Top Places to See When Driving From Anderson, SC to Asheville, NC

Are you planning a road trip from Anderson, South Carolina to Asheville, North Carolina? It's a beautiful journey that could take around three hours, but it's definitely worth it. You'll get to see some of the most breathtaking sights as you make your way through the beautiful mountain ranges of Blue Ridge Parkway. This journey is dotted with charming towns, historic landmarks, and picturesque scenery that's sure to make for an unforgettable trip. Here are the top places you shouldn't miss when driving from Anderson, SC to Asheville, NC.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

One of the most scenic routes in North America is the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's a 469-mile long parkway that runs through the Appalachian Mountains. You can join it from Anderson, SC and take Highway 276 to Pisgah National Forest. The Parkway is the perfect place to see majestic mountain vistas, clear streams, and rolling hills. It's also an excellent place to stop and stretch your legs, hike, or have a picnic. Along the way, there are several overlooks that are worth a stop, including Craggy Gardens, Looking Glass Rock, and Devil's Courthouse.

Greenville, SC

Located a short drive from Anderson, Greenville, SC is a charming city that's worth a visit. It boasts a vibrant downtown with a mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. If you're a history buff, you'll love the Upcountry History Museum. Or, if you prefer the outdoors, a walk in the Falls Park on the Reedy offers a great escape. Don't forget to take a stroll on the Liberty Bridge, which spans the waterfalls in the park. With its plentiful green spaces, cultural attractions, and exciting nightlife, Greenville, SC is a great destination to add to your itinerary.

Brevard, NC

Brevard, NC is famous for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The town is home to Pisgah National Forest, known for its waterfalls, hiking trails, and rock-climbing destinations. The Transylvania Heritage Museum is an excellent opportunity to learn about the town's history and culture. One of the highlights of Brevard is the Brevard Music Center, which hosts an annual summer music festival. If you're visiting in the fall, don't miss the annual Halloweenfest, which features a parade, costume contest, and various other spooky activities. Brevard, NC truly has something for everyone.

Chimney Rock

Another must-see attraction on the way to Asheville is Chimney Rock. This 535-million-year-old rock formation stands at 315 feet tall and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The rock is accessible via a staircase of 499 steps, or there's an elevator for those who prefer not to climb. Once on top, visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. There are many hiking trails around the rock, and it's a popular spot for bird watching.

Black Mountain, NC

Black Mountain, NC is a charming, small town that's worth a stop on your road trip from Anderson to Asheville. It's known as the "front porch of Western North Carolina" and is only 15 miles east of Asheville. It's home to several art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants that serve up some of the best country cooking around. Black Mountain is also home to the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center, which honors the legacy of the renowned experimental college that operated in the area from 1933 to 1957. Take a stroll down Cherry Street, the main street in Black Mountain, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to grab a coffee or beer and stroll through the quaint shops.

Asheville, NC

Of course, no trip to this region of the US would be complete without a stop in the vibrant and eclectic city of Asheville, NC. It's known for its bohemian atmosphere and small-town charm but also for its craft beer and cuisine scenes. The city offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rafting. One of the most popular attractions is the Biltmore Estate, which was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s. It boasts the largest private estate in the country, and visitors can tour the mansion and gardens. Asheville is also home to the River Arts District, which has become an artists' haven in recent years. Festivals and street performances can be seen year-round in this city.

Conclusion

As you can see, the journey from Anderson, SC to Asheville, NC is about much more than just getting from point A to point B. There are several historical sites, outdoor attractions, and charming towns to explore. Don't rush to get to your destination and take the time to explore all that this scenic route has to offer. You won't regret it.