Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip between Charlotte, NC and Griffin, GA
Are you planning a road trip between Charlotte, North Carolina and Griffin, Georgia, and looking for some interesting places to stop along the way? Look no further! Here are the top five places to visit on this route.
Fair Play, SC: The Halfway Point
Fair Play, SC, is the perfect halfway point between Charlotte and Griffin, about 120 miles from each city. It's a small town located on the banks of Lake Hartwell, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a break from driving and enjoy a picnic by the lake, go fishing, or rent a boat and explore the water.
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is one of the largest lakes in the Southeast, spanning over 56,000 acres and 962 miles of shoreline. It's perfect for all kinds of water activities, such as boating, fishing, kayaking, or swimming. You can also hike or bike on the nearby trails or visit the Hartwell Dam and Visitor Center to learn more about the area's history and wildlife.
The Beacon Drive-In
The Beacon Drive-In is a South Carolina institution and a must-visit for any road trip. It's been serving hot dogs, burgers, and milkshakes since 1946, and it's still going strong. The restaurant is famous for its "A-Plenty" combo, which includes a burger, fries, and onion rings served on a tray with a drink and a slice of homemade pie.
Seneca, SC: The Gateway to the Mountains
Seneca, SC, is located just 10 miles north of Fair Play and serves as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a charming town with a rich history and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Issaqueena Falls and Stumphouse Tunnel
Issaqueena Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just a few miles outside of Seneca. Legend has it that a Native American maiden named Issaqueena disguised herself as a man to warn early settlers of an impending attack, and she managed to fool the attackers by jumping off the falls on her horse. Another nearby attraction is the Stumphouse Tunnel, an unfinished railroad tunnel that was abandoned during the Civil War. You can take a tour of the tunnel and learn about its history and the engineering challenges that were faced.
South Carolina Botanical Garden
The South Carolina Botanical Garden is a 295-acre garden and nature preserve operated by Clemson University. It features over 4 miles of trails, numerous gardens, and a center for learning about the natural history of the area. You can take a guided tour, attend a workshop, or simply stroll through the gardens and enjoy the scenery.
Athens, GA: The College Town
Athens, GA, is a vibrant college town located about 65 miles southeast of Seneca. It's home to the University of Georgia, a thriving music scene, and plenty of art and cultural events.
The Georgia Museum of Art
The Georgia Museum of Art is located on the University of Georgia campus and features a collection of over 11,000 works of art. The museum showcases American paintings, decorative arts, and works on paper, as well as European art from the Renaissance to the present day. Admission is free, and the museum is closed on Mondays.
The Tree That Owns Itself
The Tree That Owns Itself is a unique landmark in Athens, GA. Legend has it that a professor at the University of Georgia deeded the tree and the surrounding area to itself in the 19th century, granting it legal protection. The tree still stands today, and visitors can marvel at its unusual status and take photos next to it.
Madison, GA: The Antebellum Gem
Madison, GA, is a charming town located about 30 miles south of Athens. It's known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and its historic downtown area.
The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center
The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center is a multi-purpose arts facility housed in a historic building that was once a school. It features art galleries, a theater, and a ballroom, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. You can check their calendar to see what's on during your visit.
Heritage Hall
Heritage Hall is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Morgan County, GA. It features exhibits on topics such as agriculture, industry, and the Civil War, as well as a research library and archives. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Griffin, GA: The Gateway to the South
Griffin, GA, is the final stop on our road trip, located about 55 miles southeast of Madison. It's a charming Southern town with a rich history and plenty of local attractions.
The Griffin-Spalding County Historical Society
The Griffin-Spalding County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of local history. They operate a museum that features exhibits on various aspects of Griffen's past, including industry, transportation, and the Civil War.
The Doc Holliday Museum
The Doc Holliday Museum is dedicated to the life and legend of the infamous Wild West figure who spent his final days in Griffin, GA. The museum features artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Holliday's life, as well as memorabilia from the movies and TV shows based on his story.
In conclusion, a road trip between Charlotte, NC and Griffin, GA can be a fun and interesting adventure with plenty of things to see and do along the way. From the natural beauty of Lake Hartwell to the antebellum charm of Madison, GA, there's something for everyone on this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the best of the South!