Road Trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach
Head out on this amazing road trip of a lifetime from the big-city fun of Toronto, through famous waterfalls, and into the coastal paradise of Myrtle Beach. You'll get to experience an array of famous cuisine, cultural landmarks, and beautiful natural areas.
The 1,860 km road trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach will take 19 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Highlights include Niagara Falls, Erie, Pittsburgh, Blue Ridge Parkway, Roanoke, Charlotte, Washington DC, Richmond, and Virginia Beach en route.
This is an incredible road trip, full of memorable highlights and endless fun. Continue on below to learn about our recommended routes, where to stay, the top highlights to experience along the way.
How far is Myrtle Beach from Toronto, and how long will the road trip take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| The Blue Ridge Charlotte Route | 1,640 km | 19 hours 30 minutes |
| The East Coast Route | 1,860 km | 25 hours |
The Blue Ridge Charlotte Route will take you 1,640 km with 19 hours and 30 minutes of driving time. This route brings you through the famous Niagara Falls, through the mountains of Virginia, and into the Carolinas.
The East Coast Route is a fantastic longer journey through the forests and towns of Pennsylvania to the cities and coastline of the Carolinas. You'll drive 1,860 km with 25 hours of driving time.
Regardless of which route you take, we recommend taking 5-8 days to complete the road trip. Read on below to learn more about our recommended routes, where to rest, and the top highlights to experience on the way from Toronto to Myrtle Beach.
Best road trip route from Toronto to Myrtle Beach
The Blue Ridge Charlotte Route is abundant with forested drives. Throughout the road trip, you'll intersect dense forests filled with waterfalls and natural landmarks. There are many hiking trails throughout, so it is an ideal drive for anyone wanting to escape city life and breathe unpolluted country air.
You'll drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the USA's most scenic roads, and as you meander through the Blue Ridge Mountains, you can pull over and admire the views. With stop-offs at Pittsburgh and Charlotte, there are a few major cities to balance the trip.
The East Coast Route is an all-encompassing journey. From the adrenaline-pumping skywalk to the state forests, you'll then visit the major cities of the Mid-Atlantic, including the capital Washington DC.
From here, you'll go to the east coast and some of its most charming cities. Along this stretch of the Atlantic coast, you'll discover some of the USA's lesser known beaches. While these beaches may not be the most famous, the pristine sands and sunset views make them true hidden gems.
You'll get to know the North Carolina coast as you drive along Outer Banks National Scenic Byway and realize why it's a beach lover's dream. On top of all the plentiful beaches, there's tons of superb cuisine to sample along the way as well.
Whether you're flying into Toronto or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.
For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com.
The Blue Ridge Charlotte Route
From the beautiful city of Toronto, head south to Niagara Falls, one of the most stunning natural landmarks in America. After seeing the falls, continue south through the city of Buffalo.
Next, continue driving south to the city of Erie, PA. After exploring this beautiful stop make your way back on route to Pittsburgh.
From here, drive south to the Gaudineer Scenic Area. Continue on to beautiful Roanoke, Virginia and see one of the south's most beloved cities.
After Roanoke, head over to the famous Blue Ridge Music Center. Then, make your way to Charlotte. From the big city of Charlotte, continue on towards the coast and your destination of Myrtle Beach.
The East Coast Route
Hit the road from Toronto on the longer East Coast Route. First, make your way south to Niagara Falls, New York. After seeing the natural wonder, drive to the stunning Kinzua Bridge State Park. Then, continue on into Baltimore and finally Washington DC.
After spending time in the capital, head back on the road and drive through Virginia to Richmond. Then, head towards the coast and drive south along coastal Virginia to Virginia Beach.
Then, head further along the coast, passing cities like Ocracoke and Emerald Isle, North Carolina. Finally, continue on a little further to your destination of Myrtle Beach.
Best places to stop between Toronto and Myrtle Beach
With so much to do and see, we recommend splitting the trip up and staying in one of our recommended destinations below. That way, you'll be able to continue your journey rested and ready to explore.
Enjoy the city of bridges, Pittsburgh
Just under a third of the way along the Blue Ridge Charlotte Route is the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh is known for its famous bridges. It has the nickname ‘City of Bridges' because of the number of bridges in the city with the exact number rumored to be an amazing 446.
