The Ultimate Road Trip: Carthage, NC to College Park, GA
Are you ready for an adventure? If you're planning a road trip from Carthage, North Carolina to College Park, Georgia, you're in for a treat. This route offers plenty of scenic views, quirky roadside attractions, and delicious food stops. Whether you're driving solo or with your loved ones, here's what to expect:
The Distance
The distance between Carthage, NC and College Park, GA is approximately 400 miles, depending on the route you choose. The shortest route takes you through Durham, Greensboro, and Charlotte, while the longer route goes through Asheville, Greenville, and Atlanta.
Route 1: The Short and Sweet Drive
If you're short on time, take the first route, which covers about 404 miles. Start on US-15 S and then merge onto I-40 W. Continue on this highway for about 60 miles before taking exit 270 for US-15 S/US-501 S toward Durham. Then, take Exit 276 for NC-54 W/US-501 S. Follow US-501 South towards Greensboro. After Greensboro, you'll take the I-85 South. Drive on it for about 30 miles before taking exit 55 B to merge onto US-29 S/US-70 W toward downtown Charlotte. Continue following US-29 S/US-70 W all the way down towards Atlanta, Georgia.
This route takes around 7 hours and 10 minutes if you're driving without stopping. We suggest breaking it up with several stops along the way.
Route 2: The Scenic Route
If you have a little more time on your hands, we recommend the longer route that not only takes you through cities, but also countryside scenery. This route takes about 444 miles, but the extra miles are worth the extra time. Take I-40 west towards Asheville, North Carolina. While you're in the area, stop for a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or if you fancy, an epic mountain adventure at Chimney Rock, a popular state park that boasts a 315-foot mountain. After Asheville, follow I-26 West towards Greenville, South Carolina. Here, you can stop at Falls Park on the Reedy, a beautiful park with suspension bridges and cooling waterfalls. From Greenville, take I-85 South towards Atlanta, GA and you'll be on track for College Park.
This route takes approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes without stopping but having some magical experiences in North Carolina and South Carolina is worth the detour.
Time-Management Tips
To make the most of your time on the road, we recommend leaving early in the morning so you can avoid traffic and enjoy the scenery. Plan your rest stops in advance and research some local attractions or restaurants along the way. That way, you'll be able to sample several delicious dishes and explore unique spots along your journey.
Must-Visit Attractions
As you make your way from Carthage to College Park, here are some top attractions you won't want to miss:
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina: Drive along one of the most scenic roads in America, with plenty of lookout points for stunning mountain views.
Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC: A sprawling 8000-acre estate with a grand house, gardens, a winery, and more.
Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville SC: A picturesque park with a waterfall, suspension bridge, and walking trails.
The Varsity, Atlanta GA: A famous drive-in restaurant that has been serving up classic American fare since 1928.
Your journey from Carthage to College Park is sure to be filled with memorable moments and exciting experiences. Safe travels and have fun!