Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charles Town, West Virginia and Radford City, Virginia
West Virginia and Virginia are rich in history, beautiful landscapes, culture and entertainment. A road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Radford City, Virginia is a perfect getaway plan for families, couples or friends seeking an exciting and fun-filled adventure. This road trip covers about 300 miles and takes approximately 5 hours without accounting for stops. The halfway point of Staunton, VA is a historic city with beautiful architecture and unique landmarks.
Top 5 Things to Do
Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is located in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and offers visitors a glimpse into American history. This National Park consists of many attractions, including John Brown's Fort, the site of his 1859 raid, as well as the Appalachian Trail and the town's historic district. Visitors can take a guided tour or enjoy a self-guided stroll through the restored town and view exhibits on the American Civil War, slavery, and the abolitionist movement.
Interesting fact: Harpers Ferry is the location where John Brown's raid in the town in 1859 helped fuel a growing national conflict that led to the American Civil War.
Hike in Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park spans through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and spans over 200,000 acres. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities including hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Many hiking trails go through the park's diverse landscapes, including waterfalls and spectacular vistas of the valley below. Visitors may also enjoy seeing diverse wildlife such as black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.
Interesting fact: Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 200 bird species, including the rare cerulean warbler.
Visit Virginia Military Institute Museum
The Virginia Military Institute Museum, located in Lexington, Virginia, is a fascinating place for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about military history and the educational institution. Visitors will experience life as a cadet and can learn about the institute's earliest years and its contributions to Virginia history. The museum features items such as period clothing, weaponry, and documents that help uncover the history of the institution.
Interesting fact: The Virginia Military Institute was established in 1839 and is the oldest state-supported military college in the United States.
Explore Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Bridge State Park in Rockbridge County, Virginia is a unique and stunning natural landmark. The park's main attraction and namesake is the natural bridge, carved by the Cedar Creek. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the surrounding trails, explore the small underground cavern beneath the bridge, or take in the beautiful views from the natural bridge itself.
Interesting fact: George Washington surveyed the area around the Natural Bridge, making it a registered National Historic Landmark.
Tour New River Valley
The New River Valley in Virginia is a beautiful region with a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to experience small-town living. While touring New River Valley, visitors can explore the historic town of Blacksburg, home to the Virginia Tech campus, and the charming town of Floyd, known for its Blue Ridge mountain music, artisanship and indoor/outdoor events. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the New River.
Interesting fact: The New River is actually one of the oldest rivers in the world, predating the Appalachian Mountains and even North America.
Conclusion
A road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Radford City, Virginia is an exciting and adventurous way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Virginia and West Virginia while experiencing rich history and culture. This trip covers about 300 miles over 5 hours, excluding stops, and will provide visitors with a broad range of activities from outdoor adventure such as hiking and paddling to cultural immersion in beautiful small towns and historical landmarks. Whether a family, couple or friends, they will have an enjoyable experience on this road trip.