#Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Akron, Pennsylvania and Swansboro, North Carolina
Are you planning a road trip from Akron, Pennsylvania to Swansboro, North Carolina? This 565-mile journey takes approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes to complete, but don't let the distance discourage you. This trip is full of unique attractions, picturesque landscapes, and delectable cuisines that are perfect for a memorable adventure. The halfway point of this route is North Chesterfield, Virginia, which offers its share of exciting things to see and do. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Akron to Swansboro.
##1. Check out the Hershey's Chocolate World
Who doesn't love chocolate? This one-of-a-kind attraction in Hershey, Pennsylvania, will tantalize your taste buds with Hershey's chocolate. Hershey's Chocolate World sits on 100 acres of land and offers numerous activities and tours. You can learn about the chocolate-making process, explore the history of chocolate through different countries, and even make your candy bar. Don't forget to take a glimpse of Hershey's Kisses streetlights. They're adorable and illuminated the streets.
Fun Fact: More than 70 million Hershey's Kisses are made in a day, and each one has around 18 calories.
##2. Tour the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum is a mecca for airplane enthusiasts and science aficionados. It offers an extensive collection of objects, including the famous Wright brothers' 1903 Wright Flyer and a lunar rock you can touch. Moreover, the museum has a planetarium and an IMAX theater that screens interesting films about air and space. Admission is free, but you'll need to purchase tickets for the planetarium and IMAX theater.
Fun Fact: The fastest manned aircraft ever flown is the North American X-15, which traveled at a speed of 4,520 miles per hour during August 1963.
##3. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shore
If you're a marine lover, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores should be on your list of must-visit places. Here, you'll see a wide array of marine animals in their natural habitat, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and otters. The aquarium has a 308,000-gallon saltwater tank that houses sand tiger sharks, rays, and other fish species. Moreover, visitors can get an up-close look at various aquatic creatures by participating in the aquarium's Behind the Scenes tours.
Fun Fact: The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is home to Luna, a famed albino alligator.
##4. Explore the Battleship USS North Carolina
The Battleship USS North Carolina is a floating museum that offers a glimpse into naval history. This World War II era ship is docked in Wilmington, North Carolina, and accessible to visitors. You can explore the ship's decks, artillery guns, engine room, and the first aid station. The Battleship's quarterdeck and officers' wardroom are well-preserved and give you a feel of life during the war. The ship sailed over 300,000 miles in the Pacific during WWII, earning its nickname, "Showboat."
Fun Fact: During WWII, the Battleship USS North Carolina never lost an aircraft under her protection, or an airman under her watch.
##5. Hike in the Carvers Creek State Park
The Carvers Creek State Park is a hidden gem that offers various recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Nature enthusiasts will love hiking around the park and admiring the beautiful landscape it has to offer. You'll find miles of trails winding through woods and wetlands, as well as the historic Long Valley Farm. The park is also popular for its unique carnivorous plant species, including Venus flytraps and pitcher plants.
Fun Fact: Carvers Creek State Park is home to the famous Long Valley Farmhouse, which was once owned by James Stillman Rockefeller.
##Conclusion
In conclusion, the road trip from Akron, Pennsylvania to Swansboro, North Carolina, is an excellent way to explore the East Coast of the United States. With different landmarks and attractions in between, it's a journey full of surprises and breathtaking views that are worth capturing. Taking the time and exploring North Chesterfield, Virginia, halfway through the trip, is an adventure that will leave you relaxed and energized to continue with the rest of the journey. The trip took an average of nine hours and forty minutes, but it's worth every minute. Start planning your road trip today and explore the undiscovered and hidden beauties the East Coast has to offer.