Top Places to See When Driving From Apex, North Carolina to South Riding, Virginia

Are you daydreaming about a road trip from Apex, North Carolina to South Riding, Virginia? Whether you're on your own, taking your family, or venturing with loved ones, there are plenty of great pit stops, scenic views, historic landmarks, and restaurants to satisfy all kinds of travelers. In this guide, I have rounded up the top places to see when driving from Apex, North Carolina to South Riding, Virginia, to make your journey even more unforgettable.

Explore the Appalachian Mountains

Few things can compete with the stunning views and thrill of driving through the Appalachian Mountains. The vast mountain range spans over 2,000 miles, but the part you'll drive through offers spectacular scenery and plenty of pit stops. Along the way, make sure to take a few detours to see the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Experience Unique Small Town Charm in Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke is a charming small city in western Virginia that boasts history, culture, and exceptional natural beauty. As you drive through the city on I-81, take an exit and stroll through the vibrant downtown area, which is home to unique shops, delicious restaurants, and theaters. Also, make sure to visit the Roanoke Star, the world's largest freestanding illuminated star that sits perched atop Mill Mountain.

Visit Jamestown Settlement and Historic Yorktown

If you're a history buff, you'll find a lot to love about Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown. Jamestown Settlement is where English settlers first arrived in North America in 1607, and it's where you can explore profound exhibitions showcasing artifacts, ships, and a recreated fort. Yorktown, on the other hand, is dubbed the "birthplace of America" and it's where the Revolutionary War ended. You can walk through the town's streets, admire colonial architecture, and see a recreated battlefield.

Relax and Unwind by Lake Anna

If you're seeking some peace and tranquility, then take a detour to Lake Anna State Park. The park is located in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, and features over 15 miles of trails, a beach, picnic areas, freshwater swimming, and camping. While you're there, you can hike, fish, or rent a boat and explore the crystal-clear waters. It's a fantastic place to unplug, unwind, and enjoy nature's beauty.

Enjoy the Bustle of Northern Virginia – Tysons Corner

As you drive through Northern Virginia make an exciting stop at Tysons Corner Mall. Love to shop till you drop? This mall has over 300 stores that offer something for everyone in the family, including sought-after brands, high-end clothing stores, and more. While shopping, make sure to visit the delightful cafes, restaurants, and movie theaters that the mall offers.

Try the World-Class Wines at Charlottesville

When driving through Virginia's wine country, you can't miss a stop in Charlottesville. This charming city is home to several vineyards and wineries that offer world-class wines, friendly tasting rooms, local bites, and unforgettable memories. A must-visit vineyard is the Monticello Wine Trail, which has over 30 wineries and vineyards located near Thomas Jefferson's historic home.

Conclusion

From stunning mountainscapes to lush wineries, this route has it all. With these six destinations in Apex, North Carolina, to South Riding, Virginia, I hope you've discovered some of the most unforgettable spots to visit during your journey. Each pit stop offers something different, so whether you're seeking peace, history, shopping, or world-class wines, you're sure to find something that strikes your fancy. Hit the road and happy travels!