The Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Charlotte, North Carolina and Beaufort, South Carolina

Are you dreaming of a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Beaufort, South Carolina? Here's a list of the top five places you just can't miss on your journey!

The Route and Halfway Point: Gaston, SC

The best way to get from Charlotte to Beaufort is to drive down I-77 and take exit 115 to get onto US-321. From there, you'll head south until you reach Gaston, SC, the halfway point of your trip. Gaston is the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. There's a great diner called The Daily Grind Cafe that's perfect for breakfast or lunch. Or you can check out the Gaston Copperheads, a minor league baseball team, during their season.

Stop #1: Fort Mill, SC - The Peach Stand

Just a few minutes outside of Charlotte, you'll find Fort Mill, SC, which is home to The Peach Stand. As you might guess from the name, The Peach Stand is all about peaches. They sell fresh, locally grown peaches, fresh produce, homemade ice cream, and a variety of other delicious treats. Not only is it a great place to stock up on snacks for your road trip, but it's also a fun little attraction in its own right.

Stop #2: Rock Hill, SC - Glencairn Gardens

Rock Hill is located just a few miles south of Fort Mill and is home to Glencairn Gardens. This beautiful 11-acre garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as several fountains and ponds. There are plenty of walking paths to explore, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The best time to visit is probably in the spring when everything is blooming, but it's worth a stop any time of year.

Stop #3: Columbia, SC - Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Just a short detour off of I-77 will take you to Columbia, SC, which is home to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. This popular attraction has something for everyone, from giraffes and elephants to penguins and komodo dragons. The zoo also features several different gardens, including a rose garden, a water garden, and a walled garden. If you're traveling with kids, they'll love the zoo's splash pad and petting zoo.

Stop #4: Orangeburg, SC - Edisto Memorial Gardens

Orangeburg is located just a few miles south of Gaston and is home to Edisto Memorial Gardens. These gardens feature over 3,000 roses, as well as a variety of other plants, fountains, and ponds. There are plenty of walking paths to explore, and benches throughout the gardens where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. The gardens are especially beautiful in the spring when the roses are in bloom.

Stop #5: Beaufort, SC - Hunting Island State Park

Finally, you'll arrive in Beaufort, the end of your journey. The town itself is charming and full of history, but the real attraction is Hunting Island State Park. This park is located on a barrier island and features miles of pristine beaches, marshes, and maritime forests. You can hike the trails, climb to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views, or just relax on the beach. If you're traveling with a furry friend, they're welcome too (on a leash, of course).

Conclusion

There you have it - the top five places you can't miss on a road trip from Charlotte to Beaufort. From peaches to penguins, there's something for everyone on this journey. So hop in the car and hit the road - adventure awaits!