Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlotte, NC and Hernando, MS
Ready for an exciting road trip between Charlotte, North Carolina and Hernando, Mississippi? With over 650 miles of scenic views, this driving adventure promises to be one of the most memorable excursions you'll ever experience. Whether you're looking to explore natural wonders or visit incredible museums, this trip has it all. The midway point of this trip is the lovely city of Heflin AL, where you can take a break before hitting the road again. Here are the five top things to do on this exciting adventure:
Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Just over the North Carolina border, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited National Park in the United States. It is an excellent destination for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. With more than 800 miles of marked trails, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including trekking to waterfalls. Catch the panoramic views of the dozens of mountains that make up the park. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers something for everyone, and the serenity and natural scenery make it a perfect place to unwind.
Interesting Fact: The Smoky Mountains got their name from the morning mist that ascends from valleys, giving an appearance of smoke coming from the mountains.
Visit Ruby Falls
Located in Chattanooga, Ruby Falls is a beautiful underground waterfall in Nashville. A tour of the natural cave features a 145-foot-high waterfall, underground streams, stalactites, and stalagmites. Ruby Falls offers a fantastic experience that visitors will never forget. This is an offline attraction as there is no signal in the cave, allowing you to take a break from society.
Interesting Fact: Ruby Falls was discovered over 80 years ago by Leo Lambert, and named it for his beloved wife, Ruby.
Learn history at the National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis depicts the story of people who fought against discrimination, racism, and inequality during the American Civil Rights Movement. Situated on the former site of the Lorraine Motel, the museum is a sprawling complex of various buildings that house exhibits, art, and historical collections. Visitors can access the museum's collections an-d take self-guided tours through the many galleries.
Interesting Fact: The museum is built around the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.
Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace
This historic site in Tupelo, Mississippi is the birthplace of Elvis Presley. The Elvis Presley Birthplace home tour allows visitors to see where the King of Rock and Roll spent his childhood years. There is also a museum featuring memorabilia donated by Elvis fans worldwide. Visitors can see a statue of Elvis, the chapel he attended, his baby carriage and a memorial garden.
Interesting Fact: Elvis Presley was not born in the hospitals and was delivered at home, but there was no birth certificate issued until after his death.
Explore Mississippi River State Park
Located in Marianna, Arkansas, the Mississippi River State Park offers stunning views of the massive river and its wildlife, including birds, trees, and wildflowers. Hiking trails, kayaking and fishing are available. With over 2,000 acres, the park provides relaxation and recreation. Be sure to carry binoculars to spot the bald eagle that frequents the park.
Interesting Fact: The Mississippi River runs from Minnesota to Louisiana, and is one of the most powerful and massive American rivers, with a drainage area greater than 1.2 million square miles.
After an adventurous trip through five states, visitors can expect to cover an estimated 12-14 hours driving from Charlotte to Hernando, with a midway stop in Heflin, Alabama. The scenery, food, and atmosphere of the area guarantees a stop to remember. For a unique and unforgettable experience, book your walk on a tour and make memories that they will never forget.