Points of Interest between Asheville, North Carolina to Fort Mill, South Carolina

picture of Asheville, North Carolina

Top Places to See When Driving from Asheville, NC to Fort Mill, SC

If you love a good road trip, you’ll be happy to know that the drive from Asheville, North Carolina to Fort Mill, South Carolina, is one of the most scenic routes in the region. The trip will take you through rolling green hills, dense forests, and small towns, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views, explore local history, or indulge in some delicious food.

Here are some of the top places to see and things to do along the way:

Waterfalls and Nature

  1. Dupont State Forest - This sprawling forest is one of the best spots in the area to see waterfalls, with several impressive cascades within a short drive of the main entrance. Don’t miss Triple Falls, a three-tiered waterfall that was a filming location for the movie The Hunger Games.

  2. Lake Lure Scenic Boat Tour - This tranquil boat tour takes you around Lake Lure, a picturesque man-made lake nestled in the green foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as cool breezes and the sound of lapping water.

  3. Crowders Mountain State Park - This park is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in some fresh air after a long car ride. The park is home to two peaks: the 1,625-foot Crowders Mountain and the 1,705-foot Kings Pinnacle. Both peaks offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as some challenging hikes.

Small Town Charm

  1. Hendersonville, NC - This charming small town is home to a thriving downtown area, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks to explore. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Apple Festival in September or tour the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site.

  2. Gastonia, NC - Gastonia is a small town with a rich history, and visitors can tour a number of local museums dedicated to preserving its past. Don’t miss the Gaston County Museum of Art and History or the Schiele Museum of Natural History and Planetarium.

  3. Fort Mill, SC - Fort Mill is a historic town with plenty of local flavor, from its picturesque downtown area to its thriving brewery scene. Don’t miss the Anne Springs Close Greenway, a stunning nature preserve spanning over 2,000 acres.

Local Food and Drink

  1. The WNC Cheese Trail - If you’re a fan of cheese, you won’t want to miss taking a detour to visit some of the local creameries along the WNC Cheese Trail. Sample artisanal cheeses, meet the cheesemakers, and learn about the history of dairy farming in the region.

  2. Catawba Brewing Company - This popular brewery has a location in Asheville, but it’s worth stopping at their Gastonia location on your road trip. Take a tour of the brewery, sample their signature beers, and enjoy some tasty food from the on-site food truck.

  3. Cotton Hills Farm - This family-owned farm in Fort Mill offers a unique experience for visitors, with everything from hayrides to a petting zoo. Don’t miss the opportunity to pick your own strawberries, peaches, or blackberries (depending on the season).

Historical Landmarks

  1. Biltmore Estate - Located just outside of Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history or architecture. The estate is the largest privately owned home in the United States, with stunning gardens, a winery, and an on-site hotel.

  2. Cowpens National Battlefield - This historic site commemorates the Battle of Cowpens, a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can learn about the battle and its significance, as well as explore the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and visitor center.

  3. President James K. Polk State Historic Site - This historic site in Pineville, NC, is the birthplace and childhood home of President James K. Polk. Visitors can tour the restored home and learn about the life and legacy of our 11th president.

Conclusion

From stunning waterfalls to historic landmarks, the drive from Asheville, North Carolina to Fort Mill, South Carolina, offers something for everyone. With plenty of opportunities to enjoy local food, explore nature, and learn about the region’s rich history, this road trip is a great way to experience the best of the Carolinas.