Points of Interest between Bay Springs, Mississippi to Columbia, South Carolina

picture of Bay Springs, Mississippi

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See when driving from Bay Springs, Mississippi to Columbia, South Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Bay Springs, Mississippi to Columbia, South Carolina? This drive covers approximately 650 miles and offers beautiful views of the South. The route takes you along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, which offers stunning vistas of rolling hills, lakes, and historic sites. To make the most of your journey, we’ve put together this list of the top places to see. Buckle up and let’s hit the road!

Explore History and Nature along the Natchez Trace

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic route that follows a historic trail used by Native Americans and early European explorers. Along the way, you’ll find well-preserved historic sites, recreation areas, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi countryside. Here are some of our favorite spots to see:

  1. French Camp Historic Village: Step back in time at this living-history museum. You’ll see log cabins, a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and other buildings that date back to the 19th century.

  2. Tupelo National Battlefield: Learn about the Battle of Tupelo during the Civil War, which took place on July 14 and 15, 1864. You can drive or hike along the tour road to see historic markers and interpretive signs.

  3. Natchez Trace Parkway Information Center: This is an excellent place to start your journey. You’ll find exhibits on the history and ecology of the area, as well as a bookstore and gift shop.

  4. Jeff Busby Campground: This campground is located atop one of the highest points along the Natchez Trace Parkway. You’ll find scenic views of the surrounding area and a great spot for stargazing.

Visit Alabama's Music Capital and The Rocket City

The next leg of our journey takes us through northern Alabama. This area is known for its rich musical heritage, aerospace industry, and beautiful outdoor parks. Here are some must-see attractions:

  1. Muscle Shoals Music Trail: Visit the recording studios where famous musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and Bob Dylan recorded some of their biggest hits. Take a guided tour of FAME Studios, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

  2. U.S. Space and Rocket Center: Located in Huntsville, this museum showcases the history of America’s space program. You’ll see rockets, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits that appeal to kids and adults alike.

  3. Monte Sano State Park: This park is located just east of Huntsville and offers camping, hiking, and scenic views. The park is known for its extensive trail network, which includes the 1.5-mile Stone Cuts Trail that winds through massive boulders.

  4. Desoto State Park: This park is located near the border with Georgia and offers hiking, camping, and adventure sports like rock climbing and mountain biking. The park features a 104-foot waterfall, several natural swimming holes, and a variety of cabins and campsites.

Experience the Charm of the Palmetto State

Our final destination is Columbia, South Carolina, the capital of the state. This city is known for its beautiful downtown area, historic sites, and delicious Southern cuisine. Here are some of the top places to see in Columbia:

  1. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: This zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, as well as a variety of gardens and educational exhibits. Highlights include the African Plains exhibit, the Sea Lion Landing, and the botanical garden.

  2. South Carolina State House: This beautiful building is the seat of the state government and features impressive architecture and artwork. Take a guided tour of the interior to see historic portraits, impressive murals, and valuable statues.

  3. Columbia Museum of Art: This museum houses an extensive collection of American and European art, as well as traveling exhibits. Highlights include works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Sandro Botticelli, and Claude Monet.

  4. Congaree National Park: Located just outside of Columbia, this park is home to one of the last remaining old-growth forests in the United States. You can hike or canoe through the park to see towering trees, abundant wildlife, and a wide variety of plant life.

Conclusion

Driving from Bay Springs, Mississippi to Columbia, South Carolina, is a journey that offers a broad range of experiences, from historic sites and scenic vistas to modern museums and thriving cities. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and enjoy the journey!