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Visiting
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Carolina Road Trips Directory:
Insider Tips & Itineraries
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hether a local looking for a day or weekend escape, or a visitor searching for another memorable town to explore, road trips are a wonderful way to experience the vast and varied culture of the Carolinas.  

Our growing directory of road trips offers something for everyone - quiet, tucked away haunts as well as award-winning favorites. 

Where do you want to go next? 

Aiken, SC
Asheville, NC
Beaufort, SC
Black Mountain, NC
Blowing Rock, NC
Boone, NC
Brevard, NC
Cashiers, NC
Charleston, SC
Charlotte, NC
Columbia, SC
Conway, SC
Currituck Outer Banks, NC
Durham, NC
Fayetteville, NC
Gaffney, SC
Georgetown, SC
Greenville, SC
Hendersonville, NC
Hilton Head, SC
Jasper County, SC
Little River Blueway, SC
Mount Pleasant, SC
Myrtle Beach, SC
New Bern, NC
Newberry, SC
The Olde English District, SC
Palmetto Trail, SC
Raleigh, NC

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Aiken, SC

Aiken is a one-of-a-kind treasure, with so much to see and do that you may find yourself stretching your 36 hours into two or three days.  First, you'll need a place to stay, and although there are many excellent possibilities, The Willcox is a grand old lady who has seen her share of dignitaries as well as romantic interludes. Old-fashioned and graceful, you'll enjoy the common areas of the inn as much as the beautiful guest rooms and impeccable service. How long has it been since you slept on a featherbed? This one is definitely worth a splurge ... read more.

Asheville, NC

So much to do and enjoy in this, one of America’s favorite towns. Start with a hearty breakfast at the Early Girl Eatery. A friend recommends the Early Girl Benny -- Eggs Benedict made with grits cake, tomato gravy and avocado.  Well-fortified and energy-filled, it’s time to consider your day’s options for fun ... read more.


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Georgetown, SC - The Hammock Coast
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Beaufort, SC

One of the South’s favorite towns, Beaufort has it all – history, battle sites from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, great shopping, magnificent accommodations and food that brings tears to your eyes (in a good way). Let’s take an insider’s look at Beaufort, starting with Old Sheldon Church Ruins ... read more.
 
 

Black Mountain, NC

If you only have 36 hours to spend in the North Carolina mountain village of Black Mountain, you must choose among lots of ways to enjoy yourself. Luckily, it’s all good. Plan to arrive early and plot your strategy to get the most out of this small town, which is only a few short miles from Asheville’s splendors, but has a panache all its own. Start at the circa 1918 restored coffee house ... read more.
 

Blowing Rock and Boone, NC

Summer fades from the Carolinas earliest in the mountains. Hints of the season-to-come arrive in the guise of subtle leaf color changes, cooler evenings and crisp mornings.

Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway and near a multitude of activities, Boone is a great base from which to explore the Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, nearby Blowing Rock and so much more. Plan your getaway today. ... read more.
 

Brevard, NC

It just doesn’t get more delicious than summertime in the Appalachian Mountains. The daytime temperatures are downright delightful, and after the sun dips below the peaks, it’s sweater weather. In the middle of many good options, we’ve chosen Brevard for our next 36-hour adventure because this charming mountain town has more ways to have fun than most areas
can imagine, as well as a mindset that welcomes retirees and part-time residents into an event-filled, creative community fold ... read more.
 

Cashiers, NC

Expect a first-class chillout when you visit Cashiers, a delightful tiny town in one of the most beautiful areas of the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains. Many families have getaways hidden amongst the hills and valleys of this western hamlet that’s just 76 miles from Greenville, SC and 140 miles from Atlanta. If you’ve not visited, here are some tips from those who’ve already blazed a trail  ... read more.
 

Charleston, SC

You’ll have to prioritize, no doubt. Many Southerners consider Charleston our unofficial capital, and certainly THE city that epitomizes Southern hospitality at its best. And what better way to begin your Charleston experience than with breakfast. Here at CarolinaLiving.com, we’re not shy about discussing our favorites. We’ve all enjoyed the Holy City and will again. So, let’s begin with the caveat that we are sharing a small sampling of recommendations. One droll soul suggested that the search for the best Charleston breakfast could be likened to a quest for the impossible dream ... read more.
 

