Road Trip: Top Places to See from Alexandria, VA to Atlanta, GA

Are you planning a road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Atlanta, Georgia? This 10-hour drive may be long, but the scenic route is worth the adventure. With plenty of National Parks, small towns, and attractions in between, there is no shortage of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a list of the top places to see when driving from Alexandria, Virginia to Atlanta, Georgia.

The Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a beautiful sight to behold. As you leave Alexandria, VA and enter Virginia, you'll find yourself with plenty of charming towns and picturesque mountains on the horizon. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking views and the chance to experience America's largest mountain range.

Once you make it through the first part of the Shenandoah National Park, you'll come across Skyline Drive, a scenic byway that runs 105 miles from Front Royal to Rockfish Gap. Take a drive to the summit of Hawksbill Mountain to witness the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You'll surely want to get out of your car and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a beautiful display of nature and wildlife. From Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, you'll head south on Interstate 81 and then onto Interstate 40, which takes you right to the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and camping. You can even witness the native wildlife wandering around the park. If you're looking for a drive with endless views that will take you through tunnels and up mountain peaks, the Newfound Gap Road is a must-drive. Grab your camera and take in the incredible views from the highest point in the park on Clingmans Dome.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a vibrant town in western North Carolina. It's a popular destination because of its eclectic art scene, fabulous restaurants, famous breweries, and music venues. It's no wonder that Asheville has earned the nickname "Ashevegas" due to its pulsating nightlife.

Asheville also has its fair share of natural beauty. Visit the Biltmore Estate, an 8,000-acre estate, and home to the Vanderbilt family. They built the house with 250 rooms and a magnificent garden that you can stroll around. You can also spend a day in the Pisgah National Forest where you can go hiking, camping, and mountain biking.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is a small city in southeast Tennessee and home to some of the most stunning scenery in the area. From artisanal markets to majestic waterfalls, Chattanooga has something for everyone.

One of the city's main attractions is the Rock City Gardens. Located atop of Lookout Mountain, the gardens boast a 4,100-feet walking trail that will lead you to seven different states. If you're not afraid of heights, walk the 180-feet suspension bridge and witness the panoramic view of Chattanooga. You can also visit the Tennessee Aquarium, which houses sea creatures from the Chattanooga River.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is the capital of Georgia, a bustling city, and home to the hottest sports teams in the south, from the Braves to the Falcons. This city is not just known for its buzzing city center, but it's also famous for its delicious Southern cuisine. Atlanta is a vibrant city with plenty to offer.

The world-renowned Coca-Cola headquarters is located in downtown Atlanta. You can take a tour of the facility and create your customized soda using their "Freestyle" machines. Another famous Atlanta attraction is the Georgia Aquarium, where you can swim with whale sharks and have an immersive underwater experience. Take a stroll through Atlanta's MLK neighborhood and honor the memory of Martin Luther King Jr., or visit the World of Coca-Cola museum and taste over 100 varieties of soda from around the world.

Conclusion

Driving from Alexandria, Virginia to Atlanta, Georgia will be a trip to remember. Passing through scenic mountains, charming towns, and vibrant cities will create unforgettable memories. The destinations featured in this blog post are just a handful of places you can visit along the way. So what are you waiting for? Pack your car, charge your camera, and hit the open road!