The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Anderson, South Carolina and Easley, South Carolina

Anderson, South Carolina and Easley, South Carolina are small cities located in the western part of the state. While both cities hold their own charms, sometimes it’s nice to hit the open road and go on a little adventure. This road trip offers a mix of attractions for both the nature lover and history buff. There’s something for everyone in the family, including the midway point of Piedmont, SC, where visitors can take a break and stretch their legs.

1. Visit the Greenville Zoo

Located just a short 25-minute drive south from Easley, the Greenville Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to get up close to over 300 animals representing 100 species. The zoo also features a children’s zoo with a farm animal exhibit and a playground area. Animal lovers of all ages will appreciative this opportunity to reconnect with the natural world.

Interesting fact: The zoo was established in 1960 and one of its most well-known animals was a gorilla named Mac, who lived there from 1963 until 1998.

2. Take a Hike in Paris Mountain State Park

Just a twenty-minute drive north of Greenville lies Paris Mountain State Park. Visitors can immerse themselves in stunning natural beauty by taking a hike along one of the many trails, fishing in one of the four park lakes, or taking a swim in the park’s swimming area. Adventure-seekers can also paddle away the day in canoes, kayaks or pedal boats!

Interesting fact: The park was established during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

3. Explore the South Carolina State Museum

Less than an hour away from Anderson and Easley lies the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia. The museum is the largest in the state and features exhibits on art, history, culture, and science. Visitors can see fossils, manuscripts, and event take a virtual trip through space!

Interesting fact: The State Museum includes a planetarium with a dome measuring 55 feet in diameter, making it the largest planetarium in the Southeast.

4. Step Back in Time at Cowpens National Battlefield

Located halfway between Anderson and Easley, Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates a crucial battle during the Revolutionary War. Visitors can walk through the battlefield, see life-sized displays, and even watch reenactments. For history buffs looking for an immersive experience, Cowpens is definitely worth the trip.

Interesting fact: The battle at Cowpens was fought on January 17, 1781, and was a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

5. Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Lake Hartwell State Park

Located just a 25-minute drive from Anderson, Lake Hartwell State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can swim, boat, fish, hike or just relax and soak up the beautiful surroundings. With over 56,000 acres and 962 miles of shoreline, Lake Hartwell is one of the largest man-made lakes in the country, offering ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

Interesting fact: Lake Hartwell is located on the border of South Carolina and Georgia and is the third-largest lake in the state.

This road trip offers a little bit of everything for everyone, from the urban excitement of the Greenville Zoo to the historical significance of Cowpens National Battlefield. Whether you are looking to relax or seeking adventure, the five attractions highlighted make for a fun and memorable road trip. The trip is approximately three hours long, which leaves plenty of time for travelers to enjoy some of the best sights and sounds that South Carolina has to offer.