Scenic Road Trip from New York City to Mount Pleasant, SC: A 4-Day Journey

Day 1: Philadelphia & Wilmington Exploration

New York City, NY to Philadelphia, PA to Wilmington, DE on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel, NYC

Start your trip with a classic New York bagel loaded with cream cheese, lox, or your favorite toppings. This spot is loved for its authentic bagels and fresh ingredients.
USD12, 0h30m

9:00am

Drive to Philadelphia, PA

Head southwest on I-95 for approximately 95 miles to Philadelphia, a city rich with American history and vibrant culture.
USD30 (approximate toll and gas), 1h45m

11:00am

Visit Independence National Historical Park

Explore the birthplace of America, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, open 9am-5pm. It’s a must-see for history buffs.
USD0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Enjoy an eclectic and delicious lunch at one of the city’s premier food halls, featuring local favorites like Pennsylvania Dutch dishes and Philly cheesesteaks.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Wilmington, DE

Continue your drive south along I-95 for about 30 miles to Wilmington, DE, a charming city on the Delaware River.
USD10 (approximate toll and gas), 0h40m

3:15pm

Visit Nemours Estate

Tour the stunning French-style mansion and gardens of Nemours Estate, open until 5pm, offering insight into the grandeur of early 20th-century estates.
USD20, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Green Room

Dine in this award-winning Wilmington restaurant known for its seasonal contemporary American cuisine and stylish ambiance.
USD40, 1h30m

7:00pm

Overnight stay in Wilmington, DE

Rest up in a comfortable hotel such as the Hotel du Pont, located centrally for convenience.
USD150, Overnight
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Day 2: Richmond, VA Highlights

Wilmington, DE to Richmond, VA on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Manna Restaurant, Wilmington

Enjoy a healthy, locally inspired breakfast with fresh, organic ingredients to start your day.
USD18, 1h

8:45am

Drive to Richmond, VA

Travel approximately 260 miles south via I-95, enjoying scenic views along the way.
USD40 (gas and tolls), 4h15m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Roosevelt

Taste Southern-inspired dishes at this cozy, acclaimed Richmond eatery, highly regarded for seasonal and local fare.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Spend the afternoon at one of the country’s top comprehensive art museums, open 10am-5pm, which hosts an outstanding collection of American and international art.
USD0, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along the Canal Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Richmond’s historic canal area, with scenic views and public art installations.
USD0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Lemaire

Savor refined Southern cuisine with fresh ingredients in an elegant setting within the Jefferson Hotel.
USD45, 1h30m

8:30pm

Overnight stay in Richmond, VA

Choose a downtown hotel such as The Jefferson Hotel for comfort and historic charm.
USD180, Overnight
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Day 3: Arrival in Mount Pleasant, SC

Richmond, VA to Mount Pleasant, SC on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Perly’s, Richmond

Indulge in a modern Jewish deli experience with creative breakfast options to fuel your day for travel.
USD18, 1h

8:15am

Drive to Mount Pleasant, SC

Journey approximately 410 miles south on I-95 and I-26 toward the Charleston area, approximately 6.5 hours drive.
USD50 (gas and tolls), 6h30m

3:00pm

Check-in and relax

Arrive at Mount Pleasant, settle into your accommodation such as The Harbour Inn, located close to historic sites and waterfront views.
USD200, Rest

4:30pm

Visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Explore the historic aircraft carrier USS Yorktown and other naval exhibits, open until 5pm, a great introduction to coastal history.
USD25, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shem Creek Bar & Grill

Enjoy fresh seafood with scenic creek views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for your first evening in Mount Pleasant.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Return to NYC

Mount Pleasant, SC to New York City, NY on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Page’s Okra Grill

Relish classic Southern breakfast dishes in a cozy, friendly setting before the long drive back.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Start drive back to New York City

Return via interstate highways for approximately 670 miles, allowing for rest stops and meals along the way.
USD65 (gas and tolls), 10h

12:00pm

Lunch stop near Richmond, VA

Quick bite at a recognizable chain or local diner to recharge during your drive.
USD15, 0h45m

6:30pm

Dinner stop near Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy a final meal at a comfortable roadside restaurant or diner to end the journey before the last leg into New York City.
USD20, 1h

9:00pm

Arrive in New York City

Complete your memorable road trip with an evening arrival back home.
USD0, Rest
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