Road Trippin': Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit from Bryson City, NC to Melbourne, FL
Are you ready for an epic road trip from Bryson City, North Carolina to Melbourne, Florida? Pack your bags, load up the car and let's hit the road! Along the way, there are some incredible museums, parks, and landmarks that you simply cannot miss.
Did you know that the distance from Bryson City to Melbourne is approximately 700 miles? It will take you around 12 hours to reach your destination, but trust us, it's worth it!
When you reach Hardeeville, SC, you're about halfway to your destination. If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs, there are plenty of roadside rest areas and gas stations where you can freshen up before continuing on your journey.
The length of this drive is a perfect opportunity to see a lot of amazing landmarks and attractions! You'll want to plan your trip carefully to make sure you don’t miss any of our top five picks:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park – As road trip aficionados know, without a doubt, one of the top things to do when passing through North Carolina is to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This majestic park offers breathtaking mountain views, diverse wildlife, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. There's truly something for everyone at this national treasure.
Point of interest: When you're in the Great Smoky Mountains, you can't miss Clingmans Dome. This is the highest point in the park, with a 360-degree view for miles around.
- Charleston, SC – As you head south, make sure you stop by Charleston, South Carolina. It is one of the most historic cities in America and it boasts with picturesque streets, antebellum homes, and captivating landmarks. A stroll through the Battery’s gardens or along Meeting Street will give you an idea of the many reasons why Charleston is at the top of many people’s bucket lists.
Point of interest: Take a stroll through the Magnolia Plantation and Garden to experience the beauty of the Lowcountry and see the legacy of slavery in the South.
- Savannah Historic District – Savannah is one of the US's most beautiful and historically significant towns, with streets lined with gorgeous colonial and Victorian-style homes and historical landmarks. The historic district boasts buildings dating back to the 1700s, beautifully manicured parks, and the tranquil Savannah River along which you can take a leisurely stroll.
Point of interest: Take a haunted ghost tour of the historic district to shake things up and get a spooky, after-dark view of the city's darker history.
- Universal Studios Florida – When you get to Orlando, Florida, make sure you visit Universal Studios Florida. It's home to some of the most popular theme parks and attractions in the world, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You're sure to have a blast experiencing some of the world's most thrilling rides and shows.
Point of interest: Don't miss the nightly fireworks shows that are hosted at the Universal parks.
- Brevard Zoo – Lastly, when you arrive in Melbourne, don't miss out on the chance to visit the Brevard Zoo. Here, you can observe a range of exotic animals, including cheetahs, giant anteaters, and river otters, all set in their natural habitats. You can even zip line over gator-infested waters and get up close and personal with some of the animals!
Point of interest: Before leaving the zoo, visit the Nyami Nyami River Lodge to enjoy a glass of wine and watch the giraffes graze as the sun sets.
In conclusion, this road trip is an absolute must-do for anyone who loves to explore. Museums, parks, and landmarks abound throughout your journey! From the Great Smoky Mountains all the way to the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, every stop is packed with memories to cherish. The trip is around 12 hours, but you'll be so busy taking everything in that it will feel like no time at all. So start packing, buckle up, and enjoy the ride!