Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Midwest to Southeast Road Trip: Michigan → Kentucky → South Carolina → Georgia

Viewed by 105 travelers

Day 1: Chesaning, MI → Williamstown, KY (Ark Encounter)

Morning: Depart early from Chesaning and drive approximately 7 hours to Williamstown, KY. Stop for a quick coffee and stretch at the scenic Fort Knox Visitor Center along I‑75.

Afternoon: Arrive at the world‑famous Ark Encounter, where you can explore the massive life‑size replica of Noah’s Ark and its interactive exhibits. Allocate at least two hours to fully experience the museum, wildlife park, and themed dining.

Evening: Check into a comfortable local inn, then wander the charming Williamstown Historic Downtown for dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying views of the Ohio River at sunset.

Find Hotels

Day 2: Williamstown, KY → Travel to South Carolina

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out on the 8‑hour drive toward South Carolina. Take a brief detour to visit the historic Great Saltpetre Cave near Harrodsburg for a quick guided tour.

Afternoon: Continue the journey, stopping for lunch in Knoxville, TN, where you can explore the vibrant Market Square. Resume travel, crossing into the Blue Ridge Mountains for scenic vistas.

Evening: Arrive in the vicinity of the Fred Symons Chapel in South Carolina and check into a nearby boutique hotel. Relax with a stroll through the surrounding woods before a quiet night’s rest.

Find Hotels

Day 3: Fred Symons Chapel & Nearby Attractions

Morning: Begin with a reflective visit to the Fred Symons Chapel, a beautiful stone sanctuary known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning stained‑glass windows. Spend time meditating or attending a brief service.

Afternoon: Explore the adjacent Congaree National Park, taking a short hike on the Boardwalk Loop to admire the ancient floodplain forest and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the park’s scenic trails.

Evening: Return to town for dinner at a local farm‑to‑table restaurant, then enjoy a sunset walk along the nearby Broad River, where you can capture photos of the water reflecting the evening sky.

Find Hotels

Day 4: South Carolina → Augusta, GA

Morning: Depart early for the 2‑hour drive to Augusta, GA. Upon arrival, head straight to the historic Augusta Riverwalk for a leisurely stroll along the Savannah River.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Augusta National Golf Club (exterior view only, tours by reservation) and explore the Museum of the Masters to learn about the tournament’s legendary history. Grab a light lunch at the nearby Frog Hollow Tavern.

Evening: Dine at a celebrated Southern eatery in downtown Augusta, then cap the night with a relaxed walk through the beautifully illuminated Historic Summerville District, soaking in the local culture.

Find Hotels

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Ark Encounter – 2.5 hours – $45 admission
  • Williamstown Historic Downtown – 1 hour – Free
  • Great Saltpetre Cave – 1 hour – $12 tour
  • Fred Symons Chapel – 1 hour – Free
  • Congaree National Park – 3 hours – $5 vehicle entry
  • Augusta Riverwalk – 1 hour – Free
  • Museum of the Masters – 1.5 hours – $10 admission
  • Dining (average per day) – 3 hours – $60
  • Accommodation (3 nights) – – $450
  • Fuel (≈ 1,200 mi @ $3.80/gal, 25 mpg) – – $182
  • Total Estimated Cost: $764

Tips

To extend the trip, add a full day in the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and a visit to Asheville’s vibrant arts scene. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the detour to Great Saltpetre Cave and combine Days 2 and 3 by visiting the Fred Symons Chapel early on Day 2, then head straight to Augusta on Day 3. Both options keep travel comfortable while still capturing the highlights of each region.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version