, then take a right at the intersection of Pickens Highway.

Eastatoe Narrows: Quick Facts

Total distance : 3.4 miles

In 0.8 miles, look for the left turn onto Laurel Valley Road, and then an immediate right onto Horse Pasture Road. After 0.4 miles, you’ll see the trailhead for the Eastatoe Gorge Spur Trail.

The Eastatoe Narrows is so named for the squeeze that the Eastatoe Creek does as it enters the gorge. The trail is generally easy, though the descent closer to the falls is fairly steep, and kids may require some additional help.

Because of the landscape, you won’t be able to get super close to the waterfall as the trail crosses over the falls rather than near it.

For more information, check out this detailed Eastatoe Narrows trail guide .

Getting to Virginia Hawkins Falls is just as much of an adventure as the actual trail.

Virginia Hawkins Falls: Quick Facts

Rating : difficult

From the Eastatoe Gorge Spur Trailhead, you’ll continue going down Horse Pasture Road for about 3 miles. There is a small gravel parking area at the Laurel Fork Gap trailhead.

I’d suggest taking an SUV, Jeep, or truck, preferably with 4-wheel drive as the road has ruts and can be very uneven, particularly after it rains.

From that trailhead, you’ll follow an old logging road until you see the clearly marked wooden sign for Virginia Hawkins Falls. (There’s also a backcountry, hike-in primitive campground here if you’d like to extend your stay!)

At only 25’ tall, the Virginia Hawkins Falls isn’t huge, but it’s quite pretty with multiple small cascades.

NOTE: This waterfall was known as Double Drop Falls up until around 2004.

If you were to continue onto the Foothills Trail and NOT take the turn-off to Virginia Hawkins Falls, you’d come to Laurel Fork Falls at the end of this trail.

Laurel Fork Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 7.1 miles

Laurel Fork Falls has one of the longest trails on this list, and getting to the falls requires 7.1 mile out-and-back hike starting from the Laurel Fork Gap trailhead.

While you can hear the falls (and see smaller cascades) from the designated trail, it’s hard to get a complete glimpse of Laurel Fork Falls unless you’re viewing it from Lake Jocassee. This is one of those waterfalls that is also accessible by boat.

This is a long hike, so you might want to stay at the primitive camping area about 0.5 miles from the waterfall on the Foothills Trail.

If you’re looking for something else to do in this area, take your car from the trailhead parking lot back onto Horse Pasture Road for another 6.5 miles to Jumping-off Rock . While you shouldn’t literally jump off anything here, as you’re on the side of a mountain, you’ll be treated to immense long range views of Sassafras Mountain, Lake Jocassee, and the entire area.

South of Rocky Bottom is the Twin Falls Trail , located off of the aptly named Waterfalls Road. You’ll find the parking area for this trail at the end of the road.

Twin Falls Trail: Quick Facts

Total distance : 0.3-1.3 miles, depending on the route

NOTE: This waterfall set is known by 2 other names: Eastatoe Falls or Reedy Cove Falls.

This waterfall is an anomaly on this list as it’s actually a double waterfall! The river splits just before it goes over the cliff, so you’ll see twin cascades just a few feet apart.

To get to the falls, you have an easier hike to the base of the 2 falls, which I recommend for families with little kids. This trail allows you to have a beautiful view of the double cascade without much risk.

The other hike (the upper hike) is longer at 1.3 miles and end directly at the top of the falls. It should go without saying, but this location is highly dangerous and you shouldn’t get into or near the water for fear you’ll go over the edge.

If you’d like to get into the water along either trail, there are swimming holes on the lower hike that would be appropriate for kids.

Find directions for each of the Twin Falls trail options here.

NOTE: Devil’s Hole Creek Falls is also in this area, but is only accessible by boat from Lake Jocassee.

Stop 5: Western Lake Jocassee

Let’s head around Lake Jocassee to the western side.

Wright Creek Falls and Mill Creek Falls are only accessible by boat. You can launch from nearby Devil’s Fork State Park, where rangers will also provide maps and directions to each.

Lower Whitewater Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 4.2 miles

The view of Lower Whitewater Falls makes this relatively easy 4 mile roundtrip out-and-back trail a great day trip from Greenville, Clemson, or Walhalla.

The trailhead can be found on the Foothills Trail Access Road off of Bad Creek Road.

On the trail, you’ll pass over Whitewater River slightly before the halfway point between the parking lot and the waterfall.

While you’ll be able to catch glimpses of the falls towards the end of the trail, you’ll have the best views from the wooden observation tower. There’s no swimming area here.

If you’re wondering why I didn’t include Upper Whitewater Falls, it’s because it’s just above the North Carolina-South Carolina border!

Stop 6: Mountain Rest, South Carolina

The next cluster of waterfalls is located right in the corner of where South Carolina meets North Carolina and Georgia. These are all in the area north of Mountain Rest and to the west of Salem and Tamassee.

Spoonauger Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 0.6 miles

Spoonauger Falls is known as Rock Cliff Falls, and the trailhead is located along Burrells Ford Road (FS 708) in Mountain Rest. From the trailhead and parking area, the falls are less than half a mile, making this one of the easier waterfall hikes in this area.

From the parking area, follow signs for the Chattooga River Trail, then turn right onto the spur for the waterfall. (This turn is well marked.)

There are a few switchbacks as you get close to the falls, which might be the most difficult part of this kid-friendly trail.

The paved trail ends with an observation area, or you can push onto the smaller dirt trail that will allow you to get to the base of the falls. Just note that there are several slippery areas on the way down to the falls if you choose to go all the way.

There’s no area that’s good for swimming here, but you can get right up to the base of the falls for some wading or a cool mist on a hot day.

