The Best Places to Visit When Driving from Boone, North Carolina to Greenville, South Carolina

Planned a road trip from Boone, North Carolina to Greenville, South Carolina? First and foremost, congratulations on making an excellent decision! This road trip offers you a chance to explore the true essence of Southern America, from the beautiful countryside to the bustling cities. On this journey, you will witness the breathtaking beauty of nature juxtaposed with the charm of the small towns that line the route. Here are some of the top places you must check out during your North Carolina to South Carolina road trip.

Majestic Mountain Views of the Blue Ridge Parkway

If you're a lover of scenic drives, this is the ultimate place to start your road trip from Boone. The Blue Ridge Parkway, also known as "America's Favorite Drive," is a 469-mile scenic route that takes you through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. It's an ideal place for nature lovers and a perfect spot for a serene drive. The Parkway offers visitors an opportunity to experience awe-inspiring vistas throughout the year without paying a dime.

The route from Boone to Asheville is one of the most compelling drives on the Parkway. A visit to the Linn Cove Viaduct, a winding, elevated bridge, is a must-see attraction on the Parkway. As you drive across it, you'll witness fantastic views of the rugged mountain terrain of North Carolina.

Exploring the Charm of Spruce Pine

On the way from Boone to Greenville, North Carolina, you'll come across the charming town of Spruce Pine. This small town boasts unique art galleries, antique stores, and fabulous restaurants, making it one of the must-visit places on this route. Explore the historic downtown of Spruce Pine, and you'll find art galleries showcasing works by innovative artists from every corner of the country. You may even find unique pieces that you won't see anywhere else.

Visit "The Hen and Chickens," a local favorite of Spruce Pine's visitors, for some delightful Southern cuisine. This restaurant serves chicken pot pie, crab cakes, seafood risotto, and other dishes crafted from fresh farm produce. A quick stopover in Spruce Pine is a must for foodies and history buffs.

Marvel at the Waterfalls at Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest is a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers. Located just outside of Asheville, NC, Pisgah National Forest is home to over 500,000 acres of the lush green forest. Pisgah is renowned for its waterfalls, and it's striking beauty, an iconic symbol of North Carolina's beauty.

Within the forest, Slide Rock State Park is one ideal destination worth visiting, especially for adventure-seekers. It's a family-friendly state park that offers natural waterslides, rope swings, and cliff-jumping opportunities. Triple Falls, a popular Pisgah waterfall, is the famous shooting location for the movie "The Hunger Games."

Visit Flavorsome Apple Orchards of Hendersonville

Located on the southern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is known as the “Apple Capital of North Carolina." This town is home to several apple orchards that are a must-visit during the fall. You can pick your apples straight from the tree, take a tour of the orchards, and indulge in various apple treats such as apple cider, apple pies, apple donuts, and apple butter.

A visit to the Historic Johnson Farm in Hendersonville is a must-visit to delve into the rich history of the Appalachian region's apple farming. The farm has been operational since the late 1800s and offers a glimpse of apple farming's growth and development in North Carolina.

Exploring the Charming Streets of Greenville

Located in Upstate South Carolina, Greenville is the perfect southern city to end your journey from Boone. This city has earned numerous accolades for its charming streets and green spaces, and it's the perfect city to embrace the alluring Southern vibe.

A visit to Falls Park on the Reedy, located in the heart of downtown Greenville, is a must-do. It's a nature lovers paradise, with a suspended bridge overlooking a stunning waterfall and scenic walking trails. Another attraction is the Greenville Zoo, which is home to endangered species like Masai giraffes and African lions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road trip from Boone, North Carolina, to Greenville, South Carolina, offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions unique to the Southern United States. From the Blue Ridge Parkway, Spruce Pine, Pisgah National Forest, Hendersonville, and finally, Greenville, every stop offers a unique experience that you're unlikely to find anywhere else. Whether you seek adventure, history, or just an escape into nature, this road trip is undoubtedly a perfect route to satisfy your inner explorer.