Table of Contents

Iconic American Scenic Road Trip Guide: Historic South

Route: Charleston to Savannah to Jacksonville and Back

Highlights: Fort Sumter, Wormsloe Historic Site, St. Augustine
Theme: Southern Charm

---

Introduction

The Southeastern United States is a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, where the charm of the Old South meets the vibrancy of the modern world. This "Southern Charm" road trip takes you through some of the most iconic and picturesque cities of the South - Charleston, Savannah, and Jacksonville - each offering a unique blend of historic landmarks, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness. From the cobblestone streets of Charleston to the moss-draped oaks of Savannah and the historic fortresses of St. Augustine, this journey through the Historic South is designed to immerse you in the beauty and elegance of this storied region.

Personal Insights from William Stanek:
"The Historic South is a place where time seems to slow down, where every corner holds a story, and where the past is woven seamlessly into the present. Hui Cha and I have always been captivated by the Southern way of life - the gracious hospitality, the rich history, and the natural beauty that seems to envelop you at every turn. This road trip is an invitation to step back in time, to explore the historic sites that shaped our nation, and to experience the unique charm that makes the South so special. We hope this guide inspires you to discover the heart and soul of the South, from the stately mansions of Charleston to the ancient streets of St. Augustine."

---

Day 1: Charleston, South Carolina - The Heart of the South

Morning: Arrival in Charleston

• Overview: Begin your journey in Charleston, one of the most historic and charming cities in the South. Known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history, Charleston is the perfect starting point for your exploration of the Historic South. After checking into your hotel, start your day with a leisurely stroll through the city's historic district.
• Recommended Stops:
  • The Battery & White Point Garden: A historic promenade offering stunning views of Charleston Harbor, lined with antebellum mansions and shaded by live oaks.
  • Rainbow Row: A series of colorful, historic houses along East Bay Street, one of the most iconic and photographed spots in Charleston.
  • Charleston City Market: One of the oldest public markets in the country, offering a variety of local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
• Photography Tips: "Charleston is a city of timeless beauty - capture the charm of its historic streets, the vibrant colors of Rainbow Row, and the stately elegance of its antebellum homes. Early morning light is ideal for photographing the city's historic district."

Lunch Stop: Downtown Charleston

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Husk: A celebrated restaurant offering modern Southern cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, located in a beautifully restored historic home.
  2. Poogan's Porch: Known for its classic Southern dishes, including fried chicken and shrimp and grits, served in a charming, historic setting.
  3. Magnolia's: A fine dining restaurant offering a contemporary take on traditional Southern cuisine, with a menu that highlights the flavors of the Lowcountry.

Afternoon: Explore Charleston's Historic Sites

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring some of Charleston's most significant historic sites, where you can learn about the city's role in American history and its enduring legacy.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Fort Sumter National Monument: Located in Charleston Harbor, this historic fort is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Accessible by ferry, a visit to Fort Sumter offers a fascinating glimpse into the nation's history.
  • The Nathaniel Russell House: A beautifully preserved antebellum mansion known for its elegant architecture and stunning spiral staircase, offering guided tours that delve into the lives of Charleston's elite.
  • Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens: One of America's oldest working plantations, known for its beautiful gardens, historic slave cabins, and iconic oak-lined driveway.
• Photography Tips: "Fort Sumter offers unique opportunities to capture the historic fortifications against the backdrop of Charleston Harbor. The Nathaniel Russell House and Boone Hall Plantation provide beautiful interiors and exteriors for photography, with their rich history and Southern elegance on full display."