There's plenty to see and do in the city as well. First, visit the world-class museums. The Carnegie Science Center, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and Carnegie Museum of Art are a few examples. Not forgetting The Andy Warhol Museum, which houses a sizable collection of the Pop Art icon's art.
Next, ride the Duquesne Incline ride. It was formerly a means of transportation for employees in the nineteenth century, but today it serves as a major draw that leads to Grandview Overlook with views of the city.
Once you make it to your destination, we recommend staying at the luxurious Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel. This beautiful hotel has stylish and elegant hotel rooms with river or city views.
You can get straight into vacation-mode by visiting the Braddock's Street Side Tavern Pub on-site. There's also the Braddock's Rebellion, serving breakfast and dinner so you don't have to leave the hotel to get a fantastic meal.
This wonderful hotel is located right in downtown Pittsburgh. The hotel has the option of off-site parking or valet parking. Although you're in a busy area, you'll be pleasantly located right in the center of Pittsburgh's sights and activities.
Market Square located a short walk away. Other nearby destinations include Point State Park, the Andy Warhol Museum, the PNC Baseball Park and the fantastic Carnegie Science Center.
READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options
Visit the majestic monuments in Washington DC
Just under halfway on the East Coast Route is the nation's capital of Washington DC. This magnificent city is full of special museums and attractions that bring millions of visitors every year.
First, see the world-famous White House. Chances are you'll have to admire the White House from behind the gates. Although tours are available, not only do you have to book months in advance, but it's also difficult to get a place.
Next, pay a visit to the Lincoln National Memorial, one of the USA's most famous landmarks. An ode to the 16th President of the United States, the statue weighs 70 tons and is made from marble.
From the Lincoln National Memorial, take the mile walk to the Washington Monument. You can go take an elevator up the famous obelisk-shaped building for views of the city. We recommend booking in advance.
As the capital city, there are fantastic museums. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History are two of note. Discover nature and take a selfie inside the jaws of an extinct megalodon.
Once you reach Washington DC, we recommend staying at the luxurious and popular Club Quarters Hotel White House. You'll marvel at the newly renovated and stylish rooms and be treated by the friendly staff.
This is one of the best downtown hotels with top-notch restaurants and bars nearby. You'll be able to head right out your doorstep and be treated to the best Washington DC has to offer.
Nearby, you can easily walk to the White House Visitor Center, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial, all within a 30 minutes' walk away. The Smithsonian is just a short drive away.
Where to stay when you reach Myrtle Beach
Once you reach your destination in Myrtle Beach, we recommend staying at the fantastic Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa. Enjoy the complimentary on-site parking right when you arrive.
On top of the wonderful amenities, modern decor, and spacious rooms with beach views, you'll have access to the beach. For your meals, you can dine in the popular on-site restaurants.
If swimming in the ocean isn't your thing, you'll love the hotel's indoor and outdoor swimming pool. For more relaxation, enjoy the Hibiscus Spa, offering treatments such as couples' massages and steam rooms. There's even a fitness center with cardio equipment, exercise bikes, stair climbers, treadmills, weight machines, and free weights.
Things to see on a road trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach
There's a lot to experience on a road trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach. Below are our top highlights to experience along the way, to help you plan the perfect getaway.
The Blue Ridge Charlotte Route
- Erie, Pennsylvania - Head to Presque Isle State Park. Hike the sandy peninsula or hire a boat to make the most of Lake Erie.
- McConnells Mill State Park, Portersville, Pennsylvania - Hike and have a picnic alongside the Slippery Rock Creek. The authorities banned swimming because of swift currents, but this makes it a great white water rafting spot.
- Gaudineer Scenic Area at Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia - Lose yourself in the Monongahela National Forest. The unblemished green landscape has alluring trails like the Allegheny Trail #701.
- Warm Springs, Virginia - Book a relaxing session at the Warm Springs Pools. A historic experience, the basin was built in 1761.
- Carvins Cove Recreation Area, Virginia - There are trails for every hiking level at Carvins Cove. From the easy green circle to the double black diamond trails, there's a way for you to experience the pine forests and picturesque waters.
