Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlotte, North Carolina and Herndon, Virginia

On a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Herndon, Virginia, there are endless opportunities to explore different towns, historical sites, and natural beauty. This article will provide an overview of the trip and highlight the top five things to do along the way. The halfway point is Lunenburg, VA, a quaint town worth stopping at.

Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that winds through 469 miles of the southern Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Shenandoah Valley. This drive is known for its natural beauty, and visitors often stop to hike, picnic, or camp in the national parks along the way.

Interesting fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest linear park in the National Park System.

Visiting Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

Monticello, located in Charlottesville, VA, was the Charlottesville plantation home of the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. Here, visitors can take a tour of the plantation home and the grounds, which include the flower and vegetable gardens, as well as the orchards. The house tour takes visitors through the first and second floors of the home, providing a glimpse into the life and times of this famous founding father.

Interesting fact: Monticello is the only house in the United States that is on both the United Nations’ World Heritage List and the National Register of Historic Places.

Strolling Through Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a well-preserved historic district with cobblestone streets and period architecture. This area is known for its restaurants, shops, and museums, and is a great place to spend a few hours exploring. Visitors can take a walking tour of the city, visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or take a boat tour along the Potomac River.

Interesting fact: Old Town Alexandria was the site of a major military transportation hub during the American Civil War.

Discovering Harper's Ferry National Historical Park

Harper's Ferry National Historical Park is a town in the Appalachian Mountains at the intersection of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. This area is known for its rich history, as it played a significant role in the American Civil War. Here, visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the town's role in the abolitionist movement, as well as John Brown's raid on the federal armory. The park also offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and fishing opportunities.

Interesting fact: Harper's Ferry National Historical Park is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Appalachian Trail Conference Headquarters.

Touring the Virginia State Capitol

The Virginia State Capitol is an architectural masterpiece worth visiting. Its design is based on Classical Greek and Roman architecture, and the building was constructed by Thomas Jefferson. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Capitol, which includes viewing the House of Delegates, the Senate, and the Governor's Office.

Interesting fact: The Virginia State Capitol is the oldest Capitol building in the United States that is still in use.

In conclusion, this road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Herndon, Virginia, is full of opportunities to explore history, natural beauty, and modern-day amenities. The trip covers roughly 300 miles and can be done in 6-7 hours. Each of the top five attractions mentioned in this article offers unique cultural experiences and is worth a stop along the way.