The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Albany, NY to Charlottesville, VA

Traveling from Albany, NY to Charlottesville, VA makes for an exciting road trip. The 7-hour drive covers a distance of about 400 miles, with Swedesboro, NJ marking the halfway point. As they journey to Virginia's historic city, road-trippers can explore a host of destinations oozing with culture, outdoor activities, and inviting sceneries. Here are the top five things to do in no particular order.

Visit the Corning Museum of Glass

Glass art lovers are in for a treat at the Corning Museum of Glass, one of the country's premier glass museums. It exhibits over 50,000 glass artifacts from different historical periods, with some dating back 3,500 years ago. Visitors can watch experts show off their glassblowing skills, and even try their hand at making their pieces.

Fun Fact: In 1994, an art lover accidentally dropped and broke a glass piece by artist Dale Chihuly worth $25,000. Thankfully, the museum had insurance to cover the damage.

Hike in the Catskills

Nature lovers aren't left out on this road trip. The Catskill Mountains boast of an extensive network of hiking trails that cater to varying levels of experience. Adventurous hikers can ascend the highest peak, Slide Mountain, standing at 4,180 feet. The mountain got its name in the 1800s when a nearby landslide resulted in a massive rock-slide down its slopes.

Fun Fact: The legendary Rip Van Winkle fable is said to have originated from the Catskills mountains.

Tour the Monticello

Swedesboro isn't the only halfway point to your final destination; Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's historic estate, is, too. Jefferson designed the house himself, which would later become the centerpiece of his plantation. Visitors can tour the house and learn more about the former president's life, his innovation, and the enslaved persons who worked on his estate.

Fun Fact: Thomas Jefferson spent an incredible $2,500 annually on his Monticello wine collection during his lifetime. Today, his wine collection is worth millions.

Visit the Shenandoah National Park

The Shenandoah National Park's vast acreage offers visitors a host of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and biking, all while surrounded by beautiful nature. The park takes its name from the Shenandoah River, which winds through the Shenandoah Valley. Wildlife enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of black bears, deer, and over 200 bird species in the park.

Fun Fact: The Shenandoah park boasts of having the largest number of dark sky places and has an active stargazing community.

Explore Montpelier, James Madison's estate and museum

Montpelier was an 18th-century plantation home to James Madison, the fourth president's father. The historic site now serves as a museum dedicated to sharing the stories of the people who lived and worked on the estate and, of course, the nations' early history. Visitors can take a guided tour through the house, gardens, and kiosks, and learn about life during the Antebellum period.

Fun Fact: While serving as both secretary of state and then president, Madison never missed his weekly music lessons. He initiated music and dance classes for White House guests.

After exploring these fantastic destinations, a road trip from Albany, NY, to Charlottesville, VA, usually takes about seven hours, depending on traffic and stops.

Next time you're planning a trip from Albany, NY, to the South, ensure you take detours and explore these must-visit sites. Happy travels!