Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Durham, North Carolina
Taking a road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Durham, North Carolina makes for an exciting and scenic journey filled with historical and natural landmarks. This route stretches for about 170 miles, taking approximately 3 hours, and passes through several interesting towns, including Lawrenceville, VA, the halfway point of the trip. Here are some of the highlights of this road trip with the best things to do.
Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center stands out as one of the best attractions in Virginia Beach, and it's an excellent place to visit on a road trip to Durham, North Carolina. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of marine exhibits featuring over 300 species of animals including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. You can also enjoy up-close encounters with dolphins, seals, and sea turtles through their interactive shows.
Interesting fact:
A new nature trail was opened in early 2021, which is a perfect place to hike and witness the ecological diversity in the area.
Take a stroll through the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
One of the best places in Virginia Beach to take a stroll is on the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The 28-feet-wide boardwalk stretches for three miles, offering picturesque views of the ocean and a glorious sunrise. It's also home to ice cream shops, restaurants, and several amusements, making it a fun-filled destination for everyone.
Interesting fact:
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is one of the longest boardwalks in the world, measuring 28 feet wide and stretching for three miles.
Explore Richmond's Museums
Richmond, the capital city of Virginia, is famous for its world-class museums and art galleries, making it the ideal stopover for history and art enthusiasts on a road trip to Durham. Start by visiting the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which houses over 35,000 works of art. Continue your exploration with the American Civil War Museum, which offers an insight into the history of the American Civil War. Finally, end the tour by visiting the Science Museum of Virginia, where you can learn about science through hands-on exhibits.
Interesting fact:
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the few museums in the world that offer Asian art collections, from Indian and Himalayan to Chinese and Japanese.
Hike through Occoneechee State Park
Occoneechee State Park is situated on the banks of the John H. Kerr Reservoir, covering over 1,800 acres. It's a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet and serene escape. Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park, where hikers can choose between several trails of varying difficulty levels. These trails wind through breathtaking landscapes, including sparkling lakes, peaceful forests, and rugged terrain.
Interesting fact:
The John H. Kerr Reservoir is the largest reservoir in Virginia, with over 50,000 acres of water and 800 miles of shoreline.
Learn about African-American history at the Stagville State Historic Site
The Stagville State Historic Site is an ideal place to learn about African-American history in Durham, North Carolina. It's home to historic buildings and artifacts that reveal the stories of families that worked and lived under slavery. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the legacy of enslaved African-Americans, the lives of plantation owners, and the events that shaped the country.
Interesting fact:
Stagville was once the largest plantation in North Carolina, covering over 30,000 acres, with more than 900 enslaved people working on it.
Conclusion
The road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia, to Durham, North Carolina, is a travel experience that highlights some of the East Coast's best attractions. From the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to exploring Richmond's museums, hiking through Occoneechee State Park, and learning about African-American history at the Stagville State Historic Site, this trip has something to offer everyone. With 170 miles separating the two cities, travellers can experience the natural scenery and history at a relaxed pace, enjoying all the attractions along the way.