You can make Charlotte to Myrtle Beach in about 3.5 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 185 miles on US-74 and US-501, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable close to the park gates.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Charlotte
Aim to clear Charlotte before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 72 miles to Rockingham.
The headline stop on this route is Rockingham Speedway. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Rockingham
Rockingham sits about 72 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Conway's Riverwalk is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Conway, the last stretch
Conway sits about 170 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Rolling into Myrtle Beach
The final 15 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Broadway at the Beach; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen Rockingham Speedway, Conway's Riverwalk and Broadway at the Beach, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Myrtle Beach, SC is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along US-74 and US-501 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
