Myrtle Beach, SC: Top 10 Day Trips
Myrtle Beach, SC is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively boardwalk, and endless entertainment options. However, visitors to Myrtle Beach may also want to explore the surrounding areas and take day trips to nearby destinations. From historic towns to natural wonders, there are plenty of exciting day trip options available to those staying in Myrtle Beach.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 day trips from Myrtle Beach, SC. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach day, a cultural experience, or an outdoor adventure, there's something for everyone in the surrounding areas. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the best of what the Myrtle Beach region has to offer.
Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC is a charming city located about 90 miles south of Myrtle Beach. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can take a day trip to Charleston to explore its many attractions and experience its unique culture.
One of the most popular things to do in Charleston is to take a walking tour of the historic downtown area. The city is home to many beautiful old homes and buildings, including the famous Rainbow Row. Visitors can also visit historic landmarks such as Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Foodies will love Charleston's vibrant culinary scene. The city is famous for its seafood, particularly its oysters and shrimp. Visitors can sample these delicacies at one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, or take a food tour to experience a variety of dishes.
Charleston is also home to many art galleries and museums. The Gibbes Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Charleston Museum offers a glimpse into the city's past.
Overall, Charleston, SC is a fantastic day trip destination from Myrtle Beach. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, NC is a popular day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, SC. The city is located about an hour and a half away from Myrtle Beach and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the main draws of Wilmington is its historic downtown area, which is home to a charming riverwalk, boutique shops, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Visitors can spend hours exploring the area, taking in the sights and sounds of this picturesque city.
Another popular attraction in Wilmington is the Battleship North Carolina. This World War II battleship is now a museum and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ship and learn about its history.
For those interested in film and television, Wilmington is also home to EUE/Screen Gems Studios, where many popular movies and TV shows have been filmed. Visitors can take a tour of the studio and see where their favorite productions were created.
Overall, Wilmington, NC is a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, SC, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just want to explore a new city, Wilmington is definitely worth a visit.
Savannah, GA
Savannah, Georgia is a charming city located about 3 hours south of Myrtle Beach, making it an ideal day trip destination. Known for its well-preserved historic district, Savannah offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and lush greenery.
One of the most popular attractions in Savannah is the Bonaventure Cemetery. This historic cemetery is known for its beautiful statues, monuments, and mausoleums, as well as its connection to the novel "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the cemetery's history and notable residents.
For those looking for a more active day trip, a visit to Tybee Island is a must. This barrier island is located just 20 minutes east of Savannah and offers visitors miles of pristine beaches, as well as opportunities for surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Another popular attraction in Savannah is the Wormsloe Historic Site. This site is home to the ruins of a colonial estate, as well as beautiful gardens and walking trails. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the site's history and explore the grounds.
Overall, Savannah offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach.
Hilton Head Island, SC
Hilton Head Island is a popular day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, located approximately 2.5 hours away by car. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale shopping and dining options.
Visitors can spend the day exploring the island's 12 miles of pristine beaches, which offer activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The island is also home to several nature preserves, such as the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, where visitors can hike, bike, and observe wildlife.
For golf enthusiasts, Hilton Head Island boasts over 30 golf courses, including the famous Harbour Town Golf Links, which hosts the annual PGA Tour's RBC Heritage tournament. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining at the island's many upscale boutiques and restaurants, such as the Shelter Cove Towne Centre.
For those interested in history and culture, Hilton Head Island offers several museums and landmarks, such as the Coastal Discovery Museum and the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island, which showcase the island's unique Gullah Geechee culture and heritage.
Overall, Hilton Head Island offers a diverse array of activities and attractions, making it a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach.
Columbia, SC
Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, is a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach. Located approximately 150 miles west of Myrtle Beach, Columbia offers visitors a range of attractions and activities to explore.
Outdoor Activities
Columbia is home to several beautiful parks and gardens, including the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. The zoo features over 2,000 animals and 350 species from around the world, while the botanical garden offers a wide variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing at the Congaree National Park, located just outside of Columbia.
Museums and Historical Sites
Columbia has a rich history, and visitors can explore it through the city's many museums and historical sites. The South Carolina State Museum features exhibits on art, science, and history, while the Columbia Museum of Art showcases works from around the world. History buffs can visit the South Carolina State House, which has been in use since 1790, or the Robert Mills House and Gardens, a historic home built in the early 19th century.
Food and Drink
Columbia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and visitors can enjoy a range of dining options in the city. From traditional Southern barbecue to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also explore the city's craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering tours and tastings.
Overall, Columbia, SC is a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, offering a range of outdoor activities, museums and historical sites, and delicious food and drink options.
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC is a charming city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, and is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic drives. It is a perfect day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, SC, as it is only a few hours away by car.