Charlotte, NC

So many choices! This month’s Day Trippin’ is a bit different from most. The sheer size of Charlotte means visitors can have a myriad of experiences, and we’re offering you ideas to start your exploration. Instead of suggesting this bistro for lunch, or that boutique for shopping, we’re offering our best information on spectacular ways to enjoy this great city. During your visit, should you find more great destinations, let us know and we’ll add them to an ever-growing list of what to see and do in Charlotte. For our purposes, let’s take a close look at what can be done over a long weekend or mid-week getaway ... read more.
 

Columbia, SC


If you have only 36 hours in South Carolina’s capital city, you’ll need to narrow down your options. Main Street, Five Points, the Vista and the University are very close together, with lots to do and enjoy in this “Famously Hot – Surprisingly Cool” city ... read more.

 

Conway, SC

There are so many ways to bypass Conway, SC that visitors going to or from the beach might be tempted to avoid this historic town. That, however, would be a terrible mistake, because this little jewel is worth the drive as a destination in itself. For years, Grand Strand visitors have reserved a few hours to explore Conway and its surroundings. We recommend that you carve out at least 36 hours and plan to spend the night  ... read more.



Currituck Outer Banks, NC

Why Currituck and the Outer Banks? The area's filled with history, fun, outdoor entertainment, and lots to do, including miles of sun-drenched beaches and the chance to glimpse a wild Spanish mustang.  Drive to the Outer Banks on Highway 158, cross over the bridge and turn left. Or, reach the Outer Banks via Highway 64 and the Manteo bridge.  You'll feel instantly transported to another world ... read more.

 

Durham, NC

If you only have 36 hours to spend in Durham, you'll have a tough time deciding what to do. For sure, you'll experience only a fraction of what's available in a setting which garners accolades by the dozens. We know you'll dine well in this, America's #1 Foodiest Small Town, according to Bon Appétit.  First things first: accommodations. You can't go wrong with Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, located on the Duke University campus, and featuring its own public golf course. The 300-acre site is lush and the award-winning inn and dining room are sure to pamper and impress ... read more.

 

Fayetteville, NC

Fayetteville is just off the I-95 north-south corridor and makes a great trip for a family heading north or south (or a Carolina family exploring their home turf). Military enthusiasts love this city, which is home to Fort Bragg and the Army’s Airborne and Special Operation Forces. It’s patriotic, diverse, friendly, and lots of fun, with a definite international flair. With all that in its favor, Fayetteville will offer your family a perfect weekend getaway.  ... read more.

 

Gaffney, SC

It's a small town, not too far from Charlotte, that's filled with history, charm, shopping and friendly people.  Today, it's attracting folks from all over who think it's got everything going for it. Plan your visit today. First, you’ll need a room. There are many fine hotels in the area, including the Jameson Inn, which comes highly recommended on Trip Advisor. The Jameson Inn in Gaffney offers clean, comfortable rooms within walking distance of a number of restaurants. It’s rated #1 on Trip Advisor and for good reason. The pool area is inviting – perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration, or to amuse little ones. ... read more.



Georgetown, SC

If you only have 36 hours to spend in Georgetown, you’ll have choices on and off the water. First, you’ll want to find accommodations that reflect this historic water community.  We’ve got two suggestions:  The Shaw House B&B is a colonial home with columns in the front and a scrumptious new screened in porch overlooking the marsh. Innkeepers Mary and Joe Shaw are in the know about Georgetown, and your room will take you into a world of pampering and beautiful surroundings and furniture. (Breakfast included as well as lots of amenities) ... read more.
 

Greenville, SC

A stay in Downtown Greenville, SC, is reminiscent of a visit to your favorite little European town, with rambling, wide sidewalks, outdoor cafés and dining on every corner, city parks for people-watching, and unique, locally-owned shops and galleries that beg for exploration. With only 36 hours in this foothills gem, you are in for a treat as you wander the tree-lined, city streets … read more.

 

Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville is full of surprises. The town includes a great combination of old-timers and newcomers, and everyone is friendly and welcoming. Usually, we seek out one B&B that receives great reviews from friends and insiders, but this town has several charming inns, plus lots more accommodations, so to begin this road trip, you’ll have no problem finding perfect accommodations.  … read more.

 

Hilton Head, SC

We’ve got recommendations you’ll never find elsewhere. For this day trip, we’re steering clear of admittedly fun activities like parasailing and jet skiing. You can easily discover information about all kinds of warm weather pursuits. Rather, we're digging beneath the surface for some ways to have fun without your bathing suit. Hilton head, four seasons golf and tennis 12 months a year. So many ways to have a good time. … read more.


