Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, VA to Knoxville, TN

Taking a road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Knoxville, Tennessee is an exciting adventure that takes you through scenic routes, beautiful landscapes, and historic towns. It’s a long journey, but with the right stops along the way, you can make it a memorable experience. The drive is approximately 430 miles and takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes. This road trip takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Here are five unexpected places to stop and visit to break up the drive.

Halfway Point: Troutville, VA

Troutville, Virginia is the halfway point in your journey from Chesapeake to Knoxville. This quaint little town is situated in the Roanoke Valley and is surrounded by majestic mountains. It’s a perfect place for a quick stop to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. There are several options to choose from, but we recommend checking out the Troutville Market. This market has been serving the community for many years, and they offer an excellent selection of sandwiches, salads, and homemade baked goods.

1. Abingdon, VA (120 miles from Troutville)

Abingdon, Virginia is a charming town that’s full of history and Southern hospitality. This town is renowned for its outdoor activities, arts, and entertainment. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll along the streets, taking in the art galleries and museums. Make sure to visit the Barter Theatre, the State Theatre of Virginia, which has been showcasing great performances since 1933. For a quick bite to eat, stop by the Peppermill Restaurant, which has been a local favorite since 1977. They offer excellent Southern cooking and homemade desserts.

2. Bristol, TN/VA (35 miles from Abingdon)

Bristol is a town that straddles both Tennessee and Virginia. This town is best known for being the “Birthplace of Country Music” and home to the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway. The Bristol Motor Speedway is a must-see attraction for car enthusiasts and race fans. If you’re not a fan of motorsports, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do in Bristol. Take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, which is home to some great specialty shops and restaurants. Make sure to stop by Blackbird Bakery for some delicious baked goods and coffee.

3. Knoxville, TN (115 miles from Bristol)

Knoxville, Tennessee, is the largest city in the region, and it’s a hub of culture, education, and entertainment. It’s a vibrant city that’s home to the University of Tennessee and the impressive Tennessee Theatre. The Tennessee Theatre is a historic building and offers a great lineup of shows, plays, and concerts throughout the year. If you’re looking for some great food, Knoxville has an excellent food scene. For a taste of local flavor, make sure to check out Stock and Barrel. They serve some of the best burgers in town, and their cocktails are fantastic.

4. Lenoir City, TN (25 miles from Knoxville)

Lenoir City, Tennessee, is a small town that’s nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. There are several parks in the area, but if you’re short on time, we recommend checking out the Lenoir City Park. This park is situated on the banks of the Tennessee River and offers some beautiful views. After a long day of outdoor activities, head over to the Lakeside Tavern for some great food and drinks.

5. Gatlinburg, TN (35 miles from Lenoir City)

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming town that’s situated at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a popular destination for tourists because of its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. Gatlinburg is famous for its thriving arts and crafts community and has plenty of galleries and shops to explore. If you’re looking for some delicious food, make sure to check out the Pancake Pantry. They serve some of the best pancakes in the area, and their omelets are fantastic.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Knoxville, Tennessee is a fantastic experience that offers plenty of opportunities to explore the region. By breaking up the drive in Troutville and visiting these five unexpected places, you can make the journey more enjoyable. With delicious food, outdoor activities, and historic attractions, this road trip is one that you won’t forget. Make sure to bring your camera and take plenty of pictures along the way.