The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chapel Hill to Hickory, North Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Chapel Hill to Hickory, North Carolina? Look no further as this article has got you covered. The 2-hour journey is filled with lots of amazing destinations and activities to explore. The highlight of this trip is the midway point, the largest city in Forsyth County- Winston-Salem, NC. From museums to nature reserves, this road trip has something for everyone. Here are the top five things to do on this trip.

Visit Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Old Salem Museums & Gardens is an excellent destination for history and culture lovers. Located in Winston-Salem, NC, the museum caters to the 18th-century Moravian settlement. Visitors can explore the restored buildings and gather insight into the Moravian lifestyle. The museum showcases the architecture, crafts, and tools of the Moravians. Tourists get to visit the Shoemaker's Shop, Gunsmith Shop, and the Bakery among many others. The Gardens offer a perfect escape and a spectacular experience of natural beauty surrounded by preserved historic buildings.

Interesting fact: The Old Salem Museums & Gardens are a National Historic Landmark.

Visit the Carolina Renaissance Festival

Carolina Renaissance Festival is held annually in October and November and is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Hickory. The atmosphere is filled with royalty, musicians, comedians, and artisans dressed in Renaissance costumes. The festival organizes various events such as jousting events, live music shows, and sword fighting demonstrations. The food courts offer exquisite dishes, reflecting the Medieval period. Visitors should note that the festival is only open on weekends.

Interesting fact: Madrigal singers often roam the festival and sing for guests.

Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful scenic drive that passes through the mountains in Western North Carolina. The road runs for more than 450 miles, and the scenic drive can be broken down into several sections. From Chapel Hill to Hickory, the section connecting Blowing Rock to Asheville offers the best views. Visitors will experience spectacular vistas of mountains and valleys, especially while crossing the viaducts. Visitors are advised to check for road closures during winter.

Interesting fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway was built during the Great Depression and involved over 10,000 workers.

Visit the Catawba Science Center

The Catawba Science Center is a fascinating destination for science enthusiast and nature lovers. The museum is located in Hickory and has a variety of exhibits and many interactive displays. Visitors can explore the underwater world, the universe, and learn about geology and biology. The center offers activities for all ages and is a perfect destination for families and school trips.

Interesting fact: One of their attractions teaches visitors about how mines work.

Hike Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain State Park is located in Gaston County, 15 miles west of Charlotte. The park has two peaks, the Crowders Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain that attract hikers all year round. The trails are well-marked with varying degrees of difficulty. At the peak of Crowders Mountain, hikers can experience spectacular panoramic views across the forest, Lake Wylie, and Charlotte's city skyline. Visitors can enjoy rock climbing, fishing, and camping.

Interesting fact: The park was established in 1973 and is over 5,000 acres.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chapel Hill to Hickory, North Carolina, has a plethora of amazing activities that span from culture and history to nature and adventure. It is a must-do trip for anyone looking to explore the beautiful state of North Carolina. The trip lasts approximately two hours and is worth every minute.