- Roanoke, Virginia - The neon Roanoke Star overlooks the city. You hike there at Mill Mountain Park. For tired legs stay downtown and enjoy the mountain city vibes.
- Smart View Recreation Area on Blue Ridge Parkway, Ferrum, Virginia - Having entered the Blue Ridge Parkway, you're going to see lots of overlooks to enjoy the vistas. Stop here to use the amenities and peer at the crest of Blue Ridge.
- Fancy Gap, Virginia - Further along the Blue Ridge Parkway, stay at Fancy Gap, a quaint community with boutiques and restaurants. Then, don't forget to try the Blue Ridge Music Center to hear some midday Bluegrass music.
- Cumberland Knob Recreation Area, Lowgap, North Carolina - As your trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway comes to an end, enjoy a picnic at Cumberland Knob.
- Charlotte, North Carolina - Charlotte is full of southern charm. Expect interesting neighborhoods, uptown museums, outdoor parks, and enjoyable nightlife all in one place.
The East Coast Route
- Kinzua Bridge State Park, Mt Jewett, Pennsylvania - Walk the Kinzua Bridge. A former railroad track spanning Kinzua Creek. This skywalk is 301 feet high.
- Moshannon State Forest, Penfield, Pennsylvania - SB Elliott State Park is in the heart of Moshannon State Forest and not much of a detour. Picnic, camp, or stay in a cabin amid the hardwood trees.
- Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - Understand how the Civil War transpired and follow the stages at the National Civil War Museum. Also, take a tour around the state capitol building with its remarkable architecture and grand staircases.
- Baltimore, Maryland - At 'Charm City' you can go to the Inner Harbor, where there's the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center. Walk through Fells Point for food and music.
- Richmond, Virginia - Head to the Church Hill Historic District. Here you can see antebellum houses and tour the Edgar Allan Poe Museum.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA - Admire the shoreline by walking along the boardwalk. The 3-mile stretch of oceanfront is a relaxing stroll with restaurants near.
- Nags Head, North Carolina - Visit Jockey's Ridge State Park to see the tallest living sand dunes on the Atlantic coast. Go at sunset for romantic scenes.
- Ocracoke, North Carolina - Before boarding the ferry, head to Springer's Point Preserve. You'll hike through windy trails surrounded by oak trees before reaching the sandy beach.
- Emerald Isle, North Carolina - Locals often consider Emerald Isle Beach one of North Carolina's best beaches. Go to the end of the Isle to visit 'The Point' for awesome views of the Atlantic.
- Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina - The spacious beaches of Wrightsville Beach make it a popular spot. Voted as a top beach destination in North Carolina, there are watersports and harbor cruises to enjoy.
Both Routes
- Niagara Falls, New York State - Ride the Maid of the Mist to see the famous Niagara Falls up close and personal. Famous for being the second-largest waterfalls in the world, it's a natural wonder.
Best time to go on a road trip from Toronto to Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach isn't exactly a year-round destination because of its colder winters. As a beach resort city, visitors flock during the nice weather and avoid it in winter.
Summer is very hot in Myrtle Beach. June, July, and August have average temperatures of 78 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
With clear skies and sunny weather, the summer weather is ideal for the beaches of Myrtle Beach. But this brings crowds, particularly in June and July when beaches will be crowded, and restaurants will be busy.
Plus, there's the famous Carolina Country Music Fest in June that attracts plenty of music fans to the coast.
In contrast, winter is colder. In January, February, November, and December, the average temperature is 47 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Because these temperatures are far from beach weather, it's very quiet during these months.
Many attractions don't open or operate under reduced hours. While it may not be swimming weather, for wrapping up warm and winter strolls, you'll have little to complain about as you'll have the beach to yourself plus you can enjoy the Winter Wonderland festivities during the winter months as well.
March, April, and May have average temperatures of 56 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit with polenta of wildflowers to enjoy. Rainfall is low in Spring, combined with the warmer temperatures in May it's a great time to visit with fewer crowds.
Spring is also a great time to enjoy the festivities. The Can-Am Festival runs in March. The Myrtle Beach International Film Festival is in April and to top it all off is the world-famous Blue Crab Festival in May.
September, October, and November have average temperatures of 57 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and even some fall colors. The nice weather of September makes it another good time to visit for beach activities but without the crowds and children returning to school.
