Points of Interest between Charleston, South Carolina to Hickory, North Carolina

picture of Charleston, South Carolina

Top 5 Popular Attractions between Charleston, SC and Hickory, NC

Are you planning a road trip between South Carolina and North Carolina? If you're looking for exciting and unique attractions along the route, we've got you covered. From pristine beaches to lush gardens, here are the top five must-see destinations on your journey between Charleston, SC and Hickory, NC.

Halfway Point: Blythewood, SC

Located just off I-77, Blythewood is the perfect pit stop for road trippers traveling between Charleston and Hickory. This charming town offers something for everyone: from beautiful parks and historic landmarks to delicious restaurants and unique shops. Make sure to take a stroll through Doko Meadows Park, which has a scenic walking trail, picnic shelters, and fishing ponds. If you're up for something more adventurous, check out Adventure World or rent a boat and explore Lake Wateree.

Top 5 Places to See List:

  1. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens - Charleston, SC

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is one of the most beautiful and historic destinations in the country. This 464-acre garden features stunning flowers, romantic bridges, and ancient trees that are over 300 years old. You can take a guided tour of the plantation house, see the largest peacock collection in the US, and even take a boat tour through the swamp. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a must-see attraction for nature lovers and history buffs.

  1. Brookgreen Gardens - Murrells Inlet, SC

Brookgreen Gardens is a national treasure that encompasses over 9,000 acres of sculpture gardens, nature trails, and wildlife exhibits. This attraction features more than 2,000 works of art by over 430 sculptors, making it the largest collection of American figurative sculpture in the world. Take a stroll through the serene gardens, see the animals in the Lowcountry Zoo, and learn about the history of Gullah culture.

  1. USS Yorktown and Patriot's Point Naval & Maritime Museum - Mount Pleasant, SC

Located just across the harbor from Charleston, Patriot's Point is home to the USS Yorktown, a retired aircraft carrier that served in World War II. You can tour the ship and see the planes that were once stationed on its deck. The museum also features other historic naval vessels, including a destroyer and a submarine. Explore the interactive exhibits, learn about the lives of sailors, and take in the breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor.

  1. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk - Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is the heart of the action. This 1.2-mile oceanfront boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the SkyWheel, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, and the Myrtle Beach Zipline. Stroll along the boardwalk, dine on local seafood, and take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  1. Biltmore Estate - Asheville, NC

The Biltmore Estate is the largest private residence in the US, with over 250 rooms and 8,000 acres of land. This historic attraction features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a wealth of art and antiques. Take a guided tour of the house, explore the gardens and greenhouse, and indulge in fine dining and local wines.

Best Route for this Trip:

The best route for this trip is to take I-26 W from Charleston to Columbia, then I-77 N to Blythewood. From there, take I-77 N to Charlotte, then I-85 N to Hickory. This route offers scenic views, convenient rest stops, and easy access to all the top attractions. Make sure to pack a camera, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen, and get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip through the Carolinas.