Budget-Friendly Family Adventure Road Trip: Nesmith, SC to Ark Encounter

Day 1: Explore Columbia

Columbia, South Carolina

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Start your adventure with a hearty American breakfast at The Diner, known for its pancakes and warm hospitality.
Located just 15 minutes from Nesmith, take US-52 North.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

After breakfast, head to Riverbanks Zoo, where the kids can enjoy learning about animals while you relax in the beautiful garden area.
Drive 10 minutes from the diner to the zoo.
USD64 (Family of 4), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Drip Cafe

Recharge with a delicious lunch at Drip Cafe, sampling their fresh salads and sandwiches.
A quick 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD40, 1 hour

2:30 PM

South Carolina State Museum

Enjoy the interactive exhibits at the South Carolina State Museum, perfect for curious minds and an educational experience.
Just a 5-minute drive from the lunch spot.
USD32 (Family of 4), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Check-in at Hampton Inn Columbia Downtown Historic District

Relax at the Hampton Inn, which offers family-friendly amenities including a pool and complimentary breakfast.
The hotel is 10 minutes from the museum.
USD120, Check-in process 30 minutes

6:30 PM

Dinner at Columbia's The Whig

Enjoy family-style dining at The Whig, a laid-back eatery known for its burgers and fries.
A 6-minute drive from the hotel.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 2: Scenic Knoxville

Knoxville, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Big Ed’s Pizza

Fuel up with delicious breakfast pizza at Big Ed’s, a local treasure known for its unique offerings.
Drive to the diner about 10 minutes from the hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Ijams Nature Center

Explore the beautiful trails at Ijams, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature in a family-friendly setting.
Drive approximately 15 minutes from the diner.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Tomato Head

Enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch at The Tomato Head, known for its creative pizzas and salads.
Just a 10-minute drive from Ijams.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Knoxville Museum of Art

Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art where kids can enjoy craft sessions while appreciating the art.
A quick drive of 5 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Holiday Inn Knoxville

Settle into your comfortable room at Holiday Inn, which has a pool for relaxation after a busy day.
Drive about 10 minutes from the museum.
USD115, Check-in process 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Calhoun's On The River

Have dinner with a view at Calhoun’s, savoring barbecue delights that the whole family will enjoy.
A scenic 15-minute drive along the water.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Visit Ark Encounter

Williamstown, Kentucky

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cracker Barrel

Start your final day with a classic Southern breakfast at Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle dishes.
A quick 10-minute drive from the hotel in Knoxville.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Ark Encounter

Enjoy a scenic drive to the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, known for its life-sized Noah's Ark replica.
Drive about 2 hours on I-75 North.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Ark Encounter

Visit and marvel at the incredible craftsmanship of the Ark while enjoying interactive exhibits that engage the entire family.
On the grounds of the Ark Encounter.
USD120 (Family of 4), 3 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at The Emzara's Kitchen

Savor a buffet-style lunch at Emzara's Kitchen, located conveniently at the Ark Encounter for a hassle-free dining experience.
Right inside the Ark Encounter complex.
USD60 (Family of 4), 1 hour

3:30 PM

Continue exploring Ark Encounter

Wrap up your visit with remaining attractions and ample photo opportunities, instilling lasting memories.
Stay in the Ark Encounter grounds.
Included in the entrance fee., 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at local restaurant

End your day with a family dinner at a local family-friendly restaurant, reminiscing about your adventures.
Explore local options close to Ark Encounter.
USD50, 1 hour
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