South Carolina--Dash to the Atlantic
Date: 2004-12-09
Start your drive in South Carolina's state capitol of Columbia, where
you'll find an abundance of southern-style food, history, and even nightlife.
The Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens is a great place to stroll around and amuse
the children. Leaving town, take U.S. 378 and head straight for the woods
of Manchester, off Route 601. On this road, you'll drive south along the
scenic banks of Lake Marion.
Along this meandering stretch, you'll find a pleasant drive with some relaxing spots, including Santee State Park. On this route, towns are sparse, but include Lone Star, Eutawville, Cross, and a gas & grub stop in Moncks Corner. A second lake available for aquatic activities is Lake Moultrie. Head north on U.S. ALT 17 for a few miles, and you'll stumble upon Old Santee Canal State Park. Drive off the beaten path to Cordesville to find the entry to Francis Marion National Forest. From the town of Huger drive south to the North Charleston area. In this neck of the woods, two wonderful diversions are Boone Hall Plantation and the Charles Pickney National Historic site.
A brief jaunt on U.S. 17 (not ALT 17) will take you into Mt. Pleasant. On this trip, you'll finally get to see one of those places you vaguely remember from history class, Fort Sumter. You'll need to leave the car on shore and take the ferry from the tip of Charleston to the site. Speaking of boats, one of the biggest and best nautical museums is the U.S.S. Yorktown Aircraft Carrier. On this trip, Southern hospitality abounds. There are many diversions to visit on your way to the ocean. Don't miss the historic charm of Mt. Pleasant and Charleston.
Starting Point:
Columbia, SC
Distance of Drive:
160 miles
Must Eat:
A.W. Shucks Oysters
70 State Street, Charleston SC 29401
Phone:843-723-1151
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Good Stop For:Best oysters around
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring to fall
Points of Interest on Drive:
Cypress Gardens
Boone Hall Plantation
The Confederate Museum
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens and Plantation House
Karpeles Manuscript Museum
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
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