South and North Carolina Day Trips to Encourage You to Explore

The Carolinas are home to many quaint towns just waiting to be explored. Some are large, some are small, but all are filled with plenty of southern charm. Living at The Cliffs, you not only have access to all seven of The Cliffs’ communities and their respective amenities — you also have the benefit of enjoying each community’s central locations across three distinct regions; the Asheville Region, Mountain Region, and Lake Region. As a resident of The Cliffs, below is our list of ideas for South and North Carolina day trips to encourage you to get out there and explore your local communities. All you need is a map and a mind for adventure.

1. The Asheville Region – North Carolina Day Trips

Not far from The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, the town of Asheville is by far one of the most popular North Carolina day trips on our list. Even if you already live here, indulge in a staycation and allow yourself to rediscover the wonder of this town and its people. When it comes to Asheville, you truly get the best of both worlds — an exciting city with plenty to do and breathtaking scenery with lots to see. 

The French Broad River

Just a short drive from downtown Asheville is the French Broad River. It is the local spot for fishing, tubing, and kayaking. Surrounded by craggy mountains and canopies of trees, floating down the French Broad is a great way to spend a sunny, summer day.

River Arts District 

Get to know what makes Asheville so special at the River Arts District. Take in the sights as you encounter eclectic and artsy individuals with a passion for arts and crafts. Make sure you pick up a souvenir, like a piece of jewelry or painting, to remember your time here!

The Asheville Kitchen

Asheville is known as a foodtopia, another reason why the town is consistently voted as one of the top North Carolina day trips. Take advantage of the culinary talent that can be found here by taking a cooking class at The Asheville Kitchen. 

2. The Mountain Region – South and North Carolina Day Trips

Traversing both North and South Carolina are the Blue Ridge Mountains, a famous mountain range that has inspired generations of music and art, with its own traditions and culture. Hendersonville, Flat Rock, and Greenville are the three towns surrounding The Cliffs at Mountain Park, The Cliffs at Glassy, and The Cliffs Valley. 

Flat Rock Playhouse

A popular outing is a show at the local theater, Flat Rock Playhouse. Purchase tickets to a show and support your community artistic endeavors. Get there a little early to stroll the adjacent gardens before heading inside.

Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery

Sip on craft hard ciders and spirits as you listen to live music on the beautiful patio at the Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery.

Sky Top Orchard

Visit Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock for an afternoon of strolling through apple orchards and snacking on fresh, warm apple cider donuts. 

Greenville Zoo

See giraffes, lions, orangutans, and red pandas up close at the Greenville Zoo. Situated on 14 acres, this zoo is beloved by locals and visitors alike!

Victoria Valley Vineyards

Sign up for a private tasting and try new wines at Victoria Valley Vineyards. Wander about the French inspired property as you learn about their wine-making process. 

Alchemy Comedy

Stop by Coffee Underground for one of their weekly improv comedy shows for a laugh. 

Blue Ox Hatchet House

Have you ever tried axe throwing? Check out the Blue Ox Hatchet House at Taylor’s Mill. Afterwards, head over to the restaurant and brewery, also located in the mill. 

3. The Lake Region – South Carolina Day Trips

Within South Carolina’s Oconee and Pickens counties, the trio of lake communities at The Cliffs at Keowee Springs, The Cliffs at Keowee Falls, and The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards offer an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Just outside these gates, there’s even more bucolic small-town charm to be discovered in Clemson, Walhalla, Seneca, Salem, and Six Mile. 

Elkmont Trading Company

Even if you’re no Daniel Boone, you can still look the part with quality apparel, footwear, fishing gear, backpacks, and hiking equipment from this independent outfitter in Clemson.

The Esso Club

From vintage memorabilia on the walls, to a menu loaded with classic favorites like calabash chicken tenders and sauced-up barbecue sandwiches, this authentic old-school sports bar has been the locals’ go-to spot since 1933.

South Carolina Botanical Gardens

Dedicate at least a few hours to exploring the garden’s diverse collection of spaces that includes gardens dedicated to butterflies, wildlife habitats, perennials, camellias, and other flora.

Stumphouse Tunnel Park and Issaqueena Falls

Treat yourself to this historic landmark’s 1,617 feet of tunnel, which cuts a scenic path towards the stunning cascades of Issaqueena Falls.

Oconee History Museum

Learn a little more about the area’s rich heritage through the museum’s collection of cultural and interactive exhibits on railroads, agriculture, and industry.

Ram Cat Alley

Wander downtown Seneca’s main thoroughfare in search of unique treasures — and a fantastic meal — from locally operated merchants and restaurants.

Blue Ridge Arts Center

Seneca’s old church structure, built in 1882, also happens to be home to this volunteer-run arts center. A gallery, classroom studio, and art library provide plenty of ways to enjoy art.

Devils Fork State Park

Grab your rod and reel because this 622-acre reserve at the edge of Sumter National Forest is known for its abundance of rainbow trout. For a change in scenery from the shimmering waters of Lake Keowee, take a dip in 300 feet of refreshingly crisp, clear water, kept cool year-round by rivers flowing in from the surrounding mountains.

Jocassee Valley Brewing Company

Belly up to the bar and sample a wide range of regional craft beers and delicious food truck offerings.

The Scoop

Think you’ve got what it takes to conquer the Six Mile High Sundae? Drop by this family-owned ice cream shop to find out!

The Happy Berry

The Happy Berry, where the best kind of blueberries, figs, blackberries, grapes, muscadines, and persimmons come straight from the vine.

Exploring Luxury Living at The Cliffs

South and North Carolina day trips are part of the culture. Consider The Cliffs as your personal, all-inclusive getaway at all times. Within each community alone you will find top tier golf courses, high-end amenities, and exclusive events. These nearby towns simply add to the list of things to do — what more could you ask for? 

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