Journey to Paradise: Traveling from Bristol, Tennessee to Garden City Beach, South Carolina

Are you in need of a beach vacation but not sure where to start? Consider exploring the breathtaking views of Garden City Beach in South Carolina. But before you dig your toes in the sand, you'll need to plan your journey from Bristol, Tennessee. Below are some options for the different routes, distances, and travel times to get to your destination.

The I-81 South Route

The first and most popular route is to take the I-81 South, which is roughly 482 miles from Bristol to Garden City Beach. This journey consists of approximately seven hours and forty seven minutes of driving time. This route passes through the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, weaving through the heart of North Carolina and South Carolina countryside.

Places to Stop

If you have time to kill, treat yourself to a few detours. There is plenty to see such as the striking Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke and the iconic Thomas Jefferson's Monticello in Charlottesville. Other must-see spots include the peaceful Asheville Botanical Gardens and the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, which is the largest single-family household in the country with over 250 rooms to tour.

The I-77 South Route

Another option is to take the I-77 South, which is around 433 miles from Bristol to Garden City Beach. This drive takes about seven hours and twenty minutes. On this route, you will pass through splendid landscapes of West Virginia and Virginia.

Places to Stop

Take a break in Wytheville to see Big Pencil, and later, enjoy an hour or two in Statesville to explore historic landmarks such as the Downtown Clock Tower or the Iredell County Courthouse, which dates back to the 1800s.

The US-23 South and I-26 East Route

The US-23 South and I-26 East route is another option. The journey spans approximately 445 miles and takes around seven hours and forty minutes from Bristol to Garden City Beach. This route passes through the mountains of West Virginia and the scenic vistas of North and South Carolina.

Places to Stop

This route is ideal for those who love water activities. Stop by the steep, deep Laurel River Lake in London, Kentucky, for a fun afternoon swim or boat ride. Later, head to Greenville County, South Carolina, and discover the beauty of Falls Park on the Reedy.

Final Thoughts

No matter what journey you choose, make sure you are prepared with gas, snacks, and a playlist to accompany your travels. Take advantage of the sights and make memories. With plenty of engaging pit stops, there's no need to rush to your destination. Once you reach Garden City Beach, relax, take in the salt air breeze, and soak up the sun. It's time to relax and enjoy the sandy beaches of South Carolina.