Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, North Carolina to San Antonio, Texas
Have you ever embarked on a long road trip that took you through numerous states? If you're planning a drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, to San Antonio, Texas, then take a break and check out some unexpected places along the way. The journey is approximately 1,200 miles and takes around 17 hours, and there are plenty of unique sights to see, delicious food to eat, and must-visit spots, some of which include:
Halfway Point: D'Iberville, MS
Before we dive into the top five stops on the trip, let's acknowledge the halfway point. D'Iberville, MS, is approximately 603 miles and 9 hours away from Charlotte, NC, or San Antonio, TX. This town is located in Harrison County in Mississippi and has some gems of its own, including multiple parks and fishing spots. D'Iberville's Lakeview Village and Promenade Square are worth seeing, with shops and restaurants such as Saki Sushi, Dunkin', and TJ's Café.
1. Biltmore Estate
Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore Estate is a picturesque palace in the Appalachian Mountains. The mansion and estate were once owned by business magnate John D. Rockefeller and played a significant part during the growth of Asheville. It has numerous restaurants to dine, a winery, a farm, and a garden. The estate is now open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds. You can explore the garden, vineyards, and century-old mansion that boasts Bellamy's Dining Room for breakfast and The Village Social for lunch and dinner.
2. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a place that is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. The museum showcases hundreds of motorcycles and cars of various ages, starting from the beginning of the automotive era to the present day. The museum is accessible to all ages, and visitors can learn about the history of transportation. Once you're done exploring, check out the museum's café, which features simple pub-style food and a superb view of the track.
3. Alley Cat Tea House
Alley Cat Tea House in Houston, Texas, is an artifact that has carried the essence of history and has been trending for some time now. It is believed that the house was once a grocery store before it became the charming tea house that it is now. Visitors can enjoy a range of teas, light bites and the house's signature sweet potato toast onsite. The best part is that it's open till midnight, so whether you're stopping by after a late-night drive, or craving something sweet before retiring for the night, Alley Cat Tea House ensures that all your needs are met.
4. Marfa, Texas
Who knew a small town with a population of merely about 1,200 could be so popular? Marfa is located in Texas and has gained international recognition for its unique art installations and festivals. The town's Chinati Foundation hosts various artists and their creations, making for quirky scenery, such as an exhibition featuring an entire room filled with aluminum light fixtures. Despite Marfa's remote location, there is plenty of good food to sample. Do check out the Pizza Foundation, which serves delicious artisanal pizzas, and of course, has some of the best views in town.
5. Roswell, New Mexico
Many of us know about Roswell and its association with extraterrestrial life. It's a spooky and exciting place that now has an International UFO Museum, where visitors can learn about the mystery surrounding the infamous "Roswell incident." It's a one-of-a-kind experience that's both creepy and informative. Visitors can also visit the numerous souvenir shops downtown before ending their trip.
Conclusion
If you're planning a road trip between Charlotte, North Carolina, and San Antonio, Texas, there are plenty of quirky, unique, and surprising spots to stop and catch a break! The journey can be long and tiring, but these stops along the way are sure to rejuvenate you. Enjoy great sceneries, a diverse range of food, all while learning about our fascinating history and culture.