Road Trip from Carrboro, NC to Washington, DC: The Best Things to Do
Overview
The road trip from Carrboro, North Carolina to Washington, District of Columbia is a scenic drive that spans across 276 miles and offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions to explore. The halfway point of the trip is Petersburg, Virginia, which is a historic town with a rich history to explore as well.
Top 5 Things to Do
Visit the National Mall
The National Mall is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the United States, and for a good reason. This vast park is home to some of the most significant memorials and monuments in the country. Highlights include the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial. Visitors can explore the expansive park on foot or rent a bike to speed up the process.
Interesting Fact: The National Mall was originally designed as a promenade in the style of the Champs-Élysées in Paris.
Explore the Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian Museums are a collection of 19 museums and galleries that offer a diverse range of exhibits that cater to every interest. Some of the most popular museums include the National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum, and the African American Museum.
Interesting Fact: The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 with an endowment from James Smithson, a British scientist.
Watch a Show at the Kennedy Center
If you're interested in experiencing a cultural masterpiece, the Kennedy Center is the place to go. The vast complex is home to an array of theaters and performance spaces that host world-class shows and events. From ballet to theater, concerts to opera, the Kennedy Center has something for everyone.
Interesting Fact: The Kennedy Center is a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, who championed the arts during his administration.
Visit the United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the legislative center of the US government and is an impressive building to explore. Visitors can take a tour of the building to learn about its history and inner workings. In addition, visitors can attend a session of the Senate or House of Representatives for a unique insight into American politics.
Interesting Fact: The cornerstone for the US Capitol was laid by George Washington in 1793.
Take a stroll in the National Arboretum
The National Arboretum is an expansive park that offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of Washington DC. The park is home to over 400 acres of gardens, forests, and hiking trails that offer stunning views across the city. Highlights include the Capitol Columns, National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, and the Grove of State Trees.
Interesting Fact: The National Arboretum was established in 1927 and was the first federal tree collection in the country.
Conclusion
The road trip from Carrboro, NC to Washington, DC is an unforgettable journey that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to explore. The trip takes around five hours without any stops, but visitors should plan to take their time to enjoy and explore all of the incredible sights and experiences that this route has to offer. From world-class museums to historic monuments, there's something for everyone on this road trip.