Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charleston, WV to North Augusta, SC
Driving from Charleston, West Virginia to North Augusta, South Carolina can be a long road trip, but it is full of surprises. Taking this route will take about six and a half hours and cover a distance of approximately 400 miles. The scenic journey crosses through four states, offering picturesque views of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s an excellent chance to hit the open road and explore some amazing towns.
Halfway Point: Statesville, North Carolina
Before getting into the five unexpected places to stop, the midpoint of the journey is Statesville, North Carolina. This town is perfect for a pit stop to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. The town's old-style atmosphere has a classic American vibe. It has some unique local establishments worth checking out, such as the popular Honeysuckle Gelato and the nearby Fourth Creek Brewing Company.
1. Abingdon, Virginia
Abingdon, Virginia, is full of history, and it is a great place to begin your journey. The town's Main Street is lined with various shops, art galleries, and restaurants. A stop at Barter Theatre is a must for live theater enthusiasts. Built-in 1933, it is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States. The theater has hosted many famous actors, such as Gregory Peck and Patricia Neal.
Favorite food to eat: Barter Theatre serves popcorn and bottled water.
2. Roanoke, Virginia
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western Virginia, Roanoke is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by several parks and reservoirs, with stunning trails and waterfalls. When driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, visitors have the opportunity to see mountain landscapes. A trip to Roanoke is incomplete without visiting its centerpiece, the Roanoke Star. The Roanoke Star is illuminated every night and provides breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding area.
Favorite food to eat: Roanoke has excellent Southern comfort food options, but the Chicken Fried Rice at Lucky is a crowd-pleaser.
3. Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina known for its roller coasters and amusement park, is a hotspot for families. A visit to Carowinds, the biggest amusement park in the state, will provide entertainment for thrill-seekers. Charlotte has several art museums and galleries, such as the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the McColl Center for Art and Innovation. The NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum is a must-see for motorsports fans.
Favorite food to eat: Drive through Bojangles Famous Chicken n' Biscuits will provide fast and unique Southern options.
4. Columbia, South Carolina
As visitors head south, Columbia is an ideal place for music and history buffs. The town is renowned for its significant influence on Jazz music. Stops at Columbia Museum of Art, the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, or the South Carolina State Museum is some of the most famous sites to visit. Visitors can explore the stunning scenery and vast collections of art and artifacts.
Favorite food to eat: A traditional Southern meat and three can be found at DiPrato's.
5. Augusta, Georgia
About a thirty-minute drive from North Augusta, Augusta, Georgia, is famous for its Masters Golf Tournament. The city has several golf courses that visitors can play on, and Augusta National Golf Club is open for limited public access. The Riverwalk Augusta, located on the banks of the Savannah River, will provide a relaxing ending to the journey. Visitors can take a stroll along scenic paths and enjoy the stunning view of the river.
Favorite food to eat: Augusta has the best Fried catfish in the US; try it at Sconyers BBQ.
Conclusion
Driving from Charleston, West Virginia to North Augusta, South Carolina, takes visitors through some of the most beautiful and exciting small towns in the country. A stop at these five towns, offers visitors something exceptional, from exploring the historic theater in Abingdon to the vibrant cultural institution in Columbia and many southern-inspired meals. On this drive, there is something for everyone, and the journey itself is part of the experience. So, if someone loves the open road, appreciates small towns, enjoys culture, history, and local cuisines, this scenic drive is a must-do.