Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chattanooga, TN to Highlands, NC

CHATTANOOGA, TN - There's nothing like embarking on a road trip through the scenic mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. From the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the charming towns with rich history and culture, there's something for everyone on this journey. The halfway point where travelers would cross from Tennessee into North Carolina is Murphy, NC, known for its picturesque downtown and easy access to adventure activities.

Here are the top five things to do on this exciting road trip:

1. Visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC

The Biltmore Estate is a must-see for anyone traveling to Asheville and is a top attraction in North Carolina. Built in 1895, the estate still stands strong as one of America's largest homes. Visitors can tour the home and grounds while learning about the Vanderbilt family's history and legacy. The estate has beautiful gardens, wineries, shops, and on-site restaurants, making it a complete day-long experience.

Fun Fact: The Biltmore Estate is over 175,000 square feet in size and has 250 rooms!

2. Experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a nature lover's paradise, boasting lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife. Travelers can explore the park by hiking, biking, or just driving through the scenic roads and taking in the panoramic views. The park also has several visitor centers, allowing visitors to learn more about its history and ecology.

Fun Fact: Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts over 11 million visitors each year!

3. Stroll through the charming town of Highlands, NC

Highlands is a small town with plenty of Southern charm and makes for a perfect lunch or dinner stop. The Main Street has several locally-owned cafes, boutiques, bookstores, and galleries, making it a perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll. The Highlands Playhouse, a community theater, is another notable attraction in the town.

Fun Fact: Highlands has a year-round population of fewer than 1,000 people, but it sees thousands of visitors each year.

4. Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic byway that stretches 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. Offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely drive or a colorful fall foliage tour. Visitors can also stop at various overlooks and campgrounds along the way to take in the view.

Fun Fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest linear park in the United States!

5. Discover the history of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is located in Chattanooga and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of railroading in the area. The museum has several restored trains, including a historic steam engine, that visitors can ride on and experience the thrill of early train travel. The museum also offers tours, making it a perfect spot for both kids and adults.

Fun Fact: The museum's Missionary Ridge Local train ride covers a six-mile round-trip journey and takes visitors through a 986-foot-long tunnel!

Overall, this road trip takes about six hours of driving time and is a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you're traveling solo or with family, there's something for everyone on this scenic drive. So why not pack up your car and hit the open road for an unforgettable adventure?