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening in Charleston, where you can dine at a local restaurant and perhaps take a ghost tour or evening carriage ride to experience the city's rich history and haunting beauty.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. FIG: A critically acclaimed restaurant offering seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients and creative, modern cuisine.
  2. The Ordinary: A popular spot for fresh seafood, including oysters, crudo, and other Lowcountry specialties, served in a stylish, historic building.
  3. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar: Offering waterfront dining with a menu that highlights fresh, local seafood, perfect for a casual and scenic meal.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Dewberry Charleston: A luxurious hotel located in a historic Federal building, offering elegant rooms and top-notch amenities.
  2. The Charleston Place: A grand hotel offering refined accommodations, a rooftop pool, and a prime location in the heart of the historic district.
  3. The Vendue: A boutique hotel known for its art-focused atmosphere, unique rooms, and rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

---

Day 2: Charleston to Savannah - The Lowcountry's Finest

Morning: Drive to Savannah

• Overview: After breakfast, set out on a 2-hour drive to Savannah, Georgia, another gem of the South known for its historic squares, moss-draped oaks, and charming antebellum architecture. The drive takes you through the scenic Lowcountry, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Angel Oak Tree (Johns Island): Visit this ancient live oak, estimated to be over 400 years old, one of the largest and most impressive trees in the South.
  • Hunting Island State Park: A beautiful barrier island offering sandy beaches, a historic lighthouse, and lush maritime forests, perfect for a quick detour and some beach time.

Lunch Stop: Beaufort, SC

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Plums Restaurant: A waterfront restaurant offering fresh, local seafood and Southern-inspired dishes with views of the Beaufort River.
  2. Lowcountry Produce Market & cafe: Known for its farm-to-table fare, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, served in a charming, market-style setting.
  3. Saltus River Grill: Offering a modern take on Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, served in a stylish, waterfront location.

Afternoon: Arrive in Savannah and Explore

• Overview: After lunch, continue your journey to Savannah, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the city's historic district, known for its picturesque squares, cobblestone streets, and stately mansions.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Forsyth Park: A 30-acre park located in the heart of Savannah, known for its iconic fountain, shaded walkways, and beautiful gardens.
  • Wormsloe Historic Site: Home to the ruins of a colonial estate, this site is famous for its breathtaking avenue of live oaks draped in Spanish moss, one of the most photographed spots in the South.
  • Bonaventure Cemetery: A historic cemetery located on the outskirts of Savannah, known for its hauntingly beautiful sculptures, ancient trees, and rich history.
• Photography Tips: "Savannah is a city of timeless beauty - capture the elegance of its historic squares, the serene beauty of Forsyth Park, and the haunting atmosphere of Bonaventure Cemetery. The soft, golden light of late afternoon is perfect for photographing the city's historic sites."

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely evening in Savannah, where you can dine at one of the city's renowned restaurants and perhaps take an evening stroll along the riverfront or a ghost tour to explore the city's haunted past.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. The Olde Pink House: A historic mansion turned restaurant, offering classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist, served in an elegant, candlelit setting.
  2. Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room: A Savannah institution known for its family-style Southern meals, including fried chicken, collard greens, and biscuits, served in a historic boarding house.
  3. The Grey: A stylish restaurant located in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, offering creative, modern dishes inspired by the flavors of the South.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Mansion on Forsyth Park: A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a prime location overlooking Forsyth Park.
  2. The Gastonian: A romantic, historic inn offering charming, individually decorated rooms and Southern hospitality, located in the heart of the historic district.
  3. The Marshall House: A beautifully restored 19th-century hotel offering elegant accommodations and a central location in downtown Savannah.

---

Day 3: Savannah to Jacksonville - A Journey Through Time

Morning: Drive to Jacksonville via St. Augustine

• Overview: After breakfast, set out on a 2-hour drive to Jacksonville, Florida, with a detour to St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States. This historic city offers a wealth of attractions, from its ancient fortresses to its charming, narrow streets.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Castillo de San Marcos: A 17th-century Spanish fortress that has withstood numerous sieges, offering stunning views of Matanzas Bay and a fascinating glimpse into the city's colonial past.
  • St. George Street: A pedestrian-only street lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the heart of St. Augustine.
  • The Lightner Museum: Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum offers a fascinating collection of art, antiques, and curiosities from the Gilded Age.
• Photography Tips: "St. Augustine's historic sites offer endless opportunities for photography - capture the imposing walls of the Castillo de San Marcos, the charming architecture of St. George Street, and the intricate details of the Lightner Museum. The morning light is ideal for photographing the fortress and the waterfront."

