The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Arkansas to South Carolina

Are you planning a road trip? How about a drive from Arkansas to South Carolina? This journey crosses many states and covers many miles. Along the way, there are plenty of stunning sights to see, delicious food to taste, and exciting activities to experience. But where to begin? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Read on for our list of the top places to visit when driving from Arkansas to South Carolina.

The Great River Road

The Great River Road runs 3,000 miles along the Mississippi River in 10 states, including Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. A drive on the Great River Road offers a chance to see a variety of sights and landscapes, from historic towns and farms to swamps and wetlands teeming with wildlife. The road is dotted with parks, museums, and historic sites, making it a great choice for travelers interested in history and nature.

1. Arkabutla Lake – Mississippi
   As you head south from Arkansas into Mississippi, make sure to stop at Arkabutla Lake. The lake offers picnic areas, beaches, and opportunities for boating and fishing. It’s also home to the Arkabutla Lake project office, where you can learn about the history of the lake and the river.

2. Vicksburg National Military Park – Mississippi
   Take a detour to visit Vicksburg National Military Park, where you can learn about the Civil War battle that took place there. The park has a museum, battlefield tours, and a historic cemetery. In addition to its historical significance, the park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

3. Houmas House & Gardens – Louisiana
   A visit to Houmas House & Gardens is like stepping back in time. This antebellum mansion is surrounded by gardens, ponds, and waterfalls, and offers guided tours of the house and grounds. The mansion has also been used as a filming location for movies and TV shows.

Southern Food

One of the best things about a road trip through the South is the food. From barbecue to seafood to soul food, there’s something to please everyone’s taste buds. Make sure to sample some local favorites along the way.

1. The Rendezvous – Memphis, Tennessee
   No trip to Memphis is complete without a stop at The Rendezvous, a legendary BBQ joint known for its dry rub ribs. The restaurant has been around since 1948 and has become an icon of Memphis cuisine.

2. Willie Mae’s Scotch House – New Orleans, Louisiana
   Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a must-visit when in New Orleans. This family-run restaurant has been serving fried chicken for over 60 years and has been recognized with numerous culinary awards.

3. Hominy Grill – Charleston, South Carolina
   Hominy Grill is a Charleston institution, serving up classic Lowcountry dishes like shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel, and its cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

National Parks

The drive from Arkansas to South Carolina passes through many areas of natural beauty. Be sure to stop at some of the country’s most stunning national parks along the way.

1. Hot Springs National Park – Arkansas
   Hot Springs National Park is one of the smallest national parks in the country, but it packs a punch. The park is home to thermal hot springs, which have drawn visitors for centuries for their supposed healing properties. The park also offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and a historic bathhouse district.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park – Kentucky
   Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passages. Visitors can take guided cave tours or hike on one of the park’s many trails. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bats, turkey, and deer.

3. Congaree National Park – South Carolina
   Congaree National Park is one of South Carolina’s hidden gems. The park is home to one of the largest and oldest stands of old-growth hardwood forest in the Southeast, as well as a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can hike on the boardwalk trail or paddle through the park’s wilderness areas.

Music and Culture

The South is known for its rich musical and cultural heritage. Experience it for yourself with a stop at one of these must-visit destinations.

1. Graceland – Memphis, Tennessee
   A visit to Graceland is a pilgrimage for any Elvis fan. The mansion, which was Elvis’s home for over 20 years, is now a museum dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Visitors can see his famous pink Cadillac, tour the mansion, and even visit his grave.

2. French Quarter – New Orleans, Louisiana
   The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife, music, and food. Walk down Bourbon Street, listen to live jazz music, and indulge in some beignets from Café du Monde.

3. Boone Hall Plantation – Charleston, South Carolina
   Boone Hall Plantation is one of the most beautiful and historic plantations in the South. Visitors can take a tour of the mansion, stroll through the gardens, and learn about the life of the enslaved people who worked on the plantation.

Beaches

No Southern road trip would be complete without a trip to the beach. Luckily, the drive from Arkansas to South Carolina passes through some of the best beaches in the country.

1. Gulf Shores – Alabama
   Gulf Shores is a popular vacation spot, known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf waters. Visitors can swim, fish, and sunbathe to their heart’s content.

2. Panama City Beach – Florida
   Panama City Beach is another Florida beach town that draws visitors year-round. The town is home to over 27 miles of white sand beaches, as well as amusement parks, shopping centers, and nightlife.

3. Kiawah Island – South Carolina
   Kiawah Island is a more secluded and exclusive beach destination, known for its luxury resorts and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy world-class golfing, spas, and fine dining, as well as miles of uncrowded beaches.

Conclusion

A road trip from Arkansas to South Carolina offers a chance to see some of the best of what the South has to offer – from stunning natural parks to delicious Southern cuisine. Plan your journey well, and you’ll be sure to come away with memories that will last a lifetime.