Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Apex, North Carolina and Gretna, Virginia

APEX, NORTH CAROLINA - The historic town and business hub of Apex sits in the heart of the Research Triangle Park in North Carolina. The town is perfect for anyone looking to feel a sense of nostalgia while enjoying the modern conveniences of a bustling city. GRETNA, VIRGINIA - Located in the charming county of Pittsylvania, Virginia, Gretna is a small town that offers visitors a glimpse of rural life while providing easy access to fun adventures nearby.

The journey between Apex and Gretna offers road trippers a chance to experience a variety of activities along the way. Along the route, about the halfway point lies the charming city of Danville, VA, offering a break before continuing on the journey. Below are the top five things to do along the way.

1. Morrow Mountain State Park, NC

Visitors to Morrow Mountain State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing in the scenic foothills. The park boasts beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and a variety of trails that visitors can take no matter their skill level. Camping sites are also available for the more daring outdoorsmen. Fun fact: The park is named after Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox," a Revolutionary War hero who is said to have taken refuge on the mountain after evading the British.

2. Virginia International Raceway, VA

The Virginia International Raceway, or VIR, is a world-class racing facility that boasts a variety of tracks designed for drivers of all skill levels. Visitors to the track can watch races, take driving lessons, or even take their own car for a spin around the track (for an additional fee). Fun fact: The track was opened in 1957 and has hosted races for a variety of auto manufacturers, including Ferrari, Porsche, and Ford.

3. Safari Park, VA

Located in Natural Bridge, Virginia, the Safari Park is a drive-through animal park where visitors can see animals from around the world up close. Visitors can feed the animals from the safety of their car, making for a fun and unique experience that is perfect for families with young children. Fun fact: The park is home to more than 1,000 animals, including ostriches, zebras, and giraffes.

4. D-Day Memorial, VA

Located in the small town of Bedford, Virginia, the D-Day Memorial is a museum dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who participated in the Normandy invasion during World War II. The memorial features a variety of exhibits, including an interactive timeline of events leading up to the invasion, as well as a replica of a beach landing craft. Fun fact: Bedford, Virginia suffered the greatest per capita loss of life of any American community during the Normandy invasion.

5. Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, VA

Located in Appomattox, Virginia, the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is a museum that tells the story of the end of the American Civil War. The site includes a visitor's center and several historic buildings that have been preserved from the time period. Visitors can learn about the events leading up to General Lee's surrender and see the spot where it actually occurred. Fun fact: The park includes over twenty historic buildings and a variety of trails that visitors can walk to get a sense of what life was like during the Civil War.

The journey from Apex, North Carolina to Gretna, Virginia is about 128 miles and takes about two and a half hours by car. With the variety of activities along the way and the charm of the small towns located in the route, one may want to allow for more time to experience all there is to see. No matter the length of the journey, road trippers are sure to find something new and exciting when embarking on this route.