While there’s a reason why places like Hunting Island State Park, Congaree National Park, and the Brookgreen Gardens are some of the most popular attractions in the Palmetto State, there’s something about those lesser-known spots that just seem to sweeten the deal. This road trip will take you to some of the most beautiful hidden gems in South Carolina, so gas up the car, pack some snacks, and have your playlist ready.

Google Maps

1. Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens Road, Cypress Gardens Rd, South Carolina 29461, USA
Joe Miklovic/Google
Cypress Gardens, 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461, USA
Stacey Loizeaux/Google
This scenic 160-acre preserve is a nature lover’s playground. From the swamp trails to the boat rides, the entire family will love exploring this scenic swampland. Cypress Gardens is also home to the largest butterfly house in South Carolina, so be sure to carve out enough time to see everything here. Take a virtual tour of the beautiful Cypress Gardens when you watch the brief YouTube video below:

2. Eudora Wildlife Safari Park

Eudora Wildlife Safari Park, 219 Salem Ln, Salley, SC 29137, USA
Mackenzie Sturkie/Google
219 Salem Ln, Salley, SC 29137, USA
David Pyle/Google
Eudora Wildlife Safari Park is a drive-thru animal safari park where you can get up close and personal with over 200 animals that call the sanctuary home—all from the comfort of your car. Be sure to purchase from feed so they’ll come up to your car and you can feed them! Curious to learn more? Watch this brief footage of the Eurdora Wildlife Safari Park and prepare to be amazed!

3. Wells Japanese Garden

Wells Japanese Garden, 1608 Lindsay St, Newberry, SC 29108, USA
Stephanie Wilke/Google

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1608 Lindsay St, Newberry, SC 29108, USA
Kat March/Google
Release your inner peace when you visit this Newberry hidden gem. The garden was built in 1930, and though it may not be the largest garden in the state, it sure is one of the most peaceful.

4. Passerelle Bistro

Passerelle Bistro, 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA
Passerelle Bistro/Google
601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA
Thom Shelton/Google
A good road trip means good food, and Passerelle Bistro not only delivers in the food category, but in the scenery department, too! The restaurant is nestled up against a lovely little waterfall, seamlessly blending nature with your dining experience. The menu covers everything from seafood to salads and sandwiches, so you can bet even the pickiest eater will find something to enjoy here.

5. Wildcat Wayside

Wildcat Wayside, 5500 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
Jay Rolin/Google
5500 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
Sarah H./Google
Many people have seen the main waterfall here, since it’s visible from the road, but you may be surprised to learn that there are two other falls along the trail! Three waterfalls for the price of one? Yes, please. To see more, you can take a virtual hike of this trail when you watch the beautiful video footage below:

6. Jones Gap State Park

David McNamara/Google
303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA
Kyle Gardner/Google
Right in the heart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, this picture-perfect state park in South Carolina boasts 3,900 acres to explore. The hiking trails that run alongside the Middle Saluda River will make you feel like you’re on an enchanting adventure through the forests. You might end up loving this park so much you'd like to extend your stay! Jones Gap State Park offers several campsites for you to pitch a tent and spend a night camping under the stars.

Would you take this road trip to the best hidden gems in South Carolina? Tell us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

From lighthouses to donuts, there are plenty of road trips in South Carolina that are perfect for the road warrior. Which one will you take next? And, before heading out on your journey, don’t forget to take a peek at our road trip essentials packing list.

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More to Explore

South Carolina Attractions

Beth C. | December 04, 2023

What are some of the most famous natural wonders in South Carolina?

South Carolina is brimming with unique natural wonders. Below you'll find a list of some of the most famous natural wonders in South Carolina:

  • Angel Oak
  • ACE Basin
  • Boneyard Beach
  • Carolina Bays
  • Congaree National Park
  • Edisto River
  • Raven Cliff Falls
  • 40 Acre Rock
  • Centennial Tree
  • Capers Island
  • Healing Springs
  • The Sandhills
  • Peachtree Rock

 

Have you ventured to any of these unique places in the Palmetto State? For more information, check out our full guide to the most incredible natural wonders in South Carolina. Prepare to be absolutely amazed!

What are some of the best hiking trails in South Carolina?

There are few things more memorable than hiking through the picturesque South Carolina landscape. From mountains to rivers, beaches and valleys, our state really has it all. Below you'll find some of the best hiking trails in South Carolina:

  • Table Rock Trail
  • Raven Cliff Falls Trail
  • Rainbow Falls Trail
  • Boardwalk Loop Trail
  • Mountain Lake via Sulphur Springs Trail
  • Oconee Station and Station Cove Falls Trail
  • Table Rock to Sassafras Viewpoint Loop
  • Pinnacle Pass Trail
  • Raven Rock Loop Trail
  • Weston Lake Loop Trail
  • Mountain Creek Trail
  • Winding Stairs Trail
  • Sewee Shell Ring Interpretive Trail
  • Cherokee Path Trail
  • Firebreak Trail
  • Three Rivers Greenway Trail
  • Columbia Canal Path

 

Curious to learn more about what makes each of these hiking trails so unique? Check out our full guide to the best hikes in South Carolina. We think you'll agree that there's something for everyone on this list!

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