Jasper County, SC

You’ve probably driven through Jasper County a dozen times or more – always on your way to somewhere like Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Charleston, or perhaps to and from Florida. When you’re planning your next getaway, consider Jasper County as a destination in itself, where you can step away from the fast-paced world and enjoy a slower, more relaxing pace (and a comfortable respite during longer travels). With fewer than 24,000 residents in an area of almost700 square miles, there’s a distinctly rural feel to the southernmost county in SC, and that’s a good thing to longtime residents, recent transplants and folks searching for a laid-back vacation. Will this be a perfect getaway for you and yours? Find out here.


Little River Blueway, SC

This isn’t a road trip exactly – although it certainly can be enjoyed via your vehicle. The Little River Blueway, near Lake Thurmond and McCormick, SC is a paddle lover’s paradise – as well as a rural retreat that offers miles upon miles of walking, hiking and biking trails in addition to 51 miles of diverse and scenic water trails.

Those who are a bit less athletic can enjoy the beauty from a rented pontoon boat, or perhaps a kayak or canoe.

Sure people live here – Savannah Lakes Village is known for its perfect positioning along Lake Thurmond. But for more urban dwellers who are rejuvenated by the outdoors, this is a destination that will delight you and bring you back for more. ... read more.


Mount Pleasant, SC

Why spend a day or two exploring Mount Pleasant when the glories of Charleston are just across the bridge? Because, as wonderful as Charleston is, with its many opportunities for fine dining and fabulous shopping, Mount Pleasant has a charm all its own ... read more.
 

Myrtle Beach, SC

The Grand Strand has miles of glorious beaches, parasailing, sandcastles galore and a brand new Boardwalk. For many, sitting on the beach offers the best therapy in the world. But when total relaxation begins to get tiresome, we’ve got some suggestions for fun and frolic which might be outside the normal visitor radar ... read more.
 


New Bern, NC

You’ll find plenty of ways to amuse little ones, history lovers, sports enthusiasts and shop-til-you-droppers. Unlike many destinations which seem to specialize in attracting visitors with certain interests, New Bern has it all, beginning with an appealing downtown and unique attractions. Celebrating their 300th anniversary in 2010, New Bern has even more than its usual delightful fare, beginning with the bears ... read more.



Newberry, SC

Got just 36 hours in Newberry, SC?  Consider these FUN-filled possibilities. Why Newberry? Simply put, it’s a little, accessible gem that’s Southern to its core, and we mean that in a good way. Drive to Newberry on I-26.  It’s about 45 minutes west of Columbia, and about an hour east of Greenville. Once you arrive, choose your accommodation. We suggest the DeWalt House, an elegant home built in 1832 and extensively renovated. You’ll feel as if Scarlet O’Hara will be rounding the corner at any minute ... read more. 
 

The Olde English District, SC

Imagine traveling south from Charlotte, NC to Columbia, SC. Interstate 77 is the most direct route from one big city to the other and you can make the trip by car in less than 90 minutes, but why rush? Positioned on either side of the Interstate, The Olde English District encompasses seven counties in the geographical center of SC. You can fly into Columbia or Charlotte, or simply make a 36-hour driving detour on your way to the Grand Strand, or the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Olde English District is named for its abundance of English settlers and towns with English names (York, Lancaster, Chester, Chesterfield, etc.), and the number of battles fought here during the Revolutionary War.

History and military enthusiasts will love the area, but antiques lovers will be equally enthralled.
And for outdoor recreation, it can’t be beat. For all those reasons and many
more which can be found in their 116 page visitors’ brochure, the team at
CarolinaLiving.com is offering a few tantalizing reasons why you should consider a 36-hour getaway in the Olde English District of South Carolina. Read more.
 

Palmetto Trail in South Carolina

Ask folks why they move to the Carolinas and you often get geography as a response. Close to mountains, ocean, rivers, forests and varied terrain. That's why we're featuring the Palmetto Trail as a road trip worthy of your time.

 We've chosen four distinct passages to showcase the variety found here. From entry points to expert tips and recommended lodging and restaurants, this is a road trip for those who understand that slow is the way to see the world more clearly. Enjoy! … read more. 
 

Raleigh, NC

It’s a college town and the state capital, but beyond those admittedly appealing characteristics Raleigh has an appealing vibe for all ages and interests. First, you’ll need a bed for the night. With our fondness for charming inns and B&Bs, we could look no further than Cameron Park Inn B&B. Located in a great, walkable neighborhood, visitors wax positively euphoric over the inn’s décor, cuisine, inn-dog Beanie and innkeepers, Nikki and Jon … read more. 

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