Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Medford, Massachusetts

A road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Medford, Massachusetts, is a long and exciting journey! With a distance of around 718 miles, the journey itself can take between 11-12 hours, but it's worth every minute. The trip is dotted with picturesque towns, breathtaking views, and plenty of opportunities to eat and drink delicious food. The halfway point of Newark, Delaware, is a great stop for a break and provides the chance to stretch out your legs before getting back on the road.

Top Five Things to do on the Road Trip

1. The College of William and Mary, Virginia

Founded in 1693, The College of William and Mary is the second-oldest college in America after Harvard. It is an excellent place to spend a few hours, wander the grounds, and learn some history. The college has a beautiful colonial campus with impressive academic buildings, and the architecture is stunning. A must-visit is the Wren building, which is the oldest college building in the United States. Don't forget the beautiful Sunken Garden, where students have traditionally enjoyed studying.

Fun fact: The college played a significant role in the formation of the United States of America. Many alumni went on to become prominent founding fathers, including Thomas Jefferson, John Tyler, and James Monroe.

2. Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland, and it's a charming and picturesque town with many sightseeing and entertainment opportunities. The town has a rich maritime history and offers a plethora of activities related to the water, including sailing and boat tours. A walk around the town is a must-do activity, admiring the colonial architecture, and visiting some of the museums that show the town's maritime history. Another highlight of a trip to Annapolis is the Naval Academy, which is open to the public for tours.

Fun fact: Annapolis played a key role in the American Revolution, hosting Congress and signing the Treaty of Paris in 1783, ending the Revolutionary War.

3. West Point, New York

West Point is the United States Military Academy, which is located in the small town of West Point, New York. The academy, which was founded in 1802, has some of the most beautiful views in the country overlooking the Hudson River. Visiting the cadet chapel is a must, with its gothic architecture and stained glass windows, it's a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture. The West Point Museum, which is open to the public, is also worth a visit and showcases the history of the academy.

Fun fact: The US Military Academy's hockey team is the only NCAA Division I program that sells beer at its games- and proceeds go towards the cadet's social acitivites.

4. Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, is a foodie paradise, and with its cobblestone streets, it's a classic New England destination. The town is famous for its lobster, and one of the most popular attractions is having an authentic Maine lobster dinner right on the waterfront. The town is also home to several historical moments, including the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, the childhood home of the famous poet Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow.

Fun fact: Portland has more craft breweries per capita than any other US city.

5. Cape Neddick, Maine

Cape Neddick is a must-visit for any lighthouse enthusiast. The beautiful and historic lighthouse is in York County, Maine, and is situated on Cape Neddick Nubble Island. The lighthouse was first lit in 1879 and is still operated by the US Coast Guard today. Visitors can take photographs of the lighthouse and stroll the short path to Sohier Park for gorgeous ocean views.

Fun fact: Cape Neddick Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in all of New England.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Medford, Massachusetts is long but packed with fantastic sights, sounds, and tastes. It is a trip which can be broken down into several parts, and there are plenty of great places to stop and explore along the way. The road trip could take between 11-12 hours, but the time flies as each destination on the itinerary offers so much to see and do. A great way to gain new experiences, get out of your hometown, and explore the beauty of the United States.