Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesterfield Court House, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina
Taking a road trip from Virginia to South Carolina can be a memorable experience, filled with beautiful sights and fascinating attractions. The journey from Chesterfield Court House, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina, covering around 460 miles, can take anywhere between 8.5 and 10 hours, depending on the route you take. The most popular route is to head south on I-95 and catch I-20 west at Florence, SC. This scenic drive features many exciting pit stops to help you break up the journey. Below are five unexpected places to stop along the way, each offering unique experiences for travelers.
Halfway Point: Wade, NC
Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop on this journey, it's worth mentioning the town of Wade, NC, which is right about the halfway point of the drive. This charming town has a few places to stop and stretch your legs, enjoy a meal, or top up on gas. The Wade General Store is a must-visit in the town, which has been running since 1903, and you can grab an old-fashioned soda and sandwich while there.
1. Carolina Cider Company, Yemassee, SC
Carolina Cider Company, located just off I-95 in Yemassee, SC, is the perfect pit stop to enjoy a Southern tradition - fresh apple cider. Carolina Cider Company is a family-owned business that has been operating since the 1930s and offers a variety of homemade products like apple cider, hot sauce, salsas, BBQ sauces, and more. Try their famous apple cider slushie made from freshly-pressed apples, perfect for a hot summer day.
Favorite food: Apple cider slushies
2. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Hardeeville, SC
Located in Hardeeville, SC, near the Georgia border, Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the highway. The refuge covers over 30,000 acres of wetlands that are home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and more than 250 species of birds. The 4.5-mile Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive gives visitors an opportunity to witness nature up close and personal from the comfort of their vehicles.
Favorite food: Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene setting
3. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Columbia, SC
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, SC, is one of the top-rated zoos in the country and an absolute must-stop for families traveling with children. The zoo is home to around 2,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and koalas. The landscaped gardens, aquarium, and waterfalls make it a fun and educational experience that visitors of all ages will enjoy.
Favorite food: Try the grilled chicken sandwich at the Alligator's Galley
4. South of the Border, Hamer, SC
South of the Border is a tourist stop and an American classic. Located in Hamer, SC, just south of the North Carolina border, this roadside attraction has been entertaining visitors since the 1950s. The colorful complex includes a truck stop, multiple gift shops, restaurants, and quirky attractions such as a reptile lagoon and Pedro's South of the Border amusement park. It's the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs, take some photos, and grab some souvenirs.
Favorite food: Grab some Mexican cuisine at Pedro's Mexican Restaurant
5. South Carolina Peach Council, Gaffney, SC
SC Peach Council in Gaffney, SC, gives travelers the opportunity to indulge in a deliciously sweet treat – South Carolina peaches. The state is renowned for its peaches, and the council represents the state's peach growers with marketing and promotion efforts. Stop in here for fresh South Carolina peaches or to enjoy some delectable peach-flavored treats, such as ice cream and preserves.
Favorite food: Try the Southern Peach Ice Cream
If you're planning a road trip down the East Coast soon, be sure to take the time to stop at some of the five unexpected places mentioned above while driving from Chesterfield Court House, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina. These stops will provide unique experiences for travelers that help break up the journey while making some cherished memories along the way.