Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Christiansburg, Virginia to Durham, North Carolina

Driving from Christiansburg, Virginia to Durham, North Carolina is a beautiful journey that takes about three hours. The path diverges away from the typical interstate and instead winds through the mountains and pastures of southwestern Virginia and northern North Carolina. Whether you're going on a long drive for leisure or relocating to a new city, there are five unexpected places that one should stop and see.

The halfway point of this route is King, NC, which is known for its idyllic pastoral setting. It is situated off the beaten path of the busy roads and the hustle and bustle of the larger cities along the drive. It is a serene location with several attractions that are worth exploring.

1. Mabry Mill

Mabry Mill is a perfect stop for anyone interested in history, scenery, or all of the above. It is one of the most photographed places in Virginia and for a good reason. Mabry Mill is a restored gristmill that was transformed into a popular tourist attraction that is full of insight and history. The park offers splendid views of Meadows of Dan and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and visitors can explore the mill, the carpentry shed, the sawmill, and blacksmith shop. The signature dish here is the chicken and dumplings. The restaurant serves homemade food with a southern charm that will melt your heart.

2. Pilot Mountain State Park

Pilot Mountain State Park is home to North Carolina's historic Pilot Mountain. The park offers sites for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and picnicking. There are trails for every level of experience, from a quarter-mile nature trail to a winding climb up the mountain's peak. The most iconic trail in the park is the Jomeokee Trail, which offers panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes. The Jomeokee Trail is only one mile long, but it nearly circles the entire peak. When you reach the top of the peak, don't forget to try the park's classic hot dogs. The comfort food evokes nostalgia and simplicity while still being mouthwatering.

3. Black Mountain Chocolate Factory and Kitchen

Black Mountain Chocolate Factory and Kitchen is located in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and offers exceptional hand-crafted chocolate made from direct trade ingredients. The bright and cozy kitchen will make you feel warm and welcomed. Visitors can tour the factory and taste some of the best chocolate in town. You will love the dark chocolate and sea salt caramels; a great comfort choice.

4. North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo is a unique stop on the way to Durham, North Carolina. It boasts of being one of the largest natural-habitat zoos in the world, with over 5,000 animals representing 250 species. The facility incorporates natural habitats by reproducing the animals' environment, and visitors can enjoy a close-up view of their behaviors. The 500-acre zoo features elephants, tigers, gorillas, polar bears, giraffes, lions, zebras, and much more. If you’re looking for a festive food option, be sure to try the Cotton Candy Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich. It’s an incredible combination of crunchy cookies, creamy ice cream, and cotton candy flavoring.

5. Duke Lemur Center

The Duke Lemur Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of lemur species. It offers tours of the world's most extensive collection of captive prosimians, many of which are critically endangered or vulnerable. Visitors can learn about the habitats, behavior, and physiology of lemurs and how scientists are working to study, conserve, and protect them. The center offers many tours, including a behind-the-scenes tour of staff, researchers, and a close-up view of the lemurs. The café on the premises serves a wide variety of salads with fresh greens and a substantial sandwich menu, including both hot and cold sandwiches.

This drive from Christiansburg, Virginia, to Durham, North Carolina, is a hidden gem. The route offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the rural countryside. It will open your eyes to the charm that small towns and cities have to offer. You will be happy you chose this less traveled path. The journey is full of opportunities to explore new places and flavors, and we are confident that you will discover these five unexpected locations and the favorite dishes they offer, that will leave you breathless.