Road Trip from Charlotte, NC to St. Marys, GA
Are you ready to hit the road and discover some hidden gems in the South? A road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to St. Marys, Georgia will take you on a scenic journey through some of the most beautiful parks, museums, and landmarks in the region. Here are some must-see destinations to add to your itinerary.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the distance between Charlotte and St. Marys is approximately 356 miles? If you drive without any stops, it would take you around six hours to get there. But who wants to miss out on all the exciting attractions along the way?
Halfway Point: Walterboro, SC
If you need a break from driving and want to stretch your legs, Walterboro is the perfect pit stop. This charming town is known for its antique stores, museums, and gardens. Don't miss the Slave Relics Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts and stories from the African American experience in the South.
Length of the Trip
If you're in a rush, you can complete the road trip in two or three days, but we recommend taking your time and exploring the different sites along the way. A five-day itinerary will give you enough time to visit all the top attractions and still enjoy the road trip experience.
Top Five Places to Visit
- Fort Sumter National Monument, Charleston, SC Learn about the pivotal role this fort played in the Civil War. Take a guided tour and see the cannons and monuments that honor the soldiers who fought and died here. Plus, the ferry ride to the fort offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor.
Point of Interest: Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, located halfway between Mount Pleasant and Charleston, offers panoramic views of the city and the Cooper River.
- Savannah Historic District, Savannah, GA Step back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries as you wander through the cobbled squares and admire the historic architecture. Don't miss the Mercer Williams House Museum, made famous by the book and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."
Point of Interest: Forsyth Park, located in the heart of Savannah, features a beautiful fountain, walking trails, and plenty of green space.
- Jekyll Island, GA Escape to one of Georgia's most beautiful barrier islands. Stroll along the sandy beaches, go kayaking, or take a bike ride through the natural habitats. Visit the Jekyll Island Club Resort, once a playground for America's richest families.
Point of Interest: Driftwood Beach, an eerie but stunning beach filled with majestic dead trees and driftwood, perfect for photo ops.
- St. Augustine, FL Explore America's oldest city and learn about its Spanish and colonial heritage. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that protected the city from pirate attacks. Walk along the charming streets of the city center and admire the colorful buildings.
Point of Interest: St. Augustine Lighthouse, climb 219 steps to the top of this tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the coastline.
- Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA Experience the serenity and natural beauty of this pristine island. Take a ferry to the island and hike through the verdant forests, spot wild horses, and relax on the secluded beaches. Keep an eye out for the Carnegie family's mansion, which whispers of a bygone era.
Point of Interest: Dungeness Ruins, the remains of the Carnegie family's mansion, which burned down in 1959, but there are still some remnants standing, including the impressive chimneys and walls.
Road Trip Conclusion
Driving from Charlotte to St. Marys is more than just a journey. It's an opportunity to discover fascinating historical sites, immerse yourself in nature, and connect with the South's rich culture. With a little effort and a lot of curiosity, you can make this road trip a memorable adventure.