Lunch Stop: St. Augustine

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. The Columbia Restaurant: A historic restaurant offering classic Spanish and Cuban dishes in a beautiful, Mediterranean-style setting.
  2. The Floridian: Known for its creative Southern cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, offering a modern twist on traditional dishes.
  3. A1A Ale Works: A popular spot offering a range of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and craft beers, with views of Matanzas Bay.

Afternoon: Arrive in Jacksonville and Explore

• Overview: After lunch, continue your journey to Jacksonville, a vibrant city located on the Atlantic coast, known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and lively riverfront. Spend the afternoon exploring some of Jacksonville's key sights and attractions.
• Recommended Scenic Stops:
  • Jacksonville Beach: A popular destination offering wide, sandy beaches, a historic pier, and a lively boardwalk with shops and restaurants.
  • Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: A beautiful museum offering a diverse collection of art, as well as stunning gardens overlooking the St. Johns River.
  • Riverside & Avondale: Explore these historic neighborhoods known for their beautiful, early 20th-century architecture, boutique shops, and vibrant dining scene.
• Photography Tips: "Jacksonville's beaches offer stunning opportunities to capture the beauty of the Atlantic coast - photograph the waves crashing on the shore, the colorful sunrise over the ocean, and the vibrant life along the boardwalk. The Cummer Museum's gardens provide a peaceful setting for photography, with beautiful sculptures and river views."

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening in Jacksonville, where you can dine at one of the city's top restaurants and perhaps take a sunset walk along the riverfront or a boat tour to see the city from the water.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Orsay: A trendy restaurant offering French-inspired dishes with a Southern twist, known for its creative cuisine and stylish atmosphere.
  2. Black Sheep Restaurant: Located in the historic Five Points neighborhood, offering modern American cuisine with rooftop dining and views of the city skyline.
  3. Restaurant Medure: Offering fine dining with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a special dinner.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island: Located just outside Jacksonville, offering luxurious accommodations, a pristine beachfront location, and top-notch amenities.
  2. The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of the St. Johns River.
  3. The Riverdale Inn: A charming, historic bed and breakfast located in the Riverside neighborhood, offering cozy rooms and Southern hospitality.

---

Day 4: Jacksonville to Savannah - The Coastal Journey North

Morning: Drive Back to Savannah

• Overview: After breakfast, begin your journey back to Savannah, retracing your route along the scenic Atlantic coast. This 2-hour drive offers opportunities to stop and explore some of the charming coastal towns and natural attractions along the way.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Amelia Island: Explore this charming island known for its beautiful beaches, historic downtown area, and the historic Fort Clinch State Park.
  • Jekyll Island: Visit this scenic island known for its historic district, beautiful beaches, and the stunning Driftwood Beach, where ancient trees create a hauntingly beautiful landscape.

Lunch Stop: Savannah

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Zunzi's: A popular spot offering South African-inspired sandwiches, wraps, and bowls, perfect for a quick and delicious lunch in the heart of Savannah.
  2. Vic's on the River: Located in a historic building overlooking the Savannah River, offering Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist.
  3. Treylor Park: A trendy restaurant known for its creative take on comfort food, including unique dishes like PB&J wings and shrimp & grits tacos.

Afternoon: Explore More of Savannah

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring more of Savannah, revisiting your favorite spots or discovering new ones. Consider taking a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River, visiting one of the city's many historic homes, or simply strolling through the city's picturesque squares.
• Optional Activities:
  • Savannah Riverboat Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Savannah River, offering views of the historic waterfront, the Talmadge Bridge, and the city skyline.
  • Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace: Visit the childhood home of the founder of the Girl Scouts, offering guided tours that explore the history of the organization and the life of its founder.
  • Telfair Museums: Explore this collection of three historic buildings that house a diverse range of art, from 19th-century American works to contemporary pieces.
• Photography Tips: "Savannah's historic homes, beautiful squares, and scenic riverfront provide endless opportunities for photography - capture the elegance of the city's architecture, the vibrant life along the river, and the soft, golden light of the late afternoon."

