Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesterland, Ohio and Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Driving from Chesterland, Ohio to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is a long trip, but it can be made into a memorable experience with some smart stops along the way. The journey spans around 800 miles and can take around 14 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. The author of this article decided to break up the trip into two days, staying overnight in Hillsville, Virginia, located just around halfway between the starting and end points. On the first day, upon departing from Chesterland, they took the I-77 South, which later merged into I-81. The drive continued until reaching Hillsville, where they stayed overnight. On the second day, they resumed their travels along the I-77 before branching off onto other highways heading towards Hilton Head Island.

Hillsville, VA - A Must-See Midway Point

Located around 420 miles from both Chesterland and Hilton Head Island, Hillsville, Virginia is a perfect halfway stop. It is a small town in Carroll County, home to lots of history, and a perfect location to stretch your legs while enjoying a fantastic atmosphere. The town has many attractions, including the Blue Ridge Plateau Visitor Center, the historic Hillsville Courthouse, and the town's serene Sidna Allen Home site. The area provides breathtakingly beautiful scenery, and the charming downtown is delightful, with many art galleries, antique stores, and tea rooms. A stop in Hillsville is worth both for its halfway point status and its charming offerings.

Favorite Food to Try: The Hillsville Diner provides some incredible southern-style breakfast. It's definitely worth trying.

1. Luray Caverns, Luray, Virginia

Luray Caverns is located in Luray, Virginia, just around an hour's drive from Hillsville. These caverns are the largest known cave system in Eastern America, discovered in 1878. Luray Caverns welcomes visitors year-round, offering guided tours that last about an hour. Inside the caverns, you'll witness towering stalagmites, mirrored pools, and an underground lake. The haunt and depths will leave you in awe and wonder, making Luray Caverns a must-visit location.

Favorite Food to Try: Uncle Bucks at Luray Caverns is a native smokehouse serving up delicious turkey legs and slow-cooked brisket.

2. Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in Asheville, North Carolina, lies one of the United States' most beautiful estates. In 1895, George Vanderbilt created the Biltmore Estate, stretching over 8,000 acres across the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing awe-inspiring views. This grand estate features a 250-room French Renaissance chateau and America's oldest landscaped gardens. Visitors can tour the estate's gardens, winery, and enjoy the exquisite dining experiences, making it a worthwhile stop.

Favorite Food to Try: At the estate's Farmstead Restaurant, try out the Biltmore-raised Angus beef burger or the delicious smoked pork shoulder sandwich.

3. Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery, North Carolina

Just a short 20-minute drive south of Biltmore lies Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery. It is a woman-owned family business, born from a passion for planting, cultivating, and nurturing grapes. The winery is committed to producing wine exclusively from North Carolina grapes, highlighting the region's excellent vineyard potential. Visitors can enjoy the wines while soaking up stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Favorite Wine to Try: Carolina Heritage offers ten varieties of wine tasting and the sweet peach wine is one of the crowd favorites.

4. Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site, South Carolina

Located in Union County, South Carolina, Rose Hill Plantation was established in 1828. It is a significant historical site, renowned for its impressive architectural design and the influential South Carolinians who resided here. The home has endured through many years and different owners, offering a unique testament to Southern history. Visitors can tour the plantation, including the Rayburn Museum, outbuildings, and the plantation gardens.

Favorite Food to Try: The Sweet Magnolia's Souther Cuisine offers savory fried chicken and brisket with molasses barbecue sauce.

5. Tybee Island, Georgia

Finally, your trip ends at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Along the way, however, lies another worthwhile stop: Tybee Island in Georgia. This beautiful coastal shore island is renowned for its historical landmarks, gorgeous beaches, and wildlife. A quiet ambiance envelopes any visitor who wanders here, offering the chance to wind down and relax before completing the final leg to Hilton Head Island.

Favorite Food to Try: The Sugar Shack is a local eatery famous for its shrimp and grits, as well as for other seafood varieties.

Conclusion

The drive from Chesterland, Ohio, to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, can be mundane. However, breaking the trip up into several stops offers a chance for eclectic discoveries befitting any road trip. From touring enchanting cave systems and historical estates to indulging in authentic southern cuisine and wine, the trip provides an abundance of things to do. The author hopes that this list of five unexpected stops will encourage more travelers to take the road less traveled.