Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, Ohio and Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

The open road is calling, and it's time to get behind the wheel and explore the beautiful scenery between Cincinnati, Ohio and Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. The trip takes about 12 hours, with a halfway stop in Hillsville, VA, and offers numerous opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and fun. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

1. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nestled between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With more than 800 miles of hiking trails, gorgeous waterfalls, and stunning scenic drives, the park never fails to impress visitors. And with an entrance fee of only $30 per vehicle, it's an affordable way to experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

Interesting fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting more than 12.5 million visitors in 2019.

2. Explore Asheville, North Carolina

Referred to as the "Paris of the South," Asheville is a charming and vibrant city with plenty to see and do. From the historic Biltmore Estate, which offers tours of its stunning gardens and 250-room mansion, to the trendy River Arts District, full of local art galleries and restaurants, there's no shortage of entertainment in Asheville.

Interesting fact: Asheville was once home to the famous writer Thomas Wolfe, whose childhood home is now a museum.

3. Relax on Wrightsville Beach

Located just outside Wilmington, North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach is a gorgeous stretch of sand and surf perfect for a day of lounging. With calm waters and plenty of beachside restaurants and bars, it's a great place to unwind and soak up some sun.

Interesting fact: Wrightsville Beach is one of the top surfing spots on the East Coast, attracting surfers from around the world.

4. Visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation

Located in Roanoke, the Virginia Museum of Transportation is a must-visit destination for any car or train enthusiast. With more than 70 locomotives and rail cars, vintage cars, and other transportation artifacts, it's a fascinating look at the history of travel in the region.

Interesting fact: The museum's crown jewel is the Norfolk & Western Class J 611 steam locomotive, one of the most powerful locomotives ever built.

5. Hike in Shenandoah National Park

Stretching across the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a gorgeous wilderness area with plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives. With more than 500 miles of trails, visitors can explore everything from cascading waterfalls to stunning vistas.

Interesting fact: Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 200 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

In conclusion, this road trip offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural offerings, and relaxation. With five top destinations to choose from, visitors can customize their trip based on their interests and timeframe. At around 12 hours of driving time, it's a doable itinerary for a week-long vacation or a long weekend. So pack up the car and hit the road to discover the best of the South on this scenic and exciting road trip.