The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charleston, SC to Greenville, SC
Charleston and Greenville are two wonderful destinations that are located in South Carolina, USA. Both of these places have their own unique charm and attract a lot of travelers throughout the year. A road trip from Charleston to Greenville is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of South Carolina. This article provides an overview of the trip, highlights the top things to do, and includes interesting facts about each location.
The distance from Charleston to Greenville is approximately 210 miles, which takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to drive. Columbia, SC, the halfway point, is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. You can also visit the South Carolina State House, where you can learn about the history of South Carolina and see some beautiful architecture.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is a historic landmark that is located in downtown Charleston. It is a famous destination for both locals and tourists. The market offers a wide range of products such as handmade crafts, local foods, jewelry, and clothes. You will find vendors selling items such as sweetgrass baskets, which are a traditional part of the Gullah culture, one of the oldest African-American cultures in the USA.
Interesting Fact: The Charleston City Market was established in the early 1800s and was a place for farmers to sell their crops. Today, it is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston.
2. Explore the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a scenic plantation that is located on the Ashley River in Charleston. It is one of the oldest plantations in the USA, dating back to 1676. The gardens are beautiful and well-maintained, and they offer a wide variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation house or go on a nature walk through the gardens.
Interesting Fact: The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is home to some of the oldest oak trees in the USA, some of which are over 300 years old.
3. Stop at Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is a beautiful lake that spans across Georgia and South Carolina. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. You can rent a boat or kayak and spend the day on the lake, or simply relax on the shore and enjoy the view.
Interesting Fact: Lake Hartwell is named after Nancy Hart, a legendary patriot who served during the American Revolution.
4. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that spans 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. It is known for its beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and scenic drives. The parkway has dozens of stops along the way, including trails, overlooks, and historical sites.
Interesting Fact: Construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway began in 1935 and was completed in 1983. It is now one of the most scenic drives in the USA.
5. Visit Falls Park on the Reedy
Falls Park on the Reedy is a scenic park that is located in Greenville. It is situated in the heart of the city and offers beautiful views of the Reedy River and Falls. The park has several walking trails, gardens, and sculptures, and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Interesting Fact: Falls Park on the Reedy was built on the site of a former textile mill and is now a significant part of Greenville's urban renaissance.
Conclusion
A road trip from Charleston to Greenville is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of South Carolina and discover some of the state's hidden gems. With stops at the Charleston City Market, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Lake Hartwell, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Falls Park on the Reedy, there is plenty to see and do along the way. The trip takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on how many stops you make, but it is definitely worth the time. Whether you're looking for history, nature, or relaxation, this road trip has something for everyone.