Another great waterfall off of Burrells Ford Road is King Creek Falls . The parking area for this waterfall is just 1/3 of a mile east from the parking area for Spoonauger Falls (above).

King Creek Falls: Quick Facts

This out-and-back trail is a little less than 2 miles round trip and is an easy path with little elevation change.

Access the trail from the parking lot, and then go straight at the one fork in the Chatooga trail.

The only thing to watch out for is the large tree that has blocked the path—but part of the tree has been sawed away to allow people to scramble around it. Little kids will need help with this part, but they should be good elsewhere on the trail.

The waterfall itself is fairly large with a 70 foot cascade and a small pool of water perfect for splashing about in.

Combine King Creek Falls and and Spoonauger Falls for a full day of hiking in the Sumter National Forest.

You get 2 falls in 1 hike when visiting Pig Pen Falls and Licklog Falls .

Pig Pen and Licklog Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 4.1 miles

These oddly named waterfalls are located on the same hiking trail, about 1/4 mile apart. Head to Nicholson Ford Road (FS775) and follow it for 2 miles. You’ll see a parking area on the right.

Look for a sign for the Foothills Trail. Follow the Foothills Trail for about 1/2 mile, then turn onto the Chattooga Trail. You’ll come to Pig Pen Falls first. It’s the smaller of the 2 waterfalls with a 25 foot cascade and a small swimming area.

Continue on the trail, crossing a foot bridge, and you’ll find Licklog Falls quickly. Licklog Falls has a couple of cascades, totaling around 80 feet.

Overall, this hike is great for kids as there’s little elevation change throughout the well-marked dirt trail.

Big Bend Falls ’ Big Bend Trailhead is located near the Cherry Hill Recreation Area.

Big Bend Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 5.5 miles

As you near the falls, there will be a trail intersection with the Chattooga Trail, and you’ll want to hang a left here.

The falls will be another 0.5 or so ahead. Big Bend Falls is on the dividing line between Georgia and South Carolina!

You can also access Big Bend Falls on the Chattooga Trail via a right-hand turn off near King Creek Falls. Simply stay on the Chattooga Trail until it intersects with the Big Bend Trail, and keep right at the intersection.

Cheohee Falls (also known as Miuka Falls) and Secret Falls are both accessible from the Cherry Hill Recreation Area, though across Highway 107 from the trailhead to Big Bend Falls.

Look for the Winding Stairs trailhead and follow this trail to Cheohee Falls, taking a right at the intersection you come to. Cheohee/Miuka Falls is down a small, well marked side trail on the left.

Cheohee/Miuka Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 1.2 miles

If you’re hiking with kids on this trail, keep in mind that there’s not a good place to get to the base of the falls without going down the banks of the river, and then standing on slippery rocks.

Secret Falls is just off trail further down the Winding Stairs Trail. For more information on how to locate this waterfall, see the directions here .

Continue north on Highway 107 to the Bee Cove Falls trailhead. This trail is fairly difficult as the remaining section requires hikers to find their own way down to the falls after the trail peters out.

For this reason, I’d suggest hiking this trail only if you’re an experienced hiker (and without young kids) as this is not the most accessible waterfall.

Bee Cove Falls: Quick Facts

Start your hike on FS 402, which is a gravel road off of Highway 107 to the right just after you pass Fish Hatchery Road on the left.

There will be three intersections on this trail; take a right at all of them. You’ll hear the falls before you see them, and this is where you’ll need to work your way down the bank to your right until you get to the base of the falls.

Lee Falls is another waterfall trail for the more experienced hiker as the trail really isn’t a trail, particularly in the beginning.

If you can get past that difficulty, you’ll follow Tamassee Creek on your way upriver to this beautiful 75-foot falls.

Lee Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 2.9 miles

From the parking area on FS 175A, you’ll work your way across 3 different fields, where the path might be difficult to find or follow, depending on how many people have come through recently.

When you do find the path, it is a narrow trail that can be easily overlooked if you don’t know where you’re going.

From there, you’ll find an old forest road that winds through the trees. As you get closer to the falls, you’ll have to cross a couple of streams and then scramble over some large rocks and trees to get to the base of Lee Falls.

The majority of the hike is flat and kid-friendly, but the difficulty lies in finding the trail at the beginning and then picking your way to the base of the falls.

There are the remains of old stone tunnels in the rock gorge towards the falls, which is an interesting feature.

Stop 7: Oconee State Park

Located inside Oconee State Park, Hidden Falls is one of the area’s most popular waterfall hikes.

While it isn’t the biggest or most impressive waterfall on this list, Hidden Falls is a great hike for older kids and their families.

Hidden Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 5.1 miles

The trail is relatively easy if a bit long for beginning hikers, but the 60-foot cascade at the end of this trail is enough motivation for most.

Access to this trail is towards the back of the park. Follow State Park Road through the campground, past the playground, and beyond the first left-hand turn off to the cabins. You’ll see a parking lot on your left after the cabin turn-off; this is also the parking lot for the Tamassee Knob Trail.

Follow signs for the Foothills Trail from the parking lot, then look for the signage on the trail indicating the Hidden Falls turnoff around 1 mile into the hike.

If you’re staying the night in this area, I highly recommend camping in Oconee State Park !

We’ve stayed here both as tent and RV campers, and we find something new to love about it every time. From the lake with diving platform and canoe rentals to the weekly square dances, this state park’s activities are as close as you’re going to get to attending summer camp as a grown-up.

Stop 8: Oconee Station State Park

One of our favorite easy waterfall hikes on this list, Station Cove Falls is perfect for kids and first time hikers.

The trail is wide and easy to follow, and there are few areas of drastic elevation change. For the most part, the trail bobs up and down gently as you wander through a beautiful section of Upstate forest.

