Museums, Parks, And Landmarks To Visit On A Roadtrip From Chapel Hill, NC To Erie, PA
Are you planning a road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Erie, Pennsylvania? If so, you may be wondering which museums, parks, and landmarks are worth stopping at along the way. This article will give you some ideas of the top places to visit on your journey!
Did you know that Chapel Hill is known as the "Southern Part of Heaven"? Meanwhile, Erie is the fourth largest city in Pennsylvania! Once you hit the road on this trip, you'll be able to experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the charm of small-town America.
If you're traveling on the I-79, the halfway point of your journey will be Sutton, West Virginia. Here, you'll find charming places to eat and shop, as well as a rich history to explore. But before we get to Sutton, let's take a look at the length of the trip!
How Long Is The Trip?
The total distance between Chapel Hill, North Carolina and Erie, Pennsylvania is roughly 580 miles. Depending on how long you want to spend at each stop, this road trip should take you between 10-12 hours.
The Top Five Places To Visit
- Biltmore Estate - Asheville, North Carolina: The Biltmore Estate is America's largest private home and the perfect stop to kick off your road trip. This stunning estate dates back to the 1800s and features 8,000 acres of land, beautiful gardens, and an extensive collection of art and antiques. You can take a tour of the house and grounds, explore the gardens, or enjoy a wine tasting at the vineyard.
Point of interest recommendation: While you're in Asheville, make sure to stop by the downtown area! Here, you'll find tons of local shops, restaurants, and breweries to enjoy.
- Natural Bridge State Park - Lexington, Virginia: This beautiful state park features a 215-foot-tall limestone bridge and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can hike to the top of the bridge to take in the view, go on a guided tour, or explore the nature trails.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the nearby Safari Park to see some exotic animals up close!
- Antietam National Battlefield - Sharpsburg, Maryland: History buffs, this one's for you! Antietam National Battlefield was the site of the bloodiest one-day battle in American history. You can take a guided tour of the battlefield, explore the museum, and pay your respects at the national cemetery.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the nearby town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia to check out some cute local shops and eateries.
- Fallingwater - Mill Run, Pennsylvania: Fallingwater is a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural genius. This home was built over a waterfall and is considered one of the most famous private residences in the world. You can take a guided tour of the house or explore the surrounding natural beauty on a hike.
Point of interest recommendation: While you're in the area, make sure to visit Ohiopyle State Park to see the stunning waterfalls and go kayaking or whitewater rafting.
- Presque Isle State Park - Erie, Pennsylvania: Once you arrive in Erie, be sure to visit Presque Isle State Park. This park is home to miles of sandy beaches, stunning sunsets, and plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
Point of interest recommendation: While you're in Erie, check out the nearby Waldameer Park and Water World for some fun rides and attractions.
We hope that this guide helps you plan your road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Erie, Pennsylvania. Safe travels!
Conclusion
This road trip may be long, but it's definitely worth the journey. You'll get to see some of the most stunning natural beauty America has to offer, as well as explore some fascinating history and architecture. We hope you have a great time!