Roadtrip from Charleston, TN to Blythewood, SC: Top 5 Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
Are you looking to explore some of the hidden gems of the South? Look no further than this roadtrip from Charleston, TN to Blythewood, SC. This scenic route passes through some historic landmarks, serene parks, and impressive museums.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that this route was once used by Native Americans as a trade route for weapons and food?
Halfway Point: Canton, NC
Canton, NC is a small town known for its paper mill and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take a break from driving and go for a hike on the trails surrounding Pisgah National Forest.
Length of the Trip: 273 Miles
This roadtrip covers 273 miles of scenic beauty that takes around 4 hours to complete. Now, let's dive into the top five places to visit on this roadtrip.
1. Ocoee Whitewater Center
The Ocoee Whitewater Center served as the venue for the canoe and kayak slalom events during the 1996 Summer Olympics. Visitors can go whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, and biking. This is an adventure lover's paradise.
Point of Interest: Stop by the Visitors' Center and learn about the history of Whitewater sports in the Ocoee River.
2. Chattanooga Choo Choo Museum
This famous locomotive was the inspiration for the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and now is a museum. It is one of the few remaining Terminal Station, hotels. You can stay in nostalgic train cars and visit the onsite restaurants.
Point of Interest: Get a picture in front of the train replica and learn about the history of trains and railroads.
3. Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is a natural wonder located 1,120 feet underground, inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. It is known for its 145-foot-high cascading waterfall, unique rock formations, and underground cave formations.
Point of Interest: Be sure to take a guided tour of the cave and learn about its formation.
4. Congaree National Park
This is a hidden gem with hiking trails, camping, bird watching, and canoeing. Congaree National Park has one of the last remaining old-growth bottomland forests in the US. It is a unique ecosystem with a diverse array of plants and wildlife.
Point of Interest: Rent a canoe and paddle down Cedar Creek or the Congaree River.
5. Columbia Museum of Art
The Columbia Museum of Art has an impressive collection of American and European paintings, decorative arts, and art from around the world. There are works from famous artists like Rembrandt and Botticelli.
Point of Interest: Check out the Robert Lipsey Collection of Contemporary Art and enjoy interactive exhibits such as the "Create" space.
Conclusion:
A road trip from Charleston, TN to Blythewood, SC is a journey worth embarking on. With stops at places like the Chattanooga Choo Choo Museum and Ruby Falls, hikers and history buffs alike will find something to appreciate. This scenic route offers a glimpse into the majestic beauty of the Southern countryside, all in just over four hours.