Top Five Popular Attractions Between Chapel Hill and Myrtle Beach
Are you planning a road trip from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach? If so, here are five must-visit places that you cannot miss along the way. From historic sites to natural beauty, these attractions offer something for everyone.
The Route and Halfway Point: Hope Mills, NC
The route from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach is around four hours and covers a distance of approximately 200 miles. You'll drive through scenic countryside and small towns as you make your way down to the coast. One of the best places to stop along the way is Hope Mills, NC, which is around the halfway point. This charming town is located on the shores of Hope Mills Lake and offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing and hiking. If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air, this is the perfect spot.
Top Five Places to See List
- Battleship North Carolina
- Hammock's Beach State Park
- Moore Square
- Brookgreen Gardens
- Carolina Beach State Park
Battleship North Carolina
The Battleship North Carolina is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in military history. This World War II battleship is now a floating museum and offers visitors a chance to explore the ship's deck, engine room, and other areas. You can even climb inside the gun turrets and get a sense of what life was like for the sailors who served aboard this historic vessel.
Hammock's Beach State Park
If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy some time in nature, Hammock's Beach State Park is the perfect spot. This pristine beach is located on a barrier island and is only accessible by ferry. Once you arrive, you can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island's many hiking trails. If you're lucky, you might even spot some of the area's many sea turtles.
Moore Square
For a taste of urban life, head to Moore Square in downtown Raleigh. This historic park is surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants and cultural attractions, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon. You can stroll through the park's gardens, watch a street performer, or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes.
Brookgreen Gardens
Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens is one of the area's top cultural attractions. This 9,000-acre complex includes a botanical garden, sculpture park, and zoo, making it a great place to spend a full day. You can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, admire the intricate sculptures, or visit the area's many animals, including alligators, otters, and birds of prey.
Carolina Beach State Park
For another taste of nature, head to Carolina Beach State Park. This sprawling park offers visitors a chance to explore the area's many hiking trails, go fishing, and even take a kayak tour of the nearby marshes. You can also visit the park's marina and rent a boat for the day, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
The Best Route for Your Trip
Overall, the best route from Chapel Hill to Myrtle Beach is to take I-40 to Wilmington and then continue down Route 17 to Myrtle Beach. This route offers a mix of scenic countryside and urban areas, as well as a variety of attractions to explore. Be sure to stop at the halfway point in Hope Mills for some outdoor fun, and don't miss the top five attractions along the way. With so much to see and do, this road trip is sure to be a memorable one.