Knoxville to Myrtle Beach: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Spanning 395 miles of Appalachian curves and coastal plains, the drive from Knoxville to Myrtle Beach takes roughly 6.5 hours via I-40 E and I-26 E, then US-17 S. This route crosses the Eastern Continental Divide at the North Carolina border, where raindrops may fall toward the Atlantic rather than the Gulf. The journey descends from the Great Smoky Mountains to the strand, passing through vibrant cities and quiet farmlands.

This guide covers how long to drive Knoxville, TN to Myrtle Beach, SC (approximately 6–7 hours without stops), and helps you decide if it's worth driving Knoxville, TN to Myrtle Beach, SC. We highlight the best stops between Knoxville, TN and Myrtle Beach, SC, including natural landmarks and family-friendly attractions. For additional tips, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The route passes the Blue Ridge Mountains, Congaree National Park (2 hours from I-26), and the coastal wetlands of the Waccamaw River. Congaree boasts old-growth floodplain forest and boardwalk trails. Near Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park offers unspoiled beaches.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: None directly on route, but the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a 1-hour detour from Knoxville. Consider a quick visit to view ancient mountains and biodiversity.

Local Commerce & Culture: Small towns like Spartanburg, SC and Florence host antique shops and local diners. At Myrtle Beach, the Boardwalk features souvenir shops and seafood restaurants. Support local by visiting the State Farmers Market in Columbia.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: Plan stops every 2 hours. Ideal rest areas: the Tennessee Welcome Center on I-40 (mile 421) and the South Carolina Welcome Center on I-26 (mile 5). Both have clean facilities and picnic areas.

Family and Child Suitability: Kid-friendly stops include the Hands-On Museum in Asheville, the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. Myrtle Beach is a classic family destination with amusement parks and waterparks.

Pet-Friendly Framework: Many rest areas accept pets on leash. Pet-friendly hotels include La Quinta and Red Roof Inn. Check the website of the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for pet-friendly attractions.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: The Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville to Cherokee is a scenic alternative. In South Carolina, the historic town of Cheraw offers antebellum architecture. Near Myrtle Beach, the secluded North Myrtle Beach trails are peaceful.

• Craggy Gardens – Wildflowers in bloom (May–June)
• Landsford Canal State Park – Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies (May–June)
• Hampton Plantation State Historic Site – Rice plantation history

Culinary Infrastructure: From Knoxville barbecue to Myrtle Beach seafood, the route offers diverse cuisine. Must-try: biscuit sandwiches from Maple Street Biscuit Company in Knoxville, and local oysters from the Waccamaw River.

The optimal route is I-40 E from Knoxville to Asheville, then I-26 E to Columbia, SC, continuing on I-20 E and I-95 S before US-17 S to Myrtle Beach. An alternative scenic route via US-74 and NC-9 is longer but rewards with mountain panoramas.

Fuel and Route Economics: Gas prices average $3.50/gallon, costing around $55 for a standard sedan. Interstate rest areas are frequent; recommend filling up in Asheville and Florence, SC. Avoid fuel stops near tourist-heavy Myrtle Beach for better prices.

• Knoxville to Asheville: 1 hour 50 min (113 mi) – I-40 E
• Asheville to Columbia: 2 hours 30 min (150 mi) – I-26 E
• Columbia to Florence: 1 hour 15 min (80 mi) – I-20 E/I-95 S
• Florence to Myrtle Beach: 1 hour 30 min (75 mi) – US-76 E/US-17 S

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: Interstates are well-maintained; watch for fog in mountain sections near the Pisgah National Forest. Roads in South Carolina are mostly flat. Construction zones common on I-26; check traffic apps.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures (60–75°F) and vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot in the Carolinas, with sudden thunderstorms. Winter may bring snow in mountains; roads are cleared promptly.