At the end of the trail, you’ll be treated to the beautiful Station Cove Falls. The trail leads right to the base of the falls, where kids can splash in the ankle-deep water or you can sit for a moment on one of the huge boulders.

Station Cove Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 1.6 miles

To get to the trailhead, drive onto Oconee State Road from Walhalla and continue past the entrance to the state park.

You’ll find a small parking area on your left with the trailhead information clearly posted.

Station Cove Falls is also accessible from Oconee State Park via the Oconee Passage of the Palmetto Trail.

Stop 9: Walhalla, South Carolina

Walhalla is one of our go-to hiking and camping areas in the Upstate as it is packed with incredible waterfalls and outdoor activities.

Issaqueena Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 0.3 miles

Issaqueena Falls is one of the area’s most popular waterfalls, thanks to the excellent infrastructure in this park. You’ll find a large parking lot, an easy hike to an observation deck, and picnic tables here. There are even vault toilets here.

Plus, you can easily access another of my favorite Wahalla destinations, the Civil War-era Stumphouse Tunnel , from this same parking lot.

Issaqueena Falls is super accessible for any visitor, with viewing options on that observation platform or from further down if you’d like to do some rock scrambling. The Stumphouse Passage of the Palmetto Trail picks up here, so you can follow the creek for several miles.

You can get close to the falls if your kids want to dip their feet into the water, though there’s no real swimming area here.

Just across Highway 28 from the entrance to Issaqueena Falls and Stumphouse tunnel is the turn-off for the Yellow Branch Falls trail parking lot.

This 3 mile out-and-back trail ends at the waterfall, which slowly trickles down a granite rock face.

It’s quite a popular hike, so come early to get a parking spot.

While we took our young kids on this hike—and they did fine—you should be aware that a couple of the sections of trail do have fairly steep drop-offs on one side.

There are also a couple of footbridges and some stream crossings to make things interesting.

Once you’re at the trail, there aren’t any true swimming areas, though the water at the base of the falls is shallow enough for some quick wading.

Back at the trailhead, you’ll find a couple of vault toilets and picnic tables if you’d like to make a day of it.

Yellow Branch Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 3.0 miles

The only trail on this list to beat the double-offering at Licklog Falls and Pig Pen Falls is the Fall Creek Falls trail, where you’ll see three different waterfalls along the way.

Fall Creek Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 2.6 miles

NOTE: Fall Creek Falls Creek is currently closed as of 2024 as this area is reworked to accommodate a new passage of the Palmetto Trail.

However, getting to all but the first one requires careful navigation and possibly even bushwacking, so we’re suggesting this one for more experienced hikers.

Head to FS 722 (Fall Creek Road), where the parking area is just after a small bridge crossing Fall Creek.

The first of the three waterfalls, Andrew Ramey Falls, can be seen and heard from this parking area, but we’re not stopping there. Follow the faint (and sometimes none existent) trail along the river to get to the other 2 cascades on the trail.

The second cascade, Pristine Falls, is off on a small spur trail, and the final cascade at the end of the trail is Fall Creek Falls. For a full map of the trail and detailed trail information , see here.

Keep in mind that the trail can easily get overgrown during the spring and summer, so you’ll need to be an experienced hiker to safely navigate this area fully.

If you decide to head down to the base of any of the 3 cascades, use caution as the banks are quite steep in places—and slippery after a rain.

Grapevine Campground near Walhalla is a primitive campground that we’ve taken the kids to and had a lot of fun. (It was also my husband and his friends’ go-to camping spot while we were all at nearby Clemson University.)

Located at the end of FS 764, this campground is first come, first served with large lots, many of them by the Coppermine Branch of the Chauga River.

There aren’t any electrical outlets or drinking water, but there are shared vault toilets. We’ve seen both smaller travel trailers and Class B vans here, but the majority of visitors are tent camping.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Walhalla, S C, check out my entire guide to the area here.

Stop 10: Long Creek, South Carolina

Long Creek is another tiny community in Upstate South Carolina that’s a perfect base to explore some great waterfall hikes.

First, let’s head to Long Creek Falls . Get step-by-step instructions on finding the somewhat remote trailhead on Forest Service road 755 here .

The waterfall is nearly at the end of the trail: keep in mind that the trail does seem to peter out as you hear the waterfall, and you’ll have to take the smaller, less obvious trail down to the waterfall base. Get a great view of the nearby Chattooga River from the spur Top-of-the-Rock trail.

Long Creek Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 3.3. miles

P.S. A part of the movie Deliverance was filmed here, but I wouldn’t worry too much about hearing any banjos here.

If you’d like to add on a second waterfall in this immediate area, check out Homer Falls , which is down to the left at the fork near the trailhead. I will note that the trail to Homer Falls is considerably trickier than that to Long Creek Falls, and you don’t want to go after it’s been rainy. The wet weather makes this already steep trail something slippery and dangerous.

Overall, Long Creek Falls is the best bet here, especially if you’re hiking with kids and/or beginning hikers.

The trailhead for Opossum Creek Falls is about half a mile back towards Battlecreek Road on Turkey Ridge Road, making this a great one to pair with Long Creek Falls .

Opossum Creek Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 4.4 miles

For most of the hike, you’re walking along a well-marked, fairly wide old forest road, but things get more difficult about a half mile from the falls. The trail narrows significantly and requires rock scrambles and more technical navigation to get to the base of the fall.

Still, all but the smallest hikers should be able to handle it for a peek at this beautiful (and big!) waterfall.

There is a small beach here with some potential wading areas, but you’ll want to watch kids closely as the water moves swiftly.

