The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cary, NC to Little River, SC

A road trip from Cary, North Carolina to Little River, South Carolina is a breathtaking journey that takes drivers through charming towns and scenic stops that should not be missed. With a drive time of approximately four hours and 215 miles, there is enough time to take detours and explore the surrounding areas. One highlight of the trip is reaching the halfway point in Wallace, North Carolina, where visitors can enjoy the famous hams at Scott's BBQ. This article will highlight the top five things to do on a road trip from Cary, NC to Little River, SC.

1. Wilmington, NC

As the drive heads south on I-40 East, make sure to stop by the port city of Wilmington, NC. Visiting Wilmington provides travelers with numerous options for exploring history, culture, and adventure. The city is home to numerous beaches, monuments, historic homes, and gardens, making it a popular tourist destination. The architectural elegance of the antebellum-style homes and historical landmarks resonates with visitors, and they can revel in the beauty of the Victorian-era gardens in full bloom. Whether you're interested in visiting landmarks like the historic Battleship North Carolina or taking a stroll along the Riverwalk, the city of Wilmington has something to offer everyone.

Interesting Fact: Wilmington is home to the USS North Carolina, a WWII battleship designated as a National Historic Landmark.

2. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is a world-renowned beach destination and is located only an hour's drive south of Wilmington. It offers miles and miles of white sandy beaches, boardwalks, and an array of tourist attractions. Visitors can take in the beach vibe by swimming in the clear blue Atlantic waters, walking the beachfront boardwalk, or visiting one of the many amusement parks. With a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination to experience the best of coastal living.

Interesting Fact: Myrtle Beach attracts around eight million visitors annually, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the United States.

3. Brookgreen Gardens, SC

Brookgreen Gardens is a garden and sculpture park located just south of Murrells Inlet, SC. The park contains over 2,000 works of art crafted by 425 American sculptors. Brookgreen Gardens offers a tour of the sculpture gardens, an onsite zoo with over 1,500 animals, and boat rides through the tidal creeks and rice plantations of the low country. A trip to Brookgreen Gardens is a great opportunity to see one of the world's largest collections of American figurative sculpture in a natural outdoor setting.

Interesting Fact: Brookgreen Gardens has been voted one of the top ten public gardens in the United States by TripAdvisor.

4. Pawleys Island, SC

As the drive inches closer to Little River, a small stop at Pawleys Island is worth the detour off of Highway 17. This historic seaside community offers an authentic coastal experience with inviting beaches, quaint shops, and charming restaurants. Whether visitors are looking for a quiet stroll on the beach or a fishing charter along the beautiful Waccamaw River, Pawleys Island is a stop that should not be missed.

Interesting Fact: Pawleys Island is known for its handmade rope hammocks, which are still hand-woven by the locals.

5. Atalaya Castle, SC

Atalaya Castle is a unique attraction located in Huntington Beach State Park, just south of Myrtle Beach. This National Historic Landmark was the winter home of Archer and Anna Huntington, who designed and built it, along with several other structures, between 1931 and 1933. Designed in the Spanish style with Moorish and Byzantine influences, Atalaya has 30 rooms, a courtyard, a basement, and a tower that offers stunning views of the beach and park. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the castle and explore one of the most unique historical landmarks in South Carolina.

Interesting Fact: Atalaya Castle was used as a filming location for several movies, including The Legend of Lizzie Borden and The Big Chill.

Conclusion

A road trip from Cary, North Carolina to Little River, South Carolina is a journey worth taking. With a distance of approximately 215 miles and a driving time of around four hours, visitors have a chance to visit Wilmington, North Carolina's cultural capital, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's famous tourist spot. Add Brookgreen Gardens to the itinerary for a chance to see one of the largest sculpture collections in the world while exploring Pawleys Island for a touch of coastal charm. Finish the trip with a visit to Atalaya Castle in Huntington State Park, a famous residence that offers a unique glimpse into the past. The total trip duration with stops included would run between eight to ten hours if one takes time to thoroughly enjoy the destinations.