Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Lexington, Kentucky
Overview
Columbia, South Carolina and Lexington, Kentucky may be separated by approximately 400 miles, but this road trip offers a myriad of exciting stops along the way. From scenic landscapes to historical landmarks, this adventure promises to be a marvelous experience. The halfway point of Newport, Tennessee offers a picturesque stopover, revealing breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Explore the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate is a magnificent gem awaiting your discovery. This grand mansion, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, features stunning architecture and splendid gardens that sprawl over 8,000 acres. Visitors can embark on guided tours to explore the opulent rooms, admire the impressive art collection, and stroll through the picturesque gardens.
Interesting Fact: The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned house in the United States, boasting an astonishing 250 rooms.
2. Unwind at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As the halfway point between Columbia and Lexington, Newport, Tennessee offers a golden opportunity to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is renowned for its diverse wildlife, picturesque hiking trails, and scenic drives. From cascading waterfalls to panoramic overlooks, the park offers an outdoor paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Interesting Fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few places where synchronous fireflies can be observed. These unique lightning bugs synchronize their flashing patterns, creating a stunning visual display.
3. Discover the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Whiskey aficionados will relish the chance to tour the iconic Jack Daniel's Distillery, located in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Get an insider's view of the production process and learn about the fascinating history of this world-famous distillery. From the charcoal mellowing process to the aging in handmade barrels, visitors gain insight into the craftsmanship behind each bottle of Jack Daniel's Old No. 7.
Interesting Fact: Jack Daniel's Distillery is located in a dry county, meaning that despite the world-famous whiskey production, the county does not allow the sale of alcoholic beverages.
4. Immerse in History at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky
Venture into the depths of Mammoth Cave National Park and step into a mesmerizing underground world. Home to the world's longest known cave system, this national park boasts more than 400 miles of explored passageways. Embark on a guided tour to marvel at stunning formations, intricate labyrinths, and captivating underground rivers.
Interesting Fact: Mammoth Cave National Park is not only a natural wonder; it is also steeped in history. During the War of 1812, the cave provided saltpeter, an essential ingredient for gunpowder, and it played a role as a tuberculosis hospital during the 19th century.
5. Experience the Horse Capital of the World in Lexington, Kentucky
No trip to Lexington, Kentucky is complete without diving into its rich horse racing heritage. Explore the Kentucky Horse Park, where visitors can interact with retired racehorses and learn about the equestrian industry. Take a tour of the charming and picturesque Thoroughbred horse farms, such as Claiborne Farm or Ashford Stud, and get a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
Interesting Fact: Lexington is the birthplace of legendary racehorses such as Man o' War and Secretariat, the latter of which won the Triple Crown with record-breaking times that still stand to this day.
Conclusion
This unforgettable road trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Lexington, Kentucky offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences. From the opulence of the Biltmore Estate and the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains to the history-rich Mammoth Cave National Park, each stop offers unique highlights. Immerse yourself in the horse culture of Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, before concluding this adventure. The trip, covering approximately 400 miles, can be completed in about 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and the duration of each stop.