Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlotte, NC to Smyrna, GA

CHARLOTTE, NC - A road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Smyrna, Georgia is an exciting adventure, with plenty to see and do in between. The 350-mile journey takes around six hours, and the halfway point is Anderson, South Carolina. The drive offers the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Southern Appalachians, sample some delicious southern cuisine and learn about the rich history of the region. Here are some of the best things to do on a road trip from Charlotte, NC to Smyrna, GA.

Whitewater Rafting on Nantahala River, North Carolina

Head to the Nantahala River in North Carolina, just a few miles from the border with Georgia, for a thrilling whitewater rafting experience. The seven-mile scenic rafting excursion takes you through the Nantahala Gorge, with plenty of rapids to navigate along the way. The Nantahala River is one of the most popular rivers in the Southeastern US for whitewater rafting, with peaceful flatwater sections for beginners and challenging rapids for experienced paddlers.

Interesting fact: The Nantahala River is named after the Cherokee word "Nunda," which means "noonday sun," because the gorge receives direct sunlight for only a few hours each day.

Visit the Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately-owned home in the US and a must-visit destination in North Carolina. The 250-room chateau was built in the late 19th century by George Vanderbilt II, and the 8,000-acre estate has something for everyone, from the beautifully landscaped gardens to the magnificent interiors of the house. You can take a self-guided tour of the estate and learn about Vanderbilt's life and his art collection, which includes works from Renoir, van Gogh and Degas.

Interesting fact: The Biltmore Estate was designed by the renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt, who also designed the base of the Statue of Liberty.

Hiking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited parks in the US, and it's no surprise why. The park straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and some of the oldest mountains in the world. Hiking in the park is a must-do activity, with over 800 miles of trails to explore. Some popular hikes include the Alum Cave Trail, the Chimney Tops Trail, and the Laurel Falls Trail.

Interesting fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tour the Jack Daniel's Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee

Whiskey fans can't miss the chance to visit the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. The distillery is located in the small town of Lynchburg, but it produces one of the most famous whiskies in America. The tour takes visitors through the distillery, showcasing the entire whiskey-making process, from the water source to the aging barrels. The tour ends with a tasting of some of the famous Old No. 7.

Interesting fact: Lynchburg is located in a dry county, which means you can't buy alcohol in a store or restaurant, but you can buy a bottle of Jack Daniel's at the distillery.

Visit the Coke Museum, Atlanta, Georgia

The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia, is a fun and interactive museum that showcases the history and evolution of one of the world's most famous brands. Visitors can learn about the origin of the drink, see bottling machines in action, and sample Coke products from around the world. There's also a 4D theater, where visitors can take a virtual ride to the places where Coca-Cola is made.

Interesting fact: In 1985, Coca-Cola introduced New Coke, which was a flop, and lasted only 79 days before the company reintroduced the classic Coca-Cola formula under the name Coca-Cola Classic.

In conclusion, a road trip from Charlotte, NC to Smyrna, GA is an excellent way to explore the beauty of the southern states. The itinerary offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, architectural marvels, and cultural experiences. From whitewater rafting to exploring the largest privately-owned home in the US, there's something for everyone. It's a drive that's worth taking, and with these five stops along the route, you're sure to have an unforgettable journey.