One of the most popular day trips from Asheville is a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic route that stretches for 469 miles from Virginia's Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park 1. The parkway offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Another must-visit destination near Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s 2. The estate features 250 rooms, beautiful gardens, and a winery, and is a great place to spend a day exploring the history and beauty of the area.
For those who love the outdoors, a visit to Max Patch is a must-do day trip from Asheville. Max Patch is a 4,600-ft. mountain bald that offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains 3. It is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking, and is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Overall, Asheville, NC is a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, SC, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and exploring the history and beauty of the area.
Footnotes
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Myrtle Beach, SC. The park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee and is home to stunning mountain views, diverse wildlife, and miles of hiking trails.
Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park can explore the park's many hiking trails, including the popular Alum Cave Trail and Charlies Bunion Trail. The park also offers scenic drives, including the Cades Cove Loop Road, which takes visitors through a historic settlement and offers views of wildlife such as deer and black bears.
For those interested in history, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of historic sites, including the Mountain Farm Museum, which showcases life in the Appalachian Mountains in the 19th century.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, horseback riding, and camping. The park offers several campgrounds, including the popular Elkmont Campground, which is located near the Little River and offers easy access to hiking trails.
Overall, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a bustling city that offers many opportunities for adventure and exploration, making it a great day trip from Myrtle Beach. With a rich history and vibrant culture, Charlotte has something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions in Charlotte is the NASCAR Hall of Fame. This museum is dedicated to the history of NASCAR and features interactive exhibits, historic race cars, and more. Visitors can even try their hand at racing simulators and pit-stop challenges.
For those interested in history, the Levine Museum of the New South is a must-visit destination. This museum explores the history of the American South from the end of the Civil War to the present day. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the region's history to life.
Charlotte is also home to many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. Freedom Park, for example, offers walking trails, playgrounds, and a large lake perfect for picnics and relaxation. The city is also home to several botanical gardens, including the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens and the Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary.
Foodies will love exploring Charlotte's culinary scene, which offers everything from classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine. The city is known for its barbecue, and visitors can sample some of the best at places like Midwood Smokehouse and Mac's Speed Shop.
Overall, Charlotte is a diverse and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventures, or great food, this city is a perfect day trip from Myrtle Beach.
Greenville, SC
Greenville, South Carolina, is a vibrant city that is home to a variety of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and historic landmarks. It is a popular day trip destination from Myrtle Beach, and visitors can easily make the 3-hour drive to explore the city.
One of the must-visit attractions in Greenville is Falls Park on the Reedy. This beautiful park is located in the heart of downtown and features a stunning waterfall, walking trails, and gardens. Visitors can also take a stroll across the Liberty Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that offers a unique view of the falls.
Another popular attraction in Greenville is the Greenville Zoo. This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, lions, and monkeys. Visitors can also take a ride on the zoo's train or carousel.
For those interested in history, the Upcountry History Museum is a great place to visit. This museum features exhibits on the history of the Upstate region of South Carolina, including the textile industry and the Civil Rights Movement.
Foodies will also enjoy a day trip to Greenville, which has a thriving culinary scene. Visitors can sample local cuisine at one of the city's many restaurants, or take a food tour to experience a variety of flavors.
Overall, Greenville, SC, offers something for everyone and is a great day trip destination from Myrtle Beach.
Fayetteville, NC
Fayetteville, NC is located approximately 90 miles north of Myrtle Beach, SC. It is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. There are several day trip options available from Myrtle Beach to Fayetteville, NC that offer visitors a chance to experience the city's unique attractions.
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a 79-acre garden located in Fayetteville, NC. It is a beautiful and serene oasis that is perfect for a day trip from Myrtle Beach. The garden features a wide variety of plants, including native North Carolina species, and has several themed gardens, including a Children's Garden and a Camellia Garden. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the garden's several walking trails, which offer stunning views of the Cape Fear River.
Airborne and Special Operations Museum
The Airborne and Special Operations Museum is a must-visit destination for military history enthusiasts. The museum is located in downtown Fayetteville and features exhibits that highlight the history of the United States Army's airborne and special operations units. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of military artifacts and view interactive exhibits that showcase the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served in these units.
Fayetteville Downtown Historic District
The Fayetteville Downtown Historic District is a charming area that is home to several historic landmarks and buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the district and explore sites such as the Market House, which was built in 1832 and served as the city's market and town hall. The district is also home to several restaurants and shops, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
Conclusion
Fayetteville, NC offers visitors a wide range of day trip options from Myrtle Beach, SC. Whether you are interested in exploring the city's rich history, enjoying the beauty of its botanical gardens, or simply strolling through its charming downtown district, there is something for everyone in Fayetteville.
