Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Canal Winchester, Ohio to Raleigh, North Carolina

Canal Winchester, Ohio and Raleigh, North Carolina are more than 450 miles apart, and it is a long trip, but driving gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sceneries, stop at different places, and experience great adventures. Some of the popular attractions on the way include scenic routes, hiking trails, specialty museums, and eateries. The halfway point of the trip, Princeton, WV is a city located in the southern portion of the state. This town offers tourist attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor recreation.

Scenic Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-see attraction that spans from Virginia to North Carolina. The parkway offers travelers breathtaking views of rolling hills, endless forests, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can hike in a variety of trails that offer different challenges, including the easy Flat Top Trail and the more strenuous Sharp Top Trail. A great feature about the Blue Ridge Parkway is it is free and open every day of the year. Adventure lovers will also find camping sites, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.

Interesting fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is often considered America’s favorite drive and one of the country’s best scenic routes. The parkway spans 469 miles and intersects with 4 national forests. It attracts millions of visitors every year.

Natural Scenery at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of West Virginia’s premier destinations. It offers a variety of outdoor adventures for people who appreciate natural beauty, thrill-seeking, and contemplation. The park is a haven for hikers, bird watchers, rock climbers, and water enthusiasts. The towering New River Gorge Bridge is a popular attraction and offers a stunning view of the park. Additionally, there are several designated overlooks to appreciate the beauty of the park from different viewpoints.

Interesting fact: The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is home to more than 1,500 plant species, including the flowering rhododendron.

Visit the Birthplace of Bluegrass Music at the International Bluegrass Music Museum

The International Bluegrass Music Museum is located in Owensboro, Kentucky, and it is a must-visit destination for music lovers. The museum is dedicated to all things bluegrass and visitors can witness the history of bluegrass music through interactive exhibits, a Hall of Fame recognizing bluegrass music industry leaders, and the video oral history project. If music is not in your interests, there are also art and science museums to visit in Owensboro.

Interesting fact: The museum creators’ believed that Owensboro was an excellent location due to the southern Appalachian region being the center of bluegrass music. In 2018, the facility moved to its current site, featuring a larger space for performances, concerts, and educational lectures.

Stroll through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Sarah P. Duke Gardens is located in the heart of Durham, North Carolina, and is an example of how a garden can be both tranquil and educational. The garden itself is more than 55 acres and divided into four sections, each designed to showcase various plant life. Visitors can stroll through various gardens that range from native plants to exotic orchids and water lilies. Children will love discovering the Discovery Garden, which offers interactive exhibits designed to teach them about gardens and nature.

Interesting fact: Duke Gardens was founded in 1934 by Dr. and Mrs. Frederic M. Hanes in honor of their daughter Mary Duke Biddle. They donated money from the family’s estate of Duke University to create a research lab and the touristic gardens.

Experience the Historic Carriage Tours

Travelling through Onslow County, North Carolina and searching for new adventures? A great stop is the historic carriage tour located in New Bern. New Bern historic tours offer a flashback of history as they drive visitors throughout the town to see the different landmarks. The tours highlight various locations, including the Tryon Palace, created in the 18th century, and the New Bern Academy, which was designed in the 19th century. There are different carriage rides, including morning and evening tours, and the visitors will be able to appreciate the house gardens and historical backgrounds.

Interesting fact: New Bern is the second oldest town in North Carolina. It was originally founded in 1710 by the Swiss and German immigrants led by Baron Christopher de Graffenried. New Bern was named after the city of Bern in Switzerland.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Canal Winchester, Ohio to Raleigh, North Carolina offers an array of enjoyable stops that provide a window to some of America’s beautiful sites, historical backgrounds, and entertainment options. When planning the trip, people should make sure to enjoy the halfway point at Princeton that teems with natural beauty, outstanding scenery, and adventure opportunities. The route and chosen attractions offer visitors a mix of various experiences, adventure styles, and entertaining options. It should take roughly 8 hours and 30 minutes to finally arrive in Raleigh.