Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Norfolk, Virginia

The scenic route from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Norfolk, Virginia, offers awe-inspiring views and some of the most exciting destinations in America. The journey covers approximately 650 miles, and drivers can cover it in about 11 hours. One of the most exciting moments of the trip is the halfway point, in Dublin, VA, where visitors can enjoy several attractions. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

1. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium (Chattanooga, TN)

The Tennessee Aquarium is a world-class destination that houses remarkable aquatic life from all over the world. Visitors can explore the River Journey, where they follow the path of a single drop of water from the mountain streams down to the Gulf of Mexico. The Ocean Journey takes visitors to the Gulf of Mexico and beyond its deepest reaches. The aquarium is a must-visit destination for people traveling to Chattanooga.

Fun Fact: The Tennessee Aquarium houses the rare American Alligator Snapping Turtle, among other rare species.

2. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway (Asheville, NC)

The Blue Ridge Parkway covers 469 miles, passing through Virginia and North Carolina. It is one of the most scenic drives in America, with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and lush forests. On the parkway, visitors can indulge in hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The Parkway is the perfect destination for nature lovers.

Fun Fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its Cherokee heritage, with several historical and cultural landmarks.

3. Visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation (Roanoke, VA)

The Virginia Museum of Transportation houses several rare and vintage transportation artifacts, including aviation, automobile, and railroad exhibits. The museum is committed to preserving the history of transportation and hosts several seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy various interactive and educational exhibits, making it a popular destination for families.

Fun Fact: The Virginia Museum of Transportation houses the largest collection of diesel locomotives in the South.

4. Experience the Natural Bridge State Park (Natural Bridge, VA)

The Natural Bridge State Park is a geological wonder and a National Historic Landmark. The Natural Bridge is a 20-story high rock bridge, formed by a natural cave system and a unique set of geological events. Visitors can take a stroll through Cedar Creek Trail, experience the Monacan Village, and view the Lace Waterfall. It is an ideal destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Fun Fact: The Natural Bridge State Park is a sacred site for the Monacan Indian Nation.

5. Tour the Norfolk Naval Station (Norfolk, VA)

The Norfolk Naval Station is the largest naval base in the world, covering over 3,000 acres and housing over 75 ships. Visitors can take guided tours, which include the Naval Shipyard, the Naval Air Station, and the Naval Amphibious Base. The tours provide visitors with insight into the history and operations of the navy, making it an ideal destination for military enthusiasts.

Fun Fact: The Norfolk Naval Station played an instrumental role in WWII, serving as the staging area for D-Day.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Norfolk, Virginia, offers stunning scenery, fascinating destinations, and exciting activities. Visitors can make several stops along the journey, with Dublin, VA, serving as the perfect halfway point. The trip is approximately 650 miles, and visitors can cover it in about 11 hours. The top five things to do on this road trip are to visit the Tennessee Aquarium, explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, tour the Virginia Museum of Transportation, experience the Natural Bridge State Park, and tour the Norfolk Naval Station. Each destination offers unique experiences and exciting activities, making it a trip of a lifetime.