Myrtle Beach to Winston-Salem Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive

The drive from Myrtle Beach, SC to Winston-Salem, NC covers roughly 190 miles via US-501 and I-73, taking about 3.5 hours without stops. This route traces the fall line where the coastal plain meets the Piedmont, a geological transition visible in the changing topography. The old railroad town of Latta, SC, marks the exact midpoint, known for its historic depot that now serves as a museum.

This guide answers how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, ensuring you don't miss the best stops Myrtle Beach, SC to Winston-Salem, NC offers. Planning is key to answering the question: is it worth driving Myrtle Beach, SC to Winston-Salem, NC? The answer is a resounding yes, as you'll discover.

The journey begins in the coastal sands of Myrtle Beach, passing through longleaf pine forests near the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. Around Hamlet, NC, the terrain rises into rolling Piedmont hills, with abundant hardwood forests and clay-red soil. The highest point is near Rockingham, NC, at about 400 feet elevation. The route cuts through the edge of the Uwharrie National Forest, but the main highway stays west of the forest. Look for roadside stands selling boiled peanuts and peaches in season from May to September.

• Natural Attractions: Carolina Sandhills NWR (exit US-501 at McBee, SC), Uwharrie National Forest (near Biscoe, NC)
• Local Commerce: Downtown Dillon, SC (antique shops), Hamlet Depot Museum (free), Seagrove Pottery Trail (slight detour west on NC-705)
• UNESCO Sites: None directly on route; the Moravian Church settlements in Old Salem (Winston-Salem) are a tentative UNESCO site

The primary route is US-501 west from Myrtle Beach to Marion, SC, then I-73 north to Winston-Salem. US-501 is a four-lane divided highway with occasional traffic signals in small towns. I-73 is a modern Interstate with rest areas every 30 miles. The entire route is well-paved and maintained.

• Highways: US-501, SC-9, I-73, I-74, US-220
• Toll Roads: None
• Rest Areas: Mile marker 2 on I-73 (South Carolina welcome center), mile marker 60 (Biscoe rest area in NC)
• Gas Stations: Abundant every 15-20 miles along US-501 and I-73

The route is generally safe with low crime and well-lit at night. US-501 has some at-grade intersections, so watch for crossing traffic. I-73 is divided and smooth. For families, the South Carolina Welcome Center on I-73 has clean restrooms and a play area. For fatigue management, plan stops every 90 minutes at towns like Latta, SC (mile 45) and Rockingham, NC (mile 110). The drive is pleasant and not overly long, making it suitable for families with children. Pets are welcome at most rest areas; leash laws apply. Consider a break at the Latta Nature Center (exit 76 off I-73) for a short walk.

• Rest Zones: I-73 rest areas at mm 2 and mm 60; Latta town park
• Pet-Friendly: All rest areas allow leashed pets; pet-friendly hotels in Rockingham
• Hidden Off-Route Spot: The Moonlight Pottery in Seagrove (10-min detour) offers free studio viewing
• Family Activities: Discovery Place KIDS in Rockingham (hands-on exhibits)