A Road Trip from Charlottesville to Bluffton: Top 5 Popular Attractions

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Bluffton, South Carolina? Along the way, there are numerous attractions that you should not miss. Here are the top five places to see, all of which will make for a memorable journey.

The Halfway Point: Wade, NC

The halfway point for this road trip is Wade, NC. It's a small town, but it's the perfect spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and browse some unique shops. You'll love the hometown feel of this charming village. And, if you are looking for a cozy place to stay overnight, there are a few charming bed and breakfasts that will make you feel right at home.

Top 5 Places to See

1. Archibald Rutledge Mansion

Located just south of Charleston, SC, the Archibald Rutledge Mansion is a historic landmark worth visiting. This mansion was home to the fist poet laureate of South Carolina. You'll enjoy a guided tour of the house, the greenhouse, and the beautiful gardens. Tour guides offer insightful history about the family and their legacy and the house's exquisite colonial architecture are complete with antique furnishings, beautiful gardens, and lovely interiors.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

This national parkway takes you through breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's one of the most beautiful drives in the United States, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Appalachian Trail. You can stop at any overlooks along the way for unobstructed views of the landscape. You can opt to walk through the gentle woodland treks and hike beside cascading waterfalls. This is one place you don't want to miss.

3. Savannah Historic District

Savannah's Historic District is an ornate compositional masterpiece of impressive architecture and breathtakingly landscaped parks. In the Historic District's 1.5-mile area, highlights include Revolutionary War significant sites and World War II and Vietnam War landmarks, including churches, concert haunts, and City Hall. This district houses the famous Pirate's House and an array of antebellum mansions that reflect an influential period of Southern American history.

4. Mt. Mitchell State Park

At 6,684 feet, Mt. Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, ensuring beautiful panoramic 360-degree views. This mountain provides ample opportunities for outdoorsy types to hike, camp, fish, and bike, among other activities. The park covers over 1,000 acres of old-growth forests, which extends from the meadows of the Black Mountains to Mount Mitchell.

5. Shenandoah Valley

Running north to south in western Virginia, Shenandoah Valley is a natural wonder. This scenic spot is known for its rolling hills and vineyards. It's a great place for a romantic getaway or a family trip, with activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. The valley is home to the Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive, a scenic drive with dramatic mountain views.

The Best Route for Your Trip

Choosing a route is an essential part of planning your road trip. The most direct route between Charlottesville, Virginia and Bluffton, South Carolina is 542 miles, and it takes around eight hours, with traffic, to get from one destination to the other. You can either choose I-95 or the I-81 through the mountains.

For those who love scenery, we recommend taking the second option. The mountainous route gives you a chance to see some of the most incredible mountain ranges and scenic drives on the planet. Besides, along the route, there are small towns to stop for quick bites, retire for the night, or explore local attractions.

In conclusion, we have provided you with the five top tourist destinations to visit while driving between Charlottesville, Virginia, and Bluffton, South Carolina. The Archibald Rutledge Mansion, Blue Ridge Parkway, Savannah Historic District, Mt. Mitchell State Park, and the Shenandoah Valley are sure to offer an unforgettable experience. Lastly, taking the I-81 mountainous route to South Carolina is recommended for the best scenic experience on your road trip.