Note that there’s about 800 feet of elevation change on this hike with most of it occurring near the trailhead. You’re hiking on a descent from the trailhead, so you’re on an incline as you head back to the car. Overall, it’s not bad, even if you’re not used to mountain hiking.

Head slightly north to the Georgia-North Carolina line via Long Creek Highway for our next stop.

Bull Sluice is a Class-5 rapid on the Chattooga River, and the trail to it is a section of the longer Chattooga Trail.

Bull Sluice: Quick Facts

Total distance : 0.4 miles

With only a 0.2 mile hike from the parking lot (0.4 miles round trip), this is one of the easiest access waterfalls on this list. However, there’s some debate on whether this is just rapids or it’s a small waterfall.

Regardless of the classification, temper your expectations. While it is an easy hike, this isn’t the most impressive water feature in the area.

However, it does have a small beach that is good for wading, and, if you’re trying to bag a few SC waterfalls, this is low hanging fruit.

The furthest south of the waterfalls on this stop of our road trip, Brasstown Falls is one of the most impressive in all of Oconee County.

Brasstown Falls: Quick Facts

A trail renovation made this series of cascades much more accessible, thanks to the addition of foot bridges, clearer trail markings, and better trail infrastructure.

On this trail, you’ll be able to see all 3 cascades: Upper, Middle, and Lower Brasstown Falls.

It’s a kid-friendly trail with an excellent surprise at the end. The trail has a set of wooden stairs that lead down to a red sand beach and a calm wading pool.

NOTE: If you’re not from this area, the red dirt will stain everything you own, so don’t take any footwear or towels that 1) you can’t clean, and 2) are particularly fond of.

For such an easy trail, the waterfalls are a great pay-off, thanks to their size and the multiple cascades. You could easily spend an entire day here, splashing around and picnicking.

Blue Hole Falls is a lesser known waterfall in this area with a great little swimming hole at the base.

While the trail itself isn’t particularly difficult, you’ll want to check the weather before you start. This is in large part due to the fact that you’ll have to shuffle across Cedar Creek to get to the waterfall and swimming pool.

Blue Hole Falls: Quick Facts

If it’s been raining recently, the stream may be too deep and swift to cross. If there’s any doubt, turn back and save this hike for another day.

If the water level is lower and the creek is calm enough to go across, you should be able to do so with a combination of stone hopping and wading in ankle-deep water.

The pay-off is worth the trouble on this rather forgotten trail as you’re likely to have the falls and pool to yourself. At most, you might have to share with just a couple of locals!

Learn more about Blue Hole Falls trail and trailhead directions here.

Stop 11: Westminster, South Carolina

Ramsey falls: quick facts.

Total distance : 500 feet from parking area

Type of trail : none

Possibly the most family friendly waterfall trail on this list, Ramsey Falls in Chau Ram County Park is easily accessible from a parking lot.

The waterfall itself isn’t huge, but there are some great opportunities for wading around. The park does offer tubing on the river which is an excellent way to cool off during the summer.

NOTE: The $2 entrance fee covers a full day at this county park. Take advantage of one of the many picnic areas and more than 4 miles of trails for a great family day out.

Riley Moore Falls is our favorite hidden swimming hole on this list!

Riley Moore Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 1.9 miles

Unless you have a 4x4, I’d suggest parking on Spy Rock Road as the Forest Road 478C is one-way and rugged. You’ll add about 0.5 miles to the overall trail by hiking down the forest road, but it’s an easy addition.

The trail itself starts at the tiny parking lot at the end of the forest road and slopes gently down to the Chauga River.

You’ll find a sandy beach here, perfect for snack breaks, and a wide swimming hole at the base of the falls.

Stop 12: Central, South Carolina

We’ve arrived at our final stop on the South Carolina waterfall road trip!

Todd Creek Falls has a trailhead and parking off of Brookbend Road northeast of Central.

Todd Creek Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 1.4 miles

This easy trail passes over Todd Creek twice, and the waterfall overlook is between these 2 crossings.

It’s not a large waterfall, but it’s still worth your time.

To get to the base of the falls, you’ll have to take a small spur trail that will lead you to the swimming area and the best place to take a photo of the waterfall.

If you continue on the trail past the falls, there are some historic ruins from an old mill that are a good place to explore before turning back to your car.

The last waterfall on the road trip is Waldrop Stone Falls . The trailhead for it is about 20 minutes from Todd Creek, so you could easily add these together for a complete day’s hiking experience in Central.

Like Todd Creek Falls, Waldrop Stone Falls is an easy hike that’s great for all skill levels and families with kids.

Waldrop Stone Falls: Quick Facts

Total distance : 0.8 miles

The trail is mostly dirt, though there are some recently refurbished wooden stairs with rails to help hikers navigate the steepest sections.

At the base of the falls, you can splash around in the ankle deep water, but there’s not a real swimming hole here.

While the trail does continue on past the falls, I’d complete it as an out-and-back as the remaining trail is more overgrown, goes by a lake, and then puts you back out on a different section of Madden Bridge Road than the parking area.

NOTE: It’s located in the Clemson Experimental Forest, which is probably why it was once called Clemson Falls.

Final Notes on the SC Waterfalls Road Trip

I hope this South Carolina waterfalls road trip has helped you enjoy some of the prettiest spots in my home state.

From Central, SC, you can easily head out on I-85 towards Atlanta, or loop back to explore more in Greenville.

Some of my other favorite outdoor adventures in South Carolina are only a few hours away, like Congaree National Park.

2 Day Congaree National Park Itinerary

Is Congaree Park Worth Visiting?

