Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Bardstown, Kentucky to Charleston, South Carolina
Are you ready for a road trip filled with historical landmarks, lush parks, and top-rated museums? From Bardstown, Kentucky, to Charleston, South Carolina, this trip will take you through breathtaking scenery and compelling destinations.
Did you know? The route from Bardstown, KY to Charleston, SC is approximately a 605-mile trip and takes around 9 hours to complete.
Halfway point, Candler, NC: Candler is a small community located in the mountainous region of North Carolina, recognized for its outstanding scenic views, outdoor recreation trails, and homestyle cuisine.
This route is the perfect excuse to hit the road. Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, here are the top five attractions that you can't miss along the way.
- Mammoth Cave National Park - Located in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, this national park is famous for its more than 400 miles of natural underground limestone caves, breathtaking scenery, and guided tours. Visitors can explore the vast subterranean world of the caves or take a guided walk/hike on the park's above-ground trails.
Point of interest recommendation: The park offers self-guided tours, but it’s best to opt for a guided tour for a full experience.
- Asheville, North Carolina - Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its stunning mountain scenery, progressive arts culture and the Biltmore Estate. It’s also home to the Appalachian Trail, a 2,180-mile trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine.
Point of interest recommendation: The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately-owned house in the United States, and it is a must-visit attraction.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers over 500,000 acres of awe-inspiring natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park's many cascading waterfalls, vibrant fall foliage, and historic cabins.
Point of interest recommendation: The park is also home to Cataloochee Valley, where visitors can observe elk grazing in the meadows.
- Chattanooga, Tennessee - Known for its location along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is a city that boasts historical sites, museums, and adventure activities. The most popular attraction is the Tennessee Aquarium, which houses over 12,000 animals.
Point of interest recommendation: For adventure seekers, don’t miss out on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. It offers breathtaking views of the city, the Tennessee River, and Lookout Mountain.
- Charleston, South Carolina - Known for its rich history, pristine beaches, and southern charm, Charleston is an ideal final destination. The city boasts a vibrant and colorful past, and there is plenty to do for history buffs. Visitors can also take a stroll through Charleston's renowned parks, gardens, and beaches.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a horse-drawn carriage tour through the city's historic district to learn about its fascinating past.
In conclusion, the Bardstown, Kentucky to Charleston, South Carolina road trip is a journey well worth embarking on if you love adventure, history, and nature. There are a plethora of attractions to discover along the way. With a travel time of around 9 hours, you have enough time to explore each attraction in-depth while still having time for those impromptu stops along the way. Pack your bags and get ready to hit the road for one of the most scenic and fun-filled adventures of your life!