The Best Places to Visit on Your Drive from Apex, NC to Windsor, VA
If you're driving from Apex, North Carolina, to Windsor, Virginia, there are a number of beautiful and interesting places that you'll want to stop and see along the way. While the drive time is just over three hours, it would be a shame to miss out on some of the great sights that you'll pass along the route.
From historic landmarks to natural wonders, there's something for everyone on this trip. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the top places to visit on your drive from Apex, NC to Windsor, VA.
1. Historic Stagville, Durham, NC
Heading north on I-85 from Apex, your first stop should definitely be Historic Stagville in Durham. This preserved plantation dates back to the 1700s, during the days of slavery, and is now a landmark open to the public. With exhibits, walking tours, and preserved slave quarters, this is an important and educational stop en route to Windsor.
2. Duke Homestead State Historic Site, Durham, NC
Just a few miles north of Historic Stagville, you'll find Duke Homestead State Historic Site, yet another important piece of North Carolina's history. This site is the birthplace of Washington Duke, the famous tobacco industrialist, and features a restored home with period furnishings, original buildings, and tours that explore various aspects of the Duke family’s history, beginning with slavery and continuing through the present day.
3. Virginia Museum of Natural History, Martinsville, VA
As you cross the border into Virginia, make a pitstop at the Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville. This small but impressive museum features an impressive exhibit of dinosaurs and other prehistoric life, state-specific exhibits, and a planetarium. You can easily spend an hour or more exploring the museum's exhibits and interactive displays.
4. Fairy Stone State Park, Stuart, VA
Just east of Martinsville along Route 57, you'll find Fairy Stone State Park, a beautiful natural oasis that's perfect for a picnic, short hike, or paddle on the lake. The park is named for the fairy stones, which are naturally-formed crosses that are said to bring good luck. Visitors can swim, fish, boat, hike, and camp in the park's serene surroundings.
5. Dijon and Shaco Island, Windsor, VA
And finally, your destination: Windsor, VA. While Windsor itself is a charming southern town, you won't want to miss out on the nearby Dijon and Shaco Island. These two small islands are located in the Blackwater River and are only accessible by boat. They're a great place to wander, take a swim, or enjoy a picnic lunch.
Conclusion
From learning about North Carolina's history to exploring the great outdoors, this drive from Apex to Windsor has something for everyone. Be sure to make plenty of stops along the way to soak up all that the area has to offer. Happy travels!