The Best Time to Visit Congaree National Park

You’re also only 3 hours from the coast, where you can indulge in even more outdoor opportunities like:

Best hikes in Charleston, SC

Day Trips from Hilton Head, South Carolina

Visiting Daufuskie Island with Kids

The Ultimate South Carolina Waterfalls Road Trip

Get smartphone savvy the easy way: Join our seven-day email challenge to receive helpful tips each day.

Popular Searches

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

Suggested Links

Red Membership Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER-Black Friday Sale

Join AARP for just $9 per year with a 5-year membership.Join now and get a FREE GIFT.

Help icon

  • right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

AARP en Español

Help icon

  • Membership & Benefits
  • AARP Rewards
  • AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

woman and man working out at a gym

Staying Fit

Your Personalized Guide to Fitness

Hearing Resource Center

AARP Hearing Center

Ways To Improve Your Hearing

Woman with her hands on her lap and sitting on a couch

Mental Health Resources

Coping with Depression and Anxiety

illustration of woman drawing smile on face

Mental Health

25 Great Ways to Find Happiness

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

zoomed in map of the united states with map locator pins scattered around

View and Report Scams in Your Area

Tax-Aide Group Illustration

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

a man and woman at home looking at a laptop together

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

a grouping of white appliances including refrigerator, oven, washing machine, microwave, vacuum, electric tea kettle, radiator

Budget & Savings

Make Your Appliances Last Longer

Small Business

Age Discrimination

at cashier smiles at a customer

Flexible Work

10 Part-Time Jobs to Beat Inflation

A woman smiling while sitting at a desk

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

An older women at a job interview with people looking at her resume

Age Proof Your Resume

a red and white illustration showing a woman in a monitor flanked by a word bubble and a calendar

Live Q&A

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

green arrows pointing up overlaid on a Social Security check and card with two hundred dollar bills

Get More out of Your Benefits

A balanced scale with a clock on one side and a ball of money on the other, is framed by the outline of a Social Security card.

When to Start Taking Social Security

Mature couple smiling and looking at a laptop together

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social security and calculator

Social Security Benefits Calculator

arrow shaped signs that say original and advantage pointing in opposite directions

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

illustration of people building a structure from square blocks with the letters a b c and d

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

the words inflation reduction act of 2022 printed on a piece of paper and a calculator and pen nearby

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

A doctor helps his patient understand Medicare and explains all his questions and addresses his concerns.

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

Long-term care insurance information, form and stethoscope.

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

illustration of a map with an icon of a person helping another person with a cane navigate towards caregiving

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

a man holding his fathers arm as they walk together outside

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

Close up of a hospice nurse holding the hands of one of her patients

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

AARP Right Again Trivia and AARP Rewards

Right Again! Trivia

AARP Right Again Trivia Sports and AARP Rewards

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari, Centipede, Pong, Breakout, Missile Command Asteroids

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword and AARP Rewards

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

a graphic of two surf boards in the sand on a beach in Hawaii.

Beach vacation ideas

Vacations for Sun and Fun

mary steenburgen jane fonda diane keaton and candice bergen taking a selfie in front of the trevi fountain in rome italy in the movie the book club two the next chapter

Follow the Set-Jetting Trend

left a bobcat at the arizona sonara desert museum right sunset skyline of downtown tucson arizona

AARP City Guide

Discover Tucson, Arizona

big cruise ship on water

AARP Smart Guide to Cruises

Tips for Planning, Packing and Landing

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

from left to right top to bottom killers of the flower moon then the color purple then oppenheimer then nyad then rustin then barbie

Movies for Grownups

Movies for Grownups Awards Winners

Carol Burnett in "Palm Royale," Kate Winslet in "The Regime," Hiroyuki Sanada in "Shōgun" and Sofia Vergara in "Griselda."

TV for Grownups

New Shows to Watch in 2024

watercolor illustration of a person in a green jacket and boots on a beach with two people and a headland in the distance; cover of ann cleeves' the raging storm overlaid on the illustration

Free Online Novel

Read 'The Raging Storm'

a person in bed giving a thumbs up

Sex & Dating

Spice Up Your Love Life

a woman holding onto a family tree when her branch has been cut off

Navigate All Kinds of Connections

illustration of person exercising in room with bookcase, chair with cat on it, end table, plant, treadmill, weight rack and workout bench

How to Create a Home Gym

a woman looks at her phone while taking her medication

Store Medical Records on Your Phone?

Close-up of Woman's hands plugging a mobile phone into a power bank  in a bar

Maximize the Life of Your Phone Battery

online dating safety tips

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

a hygge themed living room

Create a Hygge Haven

from left to right cozy winter soups such as white bean and sausage soup then onion soup then lemon coriander soup

Soups to Comfort Your Soul

front exterior of home with colorful landscaping

AARP Smart Guide

38 Ways to Boost Home's Curb Appeal

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

Tim Edmonson poses for a portrait next to his electric car charging station at his Castle Rock home

Is Now the Time to Buy an Electric Car?

Talk

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP

AARP Smart Driver Course

A woman using a tablet inside by a window

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

A close-up view of a stack of rocks

Tips for Finding Your Calm

A woman unpacking her groceries at home

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

AARP Perfect scam podcast

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

Travel stuff on desktop: map, sun glasses, camera, tickets, passport etc.

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

jean chatzky smiling in front of city skyline

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

a woman at home siting at a desk writing

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

A man and woman looking at a guitar in a store

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

two women exercising in their living room with their arms raised

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Go to Series Main Page

9 Sites to Catch Beautiful Blooms This Spring and Summer

From tulip and daffodil festivals in washington state to spider-lily-filled rivers in south carolina, here’s where to spot flowers across the country.

south carolina trip ideas

Cassandra Brooklyn,

Many of us look forward to spring in part because the warmer weather brings about bright and beautiful blooms across the country. But spring isn’t the only time to take in floral landscapes, as some species don’t peak until summer. From fields and forests to farms and even a river, here’s where to catch the best blooms this year.

south carolina trip ideas

Daffodils — Skagit Valley, Washington

Daffodils are some of the first flowers to bloom each spring. While Skagit Valley, Washington, may be known for its tulips, the area produces more daffodils than tulips (300 acres compared with 200), says Michelle Thana, director of marketing for State of Washington Tourism. The La Conner Daffodil Festival kicks off bloom season in March, with snow-covered Mount Baker in the background. You can participate in a guided tour or walk the fields on your own.

