Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burgaw, North Carolina, to Anderson, South Carolina

Driving from Burgaw, North Carolina, to Anderson, South Carolina, may seem like a typical road trip. However, this journey is full of unexpected destinations that are worth stopping for. In this article, we'll explore five unique places to visit on this route, starting from Burgaw, NC to Anderson, SC. This drive covers approximately 222 miles and takes around four hours and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.

Halfway Point: Bishopville, SC

Before we start with the stops, it's essential to mention the midway point of this road trip, Bishopville, SC. Bishopville is a small and vibrant city best known for the South Carolina Cotton Museum. The museum showcases the history of cotton farming in South Carolina and how it's evolved over time. Bishopville is also home to the Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden, where you can see beautiful topiaries sculpted by Pearl Fryar. Plan your visit accordingly as the garden is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Stop 1: Latta, SC - South of the Border

About an hour and forty-five minutes into the trip, you'll see billboards for South of the Border on the side of the road, with quirky slogans like "Pedro's Weather Report: Chili Today, Hot Tamale!" or "You Never Sausage a Place!" You can't miss it! South of the Border is a tourist attraction in Latta, SC, with a Mexican-themed complex comprising a motel, restaurants, countless fireworks shops, rides, and attractions. While it may be a little tacky and over-the-top, it's an excellent place to stop and stretch your legs, take a photo with the giant sombrero-wearing Pedro mascot, or grab a souvenir such as a sombrero or a bottle of hot sauce. And we can't forget about their famous Chihuahua (hot dog). No trip to South of the Border is complete without grabbing one.

Stop 2: Florence, SC - War Between the States Museum

About thirty minutes after South of the Border, you'll reach Florence, SC, home to the War Between the States Museum. The museum features artifacts and displays that tell the story of South Carolina's role in the Civil War. You can get an immersive experience in the Civil War history by touring the museum and getting insight from the historic events. The museum offers free admission, but donations are accepted and appreciated. In Florence, make sure to grab some BBQ from Roger's BBQ House, which is a quick five-minute drive from the museum. Try their mouth-watering pork sandwiches or BBQ pork plates with a side of sweet tea.

Stop 3: Bennettsville, SC - Marlboro County Courthouse

From Florence, we continue our journey to Bennettsville, SC, where you can visit the charming Marlboro County Courthouse. The courthouse was built in the 1850s and features Italianate architecture. It's still in use today and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can take a self-guided tour of the courthouse, and the best part is it's free to visit. Bennettsville is also known for its peaches, and the local peach stands are a must-stop. Get your hands on some fresh peaches, which are in season from May to September.

Stop 4: Cheraw, SC - Dizzy Gillespie Monument

Our next stop is Cheraw, SC, which is approximately thirty minutes away from Bennettsville. Cheraw is the birthplace of Dizzy Gillespie, one of the most prominent jazz musicians in history. When you arrive in Cheraw's central business district, you can't help but notice the Dizzy Gillespie Monument, a bronze statue built in his honor. You can take a stroll around the town and see plaques with facts about Dizzy Gillespie's life and career and how Cheraw inspired his music. While you're in Cheraw, grab some of the best fried chicken at Shortstop's.

Stop 5: Anderson, SC - Palmetto Distillery

Our final stop will be Anderson, SC, which is two hours away from Cheraw. The Palmetto Distillery is located in Anderson and produces moonshine, whiskey, and other liquors. You can take a tour of the distillery, tour the bottling plant, and taste a range of their signature spirits. The distillery prides itself on using locally sourced South Carolina corn and artisanal recipes. After you enjoy the tour, plan to grab dinner at Earle Street Kitchen and Bar, which is located in downtown Anderson. Try their famous lobster mac and cheese, which is a combination of creamy mac and cheese with succulent lobster topped with breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

The journey from Burgaw, North Carolina, to Anderson, South Carolina, may not seem to have much to offer. But there are plenty of unique and unexpected places that you can explore on this route, from the War Between the States Museum in Florence to South of the Border in Latta, amongst others. These are among the few stops that can add fun and excitement to the trip. So pack your bags, fuel up your car and hit the road to explore the sights, sounds, and flavors that these destinations have to offer. Happy Travels!