Do you have a severe case of wanderlust but no time off? Why not hop in the car and take a long drive? There is so much to discover on the open road and an almost endless number of entertaining attractions along the way. Be spontaneous, enjoy the scenery, and find that perfect destination within a few hours from home. We’ve put together this list of three nearby cities that are perfect for a daytime road trip from Columbia, South Carolina. Are we there yet?
Charleston, South Carolina
Just 114 miles south — less than a two-hour drive via Interstate 26 — is the coastal city of Charleston. Immerse yourself in the South’s vibrant culture with world-class dining and thrilling nightlife. Take a sunset cruise, splash in the waves at Folly Beach, or relax with a blissful spa experience.
Discover the city’s vibrant art scene with numerous public exhibits, performance venues, and museums, including Corrigan Gallery, a contemporary, museum-quality fine art hall; and the Halsey Institute on the College of Charleston’s campus. You can also explore lush gardens and historic plantations just minutes from downtown Charleston or get an insider’s look at the city with the 42nd Annual Fall Tour of Homes, History, and Architecture launching Oct. 4. And don’t miss Charleston Beer Week, which begins Sep. 8.
Augusta, Georgia
Continue heading south on Interstate 26 to the charming city of Augusta. Plan your day trip to include plenty of outdoor activities such as paddle boarding on the Savannah River or enjoying a peaceful hike through Phinizy Swamp. Take date night downtown for a taste of real southern delicacies. Order a handcrafted cocktail at The Bee’s Knees or sample local seafood at Old McDonald Fish Camp.
Experience Augusta’s diverse and lively city with a calendar full of events, including Market at the River, which runs every Saturday until Nov. 17; or the Candlelight Music Concert Series that takes place at the Augusta Common every Sunday until Sep. 2. To experience Augusta’s laid-back way of life, it will take almost three hours to traverse the 160 miles from Columbia — but it’s well worth the drive.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Head north on the highway to explore the Queen City. Discover the energetic uptown, plan some time to play in artsy Noda, and then uncover the vibrant, trendy Southend. Charlotte is famous for Southern comfort food and barbeque, so make sure you stop by City Smoke to curb your craving for chargrilled meat. They even have smoked lamb on the menu.
Host a Charlotte family play date at High Sea’s miniature golf or ride a six-story slide at the indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge. Go outside and explore 40 acres of produce and playgrounds at Wise Acres Organic Farm where you can pick your own strawberries or pumpkins, depending on the season.
Plan to spend some time in Charlotte; It’s a 109-mile drive up Interstate 78 North that will take you at least three hours. Add some extra road-trip magic and map out a few attractions along the route.
Pack up your new Kia with snacks, turn on your UVO infotainment system, and buckle up for an adventure. It’s time for a road trip!
“The Atlantic Ocean in South Carolina” by Dougtone CC-BY SA 2.0
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