Image Alt Attribute

AARP Membership

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Flash Sale! Join AARP today for $16 per year. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.

south carolina trip ideas

Tulips — Mount Vernon, Washington

The country’s so-called largest tulip festival takes place about 60 miles north of Seattle, in Mount Vernon, Washington. Here, the latitude is similar to that of the world’s largest producer of tulips, the Netherlands. At the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival , millions of tulips burst into bloom across 200 acres of land. Note that while the official festival is held annually throughout April, weather conditions determine exactly when the blooms will happen. Stroll many miles of grass “Tulip Trails,” which are made more beautiful by the gorgeous North Cascades and Olympic mountains in the background.

south carolina trip ideas

Wildflowers — Fredericksburg, Texas

Considered the nation’s largest working wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg (about 80 miles west of Austin) has cultivated more than 200 acres of wildflower fields in Texas Hill Country. Each spring, typically beginning around early April, visitors can experience fields of flowers, including bluebonnets, red poppies and Indian blanket, along the farm’s gardens, wheelchair-accessible trails and butterfly garden. Inside the gift shop, you can also pick up non-GMO wildflower seeds, including hard-to-find native grasses, or head (thanks to the farm’s vineyard) to the wine-tasting room.

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

south carolina trip ideas

Rocky shoals spider lilies — Catawba, South Carolina

While most floral landscapes are made up of fields, farms or forests, Catawba, South Carolina, offers a unique way to experience spring blooms. In Landsford Canal State Park (about 65 miles north of Columbia, South Carolina, and 40 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina), you’ll find the world’s largest known population of rocky shoals spider lilies. This botanical white wonder blooms from mid-May through mid-June and the park offers weekly “Lily Watch” updates about bloom conditions. Because the lilies grow in the river, the best way to get close to them is on a guided kayak tour. If you’re not an experienced paddler, you can also get a panoramic view of the flowers from a 1.5-mile round-trip hike down the park’s Canal Trail. The park also launched a VR technology program to allow visitors to virtually float with spider lilies without having to walk or paddle to them.

Holland America Line

Up to $200 onboard credit on select cruises

south carolina trip ideas

Tulips — Holland, Michigan

Most tulips come from Holland in Europe but many also come from Holland in Michigan. This appropriately named city happily hosts annual Tulip Time (May 4–12), which takes visitors through the history of tulips, from their origins in Turkey to their booming (or should we say, blooming?) success in the Hollands. As part of the festival, Dutch horticulturalist Ibo Gülsen oversees the Tulip Immersion Garden, with more than 65,000 tulips. Though the name of this festival might imply that you’ll find only tulips here, fragrant purple hyacinth are also on display. Tickets for the Immersion Garden cost $15 and include a one-hour, on-the-hour time slot to roam through the tulips and hyacinth.

south carolina trip ideas

Peonies — Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania

Sprawled across a family farm in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania (about 30 miles southwest of Philadelphia), are 40 magnificent acres of peonies that guests can access by foot or by car. The collection can be traced back to J. Franklin Styer, a Quaker with a doctorate in botany who started out selling peonies in Atlantic City and in Manhattan’s famous flower district in the 1920s. Today, the Festival of the Peony in Chadds Ford celebrates this underappreciated flower May 17–31. This year, special tailgate parties and associated events will be held to benefit the nearby town of Oxford, which was recently devastated by a wildfire.

south carolina trip ideas

Lady’s Slipper – Pennington, Minnesota

While wildflowers can be spotted just about everywhere in Minnesota in late spring, some of the prettiest and most unusual blooms hold out until summer. Minnesota’s state flower — the showy lady’s slipper — can be found in woods such as Chippewa National Forest and along the eponymous Lady Slipper Scenic Byway. To enjoy the flowers, simply gaze out while driving along the byway, stop to stroll along its many walking paths and boardwalk trail, and spend some time at the Lady Slipper Interpretive Site in Pennington. Blooms typically peak from late June through early July, and the blossoms usually last 10 to 12 days.

south carolina trip ideas

Sunflowers — Pierre, South Dakota

Towering between 5 and 12 feet high, sunflowers are an unmistakable sign of summer, and in South Dakota, summer stretches long, tall and wide. As one of the world’s top producers of sunflowers, the Mount Rushmore State is an excellent place to catch brilliant blooms in late summer. Here, sunflowers typically begin blooming in late July or early August, and stay at peak for 30 days. Instead of heading to one particular farm or field, you have miles upon miles of sunflower farms to choose from. Start in the capital, Pierre, and head west on South Dakota Highway 34, and, by extension, U.S. Highway 14 (especially the section from Hayes to Wall) and you’re almost guaranteed to have millions of sky-high sunflowers smiling down on you. Because crops rotate annually, it’s impossible to pinpoint exactly how far you’ll need to drive to find the first field but as some of them are up to a few hundred acres large, it will be impossible to miss them. If you want to take some flowers home, head to Fleurish Flower Farm, which offers You-Pick sunflower events

south carolina trip ideas

Lavender — Door County, Wisconsin

Home to an eye-popping 30,000 lavender plants, the Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm & Shop on Washington Island, off the tip of Wisconsin’s Door County peninsula , almost feels like Provence, France. As the largest lavender farm in the Midwest, Fragrant Isle grows 14 varieties of the plant so you can really get a sense of the various colors, shapes and smells they offer. Blooms typically peak in July and stay brilliant through August. While there is a fee for guided Field Tours, these tours aren’t required to enter the fields. For lavender-based products and treats, don’t forget to check out the farm shop and café. Pro tip, Door County is also known for amazing summer berry pies.

