Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlottesville, Virginia and Hot Springs, Arkansas

Charlottesville, Virginia, to Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a long haul across the eastern United States, but one that rewards the traveler with a wide variety of interesting and exciting experiences. From scenic drives through mountains and valleys, historic sites, and attractions for nature lovers, there is something for everyone to enjoy along the way. One of the highlights of this road trip is midway at Silver Point, TN. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip between these two cities.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Attracting more than 11.4 million visitors every year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park offers over 900 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore untouched virgin forests, see wildlife, and enjoy amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Interesting fact: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best places in the United States for stargazing, with over 7,500 stars visible from site.

Dollywood

Under ten miles away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Dollywood amusement park, which is one of the top-rated attractions in the eastern United States. Dolly Parton's theme park has more than 40 rides, shows, and attractions, which perfectly blend thrilling experiences, fun games, and performances. There’s an Adventure Park, water park, and museums where visitors can learn about Dolly Parton's achievements and life story. Interesting fact: Dollywood has been listed as one of America's top theme parks for the past ten years.

Graceland

At 550 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Graceland, the former estate of Elvis Presley, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. People from all over the world come to visit Elvis's home, car collection, personal plane, and hundreds of memorabilia housed here. Visitors can learn about Elvis's life and works and watch videos about his life and music. Interesting fact: The meditation garden in Graceland is the final resting place of Elvis Presley, his parents, and other family members.

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park located in central Arkansas is a place rich with history, natural beauty, and healing waters. The hot spring waters have been drawing visitors to the park for over 200 years because of its therapeutic properties and temperature which averages 143 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors can hike the mountain trails, take a scenic drive in the park, and enjoy the serene nature of the hot springs. Interesting fact: Hot Springs was the first federal reserve set aside for recreational use in 1832, predating both Yellowstone and Yosemite national parks.

Mid America Science Museum

Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the Mid America Science Museum is a fun, educational, and interactive experience for all ages. The museum has over 100 interactive exhibits, ranging from recycled art, STEM-based displays, astronomy and geology, and a Tesla coil. The museum is perfect for families with children who like to learn while having fun. Interesting fact: The Mid American Science Museum was founded as The Arkansas Museum of Science and Natural History in 1979.

This road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Hot Springs, Arkansas, is full of natural beauty, tons of attractions, and fun-filled memories. The trip time can range from 17 to 20 hours based on traffic and stopping points. Visitors get to experience highlights of the eastern United States' best attractions, starting in Virginia, moving through Tennessee, and ending in Arkansas. So pack up your bags, fill up the gas tank, and start your journey!