Road Trip Fun: From Benton, Arkansas to Norfolk, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Benton, Arkansas to Norfolk, Virginia? Great! There are many routes to choose from to make your journey a scenic one. Depending on your preferences regarding road conditions and duration of the trip, you can choose one of the following routes.

Route 1: The Most Direct Route

If you are looking for the most direct route, take US-64 East, which covers 1,064 miles approximately. Driving this route without stops can take you 16.5 hours. You will enjoy smooth roads cutting across the states of Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia before finally arriving in Virginia. We recommend taking a pit stop at Cairo, Illinois where you could stretch your legs and have a picnic or grab a bite from the local restaurants.

Route 2: Nature Lovers' Route

Take US-40 E and I-64 E for 1,168 miles and a duration of 19 hours. This route covers similar states to Route 1 but offers scenic beauty throughout. You'll explore the Ozark hills of Missouri and marvel at the stunning view of the Mississippi River before entering the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Plan to spend a night at the Daniel Boone National Forest or Monongahela National Forest for a nature immersion experience.

Route 3: Historical Route

This route may take longer but is perfect for history buffs. Drive for 1,280 miles in a duration of 20.5 hours on I-30 E, which transitions to I-40 E in Little Rock, AR, passing through Tennessee, Virginia, and finally reaching Norfolk, VA. This route takes you through significant civil rights landmarks including Little Rock Central High School, the Lorraine Motel (the assassination site of Martin Luther King Jr.), and the National Civil Rights Museum. Once in Virginia, take a pit stop at the historic Jamestown Settlement, one of the first English colonies established in the United States.

Route 4: Coastal Route

This route offers an unforgettable coastal experience that is 1,400 miles long, covering almost the same states as Route 3 but hugging the shoreline instead. You'll drive via I-40 E and US-17 N along the Gulf of Mexico beaches, the Atlantic Ocean coast, and colonial architectural landmarks. If you have time, stop at the Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach Boardwalks to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean's cool breeze.

Whatever route you choose, ensure to pack enough snacks, water, and entertainment to keep you upbeat throughout the trip. Also, plan some stops along the way to avoid driver exhaustion and to experience new places. Have fun on your trip!