Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bonneau, SC and Boiling Spring Lakes, NC
If you're looking for an adventure on the road, there's no better way to experience it than by taking a drive from Bonneau, South Carolina, and Boiling Spring Lakes, North Carolina. The route's distance is approximately 270 miles and takes roughly 5 hours to complete, but the drive offers breathtaking views of the Carolinas' landscapes. Not only that, but the route is dotted with a lot of unexpected and exciting places to explore. In this article, we will take a look at five of these places.
Halfway Point: Murrells Inlet, SC
Before we embark on our journey, it is worth mentioning that our halfway point is Murrells Inlet, located in South Carolina. This charming town is a great place to stop and unwind for a bit. With plenty of seafood restaurants and bars, Murrells Inlet offers delicious seafood and a spectacular waterfront view.
1. Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet, SC
Brookgreen Gardens is the first place to visit on our road trip. This unique attraction comprises of several landscaped gardens and a sculpture garden that hosts more than 2,000 pieces of American art pieces spread over 9,000 lush acres. From breathtaking fountains and colorful flowers to fascinating sculptures and live oak trees, Brookgreen Gardens offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Apart from that, the on-site zoo and butterfly house are also worth exploring.
Top eats: There's nothing better than grabbing a bite at Harvest Kitchen, located within Brookgreen Gardens. With a farm-to-table theme, the restaurant offers delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups along with refreshing teas and fresh juices.
2. Ruby City Gems and Minerals, Franklin, NC
Our second stop is Ruby City Gems and Minerals located in Franklin, NC. This place is home to an extensive collection of minerals, fossils, and gemstones, including rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. Visitors get to learn about the history of different minerals and enjoy various exhibitions. Ruby City Gems and Minerals are perfect for those who appreciate natural and rare beauty.
Top eats: For a quick bite, head to Caffe' REL. This cozy Italian restaurant offers delicious paninis, salads, and coffee.
3. South of the Border, Hamer, SC
South of the Border is a must-stop attraction, only 30 miles south of Fayetteville, NC on I-95 and located in Hamer, SC. This vibrant roadside attraction offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and activities that celebrate Mexican culture. From a giant hat tower to a reptile lagoon, the place offers an incredibly unique and entertaining experience. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs and gifts.
Top eats: Grab a bite at Sombrero Restaurant for excellent Mexican cuisine, such as fajitas and enchiladas.
4. Devil's Gut Preserve, Columbia, NC
Devil's Gut Preserve is a hidden gem located in Columbia, NC. It is a remarkable place with swampy marshlands, rivers, and creeks, home to a variety of rare birds, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can indulge in an outdoor adventure by taking a hike or a guided tour of the preserve.
Top eats: A quick drive to Pamlico Jack's in Nags Head, NC, offers a fantastic seafood menu featuring crab cakes, clam chowder, and oysters.
5. Occoneechee Mountain State Park, Hillsborough, NC
Our final stop is Occoneechee Mountain State Park located in Hillsborough, NC. This beautiful mountain park offers a stunning view of the coastal plain's surrounding area and its diverse geological features. Visitors can hike over five miles of trails and explore rare plant formations and the mountain's many caves.
Top eats: Drive over to Dunlap's in Durham, NC, and try their famous hot dog with a beer.
Conclusion
The Carolinas offer an abundance of natural beauty and interesting stops to create an unforgettable road trip experience. Our top five picks shouldn't be the only places you stop to explore. We hope this guide has inspired you to #RoadTrip the Carolinas and make the most out of your journey.