Road Trip! Bristol to Charlotte

Are you planning a road trip from Bristol, Connecticut to Charlotte, North Carolina? Sure, it's a bit of a drive, but with the right route and a few pit stops along the way, it can be a fun adventure. Here are a few different routes to consider and some recommended stops along the way.

The Direct Route

The direct route from Bristol to Charlotte is approximately 770 miles and should take around 12 hours to drive. The easiest way to get there is to take I-84 West to I-81 South, then merge onto I-77 South in Virginia and follow it all the way to Charlotte.

While there aren't many major cities along this route, there are still plenty of interesting places to stop and stretch your legs. If you're into history, consider taking a detour to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia or Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West Virginia. For a bit of quirkiness, there's always South of the Border, a roadside attraction in Dillon, South Carolina that features kitschy shops and a giant sombrero-shaped observation tower.

The Coastal Route

If you're in no rush and want to take a more scenic route, consider hugging the coast for part of your journey. From Bristol, take I-91 South to New Haven, then hop on I-95 South and follow it all the way to Richmond, Virginia. From there, take I-85 South to Charlotte. This route is approximately 1,000 miles and should take around 16 hours to drive.

Along the way, there are plenty of charming coastal towns to explore. Consider adding a stop in Newport, Rhode Island to visit the opulent mansions of the Gilded Age or in Cape May, New Jersey to peruse the Victorian architecture and go beachcombing. Once you hit Virginia, make sure to check out Shenandoah National Park and stop for a meal in charming Charlottesville.

The Mountain Route

For a truly picturesque drive, consider taking the Mountain Route. From Bristol, take I-91 South to Hartford, then merge onto I-84 West and follow it through the mountainous terrain of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Once you hit Scranton, take I-81 South to Roanoke, Virginia, and then I-77 South to Charlotte. This route is approximately 850 miles and should take around 14 hours to drive.

Along the way, you'll encounter stunning vistas and charming small towns. Make sure to stop in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts for some fall foliage viewing or in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania for some skiing and snowboarding. In Virginia, there are plenty of hiking trails, wineries, and historic sites to explore.

Conclusion

Whichever route you choose, make sure to plan some stops along the way to break up the drive. Take advantage of the local cuisine, cultural offerings, and natural beauty that each state has to offer. And of course, don't forget to belt out your favorite road trip songs as you cruise down the highway. Safe travels!