Points of Interest between Concord, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida

picture of Concord, North Carolina

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Concord, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida

Concord, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida is a 450-mile drive that takes roughly 7 hours to complete. The route takes travelers through scenic landscapes and offers opportunities to explore interesting places along the way. The trip can be made in one day, but for those with time to spare, consider breaking up the drive with stops at some unexpected destinations. With this in mind, the journey would begin in Concord, North Carolina and head south on Interstate 85, passing through South Carolina before arriving in Jacksonville, Florida. The drive is characterized by beautiful countryside, charming small towns, and diverse attractions, making it a road trip worth taking.

At approximately the halfway point of the trip lies Walterboro, SC. This small town boasts a rich history and unique attractions that make it a refreshing stop for weary travelers. With its quaint downtown area, historic homes, and inviting southern charm, Walterboro is a perfect place to pause and stretch your legs before continuing the journey to Jacksonville.

  1. Capitol Building - Columbia, SC The South Carolina State House, located in the heart of Columbia, SC, is a captivating stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the capitol building and admire its majestic architecture and stunning grounds. While in Columbia, be sure to try the famous Southern dish, shrimp and grits, at one of the local restaurants.

  2. Savannah Historic District - Savannah, GA Savannah's historic district is a must-see for anyone traveling through the area. With its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, historic homes, and charming squares, it's a place that exudes a unique old-world charm. While in Savannah, indulge in some traditional Southern comfort food like fried green tomatoes at a local eatery.

  3. Okefenokee Swamp - Folkston, GA For a taste of the wild side, stop by the Okefenokee Swamp near Folkston, GA. This vast and mysterious wetland will provide a welcome break from the road, offering the chance to explore nature trails, take a guided boat tour, and spot local wildlife such as alligators and birds. Be sure to try a traditional Southern barbecue at a nearby restaurant to complete the experience.

  4. Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park - St. Augustine, FL Visitors to St. Augustine, FL should make a point to visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where the legendary Spanish explorer, Ponce de Leon, is said to have searched for the Fountain of Youth. The park features a variety of exhibits, reenactments, and beautiful natural scenery to explore. While in St. Augustine, indulge in a slice of Key Lime pie, a beloved Florida dessert, at a local bakery.

In conclusion, by making these unexpected stops on the drive from Concord, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida, travelers can transform a long journey into a series of enjoyable and memorable experiences. From exploring the South Carolina State House to indulging in Southern delicacies in Savannah and St. Augustine, this road trip offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine that will create lasting memories for anyone willing to take the time to explore off the beaten path.