There’s something about taking the first of 2024 spring day trips in the Carolinas that will make the familiar feel new again. Taking delight in the annual cycle of regeneration, we may feel more compelled to adopt an open mind toward places we may have heard about but never visited, experiences we may have snickered at but never tried for ourselves, or food we may have ogled at longingly (here’s looking at you, deep-fried Twinkie), but never indulged in.
These 2024 spring day trips are dedicated to breaking out of whatever cave we may have grown accustomed to during our winter hibernation and taking the road less traveled.
Boardwalk strolling between train trestles in 12,000 Year History Park, Cayce, SC | Photo credit: @scottychis80 (Instagram)
A Spring “Daycation” in Cayce, SC — #1 of 2024 Spring Day Trips
Once known as the historic colonial village of Granby, Cayce was poised to become a titan in the South Carolina port and trading industry before Columbia rose to success. If we’re choosing between the two for 2024 spring day trips destinations, however, Cayce easily takes the win.
Encompassing 12 miles, the Cayce Riverwalk winds alongside the Congaree River and grants an instant respite from the pace of bigger cities. Consider it the ideal “daycation” destination for picnicking, bird-watching, and outdoor adventures. The trails offer hours of hidden surprises in the form of public art displays, low-lying boardwalks, and captivating views.
The Timmerman Trail is a favorite among return visitors, and warmer weather means you may encounter alligators or snakes meandering along Congaree Creek. Timmerman cuts through the 12,000 Year History Park, a site that sheds insight on 18th-century trade practices, Native American ways of living, and a battle that took place on the grounds during the Civil War.
In town, the Cayce River Arts District (CRAD) is abuzz with creative energy amid years of revitalization. Once abandoned buildings have now been painted over with three-dimensional murals. Buildings that once housed railroad workers now serve as antique shops and pottery studios. It’s easy to lose track of time roaming from one beautifully restored building to the next.
Most Cayce restaurants are clustered along two roads that intersect close to the Cayce Riverwalk and CRAD: State Street and Knox Abbott Drive. For a mid-afternoon cup of joe, head to Piecewise Coffee, a place that will instantly make you feel like you’re in your neighborhood coffee spot.
Aerial shot of Weaverville NC at sunset | Photo credit @curvetheory (Instagram)
A Creative Retreat in Weaverville, NC
The flowers are in bloom, and so are your hopes and 2024 spring day trips plans for the future! Tap into your creative faculties on an artistic escape in Weaverville, NC, just ten minutes north of Asheville. The area is bursting with inspiration to fuel your next project.
Pop into Main Street shops like Artisans on Main, a living, breathing local artists’ workshop and gallery (it’s also the best place to get a Weaverville NC souvenir!) Curtis Wright Outfitters can equip you with fly fishing gear, falconry experiences, and guide services, while Maggie B’s Wine & Specialty Store takes care of the “important” provisions for your day trip. Don’t miss out on their sunburst trout dip, jalapeno pimento cheese, and organic wines.
As you make your way downtown, prepare to encounter a carousel of global flavors. Soba Sushi and Noodles provides the best sushi and sashimi in the area, while Glass Onion serves fresh pasta and homemade desserts. For an unforgettable pastry, duck into the Well-Bred Bakery & Cafe – a local favorite with an all-day breakfast menu, perfect for a coffee pick-me-up or sweet tooth fix!
The last weekend of April is one of the best times to visit, with the Weaverville Art Safari offering free, self-guided driving tours to various art studios around town. Let your inspiration marinate as you discuss your favorite pottery, fiber art, furniture, and glass works. A craft beer flight from Eluvium Brewing or Zebulon Artisan Ales will get those creative juices flowing.
Speaking of Zebulon – Weaverville is home to one of the most controversial figures in North Carolina's political history. A tour of the Zebulon B Vance Birthplace State Historic Site thrusts visitors into the daily experiences of people enslaved by the Vance family, and the looming Blue Ridge Mountains provide an ideal backdrop for contemplation.
Gearing up for the NASCAR Racing Experience! | Photo credit @richardpettydrivingexperience (Instagram)
Speed into 2024 Spring Day Trips in Concord, NC
It makes sense that the speed lovers' headquarters of Concord, NC one of the fastest-growing residential areas and tourist destinations in the state. In just a day, you can race to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, which hosts the annual Coca-Cola 600 on May 26, 2024.
There are plenty of fun things to do on non-racing days. Go for the wildest ride of your life on the NASCAR Ride Along, or take the wheel into your own hands on the Richard Petty Driving Experience! Less-experienced or younger riders can test their driving skills on the 0.65-mile kart track (no driver’s license required!)
If you’re more of an observer, the NASCAR Hall of Fame will entertain for hours with its flashy memorabilia, driver narratives, and insights into owning a team and working as a crew member. The Mustang Owner’s Museum – one of Concord's best-rated things to do – showcases more than 25 classic, racing, and modified Mustangs. Admiring these pristine pony cars may get your heart racing as fast as a NASCAR race!
Feeling like Concord is worth a weekend trip? Stay at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park – the biggest indoor family water park and resort. Your kids will thank you and, very likely, beg incessantly to return.
What does a day pass get you access to? Watch your kids burn through their energy reserves on the four-story water treehouse, whitewater rafting slides, and tandem waterfall drop. Out of the water, you can take part in bowling, ropes course challenges, arcade games, and magical quests. Check the website for deals and discounts!
