From Chapel Hill to Atlanta: The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip

Traveling from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Atlanta, Georgia, is an adventure that promises the most stunning views of the East Coast. A road trip on this route offers a mix of mountain sceneries, lush green forests, and vibrant cities, all within a range of only six hours. The journey is peppered with plenty of roadside attractions that are worth a stop. Halfway through, you'll find Gaffney, SC, a charming city that offers an excellent rest stop.

Top 5 Things to Do on the Route

Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning 469-mile drive through the picturesque Appalachian Mountains. It's a scenic route that's perfect for anyone looking to escape the city and embrace nature. The parkway offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, with plenty of hiking trails and campgrounds to enjoy.

Interesting Fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited National Park Service unit and receives more visitors annually than the Grand Canyon.

Hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the best things to do on a road trip between Chapel Hill and Atlanta is to take a detour and visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a vast park that straddles the Tennessee and North Carolina border and is home to an extensive network of trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. Hiking in the park is an absolute delight, with plenty of adventure for both novice and experienced hikers.

Interesting Fact: Great Smoky Mountains National Park has some of the most diverse plant and animal life in North America, with over 1,600 species of flowering plants and more than 200 species of birds.

Explore Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, located in the heart of western North Carolina, is a vibrant city that combines the charm of the mountains and the cosmopolitan life. It's a perfect spot to stop and rest on your journey from Chapel Hill to Atlanta. Asheville is home to an array of art galleries, trendy cafes, breweries, and restaurants, and local shops. Explore the city's streets, indulge in some shopping, and don't miss the nearby Biltmore Estate.

Interesting Fact: Asheville was voted Beer City USA by Examiner.com in five consecutive years, from 2009 to 2013.

Discover Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is a city in southeastern Tennessee that's surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, a must-visit attraction that features over 12,000 animals, including sharks, stingrays, and snappers. Stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk, explore the city's art scene, or hike its many trails — there's something for everyone in Chattanooga.

Interesting Fact: Chattanooga is home to the world's steepest passenger railway, the Incline Railway, which has an incline of 72.7 percent.

Visit Helen, Georgia

Helen is a city in the Appalachians in Georgia that's known for its charming Bavarian Alpine architecture. The city is a popular destination for its Oktoberfest celebrations, but it's worth a visit year-round. Take a stroll down its cobblestone streets, indulge in some tubing down the Chattahoochee River, or explore the nearby waterfalls. And don't leave Helen without trying some of its famous sausages and beers.

Interesting Fact: Helen is home to the only traditional nutcracker museum in the United States, with over 6,000 nutcrackers on display.

Conclusion

Traveling from Chapel Hill to Atlanta promises an unforgettable road trip adventure. Along the way, there are plenty of hidden gems and must-visit attractions that offer a diverse mix of nature, culture, and entertainment. The journey takes approximately six hours, including time to stop and explore each location, but it's worth taking your time to enjoy every moment of it. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive, hiking trails, or a vibrant city experience, this road trip has something for everyone.