If you're hitting the road from Louisville, Kentucky to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, get ready for one of the prettiest drives in the Southeast. The route along I-64 → I-75 → I-26 → I-95 → US-278 takes about 9 hours, winding through horse country, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the heart of the Lowcountry.
Instead of rushing to the beach, make the trip part of your getaway! Here are five fun and memorable stops right along the route.
1. Lexington, Kentucky – Horse Country Charm
Where: I-64 East to I-75 South, about 1 hour from Louisville
Start your journey in the Horse Capital of the World. Grab a coffee downtown or take a quick detour to Keeneland Racecourse to admire the manicured grounds and rolling bluegrass farms. The drive through Lexington offers scenic beauty and a great first leg stretch before heading into Tennessee.
2. Buc-EE's – Sevierville, Tennessee
Where: Exit 407 off I-40 East, near the I-75/I-40 split
Once you've passed Knoxville, you'll hit one of the most iconic southern road-trip stops — Buc-ee's. This Texas-sized travel center has everything: fresh BBQ, fudge, snacks, fuel, and the cleanest bathrooms you'll ever find on the interstate. It's a fun stop for both kids and adults — and a must on any Hilton Head road trip.
3. Downtown Asheville, North Carolina – Mountain Views & Local Flavor
Where: A few minutes off I-26 East
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville makes a perfect mid-journey stop. Stretch your legs with a walk through Pack Square Park, grab lunch at a local café or brewery, or snap a few mountain photos before heading east toward South Carolina. The scenic views along I-26 alone make this section of the drive unforgettable.
4. Congaree National Park – Near Columbia, South Carolina
Where: Exit 145A off I-26 East
Just south of Columbia lies Congaree National Park, one of the Southeast's best-kept natural secrets. This peaceful forest features elevated boardwalk trails beneath towering bald cypress trees. It's a quiet, shaded place to relax, stretch, and recharge before your final drive to the coast.
5. Old Town Bluffton, South Carolina – Gateway to Hilton Head Island
Where: Just before US-278 bridge to Hilton Head
Before you cross onto Hilton Head Island, make one last stop in Old Town Bluffton. Wander through local art galleries, browse the boutiques, and enjoy a Lowcountry meal under the moss-draped oaks. This charming riverside town is the perfect way to ease into island time.
Welcome to Hilton Head Island!
After your final bridge crossing, the palm trees sway, the salt air greets you, and vacation officially begins. Whether you're settling into an oceanfront villa, pet-friendly cottage, or luxury family home, you've arrived at paradise.
Start planning your Hilton Head getaway today — browse our vacation rentals-- and turn your road trip into the first chapter of your island adventure.
