Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Brambleton, VA and Laurens, SC

Driving from Brambleton, Virginia to Laurens, South Carolina may not seem like a memorable trip at first glance. But hidden gems, tucked away from the highway, invite travelers to stop and enjoy unique experiences. Here are the top five places to check out on your journey!

Halfway Point: Draper, VA

Almost halfway into the trip, Draper, VA invites you to stretch your legs and discover its small-town charm. Home of the historic Draper Mercantile and Trading Company, visitors will find a lovely boutique, a restaurant, and bakery inside the two-story building dating back to 1885. The outside areas feature a garden, a creek, and an outdoor stage that hosts live music. A perfect spot to rest for a spell before continuing your adventure.

Stop 1: Blacksburg, VA - Virginia Tech Campus

After a lovely break at Draper, VA, it's time to hit the road again and continue to Blacksburg, VA. Home of the Virginia Tech Hokies, there's much to see on the Virginia Tech Campus. Strolling down the Memorial Garden pathway, with a view of the Drill Field, will remind you of the solemn remembrance of those who served. The gardens include tributes, such as Huckleberry Lane and trees for each branch of the military. It's a reflective nod before heading into the bustling, innovation-driven town of Blacksburg.

Stop 2: Roanoke, VA - Taubman Museum of Art

The road to Laurens continues with this notable destination in Roanoke, VA. A large white building growing out of the sidewalk invites you to visit its fantastic exhibits. The Taubman Museum of Art displays works of art from an array of media. Upon entering, you take in an extensive gallery room housing different artists' installations, each with a unique perspective on art. During weekends, the Art Venture room welcomes young artists to create and let their imaginations run wild.

Stop 3: Greenville, SC - Falls Park on the Reedy

A trip to Greenville, SC, is worth the detour if only to see the award-winning Falls Park on the Reedy. A suspension bridge lets visitors walk above the water and take in the view of the 28-foot waterfall. The park features lovely gardens, walking trails, picnic areas, and even a place to rent bikes to explore further. Visitors can enjoy an up-close-and-personal behind-the-scenes tour of the falls' inner workings with an experienced guide.

Stop 4: Anderson, SC - Carolina Bauernhaus Brewery & Winery

After a day of walking, sightseeing, and taking in the sights, settle down for some libations at the Carolina Bauernhaus Brewery & Winery. The rural microbrewery celebrates South Carolina's farm-to-table concept by offering unique beers and wines. They specialize in making sour ales, farmhouse-style blends, and custom fruit wines, perfect for sipping and relaxing.

Conclusion

Traveling between Brambleton, VA and Laurens, SC might not seem like a significant journey, but covering some pitstops opens the door to wondrous experiences. Draper, VA, Blacksburg, VA, Roanoke, VA, Greenville, SC, and Anderson, SC, provide culture, history, nature, and culinary delights, appealing to a wide variety of travelers. Often the joy of travel, at its best, is the journey itself, and you'll be craving another road trip before long.