Road Tripping from Charlotte to Irmo: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit

Planning a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Irmo, South Carolina involves more than just hitting the road. There are plenty of opportunities to explore museums, parks, and landmarks along the way. Let’s check out our top five places to visit on this exciting journey.

Did you know that Charlotte, North Carolina, is nicknamed the "Queen City"? This name dates back to the American Revolution, when Charlotte was a site of British defeat.[^1] As we move south down Interstate 77 and Highway 21, we pass through many quaint small towns, such as Fort Mill and Rock Hill, before we hit our halfway point of Great Falls, South Carolina.

Great Falls, located in Chester County, is named after the Great Falls of the Catawba River, a powerful waterfall that drew settlers and industry to the region.[^2] It's a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy some Southern hospitality in small-town America.

The distance between Charlotte and Irmo is around 90 miles, depending on which route you take. The route will take about two hours, but it is worth allowing extra time to stop at these fantastic destinations along the way.

Top 5 Places to Visit

Carowinds – If you love adventure, then this amusement park located at the border of the Carolinas is not to be missed. It features more than 60 rides and attractions, including 13 roller coasters, thrill rides, family attractions, and Carolina culture.[^3] The park is open seasonally from March through December, so plan accordingly.

Point of interest recommendation: The Intimidator, one of the tallest and fastest coasters in the Southeast.

Anne Springs Close Greenway – This 2,100-acre nature preserve in Fort Mill is the best stop for outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse ecosystems include forests, wetlands, and meadows, with 40 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore.[^4] The greenway is also an equestrian facility and provides horseback riding lessons and guided trail rides.

Point of interest recommendation: Lake Haigler, a picturesque 28-acre lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing or just having a picnic.

Museum of York County – The Museum of York County located in Rock Hill is the place to explore the natural and cultural history of the Carolina Piedmont. This museum features exhibits about the region's geology, flora and fauna, and Native American history, as well as the unique culture of the Catawba people.[^5]

Point of interest recommendation: The Settlemyre Planetarium, a state-of-the-art immersive theater with a 50-foot dome that takes you on a journey through the solar system.

Landsford Canal State Park – This park is located in Catawba and has the world’s largest population of the Rocky Shoals Spider Lily, which blooms during May and June.[^6] Tourists can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the park's 448-acre property.

Point of interest recommendation: The historic canal lock and lockkeeper's house, where you can learn about the history of people, commerce, and transportation in the region.

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park – This is the perfect way to end your road trip and experience the heart of Irmo. This park located along the beautiful Congaree River and holds the remains of a hydroelectric power plant, highlighting the importance of water power in Columbia’s industrial development.[^7] The park also has a river walk and a popular dog park.

Point of interest recommendation: The historic railroad bridge, which has been converted into a pedestrian bridge that showcases views of Columbia's skyline.

Our top five destinations all offer learning opportunities, scenic views, and adventures for people of all ages. These landmarks are an excellent representation of the Carolinas and are worth stopping to check out.

In conclusion, the Charlotte to Irmo route allows travelers to experience some of the unique and wonderful aspects of Carolina’s history and culture. Feel free to extend your road trip to explore more of what the region has to offer. We hope this guide has given you some ideas for an unforgettable journey.