Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cayce, SC to West Columbia, SC

A road trip is one of the best ways to explore new places and create memories with friends and family. The road trip from Cayce, South Carolina, to West Columbia, South Carolina, offers stunning views, historical landmarks, and delicious food along the way. The halfway point of this trip is in West Columbia, which is a small city located next to the Congaree River.

Explore the Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is a hidden treasure located in South Carolina and a must-visit place during the road trip. With over 26,000 acres of land, the national park is home to some of the oldest and largest trees in the eastern part of the United States. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, kayaking, or canoeing on Cedar Creek. The park’s beauty and diversity are second to none, making it an excellent adventure for the whole family. Interesting Fact: The largest Loblolly pine tree in the world is located at Congaree National Park.

Learn history at the South Carolina State Museum

The South Carolina State Museum is the perfect place to learn about the state’s history and culture. The museum is located in Columbia, South Carolina, and has four floors of exhibitions, including art, science and technology, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, watch a planetarium show or a 4D movie. The museum also houses the historic Apollo 16 capsule, which was used during the space mission in 1972. Interesting Fact: The South Carolina State Museum is the largest museum in the Southeastern United States.

Visit the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a 170-acre zoo and botanical garden located in Columbia, South Carolina. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 350 species from around the world. Visitors can explore the zoo by walking or taking the zoo train, and take a stroll through the botanical garden for a peaceful break. The zoo also offers interactive experiences such as feeding the giraffes or having a behind the scenes look at the animals. Interesting Fact: Riverbanks Zoo is known for its breeding programs for endangered species including gorillas and koalas.

Take a tour at the Columbia Museum of Art

The Columbia Museum of Art is a cultural hub located in the center of Columbia, South Carolina. The museum offers a unique blend of art, history, and educational programming through a range of exhibitions, events, and workshops. Visitors can take a tour of the museum’s galleries with a knowledgeable guide, participate in a hands-on art making experience, or attend an art lecture. The museum has an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by renaissance artists such as Parmigianino and Tiepolo. Interesting Fact: The Columbia Museum of Art’s collection includes a painting of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart.

Eat at the Shealy’s BBQ

No road trip is complete without experiencing delicious local food, and Shealy’s BBQ, located in Leesville, South Carolina, is a must-stop for anyone who loves southern barbeque. The restaurant has been in operation since 1960 and serves classic southern dishes such as pulled pork, chicken, ribs, and sides such as mac and cheese, fried okra, and collard greens. The restaurant also has a buffet, making it a perfect stop for families or groups. Interesting Fact: Shealy’s BBQ has won numerous awards, including the South Carolina Barbeque Association’s Best BBQ Buffet.

After visiting these five amazing places, enjoy the beautiful scenery of South Carolina and return to Cayce. The road trip takes approximately one hour, and visitors can choose to stop at additional places or attractions along the way.

In conclusion, the road trip from Cayce, South Carolina to West Columbia, South Carolina, is full of exciting places, educational experiences, and delicious food. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Congaree National Park, learn about South Carolina’s history and culture at the state museum, see exotic animals at the Riverbanks Zoo, appreciate art at the Columbia Museum of Art, and indulge in southern barbeque at Shealy’s BBQ. This road trip is perfect for families, solo travelers, and groups looking for an adventure in South Carolina.