The Best Road Trip from Atlanta to Greenville

The drive from Atlanta, Georgia, to Greenville, South Carolina is one of the most scenic and enjoyable road trips you can take. The trip takes just under two and a half hours, but it's a journey worth taking. You'll drive past lush forests, rolling hills, and charming towns along the way, making it a drive that won't bore you.

To make your journey more exciting, we've compiled a list of the top places you should see when driving from Atlanta to Greenville. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art lover, these places will keep you entertained all through the trip. Buckle up, grab some snacks, and let's hit the road!

Historical Sites

Toccoa Falls

Just over an hour from Atlanta, you'll come across Toccoa Falls. Toccoa is known for its tall waterfall, which stands at 186 feet tall, is one of Georgia's tallest waterfalls. You can easily hike up a path to the top of the waterfall and take in the beautiful views of the mountains and the surrounding forests. It's a perfect spot to take selfies and breathe in some fresh air before continuing your journey.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is home to one of the deepest canyons in the Eastern United States. It's about an hour and a half away from Atlanta, and it's a great spot for hiking and other outdoor activities. Visitors can hike a trail that leads along the creek and offers some spectacular views of the Tallulah River. You can also enjoy kayaking or fishing in the river if you're an outdoor enthusiast.

South Carolina Botanical Garden

Located in Clemson, the South Carolina Botanical Garden covers over 295 acres of land and boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 plants. You can explore the garden trails or relax by one of the ponds, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding nature. The best part is that the entry is free, and it's a perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing walk.

The BMW Zentrum Museum

If you're a car enthusiast, you shouldn't miss the BMW Zentrum Museum. Located near Greenville, the museum offers an excellent collection of BMW cars, motorcycles, and engines. It also showcases the history of the company and its contribution to the automobile sector. You can take a tour of the facility and experience BMW's innovation and technology firsthand.

Greenville County Museum of Art

The Greenville County Museum of Art is a must-visit spot in Greenville. It houses an impressive collection of American art, from the colonial period to the present day. You can admire works by artists like John James Audubon, Jacob Lawrence, and Andrew Wyeth. It's a great place to spend your afternoon if you're an art lover.

Scenic Spots

Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald, a natural wonder located in Northeast Georgia, is the highest point in the state. It's approximately 170 miles from Atlanta, and it's an excellent spot for a stunning view of nearby mountain ranges and forests. You can hike on well-marked trails, enjoy a picnic with friends, and take a break to breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Jones Gap State Park

Jones Gap State Park is just an hour's drive from Greenville, making it a perfect stop on your drive. The park is well-known for its waterfalls, including Jones Gap Falls, Rim of the Gap Falls, and Rainbow Falls. Visitors can enjoy several trails offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it's a great spot for fishing and kayaking.

Caesar's Head State Park

Caesar's Head State Park, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers stunning views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails, and the park is well-known for its overlooks offering sweeping views of the surroundings. Its main attraction is the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls, which is one of the most popular hiking spots in the state.

Table Rock State Park

Table Rock State Park was created during the Great Depression and is approximately 45 miles from Greenville. The park is named after its central attraction, Table Rock Mountain, which offers some fantastic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike up the mountain which takes approximately 3-4 hours offering stunning views, or they can spend time at the park's two lakes or swim at the beach.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic drive through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the South. The Parkway stretches for 469 miles, and the section that runs through North Carolina and Virginia features many of the most stunning overlooks and attractions. You can enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hike some of the trails, and enjoy the fall foliage in late October.

Conclusion

The road trip from Atlanta to Greenville is full of exciting spots and beautiful attractions. Whether you're in for the history, outdoors, or art, you won't be disappointed. From the waterfalls and mountain views to the charming towns and artistic museums, this trip offers the best of both worlds. Don't forget to pack your camera, snacks, and a sense of adventure, and enjoy the beautiful South Carolina countryside.