The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brunswick, Georgia and Lake City, South Carolina
Overview
A road trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Lake City, South Carolina is a great adventure for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The trip takes approximately three hours, and one of the best places to stop at is Yemassee, South Carolina, which marks the halfway point of the trip. Yemassee has many unique places to visit, including the Old Sheldon Church Ruins and the Auldbrass Plantation.
The Top Five Things to do
1. Fort Frederica National Monument
Fort Frederica National Monument is a well-preserved colonial town and fort that dates back to 1736. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort, exploring the barracks, powder magazine, and military parade ground. The monument's scenic location on the Frederica River provides a perfect backdrop for picnics, fishing, and kayaking.
Interesting fact: While serving as General James Oglethorpe's headquarters during the Battle of Bloody Marsh in 1742, Fort Frederica helped defend the Savannah area from Spanish invasion.
2. Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is one of Georgia's most beautiful barrier islands, and it's the perfect stop on a road trip itinerary. The island boasts stretches of pristine beaches, miles of bike paths, and access to Georgia's Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors can also enjoy championship golf courses, nature walks, and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which aims to protect and rehabilitate sea turtles.
Interesting fact: Jekyll Island was once an exclusive hunting club for America's wealthiest families during the Gilded Age, including the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts.
3. Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is a charming coastal town steeped in history and culture. Visitors can stroll through the historic district, perusing boutique shops and local galleries. A visit to the John Mark Verdier House Museum, built-in 1804, provides insight into the city's past. Fans of "The Big Chill" may recognize several local landmarks used in the filming of the classic movie.
Interesting fact: Beaufort is home to one of the largest and oldest live oak trees in the country, the century-old Angel Oak, which stands over 60 feet tall.
4. Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park is a vast, untouched wilderness located in South Carolina. The park features some of the largest remaining mature bottomland hardwood forests in the southeastern United States. It's a great place for birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing. Visitors can take a ranger-led canoe tour through the Congaree River, which provides a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem.
Interesting fact: Congaree National Park is home to more than 1300 plant species, including the oldest known hardwood forest ecosystem in eastern North America.
5. Lake City Farmer's Market
If you're looking for a more laid-back experience on your road trip, the Lake City Farmer's Market might be just what you need. The weekly market features locally grown produce, homemade jams, fresh baked goods, and arts and crafts from local artisans. Visitors can mingle with friendly vendors and residents while enjoying the live entertainment and delicious food.
Interesting fact: The Lake City Farmer's Market was recently named one of South Carolina's top 10 outdoor markets for fresh produce by the local tourism board.
Conclusion
A road trip from Brunswick, Georgia, to Lake City, South Carolina, is an adventure worth taking. Along the way, visitors can explore colonial history, enjoy natural splendor, and experience southern charm. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, there's something for everyone on this journey. The trip route takes about three hours to complete, but with so much to see and do, it's worth taking your time and exploring all that the area has to offer.