Cassandra Brooklyn is a contributing writer who covers travel, caregiving and human interest stories. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and National Geographic, among others.

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Already a Member? Login

MORE FROM AARP

a weeping cherry tree in the portland japanese garden

5 Cities to View Cherry Blossoms Across the U.S.

These fragrant blooms don’t last long, so make your plans now

a garden of bouquet friendly flowers such as sunflowers and zinnia

Keep Your Flower Garden Blooming Year-Round

​​Grow colorful bouquets with perennials, annuals and native species

yellow and pink orchids in a pot in front of a window

​11 Indoor Plants That Are Hard to Kill​

Expert advice to help you get in on this ‘green’ trend​

Or Call: 1-800-675-4318

Enter a valid from location

Enter a valid to location

Enter a valid departing date

Enter a valid returning date

Age of children:

Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats:

+ Add Another Flight

Enter a valid destination location

Enter a valid checking in date

Enter a valid checking out date

Occupants of Room

Occupants of Room 1:

Occupants of Room 2:

Occupants of Room 3:

Occupants of Room 4:

Occupants of Room 5:

Occupants of Room 6:

Occupants of Room 7:

Occupants of Room 8:

Enter a valid date

You didn't specify child's age

There are children in room 1 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age for room 1

There are children in room 2 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 2

There are children in room 3 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 3

There are children in room 4 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 4

There are children in room 5 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 5

You have more than 6 people total

Please select a trip duration less than 28 days

There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap

Enter a valid From location

Enter a valid start date

Enter a valid drop location

Enter a valid drop off date

Select a valid to location

Select a month

Enter a valid going to location

Enter a valid from date

Enter a valid to date

AARP VALUE &

MEMBER BENEFITS

scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon strips, sausage links, hash browns, 4 pieces of white bread toast

Denny's

15% off dine-in and pickup orders

A happy couple in white summer clothing on vacation walks along a wooden pier over tropical, turquoise ocean in the Maldives, Indian Ocean

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Vacation Packages

$50 gift card of your choice when booking any flight package

man sitting on couch looking at woman sitting on floor in living room during day time

ADT™ Home Security

Savings on monthly home security monitoring

couple on couch looking at tablet

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

Staycation ideas for Spring Break

Laurens County is one step closer to a new 335-acre park near the Town of Joanna after County...

New park with equestrian trails could come to Laurens County

Union County mom searching for answers in her son's death

Union County mom searching for answers in her son's death

Woman in custody after fight leads to stabbing at busy intersection

Woman in custody after fight leads to stabbing at busy intersection

SC Workforce

Breaking down new workforce numbers in South Carolina

Bradford pear trees

Upstate program helps homeowners exchange Bradford pear trees for native trees

For the first time ever, the Presbyterian College women’s basketball team (20-14) captured the...

Blue Hose Secures Automatic Bid to NCAA Tournament

IMAGES

  1. Best South Carolina Family Vacation Destinations: Family Vacation Critic

    south carolina trip ideas

  2. 25 Best Things To Do In South Carolina: The Ultimate SC Bucket List

    south carolina trip ideas

  3. 40 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In South Carolina in 2021

    south carolina trip ideas

  4. 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Charleston (South Carolina)

    south carolina trip ideas

  5. 15 Best Day Trips In South Carolina That'll Make You Love The State

    south carolina trip ideas

  6. 11 Incredible South Carolina Road Trips in 2021

    south carolina trip ideas

VIDEO

  1. South Carolina trip

  2. Charleston, South Carolina Trip

  3. PROUD HUSBAND AND FATHER❤️❤️❤️

  4. TRAVEL VLOG: NEW HAIR + SOUTH CAROLINA FOR THE WEEK + PARTYING + SHOOTING RANGE

COMMENTS

  1. South Carolina Trip Ideas

    2 days. With its gorgeous scenery, rich culture, bustling energy and ever-evolving food scene, it's easy to see why Charleston consistently tops the lists of so many travelers. View the trip. Browse some of our favorite South Carolina trip ideas and start planning your one-of-a-kind Palmetto State vacation now!

  2. 10 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

    Caesars Head State Park. #10 in Best Places to Visit in South Carolina. Caesars Head State Park stuns visitors with an easily accessible overlook that grants sweeping views of the Blue Ridge ...

  3. 25 Beautiful Destinations in South Carolina

    Pawleys Island is located around twenty-five miles from Myrtle Beach and seventy miles from Charleston. The island off the coast of South Carolina is one of the East Coast's oldest summer resorts. Visitors with a love for historical building can find twelve residences dating back to late 1700's through the mid-1800's in the island's historic district.

  4. 16 Top Things to Do in South Carolina

    May 17, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. 16 Top Things to Do in South Carolina. Getty Images. Riding the Ferris wheel at Myrtle Beach, hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and dining on honey fried chicken are ...

  5. 2024 Vacation Guide

    View the 2023 Vacation Guide. Read articles from the 2023 South Carolina Vacation Guide online or download the PDF. Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy. Explore the guide online or request your free copy.

