Road Tripping from Burlington, ON to Cary, NC

Are you ready for an adventure? Whether you’re travelling for a family vacation, business trip, or just for some good old-fashioned sightseeing, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options for your trip from Burlington, ON, to Cary, NC.

Option 1: The Direct Route

For the fastest route, take I-90 W then I-79 S and I-77 S. This will take approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes to complete and covers a distance of approximately 997 miles. While the direct route offers the fastest travel time, it is also the least scenic.

Option 2: The Coastal Route

If you’re looking for a scenic drive with lots of opportunities for sightseeing, then the coastal route is for you. Start by taking the I-90 W and then head towards the I-88 W. Along the way, you’ll pass through Albany, NY, and Scranton, PA. Go south using either I-81 S or I-95 S, driving through several coastal states, including Maryland, Virginia, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, before finally arriving in Cary, NC. This route may be longer than the direct route at approximately 1,130 miles but offers a unique and beautiful road trip experience.

Option 3: The Mountain Route

For the most scenic route, the mountain route also takes longer than the direct route, but the breathtaking views are worth the extra time. Begin by driving south on the I-90 W, then take the I-86 E to I-380 S, making your way towards Virginia before hitting the scenic route of Skyline Drive. This scenic road runs over 100 miles through the Shenandoah National Park, giving you plenty of chances to make stops and take in the majestic views. After Skyline Drive, drive to Raleigh, NC, and finish your journey by arriving in Cary, NC. The distance of this route is approximately 1,182 miles, and the time it takes is roughly 19 hours.

Where to stop along the way

Regardless of which route you choose, there are plenty of unique and charming places to visit along the way. Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers scenic towns like St. Michaels and Easton, while Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. As you near the end of the trip, stop at the Raleigh City Museum or the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, NC. Before reaching Cary, enjoy the greenery at the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve or take in some history at the Page-Walker Hotel and Cary Heritage Museum.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, your road trip from Burlington to Cary is sure to be an exciting journey full of great memories. Whether you want to take the direct route or the scenic route, make sure to take plenty of breaks, enjoy the sights, and have fun exploring along the way. Happy travels!