Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Taking a road trip is always an exciting adventure. Driving from Charlotte, North Carolina to Washington, DC can be a long journey, but it is a beautiful drive that offers many opportunities for exploring and discovering new places. The distance between these two cities is approximately 400 miles, and the entire trip can take around seven hours, give or take.
If you're planning to take this road trip, why not spice it up by visiting some unexpected places along the way? Here are five places that are off the beaten path but worth considering to make your trip that much more memorable.
1. Serene Danville, Virginia
Danville, Virginia, is situated about an hour and a half north of Charlotte and is a place that provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a break in this peaceful town, where you can relax with a cup of coffee, take a stroll in one of the local parks, visit the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, or buy some locally-made crafts.
When in Danville, be sure to try the famous Southside-style Virginia Ham Biscuits, which are a Southern classic. Plentiful servings of these savory bites can be found at the Corner Market and Café.
2. Quaint Oxford, North Carolina
Oxford, North Carolina, is located roughly a half-hour drive northeast of Henderson, NC, and is worth a quick stop. This small town offers many shopping opportunities, historic sites, museums, and fascinating art galleries.
If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, visit the Mann Art Gallery. You can admire countless works of art or sign up for one of the many art classes. For a quick pick-me-up, head to the locally famous La Cabana Mexican restaurant. It offers authentic Mexican cuisine that will surely leave a lasting impression.
3. Historic Culpeper, Virginia
Culpeper, Virginia, located around an hour and a half away from DC, is an excellent destination for history buffs, naturalists, and foodies alike. With its rich historical ties to several significant events in US history, Culpeper is a gold mine for people looking to learn and experience more.
Start your tour of the town with the Culpeper County Courthouse. It has played a significant role in events such as the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, so history is present everywhere in this courthouse.
For lunch, check out the great selection at Raven’s Nest Coffee House, where the main specialties are its dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients, and do not miss out on the classic peanut pie, a Culpeper delicacy.
4. Colorful Winchester, Virginia
The drive to Winchester in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley provides some of the most beautiful scenery on this route. Winchester, which is in the northwest area of Virginia, is a vibrant town that seamlessly combines history and modern life. The town offers many places to stop, from historic landmarks to small restaurants.
A must-try while in Winchester is the doughnuts from Michelle's Sweet Treats. These delicious treats frequently sell out. So, it's worth calling ahead beforehand if you're going to visit.
5. Unique Petersburg, Virginia
Petersburg, Virginia, which is located halfway between the two- and two-and-a-half-hour drive from both DC and Charlotte, is a bit off the beaten path but worth the detour. This eclectic town near the Richmond National Battlefield Park is recognized for its uniquely restored buildings, which are a cross between modernity and tradition.
In Petersburg, be sure to visit Andrade's International Restaurant. This restaurant offers a menu that is changing weekly, but they are proud of their delicious paellas.
Conclusion
This drive from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC takes you through a variety of cities and towns, each with its unique charm, history, and cuisine. Breaking up the drive with stops in places like Danville, Oxford, Culpeper, Winchester, and Petersburg offers a perfect mix of fun and relaxation for travelers. So, why not spice up your next road trip itinerary by taking some time to explore these unexpected places? You just might find that they have some of the coolest things to see and the best food to eat.