  6. 14 Best Things to Do in South Carolina, According to a Local

    How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Sullivan's Island, South Carolina The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2021 40 Best Things to Do in Atlanta — From Art Museums to High-end Shopping

  7. South Carolina Tourism Official Site

    Explore the 2024 SC Vacation Guide Online. Venture beyond the landmark attractions of South Carolina, discover off-the-beaten-path destinations and get inspired for your next Palmetto State adventure with the 2024 Vacation Guide. Learn More.

  8. 2022 Vacation Guide

    Escape to the coastal wilderness on South Carolina's sea islands to experience remote beaches, pristine salt marshes and shady tangles of maritime forests. Read More. Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the 2022 South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy.

  9. South Carolina 2024: All You Need to Go Before You Go

    About South Carolina. South Carolina has some great beaches along its eastern coast. Among the most notable of these is Myrtle Beach, the hub of the grand strand and the largest resort on the east coast of South Carolina. This silky stretch of white sand is great for water-sports such as sailing and surfing. South Carolina is also regarded as ...

  10. 13 Best Beaches in South Carolina

    3. Myrtle Beach. Sean Pavone/Getty Images. As the unofficial capital of the Grand Strand — the more than 60-mile stretch of beaches on the South Carolina coast from Little River to Winyah Bay ...

  11. The Ultimate South Carolina Road Trip

    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 ...

  12. 17 Spectacular Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

    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.

  13. 15 Best Weekend Getaways In South Carolina You Must Try

    Beaufort For Picture Perfect Locations. For all the laid-back old city vibes consider Beaufort for one of your weekend trips in South Carolina. Founded in 1711 the antebellum architecture makes it picture perfect. Forest Gump, Prince of Tides, and The Big Chill have all been filmed here.

  14. Family Vacations in South Carolina

    Huntington Beach State Park. Looking for the best family vacation spots? They're all right here. Take off from work, and take on the scenic South Carolina Barbecue Trail. Skip town, and skip a rock across the tranquil waters of our Midlands lakes. Pack your bags and pack in entertainment for the whole family at our countless attractions.

  15. The Best Islands In South Carolina

    These are the best islands in South Carolina, according to our readers. ... 15 Best Birthday Trip Ideas For Every Age. 15 Winter Island Escapes In the South. The 23 Best Local Treasures In Every Southern State. The 15 Most Secret Beaches In The South. 10 Scenic Beaches Near Charleston For A Sunny Escape.

  16. 25 Affordable South Carolina Day Trips

    A plethora of bee-based products are sold at the center, including high-quality pure raw honey. More day trips from Charleston, SC. 1066 Holly Ridge Ln, Cottageville, SC 29435, Phone: 843-835-5912. You are reading "25 Affordable South Carolina Day Trips" & Fun trips close to me. 5.

  17. 11 Fun South Carolina Road Trips For Your Bucket List

    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.

  18. The 15 Best Day Trips In South Carolina To Take

    This is one of the South Carolina day trips that will take a little longer time-wise. It will take you around 115 miles from point to point. You will see beautiful fields of peaches and cotton blooming gloriously in riotous color. ... For more fun day trip ideas, check out this 12-Month South Carolina Day Trip list that will fill your entire ...

  19. 11 Best Family Vacations in South Carolina

    Here are the top 11 family vacations in South Carolina. 1. Market Pavilion Hotel (Editor's Choice) 225 E Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401. (843) 723-0500. Visit Website. Social Media. Open in Google Maps.

  20. 27 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC

    Charleston, South Carolina, abounds with museums, restaurants, beaches and boating excursions. This living port city with a deep and complicated past presents endless opportunities for combining ...

  21. 17 Fun Things to Do in South Carolina with Kids (for 2024)

    With a wide range of activities, Huntington Beach State Park offers a relaxing and fun-filled getaway in South Carolina with children. Recommended Hotel Near Huntington Beach State Park — Murrells Inlet: The Inlet Sports Lodge. Related: Places to Eat in Murrells Inlet, SC. 8. Secret Food Tour — Charleston.

  22. 16 Best Things to Do in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

    Here are 16 of the best things to do in Hilton Head, South Carolina. ... Trip Ideas. Weekend Getaways Romantic Trips Family Travel Beach Vacations Like a Local Destination of the Year

  23. The 25 Best Things To Do In South Carolina With Kids

    Let us point you in the direction of the best things to do in South Carolina with kids, to make it a fun-filled, memorable family vacation. 1. EdVenture Children's Museum, Columbia. 2. South Carolina State Museum, Columbia. 3. McKissick Museum, Columbia. 4. The Children's Museum of the Upstate (TCMU), Greenville.

  24. The Ultimate South Carolina Waterfalls Road Trip

    Story by Natalie Vereen-Davis. • 5m. This South Carolina waterfalls road trip itinerary takes you through 4 beautiful counties in the Upstate as you explore incredible natural features of all ...

  25. Unforgettable South Carolina Girlfriend Getaways

    Unforgettable South Carolina Girlfriend Getaways. If you're looking to experience a carefree lifestyle complete with relaxing in iconic rope hammocks, and gorgeous, unspoiled beaches, Pawleys Island is the perfect fit. The first step to any great girlfriend getaway is deciding where you want to go. Not. If you want to plan the perfect getaway ...

  26. 9 Places to See Beautiful Flowers This Spring and Summer

    Rocky shoals spider lilies — Catawba, South Carolina. While most floral landscapes are made up of fields, farms or forests, Catawba, South Carolina, offers a unique way to experience spring blooms. In Landsford Canal State Park (about 65 miles north of Columbia, South Carolina, and 40 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina), you'll ...

  27. Staycation ideas for Spring Break

    Staycation ideas for Spring Break. Published: Mar. 11, 2024 at 2:22 PM PDT | Updated: moments ago. If you're looking to avoid an expensive vacation over Spring Break, there are plenty of places to ...