Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Albemarle to Mount Airy
Driving from Albemarle, North Carolina to Mount Airy, North Carolina, can be a beautiful experience. This route takes you through some of the calmest and prettiest towns in the state, where you can enjoy the amazing road views and sights. The distance between Albemarle and Mount Airy, North Carolina, is approximately 100 miles and takes approximately two hours and thirty minutes by car.
Halfway Point: Welcome, NC
Welcome, NC is a community in Davidson County and is roughly the halfway point. It was named after the most popular salutation of the Moravian Church, “Gott zu Danken” or “To God be the thanks.” Visitors can explore local businesses, dine at some fantastic restaurants, and take a stroll around the town.
1. The Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery
The Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery is the perfect place for wine lovers. Located in Elkin, North Carolina, this vineyard and winery specialize in traditional wines that echo the spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are also recognized for producing unique and rare wines that surprise even the most sophisticated palates. One of the must-tries is their award-winning Riesling.
Food to Eat: Cheese platter and BBQ pork sandwich.
2. The North Carolina Butterfly and Pollinator Garden
People who love nature should stop at The North Carolina Butterfly and Pollinator Garden, which is located just outside of Mount Airy. This garden is made up of several different gardens that you can wander through while admiring the beauty of the butterflies and other pollinators. You can also take a class on how to establish your pollinator garden, which provides a good opportunity for those interested in starting their pollinator habitat.
Food to Eat: Brown Sugar Bakery’s Classic Apple Pie.
3. The Old Salem Museums and Gardens
The Old Salem Museums and Gardens is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Here, visitors can explore the unique history of the Moravian Church and learn about the way of life in Salem in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. You can walk through the cluster of restored buildings, shops, and gardens and participate in hands-on activities.
Food to Eat: Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts from Winkler Bakery.
4. The Pisgah Covered Bridge
The Pisgah Covered Bridge is one of North Carolina's historic icons. The bridge is the only remaining historic covered bridge in the state. It was built in 1913 and was once used regularly to cross over the Little River in Randolph County. Today, it is more of a historic landmark than a bridge; however, it’s still a sight to see.
Food to Eat: Strawberry Shortcake at Zimmerman Vineyards.
5. The Pilot Mountain State Park
The Pilot Mountain State Park is located in Surry County, North Carolina. It's most recognized for the Big Pinnacle, a large mountain that stands over 2,400 feet above sea level. Visitors can take an easy hike to the top of the mountain to enjoy a scenic view. There are also trails for those who wish to explore the park at a more leisurely pace.
Food to Eat: Sweet Potato French Fries and BBQ Pulled Pork at The Living Room Grill.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this trip is worth taking because it highlights more than just the journey but also what can be discovered in-between. The drive from Albemarle, North Carolina to Mount Airy, North Carolina, provides one of the most scenic routes in North Carolina, and coupled with the must-stop destination points outlined in this piece, it creates a breathtaking road trip. So, pack up and hit the road!