The Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Christiansburg, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina
Are you planning a road trip from Virginia to South Carolina? Want to make the most out of your journey by exploring exciting places along the way? Here are some of the top museums, parks, and landmarks you should visit on your road trip from Christiansburg, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina.
Did you know that Hwy 220 South from Virginia to North Carolina was first laid out in 1918 and extended to South Carolina in the 1930s?
If you are traveling from Christiansburg, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina, you will pass through the midpoint of the trip in Mooresville, North Carolina. Mooresville is a small town in Iredell County, North Carolina, which is famous for being home to the NASCAR racing industry and also for having a large concentration of race shops, racing teams, and motorsports suppliers.
This road trip covers more than 400 miles and it takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, but traveling time can vary depending on traffic, road conditions, and the number of stops you make along the way. Therefore, it is recommended that you bring plenty of snacks, water, and comfortable clothing for a long drive.
Here are the top five places you should visit, in order, on your road trip from Christiansburg, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina:
Virginia Museum of Transportation, Roanoke, VA: This is a great place to learn about the history of transportation in Virginia. You can explore exhibits about steam engines, classic cars, locomotives, and more. Besides, you can take a ride on a vintage train or trolley and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Point of interest recommendation: Walk through the Rail Yard and see the Norfolk and Western Railway J class 4-8-4 steam locomotive No. 611, one of the most famous steam locomotives in the world.
Natural Bridge State Park, Natural Bridge, VA: The Natural Bridge State Park is home to the Natural Bridge Formation, a wondrous geological formation created by the collapse of a cavern. Visitors can explore the walking trails, the caverns and the Monacan Indian Village exhibit. Make sure to visit the Natural Bridge itself, a 215-foot high limestone arch that is one of the natural wonders of Virginia. Point of interest recommendation: Take the Cedar Creek Nature Trail, a scenic walk that passes by the Cedar Creek and Lace Falls.
Greensboro Science Center, Greensboro, NC: This is an interactive museum that offers hands-on and educational exhibits about science, technology, and nature. Visitors can explore a 3D movie theater, a zoo, an aquarium and a science museum. Besides, you can take a stroll through the outdoor exhibits and learn about the different animals and plants that inhabit North Carolina's Piedmont region. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Carolina SciQuarium, the largest indoor aquarium in North Carolina, and watch the sharks, stingrays, and exotic fish.
South Carolina State House, Columbia, SC: This is the seat of the South Carolina state government and a historic landmark in downtown Columbia. Visitors can explore the chambers of the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as the governor's office and the old supreme court chamber. Besides, you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and monuments that surround the building. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the African American Monument, which honors the contributions and achievements of African Americans in South Carolina's history.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Columbia, SC: This is a 170-acre zoo and botanical garden that features more than 2,000 animals and a variety of native and exotic plants. Visitors can see lions, tigers, elephants, zebras, giraffes and many other animals in natural habitats. Besides, you can explore the botanical garden and see the different species of flowers, trees, and shrubs that thrive in the Carolina climate. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Gorilla Base Camp, a 2-acre exhibit that houses the largest group of gorillas in the United States.
In conclusion, this road trip from Christiansburg, Virginia to Lexington, South Carolina offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks in the southeastern United States. Whether you are interested in history, nature, science or culture, there is something for everyone along this trip. So, pack your bags, buckle up and embark on an unforgettable journey!