Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burnet, Texas and Wilmington, North Carolina
Driving from Burnet, Texas, all the way to Wilmington, North Carolina, is a journey filled with beautiful landscapes, fun pit stops, and great experiences. Spanning over 1,200 miles, this road trip is well worth the time and effort, offering unique opportunities that are not to be missed. A midway point, Eutaw, AL., is both a historical and geological wonder and an interesting stop for history buffs.
Top Five Things to do:
Visit Antelope Canyon, AZ:
Antelope Canyon, AZ, has some of the most breathtaking natural geological formations in the world, let alone the US. What looks like a dreamlike landscape is a result of thousands of years of wind and water erosion. The canyon has two sections, the upper and lower, with the less-explored lower section being a favorite of photographers and visitors alike. The colors are vivid and the light plays in a way that creates a magical atmosphere.
Fun Fact: Antelope Canyon is sacred to the Native Americans who have lived in the region for centuries. They believe the canyon is a place of worship and communicate with the Great Spirit here.
Explore San Antonio, TX:
San Antonio is a jewel of Texas with a rich cultural heritage that's over 300 years old. Among the city's claims to fame are the legendary Alamo fort, which houses the state's most historic battlefields, the lush River Walk that's lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. It's ideal for a romantic walk, an afternoon jog, a night out with friends, or a relaxing bike ride.
Fun Fact: San Antonio is home to the world’s largest cowboy boots, standing at a towering 30 feet tall!
Marvel at Bonita Springs, FL:
If you want to soak in the sun, sand, and sea, Bonita Springs is the perfect destination. Located in southwest Florida, the small town offers pristine beaches, scenic rivers, and wildlife conservation centers. Head down to Bonita Beach Park for a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico, or go shelling at Barefoot Beach Preserve.
Fun Fact: Bonita Springs was once known for its thriving shell business, with over 60 million pounds of shells being sent to factories in the early 19th century.
Get a Rush at Gatlinburg, TN:
Gatlinburg, TN is known for its picturesque mountain views, budget-friendly hotels, and being a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town offers impressive attractions, including the famous Gatlinburg Skybridge, the Space Needle, and the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway that reaches heights of 11,000 feet.
Fun Fact: Gatlinburg is home to the largest Winnebago RV dealership in the world, with more than 35,000 square feet of space.
Discover the History of Wilmington, NC:
The final stop of this journey is Wilmington, NC, and there's so much history to uncover! Take a stroll down the stunning Riverwalk, which traces the banks of the Cape Fear River, or visit the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial, a World War II-era battleship that now acts as a museum. For literature enthusiasts, tour the city that inspired Nicholas Sparks' famous novel The Notebook.”
Fun Fact: The battleship featured in the movie "Iron Man 3" was filmed in Wilmington.
Conclusion:
The road trip from Burnet, Texas, to Wilmington, North Carolina, is an epic journey that is filled with memorable experiences and interesting pit stops. The trip takes approximately 20 hours and can be broken down into shorter legs if necessary.
Whether you're exploring the natural wonders of Antelope Canyon, soaking up the sun at Bonita Springs, or discovering the rich history of Wilmington, this drive has something special for everyone. So, pack your bags, fill your tank, and head on this journey of a lifetime!