Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to Middleburg, VA
Taking a road trip is a great way to explore the country and experience different parts of the United States. If you find yourself driving from Charlotte, North Carolina to Middleburg, Virginia, there are plenty of interesting stops along the way. This drive clocks in at around 6 hours, so it’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure. Keep reading to discover the top five unexpected places to stop along the way!
Halfway Point: Troutville, VA
Before we dive into the top five unexpected places to stop, we have to mention the halfway point: Troutville, VA. This is the perfect spot to take a break and stretch your legs. Troutville is a small town with plenty of charm. It’s worth taking a couple of hours to explore the area. Grab a cup of coffee at the Daleville Market, walk around the Greenfield Recreation Park, or visit the Botetourt County Historical Museum.
1. Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
If you’re a college sports fan or just love beautiful campuses, you need to stop at Virginia Tech. Virginia Tech is located in Blacksburg, VA, and it’s one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country. The campus is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s a great place to walk around and take photos. The school is known for its football team, the Virginia Tech Hokies, so try to schedule your visit for a game day if possible. Favorite food to eat: Tailgate-style chicken wings.
2. Natural Bridge State Park, Natural Bridge, VA
Nature lovers, hikers, and history buffs will all love a visit to Natural Bridge State Park. As the name suggests, the park is home to a natural bridge that’s over 200 feet tall and 90 feet wide. The bridge is made of limestone and was formed over millions of years. Visitors can walk down the Cedar Creek Trail to see the bridge up close or take the Monacan Trail to learn about the Native American history in the area. Favorite food to eat: A picnic lunch.
3. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville, VA
History buffs won’t want to miss out on a visit to Monticello, the former home of Thomas Jefferson. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just outside of Charlottesville, VA. Visitors can take a tour of the house and gardens, which have been lovingly restored to match how they looked during Jefferson’s time. There’s also a museum on the property that tells the story of Jefferson’s life and achievements. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the top of Monticello! Favorite food to eat: Virginia ham biscuits.
4. Luray Caverns, Luray, VA
The Luray Caverns are a must-visit for anyone who loves unique natural formations. Located in Luray, VA, these caverns are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other natural formations that are millions of years old. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caverns to learn about how they formed and the history of the area. There’s also a garden maze and a museum on the property. Favorite food to eat: Freshly made fudge.
5. Salamander Resort & Spa, Middleburg, VA
Treat yourself to some luxury at the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, VA. This resort is nestled on 340 acres of land and offers a spa, golf course, horseback riding, and more. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long drive. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, it’s worth stopping by for a drink or a meal. The views of the surrounding countryside are stunning, and the food is top-notch. Favorite food to eat: Grilled salmon with seasonal vegetables.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of unexpected and exciting places to stop on a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Middleburg, Virginia. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this drive has something for everyone. So pack a bag, grab some snacks, and hit the open road!