Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to St. Albans, WV
Driving from Charlotte, North Carolina to St. Albans, West Virginia may not be the most scenic route in the country, but don't let that stop you from discovering some hidden gems along the way. The 250-mile journey takes around 4 hours by car and includes stretches of highway with little to no sightseeing options. However, there are five unexpected places worth exploring en route that will make the trip all the more interesting.
Halfway Point: Wytheville, VA
Before diving into the five unexpected places, it's crucial to highlight the halfway point of the trip- Wytheville, Virginia. This town is located at the intersection of two major highways, I-77 and I-81, making it an excellent place for a break in the journey. There are plenty of options for food, including fast food chains like McDonald's and unique restaurants like Graze on Main. Another must-visit in Wytheville is the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, dedicated to America's first lady during World War I.
1. The Big Walker Lookout
After leaving Wytheville, the first destination worth stopping is The Big Walker Lookout. It's a 100-foot-high observation point offering a 360-degree view of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The lookout has been a popular destination since 1947, and visitors can climb to the top of the lookout for an even more breathtaking view. There is also a gift shop loaded with local products, including amazing homemade apple butter and hot sauces.
Favorite Food: Apple Butter
2. Natural Tunnel State Park
A natural wonder in the heart of Virginia worth checking out is the Natural Tunnel State Park in Duffield. The park is home to a magnificent limestone cave, carved out by the Stock Creek for over a million years. The tunnel is over 850 feet long, with a depth of around 300 feet. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tunnel or explore the network of hiking trails in the park.
Favorite Food: Hotdogs from the park's concession stand
3. Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Located in Bristol, Virginia, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is an excellent stop for music lovers. The museums feature exhibits on the roots and evolution of country, bluegrass, and other genres that had their roots in Appalachia. There are several interactive exhibits allowing visitors to make music themselves, including a homemade diddley bow. The museum is open year-round, and live concerts are staged during the summer.
Favorite Food: BBQ from The Burger Bar
4. New River Gorge Bridge
At 876 feet high and over 3,000 feet long, the New River Gorge Bridge is an engineering marvel and makes for a memorable stop. The bridge is located near Fayetteville, West Virginia, which is home to many other outdoor activities, including white water rafting. Visitors can walk across the bridge's catwalk, which offers some stunning views of the New River below.
Favorite Food: Pepperoni Rolls from Tudor's Biscuit World
5. Kanawha Falls
The final stop on this trip is a beautiful natural wonder located near Glen Ferris, West Virginia- Kanawha Falls. The falls cascade over rock formations that date back over 300 million years and are over 30 feet high. Visitors can swim or fish in the cool waters of the river below or enjoy a picnic at one of the many nearby picnic areas.
Favorite Food: Fried Chicken from Chick-fil-A
In Conclusion
The journey from Charlotte, North Carolina, to St. Albans, West Virginia, provides many opportunities for unexpected and exciting stops along the way. From exploring natural wonders to enjoying some great food, this trip has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, fill up the gas tank, and embark on a journey to experience the hidden gems of this route.