Where to Visit Driving from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

Driving from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach offers a great chance to explore charming towns, historic sites, and natural beauty along the way. Whether you want to break up your trip with fun stops or find cozy places to stay, this guide helps you plan your route with ease.

We will cover the best places to visit, where to eat, and where to stay. You’ll also get tips on travel time and how to make the most of your road trip. Let’s dive into the journey from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach!

Overview of the Drive from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

The drive from Atlanta, Georgia, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is about 330 miles and takes roughly 5.5 to 6 hours without stops. The route mainly follows I-85 North and I-26 East before connecting to US-17 South near Charleston.

This route passes through several interesting cities and scenic areas. You can enjoy a mix of urban culture, historic towns, and coastal views. Planning stops along the way makes the trip more enjoyable and less tiring.

• Typical drive time: 5.5 to 6 hours

• Main highways: I-85 N, I-26 E, US-17 S

• Best time to travel: Spring and Fall for mild weather

• Road conditions: Mostly highways with rest stops and services

Top Stops to Visit Between Atlanta and Myrtle Beach

Breaking up your drive with visits to interesting places can turn a long trip into a memorable adventure. Here are some top stops worth your time.

1. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville is a vibrant city with a lively downtown area. It’s about 2.5 hours from Atlanta, making it a perfect first stop.

• Falls Park on the Reedy: A beautiful park with waterfalls and walking trails in downtown Greenville.

• Main Street: Filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants for a nice meal or coffee break.

• Hotels: Hyatt Regency Greenville and Aloft Greenville offer comfortable stays near downtown.

2. Spartanburg, South Carolina

Just 30 minutes from Greenville, Spartanburg offers a quieter stop with some local charm.

• Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve: A peaceful spot for a short walk and fresh air.

• Chapman Cultural Center: Art galleries and theaters for a quick cultural experience.

• Hotels: Hampton Inn Spartanburg and Holiday Inn Express provide good value stays.

3. Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia is the state capital and a great place to explore history and nature.

• Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: A top-rated zoo with beautiful botanical gardens.

• South Carolina State Museum: Offers exhibits on history, science, and art.

• Hotels: Marriott Columbia Downtown and Hilton Columbia Center are popular choices.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a slight detour but worth the visit for its historic charm and coastal vibe.

• Historic Downtown: Cobblestone streets, historic homes, and waterfront parks.

• Fort Sumter National Monument: Learn about the Civil War history on a ferry tour.

• Hotels: The Francis Marion Hotel and Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District offer great locations.

Scenic Routes and Nature Stops

If you want to enjoy nature on your drive, consider these scenic stops and routes.

• Lake Hartwell: Located near the Georgia-South Carolina border, it’s a good spot for a picnic or short walk.

• Sumter National Forest: Offers hiking trails and peaceful scenery along I-26.

• Congaree National Park: Near Columbia, this park has boardwalk trails through old-growth forest.

Where to Eat Along the Way

Good food makes any road trip better. Here are some recommended places to eat in key stops.

Greenville

• Smoke on the Water: Known for BBQ and Southern comfort food.

• Sip Coffee & Beer Garage: Great for coffee, craft beer, and light bites.

Columbia

• Motor Supply Co. Bistro: Farm-to-table dishes in a casual setting.

• Cola’s Restaurant: Southern cuisine with a modern twist.

Charleston

• Fleet Landing Restaurant: Seafood with waterfront views.

• Poogan’s Porch: Classic Southern dishes in a historic house.

Best Places to Stay on the Route

Depending on your pace, you might want to stay overnight. Here are some hotel options in key cities.

Greenville

• Hyatt Regency Greenville – Downtown location with modern rooms.

• Aloft Greenville Downtown – Trendy hotel near shops and restaurants.

Columbia

• Marriott Columbia Downtown – Comfortable and close to attractions.

• Hilton Columbia Center – Good for business and leisure travelers.

Charleston

• The Francis Marion Hotel – Historic hotel in the heart of downtown.

• Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District – Modern amenities near key sites.

Travel Tips for Driving from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

Here are some practical tips to make your drive smooth and enjoyable.

• Start early: Avoid rush hour traffic leaving Atlanta.

• Plan your stops: Use the suggested stops to rest and explore.

• Check road conditions: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze for live updates.

• Pack snacks and water: Some stretches have fewer services.

• Book hotels in advance: Especially during peak travel seasons.

Exploring Myrtle Beach Upon Arrival

Once you reach Myrtle Beach, you’ll find plenty to enjoy beyond the beach itself.

• Broadway at the Beach: Shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Scenic oceanfront walk with shops and rides.

• Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Classic seaside amusement park.

• Local seafood restaurants: Try fresh shrimp, oysters, and crab.

There are many hotels and resorts in Myrtle Beach, from budget motels to luxury oceanfront resorts. Popular chains include Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn.

Conclusion

Your drive from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach can be more than just a trip—it can be a fun adventure. By stopping in cities like Greenville, Columbia, and Charleston, you get to see the best of the Southeast’s culture and nature.

Plan your route, pick a few stops, and enjoy good food and comfortable hotels along the way. When you arrive in Myrtle Beach, you’ll be ready to relax and explore the beautiful coast. Safe travels!

FAQs

How long does it take to drive from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach?

The drive usually takes about 5.5 to 6 hours without stops. Adding breaks or sightseeing can extend the trip.

What are the best cities to stop at on the way?

Greenville, Columbia, and Charleston are great stops with attractions, dining, and hotels.

Is it better to take I-85 or I-20 for this trip?

I-85 north to I-26 east is the most direct and popular route to Myrtle Beach from Atlanta.

Are there good hotels along the route?

Yes, cities like Greenville and Columbia have well-known hotels such as Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton.

What attractions can I visit near Myrtle Beach?

Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and Family Kingdom Amusement Park offer fun activities for all ages.