South Carolina: 10 Best Places to Visit, Route Map

Explore South Carolina's top 10 destinations across 2,014 km, from the state capital Columbia through natural attractions like Congaree National Park and Caesar's Head State Park to coastal highlights including Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Beaufort. The route connects historic sites, cultural hubs, and waterfront districts showcasing the state's diverse landscapes.

Mode
Places
Start
Columbia - State Capital
End
Hilton Head Island
Stops
13
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Columbia - State Capital — Capital of South Carolina and second largest city, located almost exactly in the center of the state. Home to the University of South Carolina and Fort Jackson.
  2. Congaree National Park — National park located just outside Columbia, featuring the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail for water-based exploration.
  3. Charleston & Mount Pleasant: Historic Coastal Cities — Charming colonial port cities featuring antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and significant American Revolutionary and Civil War heritage sites.
  4. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum — Working naval base and museum where visitors can tour decommissioned military vessels, including a WWII aircraft carrier and Cold War submarine.
  5. Greenville - Modern Cultural Hub — Progressive city offering modern attractions including Greenville County Museum of Art, Peace Center Theater for Broadway shows, and Falls Park on the Reedy with an enormous…
  6. Falls Park on the Reedy — Urban waterfall park with cascading fountains, walking trails, and scenic views of the Reedy River in downtown Greenville.
  7. Beaufort - Coastal Historic Town — Coastal town off the Intracoastal Waterway featuring the Beaufort History Museum, John Mark Verdier House antebellum mansion, and historic district architecture.
  8. Myrtle Beach: Top Coastal Resort
  9. Fort Sumter: Civil War Historic Site — Island fort where the American Civil War began in 1861, now preserved as a National Monument accessible by ferry from Charleston.
  10. Caesar's Head State Park — Rugged and remote state park nestled next to the border with North Carolina, part of the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
  11. Charleston - Historic City — Historic coastal city connected to Mount Pleasant via the iconic Ravenel Bridge. Features the French Quarter with historic architecture and cultural landmarks.
  12. Mount Pleasant - Waterfront District — Accessible from Charleston across the Ravenel Bridge. Home to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum (featuring USS Yorktown), Memorial Waterfront Park, and Shem Creek Park.
  13. Hilton Head Island — Picturesque island located just north of Savannah, Georgia. Features upscale neighborhoods like Harbor Town.

Useful for your trip

Transport
Cross the iconic Ravenel Bridge from Charleston to Mount Pleasant to access a different area with history, recreation, and outdoor activities.
Tip
Visit Falls Park on the Reedy in the center of Greenville to see an enormous waterfall in a stunning park setting.
Tip
Tour retired navy ships at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, including the WWII aircraft carrier USS Yorktown.
Tip
Explore Congaree National Park's Cedar Creek Canoe Trail for a unique water-based way to see some of the world's largest cypress trees.
Tip
Hike to the summit of Caesar's Head State Park at 3,200 feet elevation for phenomenal views of coated hills and rock formations.
Food
Stop at charming cafes in Beaufort's historic district for a glass of sweet tea to cool down while exploring the town.
Tip
Take a dolphin watching tour off Hilton Head Island, as dolphins are spotted throughout the year from just off the coast.
Tip
Visit Broadway on the Beach in Myrtle Beach, an enormous collection of bars and restaurants for evening entertainment.
Transport
Access Fort Sumter, an important Civil War landmark, by ferry from Charleston.
Tip
Take a traditional carriage tour through Charleston's historic downtown to see important sights and enjoy the city's charm at once.
Tip
Tour the antebellum John Mark Verdier House in Beaufort to experience historic architecture from the colonial period.
Tip
Explore the French Quarter in Charleston to find the Huguenot Church and several art galleries.

Video on this route

10 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina - Travel Video

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