The Best Things to do on a Road Trip: Chattanooga, TN to Temple Hills, MD

Road trips offer an exciting and adventurous way to explore new places. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture, a road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Temple Hills, Maryland is bound to be a fun-filled and memorable experience. This article highlights some of the best things to do along the way.

The journey covers a distance of approximately 630 miles and takes around 10 hours. One of the highlights of the trip is the quaint town of Draper, VA, which marks the halfway point. With its charming streets and friendly locals, Draper is an excellent place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat before continuing your journey.

1. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination on any road trip to or from Tennessee. Located just an hour's drive from Chattanooga, this park features breathtaking views of the majestic mountain range, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike, fish, camp, and even take a scenic drive to enjoy the beauty of the park. In addition, the park is home to many historic structures that have been preserved over the years.

Interesting Fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 1,600 species of plants, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.

2. Discover Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a vibrant and artistic city nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is home to many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that showcase the unique culture and heritage of the area. Visitors can also explore the Biltmore Estate, a sprawling mansion and garden built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s.

Interesting Fact: Asheville is often referred to as the "Paris of the South" due to its artistic and cultural offerings.

3. Explore the Historic City of Richmond, Virginia

Richmond is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and many fascinating attractions. Visitors can explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, stroll through the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or take a walk along the scenic James River. The city is also home to many historic sites, including the Virginia State Capitol and St. John's Episcopal Church.

Interesting Fact: Richmond was the capital of the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.

4. Visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps

Located just outside of Washington D.C. in the town of Triangle, Virginia, the National Museum of the Marine Corps is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in military history. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that chronicle the history and achievements of the U.S. Marine Corps, including interactive exhibits and displays that bring the experience to life.

Interesting Fact: The museum was designed by an Iraqi-British architect named Fazlur Rahman Khan, who is known for revolutionizing the design of skyscrapers.

5. Tour the Nation's Capital

No trip to the D.C. Metro area would be complete without a visit to the nation's capital. Washington D.C. is home to many iconic landmarks and monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building. Visitors can also explore the Smithsonian Museums, which are home to some of the most significant collections of art, history, and culture in the world.

Interesting Fact: The National Mall, which is home to many of D.C.'s most famous landmarks, was once a swampy area that was used for grazing cattle.

Overall, the road trip from Chattanooga to Temple Hills offers a diverse range of experiences and destinations for travelers. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culture, there is something for everyone along this route. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, this road trip can be an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish for years to come.