Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia
Are you looking for an exciting and unique road trip? A drive from Charlotte, North Carolina to Atlanta, Georgia could be just the adventure you need. This route offers a mix of stunning natural scenery, rich history, and tasty culinary experiences. The drive is approximately 250 miles, and you can make it in 4-5 hours, depending on how many stops you make.
Halfway Point: Anderson, SC
Before diving into unexpected places to stop on this drive, it's worth mentioning the halfway point: Anderson, South Carolina. Anderson is a charming town with a distinct Southern charm that offers an ideal break for drivers. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Hartwell, visit the Anderson County Museum, or stroll through the downtown shopping district.
1. Old Shiloh Rosenwald School - Seneca, SC
The Old Shiloh Rosenwald School is a one-room schoolhouse built-in 1924 in Seneca, South Carolina. The school was one of countless Rosenwald schools established across the southern United States to provide education to African American children during the Jim Crow era. The school has been restored and is now a museum that shares the town's history and the struggles of the African American community in the area.
Don't forget to try the fried catfish at fisherman's Korner, a local restaurant serving up fresh seafood.
2. Sassafras Mountain - Pickens, SC
The highest point in the state of South Carolina is Sassafras Mountain, which towers 3,553 feet above sea level. From the peak, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of several states, including North Carolina and Georgia, and on a clear day, even see the Atlantic Ocean. This stop makes for an excellent spot for hikers or picnickers to take in the stunning views.
While in Pickens, you can try South Carolina's famous boiled peanuts, which are sold at various roadside stalls throughout the area.
3. Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
Located in Tallulah Falls, Georgia, visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking views of the Tallulah Gorge. The gorge offers numerous hiking trails for all levels of hikers, from an easy and scenic 2-mile route to a strenuous five-mile trek. Besides hiking, you can enjoy kayaking, rock climbing, and even bungee jumping!
For a truly Georgia experience, try the famous peach pie at Tallulah's Sweets.
4. Providence Canyon State Park - Lumpkin, GA
Known as Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon," Providence Canyon State Park is a hidden gem filled with natural beauty. The park's 16 canyons offer stunning views with hiking trails for those looking to explore the area fully. The park's unique white, pink, and orange sands give a distinct and vibrant look to the canyons.
Be sure to stop at the Yoder's Deitsch Haus for a taste of genuine Mennonite cooking, like their aromatic and savory chicken pot pie.
5. Abbeville, SC
Abbeville, South Carolina, is a charming town with a rich and storied history. The town's claim to fame is its role in the Civil Rights Movements, where over 200 protesters were arrested in the 1960s for refusing to obey anti-protest laws. Abbeville is full of historic landmarks, including the Belmont Inn, the Burt-Stark Mansion, and the Abbeville Opera House.
Abbeville has many restaurants, but Dixie Drive-In offers visitors a classic drive-in fare, including mouth-watering burgers and thick, creamy milkshakes.
Ready for the Adventure?
Now that you know about five unexpected places to stop on your drive, why not hit the open road and discover the beauty of the Carolinas and Georgia for yourself! Take a break from city life and immerse yourself in scenic routes, Southern charm, and flavors that you won't forget anytime soon. You'll come back refreshed, invigorated, and with many beautiful memories.