A Road Trip from Cape Girardeau to Beaufort: Find Your Best Route for the Best Time

Are you planning a road trip from Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Beaufort, South Carolina? Whether you're searching for seaside adventures or just want to explore the natural beauty of the East Coast, you'll love the journey. But before you hit the road, you'll need to choose the best route. Here's a breakdown of the distances, drive times, and must-see stops for each option.

The Direct Route

If you're short on time, the most direct route from Cape Girardeau to Beaufort is via I-55 and I-26. The distance of this route is 780 miles, and the drive time is approximately 13 hours. While this route is the fastest, it may not give you the best views of scenic spots. However, if you're looking for a straight shot to your destination, this may be the best option for you.

The Scenic Route

For those who prefer to take the scenic route, there's an option that will add hours to your driving time but promises spectacular views. The distance of this route is roughly 960 miles, and the drive time is approximately 16 hours. Begin your journey by heading southeast on I-55 towards Memphis, then turn east onto I-40E. Drive through Nashville towards Knoxville, then take I-75S towards Atlanta. Once in Atlanta, take I-20E to Columbia, South Carolina, then turn onto I-26E to reach Beaufort.

Along this route, you'll pass through notable landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the vibrant city of Atlanta. Must-see stops along the way include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, the Chattahoochee Riverwalk in Atlanta, and the Congaree National Park in South Carolina.

The Coastal Route

If you're searching for a route that showcases the best coastal views, head towards the coast as early as possible on this route. The distance of this route is around 1,000 miles, and the drive time is approximately 18 hours. Take I-55S towards Memphis, then follow I-40E to Nashville, where you'll grab I-24E towards Chattanooga. From Chattanooga, head south on I-75 before joining I-475S, then take I-16E towards Savannah. Once in Savannah, take the scenic US-17S towards Beaufort.

Along the way, make sure to take a break in Nashville to visit the historic Belle Meade Plantation. Additionally, experience the culture of the Southern Charm with a stop in Savannah to explore the city's elegant Historic District. Wherever you come from, the beauty and history of the coast will be sure to make this drive unforgettable.

Conclusion

There are many ways to travel from Cape Girardeau to Beaufort depending on your time and interests. Each route is distinct in its own way and can accommodate different travel plans. Whether you want the quickest trip possible or a longer, more scenic drive, we hope these routes will guide you to your final destination. Remember to stop along the way to explore the hidden gems of America's heartland and coastal regions. Bon voyage!