Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, Ohio and Concord, North Carolina

Driving from Canton, Ohio to Concord, North Carolina has its fair share of long stretches with beautiful scenery. The trip covers a distance of approximately 590 miles. Driving without any stops, it would take about 9 hours, not including unexpected traffic delays. However, there are plenty of exciting and unexpected places to break up the monotony of the drive. A road trip presents a perfect opportunity to explore unseen locations, try new cuisine, take in local art, and experience unfamiliar attractions. This article will reveal five unexpected places that should be visited when driving from Canton, Ohio to Concord, North Carolina.

The halfway point of this trip is in Beckley, West Virginia. The best thing about Beckley is that the visitor can experience the town's true southern hospitality. Beckley is full of roadside culinary delights, local artwork, and attractions. For anyone driving to or from Canton, Ohio or Concord, North Carolina, Beckley should be listed as a must-stop destination.

1. Mountain Lake Lodge

Mountain Lake Lodge sits within Giles County, Virginia, just outside Blacksburg. It offers an incredible opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's stunning views, and the serene setting will make any visitor feel at peace. Explorers can indulge themselves in the vast array of activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing in the nearby lake area. The main attraction is a hiking trail leading to McAfee Knob, a majestic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lodge itself has fully stocked kitchens, an indoor heated pool, and a hot tub where travelers can take a dip and relax after a long drive. Visitors should not leave without trying the delicious homemade pizzas with pulled pork toppings.

2. The Greenbrier Resort

Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, this luxurious resort has welcomed the likes of Presidents, celebrities, and royalty. The resort is full of activities, including a luxurious spa, boutique shopping, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and fine dining at an affordable price. The Greenbrier also houses a world-class casino offering various gaming opportunities such as Blackjack, poker, and slots. Visitors should not leave without trying the Greenbrier's famous buttermilk biscuits.

3. Dinosaur Kingdom II

In Natural Bridge, Virginia, explorers can experience a unique blast from the past along the I-81 route. Dinosaur Kingdom II offers a world where humans, dinosaurs, and other prehistoric creatures co-exist. The park features creature exhibits and animatronic dinosaurs. The park also includes mysteries such as ancient ruins, trails, and pirate coves. Visitors should try the Dino-Bites – fun-sized, dino-shaped mac and cheese.

4. The Lost Sea Adventure

The Lost Sea Adventure is located in Sweetwater, Tennessee. This is the world's largest underground lake and provides an excellent opportunity to explore the caves and take a boat ride. Guests can take a guided tour of the caves, search for gems at the near-by mining company, and experience the authentic and original moonshine. Visitors should not leave without trying the famous BBQ sandwich.

5. The Billy Graham Library

The Billy Graham Library, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a must-stop visit for anyone looking to explore North Carolina's culture. The museum allows visitors to learn about the heart of American evangelicalism with a pleasant and relaxing feeling of spirituality. Visitors should engage in some shopping at the Ruth's Attic Christian bookstore. Visitors should also satisfy their hunger cravings with a homestyle southern-style meatloaf dish.

In conclusion, this route offers a fantastic road trip experience that can be tailored to every traveler's taste. Starting off in Canton, Ohio to Concord, North Carolina, there are a plethora of unique locations to visit. The journey can be heightened by stopping at unexpected places where visitors can indulge themselves in the local culture, food, and scenery along the way. Taking a road trip on this route is genuinely a once in a lifetime experience, and there is no other way to truly experience everything that this part of the country has to offer.