Road Trip: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks from Charleston, West Virginia to Durham, North Carolina
Are you planning a road trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Durham, North Carolina? If so, there are several museums, parks and landmarks in between that will make your journey more interesting. Here are our top picks of places to visit on this road trip:
Interesting Fact
Did you know that the distance between Charleston, West Virginia and Durham, North Carolina is approximately 350 miles? You could cover this distance in about 5 to 6 hours of driving time, but why rush? Take your time and enjoy the scenic route.
Halfway Point
Hillsville, VA is the halfway point between Charleston, West Virginia and Durham, North Carolina. It is a small town famous for its annual Labor Day Flea Market and Gun Show. If you're taking the trip in September, it's worth stopping by.
Trip Duration
This road trip covers 350 miles and can be done in a single day, but it's advisable to take at least two days to make the most of your visit. Spend a night in Hillsville, VA to break up the drive. Alternatively, stop at each of the five places below and spend more time exploring.
Top 5 Places to Visit
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve - This national park is located in West Virginia and is known for its stunning scenery. Visit the park's main visitor center to learn about the history of the area and take in the view from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. You can also go hiking or rafting along the river.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the Bridge Walk, a guided tour across the New River Gorge Bridge. It's the longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
Virginia Museum of Transportation - Located in Roanoke, VA, this museum features a collection of vintage cars, locomotives, and airplanes. It's a must-visit for transportation enthusiasts.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a ride on the museum's miniature train that circles the museum grounds.
Natural Bridge State Park - This park in Virginia features a spectacular natural bridge, the result of millions of years of erosion. Take a hike through the park to enjoy views of the bridge and the surrounding scenery.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Pink Cadillac Diner, just outside the park, for a retro dining experience.
Pilot Mountain State Park - Located in North Carolina, this park features a distinctive peak that serves as a landmark for the surrounding area. Hike to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the region.
Point of interest recommendation: Stop at the nearby town of Mount Airy, the inspiration for the town of Mayberry in "The Andy Griffith Show".
Durham Bulls Athletic Park - End your road trip with a visit to this baseball stadium, home to the Durham Bulls minor league team. Catch a game or take a tour of the stadium.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the American Tobacco Campus, just across the street from the stadium, for restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
Conclusion
This road trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Durham, North Carolina covers 350 miles and features a variety of museums, parks, and landmarks. Plan to take at least two days to explore the area and make the most of your visit. Whether you're interested in natural scenery, transportation history, or sporting events, this road trip has something for everyone.