Evening: Enjoy a final evening in Savannah, where you can dine at a local restaurant and perhaps take a ghost tour or evening stroll to experience the city's rich history and haunting beauty.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. The Collins Quarter: A popular spot offering Australian-inspired dishes and craft cocktails, perfect for a relaxed and stylish evening out.
  2. The Grey: A stylish restaurant located in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, offering creative, modern dishes inspired by the flavors of the South.
  3. Local 11ten: A farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a chic, modern setting, perfect for a special dinner.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Mansion on Forsyth Park
  2. The Gastonian
  3. The Marshall House

---

Day 5: Savannah to Charleston - The Final Stretch

Morning: Drive Back to Charleston

• Overview: After breakfast, begin your journey back to Charleston, a 2-hour drive that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Lowcountry. This final leg of your journey offers a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences you've had and the beautiful places you've seen.
• Recommended Stops:
  • Hunting Island State Park: Revisit this beautiful barrier island for a final walk along the beach, a climb up the historic lighthouse, or a short hike through the maritime forest.
  • Old Sheldon Church Ruins: Located just outside Beaufort, these hauntingly beautiful ruins are all that remain of one of the South's most historic churches, offering a peaceful and photogenic stop.

Lunch Stop: Charleston

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Leon's Oyster Shop: A popular spot offering fresh oysters, fried chicken, and Southern comfort food in a laid-back, casual setting.
  2. 167 Raw: Known for its fresh seafood, including lobster rolls, ceviche, and oysters, served in a trendy, casual atmosphere.
  3. The Daily: A chic cafe offering gourmet sandwiches, salads, and coffee, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Afternoon: Final Exploration of Charleston

• Overview: Spend your final afternoon in Charleston, exploring any areas you may have missed or revisiting your favorite spots. Consider taking a harbor cruise, visiting one of the city's many historic homes, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk through the historic district.
• Optional Activities:
  • Charleston Harbor Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise around Charleston Harbor, offering views of the city's waterfront, historic forts, and the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.
  • Aiken-Rhett House: Explore this well-preserved antebellum home, offering a glimpse into the lives of Charleston's elite and the enslaved people who worked there.
  • King Street Shopping: Spend some time exploring the boutiques, galleries, and antique shops along King Street, one of Charleston's premier shopping districts.
• Photography Tips: "Charleston's historic district, waterfront, and beautiful gardens offer endless opportunities for photography - capture the charm of the city's architecture, the vibrant life along the harbor, and the golden light of the late afternoon."

Evening: Enjoy a final dinner in Charleston, where you can reflect on your journey through the Historic South and savor the flavors of Southern cuisine one last time.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Husk: A celebrated restaurant offering modern Southern cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, located in a beautifully restored historic home.
  2. Poogan's Porch: Known for its classic Southern dishes, including fried chicken and shrimp and grits, served in a charming, historic setting.
  3. Magnolia's: A fine dining restaurant offering a contemporary take on traditional Southern cuisine, with a menu that highlights the flavors of the Lowcountry.

---

Conclusion

Reflections from William Stanek:
"This road trip through the Historic South has taken us on a journey through some of the most charming and historic cities in America, from the stately homes of Charleston to the moss-draped squares of Savannah and the ancient streets of St. Augustine. Each stop has offered a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and beauty of the South, where the past is always present and where the landscapes are as rich and diverse as the stories they tell. Hui Cha and I have always been drawn to places where history comes alive, where you can walk in the footsteps of those who came before, and where the beauty of the natural world is never far away. We hope this guide inspires you to explore the heart and soul of the South, to experience its unique charm, and to create memories that will last a lifetime."