Road Trip from Charlotte to Goldsboro: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
If you're planning a road trip from Charlotte, NC to Goldsboro, this itinerary will help you fill your journey with history, nature, and art. From renowned museums to iconic landmarks, there are plenty of stops worth making along the way.
Did you know that parts of the iconic movie "Dirty Dancing" were filmed at Lake Lure, which is only a short detour from this route?
Once you're past Charlotte and just a little over the halfway point in Graham, NC, there are many attractions to visit that can be broken up over a long weekend or even a week-long trip.
The driving distance between Charlotte and Goldsboro is approximately 150 miles, which can be completed in just over 2 hours via the I-85 S and US-70 E highways. However, we recommend that you take your time and make a few stops along the way to make the most of your trip.
Top Five Places to Visit
Carolina Aviation Museum - Charlotte
If you're a fan of aviation history, this museum is a must-visit. You can explore exhibits and artifacts that display the history of flight, including the "Miracle on the Hudson" aircraft that crashed into the Hudson River and was famously rescued by Captain Sullenberger. The Carolina Aviation Museum is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of aviation.
Point of Interest: The museum is close to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport and is an excellent spot to do some plane-watching while visiting.
Reed Gold Mine - Midland
Gold was first discovered in North Carolina in 1799, sparking the state's gold rush. The Reed Gold Mine was the site of the first gold discovery, and visitors can witness the original underground tunnels that were used for mining. You can even try your hand at gold panning and take home any gold you find!
Point of Interest: The Reed Gold Mine is a National Historic Landmark.
Uwharrie National Forest - Troy
Uwharrie National Forest is an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to unwind. This forest boasts over 50,000 acres of hiking trails, biking trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, and campsites.
Point of Interest: The forest is home to the Uwharrie River, one of the cleanest rivers in the state, and the Uwharrie Mountains, which are some of the oldest mountains in the world.
Ava Gardner Museum - Smithfield
Born and raised in North Carolina, Ava Gardner was one of Hollywood's most celebrated actresses. Her life and career are chronicled at this museum, which is located in her hometown of Smithfield. You can view personal items such as her movie costumes and jewelry and see the house in which she was born.
Point of Interest: This museum is located in downtown Smithfield, which is also home to a beautiful park and bustling farmers market.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park - Seven Springs
The Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is an ideal stop for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and swimming at the beach on the Neuse River. You can also visit a nature museum to learn more about the local ecosystems and wildlife.
Point of Interest: The park is named after the 90-foot-high cliffs overlooking the Neuse River.
Point of Interest Recommendations
Carolina Aviation Museum: The Charlotte airport's observation deck provides a stunning view of the city skyline.
Reed Gold Mine: The impressive Albemarle Schoolhouse, dating back to 1899, is also a popular attraction in this area.
Uwharrie National Forest: Check out the town of Mount Gilead if you are up for a bit of small town charm.
Ava Gardner Museum: Visit the Carolina Premium Outlets for a bit of shopping after the museum visit.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park: The park's pier provides a lovely view of the river and is an ideal spot to relax.
Conclusion
A road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Goldsboro, North Carolina is a great way to explore the rich history and beautiful scenery of the state. With the top five stops on this itinerary, you will have plenty of opportunities to learn about aviation history, gold mining, outdoor excursions, famous actresses, and the state's unique geological features. Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, there will be something to interest and entertain you on this trip. The length of the trip will depend on how long you decide to stay at each stop, but with the variety of activities available, you should be able to fill a long weekend or even a week with ease.