Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlotte, NC to Sanford, NC
North Carolina is a beautiful state teeming with scenic highways, local attractions, and cultural landmarks. A road trip from Charlotte, NC to Sanford, NC takes travelers along a journey through some of the state's most iconic destinations. One of the highlights of the trip is Thomasville, NC, located halfway between the two cities. Here is a list of the top five things to do on a road trip from Charlotte to Sanford.
1. The North Carolina Zoo
The North Carolina Zoo, located in Asheboro, NC, is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the country. The zoo is home to over 1,800 animals from over 225 different species. Visitors can see rare animals such as the red wolf and the polar bear, along with popular animals such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. The zoo also offers various educational programs, including zoo camps and animal encounters.
Fun fact: The North Carolina Zoo is the largest walk-through natural habitat zoo in the world.
2. Lexington Barbecue
No road trip through North Carolina is complete without a stop at Lexington Barbecue in Lexington, NC. Known as the "Barbecue Capital of the World," Lexington Barbecue has been serving up its famous barbecue since 1919. Visitors can enjoy slow-roasted pork shoulder, barbecue chicken, and other southern staples. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including hushpuppies and coleslaw.
Fun fact: Over 200 pounds of pork are slow-roasted each day at Lexington Barbecue.
3. Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach, located in Carolina Beach, NC, is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. The beach offers miles of pristine coastline, gentle waves, and warm, sunny weather. Visitors can participate in water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
Fun fact: Carolina Beach is home to the state's oldest fishing pier, built in 1938.
4. The Wright Brothers' National Memorial
The Wright Brothers' National Memorial, located in Kill Devil Hills, NC, pays homage to brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright. The memorial is situated on the site of the first successful powered flight in 1903. Visitors can explore the museum and exhibits, which detail the brothers' journey to achieve powered flight. The memorial also offers a variety of educational programs, including ranger-led talks and interpretive tours.
Fun fact: Orville Wright made the first flight, which lasted 12 seconds and covered 120 feet.
5. Duke Lemur Center
The Duke Lemur Center, located in Durham, NC, is the world's largest collection of lemurs outside of Madagascar. Visitors can take a guided tour of the center and see a variety of lemur species up close. The center also offers educational programs, including lemur encounters and summer camps. Proceeds from the center's tours and programs go towards supporting lemur conservation efforts in Madagascar.
Fun fact: Lemurs are native to Madagascar and are endangered due to habitat destruction.
This road trip covers approximately 200 miles and takes about three and a half hours to complete. The journey takes travelers through some of the state's most iconic destinations, including the North Carolina Zoo and Lexington Barbecue. Visitors can also take a break at Thomasville, NC – the halfway point of the trip. Whether you want to explore the state's thriving culture, soak up the sun at Carolina Beach, or learn about the Wright Brothers' incredible journey, this road trip offers something for everyone.