Top Five Popular Attractions to See on a Road Trip between Charlotte, NC and Charles Town, WV

Are you craving a road trip through beautiful scenery and fascinating history? Come explore the journey from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Charles Town, West Virginia! Along the way, you will discover spectacular natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. Here are our top five picks for the most popular attractions to see:

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles and connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It is a breathtaking scenic route that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning vistas of forests, valleys, and peaks. Along the parkway, you can hike, picnic, camp, fish, or simply enjoy the view from various overlooks. Don't miss the Linn Cove Viaduct, a 1,243-foot concrete bridge that hugs the mountainside and offers a unique driving experience.

2. Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge is a geological wonder that has amazed visitors for centuries. It is a massive limestone arch that spans 215 feet over a creek and rises 66 feet above the ground. The site has a rich history, from the Native American legends to the American Revolution, and has hosted many famous visitors, such as Thomas Jefferson, who called it "the most sublime of nature's works." You can walk along the Cedar Creek Trail to see the Natural Bridge from various angles and learn about its ecology and geology at the visitor center.

3. Lexington Historic District

Lexington is a charming town with a rich history and architecture. The Lexington Historic District is a 200-acre section that includes more than 100 well-preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. You can stroll along Main Street and visit the Stonewall Jackson House, the Lee Chapel and Museum, the Virginia Military Institute, and many other landmarks. The district also offers excellent restaurants, shops, and galleries that showcase local art and craft.

4. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry is a town that witnessed many pivotal events in American history, from the John Brown raid to the Civil War. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park preserves and interprets this legacy through its museum, exhibits, trails, and scenic views. You can explore the town and its buildings, hike up to the Jefferson Rock or Maryland Heights, or follow the Appalachian Trail. You can also take a guided tour, attend a living history program, or watch a reenactment.

5. Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races

The Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races is a premier destination for entertainment and gambling. It offers over 2,500 slot machines, 75 table games, a poker room, and a sportsbook. It also features live music, comedy shows, fine dining, and a hotel with a spa and pool. Whether you're a seasoned player or a casual observer, you can enjoy the thrill and glamour of the casino and the races.

Halfway Point: Troutville, VA

Troutville is a town located at the intersection of Interstate 81 and U.S. Route 11, roughly halfway between Charlotte and Charles Town. It is a convenient stop for fuel, food, and lodging, as well as a pleasant detour to explore the nearby attractions. You can visit the Explore Park, a 1,100-acre recreation area that includes hiking trails, a historical museum, and artisan shops. You can also drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the stunning views and wildlife, or hike up to the McAfee Knob, one of the most popular and scenic trails on the Appalachian Trail.

Conclusion

The best route for this road trip is to take Interstate 77 North from Charlotte to Wytheville, then switch to Interstate 81 North to Troutville. From there, take the Blue Ridge Parkway North to Natural Bridge, and then follow Route 11 North to Lexington and Staunton. Once you reach Harpers Ferry, you can take U.S. Route 340 North to Charles Town. This route offers a balance of scenic beauty, historic significance, and modern entertainment, as well as opportunities to explore small towns and natural wonders. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!