Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlotte, NC to Bristol, TN

As the warm weather sets in, road trips are an appealing way to spend the days. From Charlotte, North Carolina, to Bristol, Tennessee, there are plenty of options that will keep you entertained the entire trip. The route spans 266 miles and takes about four hours in standard driving conditions. One highlight that drivers should keep an eye out for is the halfway point located in Fancy Gap, Virginia. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Charlotte, NC to Bristol, TN.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Take in the scenic route of the Blue Ridge Parkway, driving through 469 miles of spectacular beauty, offering views of the rolling hills and the expansive mountain ranges. It is a drive that will take your breath away, and with plenty of stops along the way to enjoy the stunning scenery, it is a must for any road trip enthusiast.

Interesting fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway was initially intended to be a way to administer and protect the natural resources of the area when it was first commissioned in the early 1930s.

Ashe County Cheese Factory

There's no doubt about it: Ashe County, North Carolina, is a cheese lover's paradise. At the Ashe County Cheese Factory, you can enjoy a tour of the facility while sampling some of the finest cheeses and spreads in the state. You'll also find a range of other homemade products, including ice cream and pottery.

Interesting fact: The Ashe County Cheese Factory is the only place in North Carolina that creates handmade, old-fashioned cheese.

Linked Cycling Trail

Located in Abingdon, Virginia, the Linked Cycling Trail is an excellent way to explore the area. The trail stretches 34 miles and connects Abingdon to nearby towns. The trail is popular with cyclists, hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers, offering a glimpse of the beauty of southwest Virginia.

Interesting fact: The Linked Cycling Trail was built on a former rail line that was used to transport goods from 1890 to 1970.

Bristol Motor Speedway

Any NASCAR fan will love the Bristol Motor Speedway. The 33-degree banking means that speeds can reach up to 160 miles per hour, providing a thrilling race from beginning to end. Along with the adrenaline pumping track, there is also a NASCAR museum on site that allows visitors to get a glimpse of some of the history of the sport.

Interesting fact: Bristol Motor Speedway was initially constructed in 1960, and it has since been dubbed the "World's Fastest Half-Mile."

Elden's Downtown Floral and Gifts

Located in Downtown Bristol, Elden's Downtown Floral and Gifts is a beautiful store full of unique gifts, floral arrangements, and local artisan products. With over seven decades in business, you will be spoilt for choice with the selection of products and can even create your arrangements to take home.

Interesting fact: Elden's Downtown Floral and Gifts is known for its extensive collection of pottery from local artisans and its dedication to customer service.

Conclusion

The drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Bristol, Tennessee, is a relatively short one, but the thrill of a road trip lies in the ability to break up the monotony with fun and exciting stops along the way. The highlighted stops, including the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, the delicious Ashe County Cheese Factory, the nature-filled Linked Cycling Trail, and the thrilling Bristol Motor Speedway, offer an experience like no other. Wrapping up with a visit to Elden's Downtown Floral and Gifts, visitors can purchase unique gifts and keepsakes while enjoying the lovely charm of Downtown Bristol. The entire trip is worth the drive, which should take about four hours in ideal conditions.