Top Five Places to Visit Between Burlington, NC and Knoxville, TN

If you're looking for a road trip adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and Southern charm, a journey between Burlington, NC, and Knoxville, TN, is a great choice. Along this route, you'll encounter scenic roads, charming towns, and diverse attractions that will help you create unforgettable memories. Here are our top five places to visit on this trip.

Nebo, NC: The Halfway Point

Nebo, NC, is a cozy town located almost exactly halfway between Burlington and Knoxville. It's a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab some food, and enjoy the scenic views. Make sure to check out the views of Lake James from the overlook on Route 126. If you're a fan of water recreation, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards and spend some time on the lake. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails in the nearby mountains, including the Shortoff Mountain Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views.

Blowing Rock, NC: The Charming Mountain Resort

Blowing Rock, NC, is a charming mountain resort town that is known for its picturesque downtown, excellent shopping, and stunning natural beauty. Start your visit with a walk through the downtown area, which is full of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Next, take a trip to the Blowing Rock Attraction, where you can marvel at the "Blowing Rock," a cliff that creates a steady gust of wind that will literally blow your socks off. For those who love nature, don't miss Grandfather Mountain, which is home to spectacular vistas, wildlife habitats, and thrilling adventure activities.

Asheville, NC: The Artsy Hub

Asheville, NC, is a hip and artsy city that sits amid the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a cultural hub that is known for its thriving music and arts scene, excellent dining options, and craft breweries. Take a stroll through the downtown area, where you can enjoy street performances, visit galleries, and score unique souvenirs. History buffs can visit Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion that was built in 1895 by George Vanderbilt and his family. The estate is a National Historic Landmark and features exquisite architecture, artwork, and gardens.

Gatlinburg, TN: The Tourist Hub

Gatlinburg, TN, is a bustling town that is located at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a great place to spend a day (or two!) exploring, shopping, and dining. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Dollywood, a theme park that celebrates country music and Southern culture, is also located in Gatlinburg and is a great place to experience thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious food. Don't forget to stop by the famous Moonshine Distillery, where you can sample locally-made moonshine and other spirits.

Knoxville, TN: The Lively City

Knoxville, TN, is the final destination of our road trip and is a lively city that has something for everyone. History buffs can explore the East Tennessee History Center, which features exhibits about Appalachian history, culture, and heritage. The Market Square area is a bustling hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment that is popular with both locals and visitors. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at the University of Tennessee or visit the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame. Finally, make sure to take a stroll through World's Fair Park, which was the site of the 1982 World's Fair and is now a beautiful green space with fountains and sculptures.

In conclusion, this road trip between Burlington, NC, and Knoxville, TN, is a great way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of the Southern United States. With our top five places to visit, you'll be able to create a memorable journey that is sure to be a highlight of your travels. Happy exploring!