A Road Trip to Remember: Exploring Museums, Parks, and Landmarks from Church Hill to Chattanooga
Are you looking for a fun road trip that lets you soak in the beauty of Tennessee while also indulging in some culture and history? Look no further! The journey from Church Hill to Chattanooga is full of exciting stops that will make this trip one to remember.
Fun fact: Did you know that the distance between Church Hill and Chattanooga is approximately 200 miles? That's a good amount of driving, but the sights you'll see along the way make up for it.
Just about halfway through the journey, take a break in Farragut, where you can explore the Campbell Station Inn, a historic inn that dates back to the 1800s and now operates as a museum.
Now, let's talk about the length of the trip. The drive from Church Hill to Chattanooga takes around 4 hours without stops. With our recommended stops, you should budget around 8 hours for this trip.
Without further ado, we present to you the top five places to visit during your road trip:
1. Hands On! Discovery Center
Located in Gray, Tennessee, Hands On! Discovery Center is a perfect stop for families with children. This interactive museum offers a range of exhibits and activities that are both educational and entertaining. Learn about science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and engaging way.
Point of interest: Don't miss the ball maze exhibit, where you can test your problem-solving skills and see how gravity works.
2. Rocky Mount State Historic Site
If you're a fan of history, this stop is for you. Rocky Mount State Historic Site in Piney Flats, Tennessee, provides a glimpse into what life was like on the Tennessee frontier in the late 1700s. The site features a restored 18th-century house, farm, and gardens, making it a great place to learn about Tennessee's past.
Point of interest: The site hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a candlelight tour during the holiday season.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No road trip through Tennessee is complete without a stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This park, which is located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, boasts stunning views, a diverse range of wildlife, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. Whether you're interested in camping, hiking, or just taking in the scenery, a stop at this park is a must.
Point of interest: Take a scenic drive on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and keep an eye out for black bears, which are a common sight in the park.
4. Creative Discovery Museum
Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, the Creative Discovery Museum is a great place to stop if you're traveling with children. This hands-on museum features exhibits that are designed to promote creativity, learning, and fun. Kids can play doctor, construct a bridge, and even learn about banking in a miniature town.
Point of interest: The museum has a rooftop garden where you can enjoy views of downtown Chattanooga while taking a break from the exhibits.
5. Lookout Mountain
Located just outside of Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is a must-stop on any road trip through Tennessee. This mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is home to several attractions, including Rock City, the Incline Railway, and the Civil War-era Point Park.
Point of interest: Take a ride on the Incline Railway, which is one of the steepest passenger railways in the world and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
In conclusion, the road trip from Church Hill to Chattanooga is full of exciting stops that will satisfy history buffs, nature lovers, and families with kids. Although it's a full day's journey, the time will fly by as you explore the museums, parks, and landmarks that make Tennessee such a great state to visit. Don't forget to bring your camera and prepare for an adventure you won't forget.